Folsom Street Fair Dos and Donts – 27 Essential Rules

First time going to this famous fair?

Here are some Folsom Street Fair dos and donts to follow so you have all the fun but stay safe and not be a jerk to the other attendants

1. Do come in with an open mind. There’s going to be lots there that will challenge your preconceptions. Go there to learn and appreciate. You’ll find literally every kind of person and experience level.
2. Do get tested. Before and after the fair (if you plan on any kind of adult play and not just walking and watching). This should be one of the Folsom Street fair dos and donts that’s highest on your list.
3. Do expect to be surprised. Unless you’re a veteran, there will always be something that surprises and shocks you. Just stay cool and don’t judge.
4. Do protect yourself from the sun. It’s a summer fair, therefore hot and sweaty (and not just from the kink). Bring plenty of sunscreen and PLENTY of water. Maybe even a sun umbrella.
5. Don’t bring too much. Bring the essentials only.
6. Do bring cash. Some vendors do not accept cards of any kind.
7. Do donate. The fair raises money for various fantastic charities.
8. Do prepare for an all-day event. It’s not just the stalls and crowds while the sun is up. There is a ton of dancing and celebration when the night comes.
9. Don’t over plan. Anal people (pun intended) will find their plans quickly unravel. It’s okay to have targets you MUST see/do, but leave room for exploration.
10. Don’t get drunk. Most partiers prefer to party hard, but sober.
11. Don’t bring little ones. This is a party for big kids only.
12. Don’t bring pets. You can bring human ones, but the fair is not for doggos etc.
13. Do ask for help. People in orange vests or “Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence” will help you find ATMs, bathrooms etc.
14. Don’t mention or think about 50 shades. You’ll piss off a lot of people.
15. Don’t bother performers. Wait until after they’re done to ask them questions. And stay polite. Maybe they don’t feel like chatting or are just tired.
16. Don’t touch without permission! Clothing, accessories, someone’s bag, someone submissive, someone … no touchy without asking!
17. Do ask permission to take photos. Yes, every single time. Every snap shot with a person needs consent.
18. Don’t be an asshole. Some people go with the intention of teasing, staring like an obvious newbie, or having a giggle at someone else’s expense. That’s a huge no-no. You won’t like the consequences, especially if you’re persistent with it.
19. Do talk to people. It’s a very friendly fair. Chat it up! That doesn’t mean try to pick up anything and everything that makes you wet or stiff. Chill and have a nice conversation.
20. Do wear appropriate footwear. It’s a long day of walking and people stepping on your toes. Anyone you see wearing heels, will 100% have flats as a backup.
21. Do expect crowds. Yes … lots of people. Hundreds of thousands.
22. Do bring a “sweat rag”. You’ll be dripping from the sun. You don’t want end up gross when the sun goes down.
23. Do arrive early. This can be coming in a day ahead (if you’re from out of town) and taking public transport well before things open. Forget your car. Just forget it.
24. Don’t arrive naked. You can be nude in the fairgrounds, not outside of them.
25. Do try the before and after parties. There’s plenty more fun to be had.
26. Do try something new! Whatever you’re comfortable with, but give something a go!
27. Do see other things. The area and city is beautiful. Take a few days to see other things (after you’ve recuperated from the event).

Any other Folsom Street fair dos and donts? Share in the comments!