Manhattan Center

1. The Psychology of Partying:
Why People are Compelled to
Attend Music Festivals
Manhattan Center

2. Music competence, similar to language, happens through exposure and develops the further along it is
experienced. This is central to a person’s development. Researchers today seek to determine the
motivations behind that, and why music festivals bring so many people together.
The engaging power of music festivals lies on its main component: music. Ongoing research reveals
listening to music improves overall mood. Though there is no deep-seated need to listen to music,
people still do.
Psychology and Music
Researchers theorized a link between music and the listener’s general well-being. For one, listening
to music improves the listener’s mood. A connection exists between music and the pleasure one derives
from it. Studies show that the brain releases dopamine when experiencing an intense pleasure as a
result of listening to music.

3. For another, current research on the field of music revealed an empathic connection between the
performer and the listener brought out an emotional response. When the people recognize the singer,
and the artist is able to relate to them on some emotional level, the emotional response is stronger.
The Motivation behind Music Festivals
Partying, referred to as “collective effervescence” was an early way for humans to bond and connect
with others. Moving together collectively elicits an excited response. This movement causes a sense of
belonging with one another, thus promoting a culture of trust. Since this feeds into the intrinsic need
for people to belong, partying fosters closer relationships even today.

4. Studies suggest that some major motivations behind the pull of music festivals are the need for
humans to socialize, to look for novelty, and to seek a form of escapism. Stress, problems, and
curiosity drive these motivations further. Music festivals present a desirable opportunity for people
to escape stressful, unwanted situations.
Music festivals are loud and crowded, yet people gravitate toward such events. With the link between
emotional response, pleasure, and music, it makes sense for people to continue to seek the euphoria
and connection that festivals bring.

5. Sources:
https://positivepsychologyprogram.com/power-of-engagement-at-music-festivals/#effects
http://www.fouroverfour.jukely.com/culture/psychology-attending-music-festivals/
https://mc34.com/clients/
https://www.elitedaily.com/life/culture/science-says-music-festivals-happier/1578836
https://www.thecut.com/2016/08/the-primordial-reason-people-need-to-party.html
https://www.academia.edu/17090445/The_Psychological_Impacts_of_Attending_Music_Festivals