Shaky Knees Festival takes over Atlanta

By Olivia Del Turco, contributor

The third annual Shaky Knees Festival is here this weekend to take over Central Park in the Old Fourth Ward. Previously held at Atlantic Station and Masquerade Music Park, this year boasts more space, more stages and bigger acts than ever before. Beginning today, the festival is expecting 35,000 people from all over the country.

Music runs from 12:30 p.m. – 11 p.m. each day to satisfy even the most avid music lover. The line-up consists of mainly indie rock, but also throws in a bit of hard rock and punk rock. Notable acts include The Strokes, Pixies, Mastodon, The Avett Brothers, Wilco, Social Distortion, Tame Impala and Ryan Adams.

The festival also features fan-loved acts such as Neutral Milk Hotel, led by frontman Jeff Mangum, who have been selling out shows all over the country after returning from a 10+ year hiatus. Death from Above 1979 and American Football will also be in attendance as well, each returning from lengthy hiatuses. Meshing a combination of new bands and bands that have been off the radar since the early 2000’s is guaranteed to attract all kinds of music lovers.

For those of you attending: remember to bring sunscreen, comfortable shoes and an empty water bottle. There are no alcohol, coolers, umbrellas, or other practical items allowed. Also, budding photographers, your camera equipment with detachable lenses are not allowed and will be confiscated at the gate, so don’t even try.

While food and other beverages are not allowed inside the gates, there will be several food trucks and drink stands, including King of Pops, throughout the festival to satisfy your hunger and thirst. Attendees are encouraged to use public transportation to avoid the excess traffic. Taxis, Lyft and Uber are also available and are recommended.

As always, be safe and take care of yourself music lovers. Drink plenty of water, don’t drink and drive, and sing at the top of your lungs. You’re guaranteed to have a weekend you won’t soon forget.