Mammoth during the August Blues Apalooza

Question

Hi there.

I am planing to spend two nights in Mammoth Lakes as part of a wider 16 days trip.

We are two adults and 4 kids - ages 20,18, 16 and 13.

The way my itinerary stands, we will be coming through Mammoth on the 3 and 4 of August. I see there's a festival that ends on that Sunday.

My question is whether this will impact our trip at all - either positively or negatively? I looked and tickets and they are quite pricey, so I'm not sure we would neccessarily buy tickets, but I wonder if there will be a lot happening that weekend and it might be fun to be there one night earlier?

Or on the other hand, might being there be a terrible idea?! Busy streets and hiked prices for accomodation? We do like music festivals in general. But obviously it does depend on the vibe, and how much will be happening in town, if we're not actually going into the festival itself.

Does anyone with local knowledge have a view on this? I currently have no accomodation booked so we're still totally flexible. Planning 2 nights in Yosemite West and then 2 nights somewhere near Mammoth. But we can move things around to suit.

Thank so much

Answer

Hello,

Visiting Mammoth Lakes during the Blues Apalooza festival in early August can be both a positive and a challenging experience, depending on what you are looking for in your trip. Here’s a detailed overview to help you decide:

Potential positives:

The festival brings a lively and festive atmosphere to town, which can be fun to experience even if you don’t buy tickets. There may be free music in public areas, local food vendors, and street activities that give you a taste of the event.
It’s a good opportunity to enjoy some local culture and community spirit, which can be appealing if your family enjoys music festivals and a vibrant environment.
Some restaurants and local businesses may have extended hours or special offerings during the festival, giving you more options for dining and entertainment.

Potential challenges:

The festival can make Mammoth Lakes busier than usual. Expect more traffic, crowded streets, and limited parking, especially near the festival venue and town center.
Accommodation prices are likely to be higher than normal due to increased demand. Booking in advance is strongly recommended if you decide to stay during the festival weekend.
Some areas may feel noisy, particularly at night, which might be less desirable if you have younger teens and want a quieter environment.
Restaurants, grocery stores, and popular attractions may be busier, which could require more planning for meals and activities.

Tips if you choose to stay during the festival:

Book accommodation as soon as possible to secure reasonable rates and availability.
Consider staying slightly outside of the main festival area if you prefer quieter nights, then drive or walk into town for daytime activities.
Check the festival schedule online to see if there are any free events or performances you could enjoy without buying tickets.
Plan your sightseeing and outdoor activities around peak festival times to avoid crowds, especially if you’re visiting local trails, lakes, or scenic areas.

Alternative option:

If you prefer a calmer experience without the festival crowds, consider shifting your Mammoth Lakes stay to either the weekend before or after the festival. This may result in lower accommodation prices and a quieter atmosphere, while still allowing you to explore the area and enjoy outdoor activities.

Overall, visiting during the Blues Apalooza festival can be a fun and lively experience if your family enjoys music and a bustling environment. However, it comes with trade-offs in terms of crowds, traffic, and higher accommodation costs. If these factors are a concern, adjusting your stay to avoid the festival weekend may provide a more relaxed experience while still allowing you to enjoy the natural beauty and attractions of Mammoth Lakes.

Mammoth during the August Blues Apalooza

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