The American Folk Festival kicks off tonight on the Bangor Waterfront, so we wanted to remind you of a few things you should remember to make it a fun and memorable experience.

What a wonderful addition the American Folk Festival is to our communities! It's a multi-cultural event that offers music, food, dance, and activities from around the world, all on Bangor's beautiful waterfront. For three days, you can wander from stage to stage, sampling a wide variety of musical styles. Try foods you've never tasted before. And be sure to stop by the marketplace for hand-crafted items.

We want you to get the most out of the experience, so here are a few things to keep in mind as you prepare to start your Festival weekend. The most important thing to remember is to have fun!

  • Photo, Cindy Campbell, Townsquare Media
    Photo, Cindy Campbell, Townsquare Media
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    1

    Take A Chair

    Some of the stages have chairs set up, but not all of them. So it's a good idea to have your own chair with you. One of those folding chairs that slides into a bag, so you can just throw it over your shoulder and head to the next stage is the perfect choice. Plus, seating in the food court can be tough to come by, so at least you'll have a place to enjoy all that exotic cuisine!

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    ekapong_1980, ThinkStock
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    2

    Wear Comfortable Shoes

    The American Folk Festival grounds are spread out, which requires a lot of walking. While you may want to look stylish in your high heeled sandals or cowboy boots, remember that you're going to be on your feet a lot. I mean, just the walk from your parked vehicle to the festival could be lengthy. And it's tough to look stylish when you're limping! So wear comfortable shoes that you know won't hurt your feet.

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    Getty Images/iStockphoto
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    3

    Have Cash On Hand

    In this debit/credit card society, many of us rarely have cash in our pockets. But it's important to remember to have some with you at the Festival. Some of the vendors may not be equipped to deal with plastic. Plus, you want to make sure that you have some money to drop into the donation buckets! It takes money to make the festival great, year after year, and every little bit helps!

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    Mypurgatoryyears, ThinkStock
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    4

    Make A Plan

    There's so much to see that it's a good idea to make a plan before you go. You can find the complete weekend schedule at the American Folk Festival website. Take a few minutes to map out your route, so you know which stages you want to visit and at what times. Plus, you might want to agree on a meeting place, in case you get separated from your party.

  • Cindy Campbell, Townsquare Media
    Cindy Campbell, Townsquare Media
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    5

    Leave Fido At Home

    We know how much fun it is to take your dog everywhere with you. But AFF organizers ask that you leave him/her at home, for the comfort and safety of others. You never know what might happen. I mean, Fido could have a conflict with another dog, or you may come across someone who's very afraid of canines. Plus, it can be a long day with a lot of walking. Fido will probably be much happier at home, sitting in the cool house with a juicy bone!

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