How To Survive BottleRock Napa (Tickets, Outfits + More Tips!)

Last year I pulled up to Napa Valley Expo to attend my first ever BottleRock Music Festival. And I walked away learning a LOT of tips for next year, since this 3-day concert is very unique on the festival scene. 

If you’re heading to BottleRock Napa Valley this year, keep reading for all the things I wish I knew, along with Bottlerock outfit ideas and must-know tips for surviving this amazing festival weekend! Consider this your BottleRock survival guide. 

BottleRock Is More Posh Than Other Music Festivals, But Still Has Personality 

Unlike Outsidelands, where I frequently find myself fighting through a crowd of high schoolers or 20-something tech bros who are high out of their minds, BottleRock draws in a slightly older crowd with old money vibes. 

Frankly, this music festival is very demure and I’m all for it. 

BottleRock bathrooms are the cleanest I’ve seen at any music festival, even on Sunday. The organization just makes sense, and there’s plenty of water stations and first aid tents around to keep people safe. 

The grass is green but not muddy. There’s plenty of shade and places to sit down on benches or chairs. The brand booths are more elevated than other music festivals across the country, and as a 30-something tired Millenial, this type of concert set up has me swooning. 

• Clean Bathrooms
• Tons of shade
• Free water
• Free sunscreen
• Smaller stages to get up close to artists
• A LOT of wine
• Fantastic food
• Areas to sit, including a blanket area on the main stage field
• Helpful medical tent
• Fantastic food from local restaurants
• A slightly more bougie, older crowd

My Top BottleRock Napa Music Festival Tips For Making The Most Out Of Your Weekend

Hopefully I’ll be at Bottlerock concerts again this year and I’ll absolutely be learning from my mistakes last year. Here are all my BottleRock Napa tips for first-timers! 

1. Don’t Miss The JaM Cellars Tent For Intimate Sets, Shade, And Wine

JaM Cellars is a local winery known for hosting music at their tasting room, so they are a natural fit to be a sponsor of BottleRock. 

Located on the opposite side of the Main Stage is the JaM Pad tent, the secret hidden gem of the whole festival. It’s a small stage doubled as a wine bar and was my favorite place to camp out for the weekend. 

I got to see one of my favorite bands, The Tors, from about 2 feet away and even got to talk to them after their set, all from the JaM Tent. Name another music festival where this is available to people without a VIP Pass! If you can’t get into the tent itself, which can be hard as the day goes on and people seek out shade, there’s always room to line up in front of the JaM Pad stage to watch acts up close. 

2. Don’t Forget To Pack Sunscreen And A Water Bottle

This is California in late May, it’s going to be hot and sunny! I lathered myself in sunscreen but still got sunburnt. Next year I’ll be bringing extra sunblock to reapply. Or doing a better job at using the free sunblock stations around the festival. 

Usually the water station is near the main entrance, but consult the official BottleRock Map to locate it in case it moved. 

Oh and unlike other events I’ve experienced, such as Outsidelands, BottleRock has a great first aid/medical tent available if you start to feel like you are overheating. During my visit, one of the people in our group drank a little too much and was starting to get too dehydrated. 

I walked over to the medical tent and was able to get free electrolyte packets to put into our water bottles. 

As a tired millennial who still loves to rock out but also is aware of the things I need to feel good throughout a long day of music (ie water and not burning to a crisp), I really appreciate how BottleRock sets this up. 

Pro-tip: if you are worried about losing your water bottle at the festival, bring in an empty plastic waterbottle to refill that you can toss after the festival ends, or easily replace if you leave it behind at a stage. 

My top BottleRock Napa tips for heat is to:

1. Drink a lot of water
2. Seek rest in shade when you start to feel overheated
3. Don’t drink too much, too fast
4. Visit the medical tent if you start to feel unwell
5. Hang in the JaM Pad or VIP tents which are cooler
6. Pace yourself! 

3. Artists May Play Private Shows In The VIP Tents

I’ve been eagerly awaiting the Bottlerock Lineup for this year, since I loved last year’s lineup. The Tors! Scarlet Opera! The Beaches! I had standard media passes but a friend of mine with VIP passes told me all day some of my favorite artists were playing pop-up shows in the VIP area. 

None of the other BottleRock guides I’ve read mentioned this and I was bummed to know that I missed out on seeing a band I love play a little pop-up show. If a featured artist is on your bucket list to see up close, there’s a chance they’ll pop up in a VIP tent…

If you can afford BottleRock VIP tickets, they are worth it for this festival. 

4. Come Hungry To BottleRock, Since This Festival Food Scene Is Elite

Getting BottleRock tickets isn’t just about seeing the lineup – it’s about eating. Find sushi, burgers, crab rolls, pizza, thai, indian, cocktails, mocktails, wine beer – literally anything you want, they’ll have it. 

Restaurants from Napa and the Bay Area will make the trek to the festival to feed the hungry masses and it’s good. Like, really good. This upcoming year some of the restaurants I’m excited to try are El Garage, New England Lobster & Crab Shack (because eating lobster and then watching a concert is my idea of a good time), PRESS Restaurant, and Morimoto Napa. 

