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Your Movin’ On 2016 Survival Guide

Put down those books and stop stressing about finals for a second. In case you forgot because you’ve sentenced yourself to all-nighters in the stacks or simply live under a rock, Movin’ On is today. Penn State’s annual music festival has a rich history and serves as not only the perfect distraction from finals but also a nice send off for seniors who are “moving on” after graduation next weekend.

Movin’ On is one of the biggest college music festivals in the United States, and previous lineups have been impressive to say the least. Last year, we boogied to indie pop band Passion Pit. The year before that, Penn State students got down to the sick beats of Wiz Khalifa. But that’s the past and it’s unimportant. What matters is today you have the opportunity to grab your friends and see performances by Cecil Blutcher, Sammy Adams, Misterwives, X Ambassadors, Nelly, and Walk the Moon all for free.

Perhaps you’re a Movin’ On veteran and know all the details about today’s festival, or maybe you’re a wee freshman who didn’t even know what Movin’ On was until this week. Either way, we’re here to help. Here’s your official survival guide to Movin’ On 2016.

Movin’ On is a daylong festival, so you can expect all kinds of greasy fair food from vendors. Turn to the typical Snyder’s concession stands that pop up during football weekends if you’re looking for a quick bite. There will be merchandise for sale as well, so don’t be afraid to embrace your inner Coachella spirit and buy a T-shirt to support your favorite act. In addition to yummy snacks and cute band gear, expect fun entertainment like a balloon artist, caricaturist, and even a temporary tattoo guy to keep you occupied between acts.

Bags are permitted, but it’s recommended you pack light. You don’t want to be weighed down while you’re trying to boogie. I suggest a light draw string bag filled with a water bottle, healthy snacks to keep your energy high, and a fully-charged phone. The forecast looks rainy today, so consider packing a rain jacket, poncho, or sweatshirt. Today won’t be awfully cold, but dress warm because the temperature will drop as the festival continues into the late evening. As for shoes, wear something you don’t mind getting dirty. Rainboots, old sneakers, or some other kind of boot should do the trick. Do NOT wear flip-flops. Trust us on this one.

Let’s get down to the best part: the bands. Here’s a list of official set times for the acts.

movin on 2016 times

Movin’ On is located behind East Halls on the intramural fields. Below is a map of the northeastern corner of campus if you need it, but the flashing lights, bumping bass, and beautiful tunes will most likely guide you there.

Movin On Map

Cecil Blutcher 

3:30 p.m. | Side Stage 

Chicago born rapper Cecil Blutcher won this year’s Movin’ On Battle of the Bands. Blutcher’s music is all about “breaking down stereotypes,” and his high-energy, challenging lyrics won him a spot as the opening act for this year’s festival. Blutcher’s music is difficult to classify, falling somewhere in the midst of beat poetry, rap, and smooth hip-hop.

Sammy Adams

4:15 p.m. | Side Stage

Hailing from Massachusetts, “Boston’s Boy” will surely fire up Movin’ On from the get-go. Sammy Adams is an all-American rapper and hip-hop artist known for singles like “Driving Me Crazy” and “All Night Longer,” which you’ve probably heard at a frat or apartment party. In addition to fan-favorites, Adams just released his first studio album and will surely get the crowd going with a mix of old a new jams.

Misterwives 

5:15 p.m. | Main Stage

This indie pop act’s single “Reflections” took summer 2015 by storm, and they haven’t stopped since — songs like “Our Own House” and “Vagabond” have also grown popular. Led by Mandy Lee, this upbeat group supplies a contiguously feel-good sound — perfect for getting pumped for the summer.

X Ambassadors 

6:30 p.m. | Main Stage 

Indie alternative rock group X Ambassadors will add an edgy twist to the festival, an excellent contrast to the light-hearted sound of Misterwives. With popular singles “Renegades” and “Jungle” this band is surely a crowd favorite. X Ambassadors declared themselves distinctly rock with few characteristics commonly associated with indie bands. Incubus and the Red Hot Chilli Peppers have a heavy influence on the band’s music. X Ambassadors was actually here last year, and Happy Valley will surely welcome them back with open arms.

Nelly

8 p.m. | Main Stage

Though the weather may be chilly, Nelly’s infamous hits like “Hot In Herre” will warm up the crowd instantly. Nelly has been making classic rap and hip-hop jams since the early 2000s, so attendees of all ages will recognize and appreciate his sound. Though he may not have many modern hits, his throwbacks will amp the crowd without a doubt.

Walk The Moon 

9:30 p.m. | Main Stage

The mega-popular and ever-rising indie pop band Walk The Moon will take the stage as the highly anticipated headliner (throwback to when we predicted them in our Movin’ On wish list back in August). Walk The Moon even performed at a THON benefit in 2013 before achieving massive success from the catchy single “Shut Up And Dance.” Even if you aren’t familiar with Walk the Moon’s other songs, this band has a plethora of catchy tunes under its belt. Check out other fan-favorites “Anna Sun,” “Different Colors,” and “Work This Body” for a taste of what they have to offer.

Before you head out to one of the best events of the spring semester, don’t forgot to bring the most important thing: a great attitude. Even if it’s pouring rain and freezing for some classic State College reason, arrive in good spirits and prepare yourself for a day and night of friends, amazing music and entertainment, and memories you will never forget.

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About the Author

Carolyn Popescu

Current senior studying Advertising and Visual Arts, Carolyn has a passion for entertainment and music. She also loves photography, film, graphic design, social media, and all things in between. She's the current Sony Music Marketing Representative for State College, so be sure to reach out to her with any local music scene questions, ideas, proposals, or if you just need someone to geek out about music with.

(Contact her through [email protected] or [email protected])

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