Even if you only have a single Day Pass, come hungry and leave room to snack around the food booths. 

BottleRock Napa tips for foodies: I recommend you team up with your friend group and have everyone order one thing at different food booths and share family style. That way you can taste a ton of different restaurants without having to spend hundreds of dollars. 

Also if there is a food item you are really eyeing, order it sooner than later since the restaurants will run out of food something on popular items. 

5. Get There Early To Claim A Lawn Spot 

Next year, I’ll be getting there early with a blanket to claim a spot on the lawn for lounging. The lawn blanket location is on the main field at the back in a designated area. It’s nice to know that you have a “saved seat” to rest with your friends, since these are long days on your feet bouncing around the concert grounds. 

The blanket area doesn’t have sun cover but I saw girls with parasols and thought that was brilliant since it doesn’t block people’s views, could get it past security, and offers sun protection!) 

There’s a lot of space available, but the good spots closer to the main stage do go fast so make sure to arrive to the festival early to snag your ideal blanket area. 

6. Many Napa Hotels Will Have Shuttles To The Music Festival

I live in San Francisco and choose to drive up for the BottleRock festival, but wine country has so many hotels to choose from,and many of the popular ones will offer free shuttles to guests heading to and from the music festival. 

There’s even a BottleRock shuttle you can take from the Bay Area up to the festival if you don’t want to stay overnight in Downtown Napa, or drive. If you are driving, BottleRock parking is pretty easy. You can park in downtown Napa at a paid lot, or get a parking pass in advance. 

I was given a media parking pass, which was in the staff field about a 15-minute walk from the festival grounds, but wasn’t a bad walk at all. 

The town is flat and walkable. But I do recommend you plot out your parking plans in advance so you aren’t circling the block and missing your favorite concert. 

The Best BottleRock Outfits Are Breezy, Comfy And Chic 

What do you wear to BottleRock Napa anyway? I spent so much time browsing the interest and Pinterest last year for BottleRock outfit ideas and felt a little lost. 

I love to have fun outfits while at music festivals and often rent things from Nuuly to supplement my wardrobe. I knew the festival would be warm, but I underestimated just how warm. It doesn’t get Coachella-level hot, but do come dressed for heat. 

I saw a lot of women in sundresses, straw hats and honestly, a lot of outfits that screamed, “I’m about to go wine tasting after this” (I mean, it is Napa Valley, after all). Unlike Outsidelands, where last year one day I wore a see-through mesh top with small pasties covering the girls, BottleRock is more upscale. 

Like all my Napa Valley concert tips, I recommend you skip the leather pants and revealing festival wear you may pull out for other events. For BottleRock, I recommend outfits like:

• Sundresses
• Cowgirl chic (you know, like a slight hint to the style but not full-on Texas)
• Boho and flowy outfits
• Comfy to wear all day in the heat
• Something with pockets
• Sunhats
• Overall a little more dressed up style
• Matching sets

Don’t wear black, I made that mistake and was overheating the whole time. This next year, I’m thinking one day I’ll wear this pearl mesh top with a solid bralet underneath. I’m planning on finding a cute sundress with pockets for another day and possibly a summer jumpsuit or romper for the third day. 

Usually I don’t recommend wearing rompers at music festivals but since the bathrooms are so clean here, it’s not a problem to shimmy out of them in the stall. 

BottleRock Napa: General Admission vs. VIP – Which Experience Is Right For You?

BottleRock offers two main ticket tiers: General Admission (GA) and VIP. Each provides a distinct festival experience, and the best choice depends on your priorities and budget.

Here’s a detailed breakdown to help you decide:  

General Admission (GA): The Classic Festival Experience

• Pros:
  • Affordability: GA tickets are the most budget-friendly option, making the festival accessible to a wider audience.  Single Day passes are $233 and Weekend Passes are $456.
  • Standard Festival Access: You’ll have access to all the main stages, food vendors, and general festival grounds.
  • Discover New Artists: Roam freely and discover new favorite bands on the various stages.
  • Lawn Area: The designated lawn area allows for a place to sit, and relax.
• Cons:
  • Crowds: Expect large crowds, especially at popular stages.
  • Limited Seating: Seating is limited outside of the designated lawn area, meaning you’ll likely be standing for long periods.
  • Lines: Expect lines for food, drinks, and restrooms.
  • Less Shade: Shade can be limited in some areas of the general festival grounds.
  • No Artist Pop-Ups: Access to the private artist pop up shows is not available.

VIP: The Elevated Festival Experience

• Pros:
  • Dedicated Viewing Areas: Enjoy prime viewing areas near the main stages, often with dedicated seating.  
  • Exclusive Lounges: Access to VIP lounges with comfortable seating, shade, and premium amenities.  
  • In-and-out privileges: Come and go to the festival as you please
  • Shorter Lines: Experience shorter lines for food, drinks, and restrooms.
  • Enhanced Amenities: Enjoy premium food and beverage options, often included in the ticket price.  
  • Artist Pop-Up Shows: Potential access to exclusive artist pop-up shows in VIP areas.
  • More Shade: VIP areas have much more shade then general admission.
  • More comfortable restrooms: VIP restrooms are often air conditioned and much less crowded.
• Cons:
  • Higher Cost: VIP tickets are significantly more expensive than GA tickets, starting at $598.
  • Still Some Crowds: Even in VIP, there can still be crowds, especially during popular performances.

Beyond Basic VIP: Exploring SkyDeck and Other Premium Experiences

Beyond Standard VIP, BottleRock offers some premium packages that are limited and usually sell out quickly. If you have a lot of money to burn to make this weekend ultra comfy, you may want to seek one of their top tier packages.

• SkyDeck:
  • Exclusive, elevated, and shaded viewing lounges with unparalleled views.
  • All-inclusive beer, cocktails, and wine at Skydeck bars.
  • Comfortable lounge seating and spacious, shaded areas.
  • Exclusive access to purchase 2026 tickets during renewal pre-sale.
• Marriott Bonvoy® American Express VIP Viewing Suite:
  • Elevated, unobstructed views of the Main Stage.
  • Specially curated bites and signature dishes from Chef Ken Frank of La Toque.
  • All-inclusive beer, specialty cocktails, and wine at the suite bar.
  • Dedicated VIP entrances with in-and-out privileges.
• The Suites by Workday:
  • Exclusive, private, turn-key suite for 40-60 guests.
  • Elevated, unobstructed views of the Main Stage.
  • Hosted in-suite bar with beer, wine, and cocktails.
  • In-suite catering from top Napa Valley restaurants.
• Platinum by Prudential:
  • Exclusive on-stage, front row, and sound mix viewing areas.
  • Special celebrity Meet & Greets (based on availability).
  • Locally sourced premium cuisine and world-class wines in the Platinum Lounge.
  • Backstage parking and entrance for easy festival entry and exit.

Which BottleRock Ticket Is Right for You?

• Choose GA if:
  • You’re on a budget.
  • You enjoy the energy of a large festival crowd.
  • You’re primarily interested in the music and exploring different stages.
  • You do not mind standing for long periods.
• Choose VIP if:
  • You’re willing to pay for a more comfortable and convenient experience.
  • You value dedicated viewing areas and premium amenities.
  • You want to minimize lines and maximize your comfort.
  • You are hoping to see an artist pop up show.

Frequently Asked Questions About BottleRock

Is BottleRock Napa Worth It?

Omg yes, BottleRock Napa is worth it. If you live in San Franciso like I do and are debating if it’s worth the drive up, do it. BottleRock quickly became my favorite music festival since it’s organized so well. 

I loved getting to be up close to some of my favorite artists, and also getting to discover new bands that I know love. I adored the food and all the festival ammenenties available, such as clean bathrooms and shade to rest in. It’s the best live music experience I’ve had in a long time. 

Where Is BottleRock Napa Located?

BottleRock is located at the Napa Expo Center in Downtown Napa. 

What Time Does BottleRock Start?

BottleRock Napa Valley doors open at 11:30 AM and the last act ends at around 10:00 PM. I recommend you arrive to the festival around 11am to wait in line and get inside before it gets crowded. 

When Do BotttleRock Tickets Go On Sale?

Tickets go on sale in January of each year, usually around January 16th but the date changes year to year. Mark your cal! 

BottleRock Napa Tips What To Bring To the Festival

1. Water Bottle
2. Sunscreen
3. Small clear backpack or purse, make sure it adheres to the bag policy
4. Blanket if you want to sit down
5. External phone battery to charge your phone on the go
6. Sunglasses
7. A hat with a brim to protect you from sun
8. Comfy shoes to wear all day
9. Your parking pass and festival bracelet (do not remove it at the end of the day or you won’t be let back in)
10. Your ID 

BottleRock Napa Tip Best Time To Arrive For Front Row Barricade 

If you are looking to stand at barricade, aka front row, for the Main Stage, you need to arrive right when doors open. Thankfully, the band I wanted to see was the first one on Sunday, so I was able to stand just a couple rows back from the barricade and had an awesome view of the concert. 

But, everyone in the front row was prepared to camp out all day to be front row for artists later that day, or for the headliner. Come prepared to spend all day at the main stage if you want a good view. 

If you’re looking for front row access at the other smaller stages, though, you can walk up to those pretty much anytime and get a great spot. That’s something I loved about BottleRock. I lost track of time and almost missed the Scarlet Opera show last year and ran over after their set started. 

I was able to get a spot about 10 feet back from the front row and was able to see perfectly fine. I even stood next to the lad singer’s mother. 

I hope this helps you plan a great weekend at the BottleRock Napa Valley Music Festival! If you haven’t gotten your tickets yet, head to the BottleRock website to grab them before they sell out this year.