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Mammoth during the August Blues Apalooza

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

Visiting Mammoth Lakes during the August Blues Apalooza festival can be both exciting and a bit tricky, depending on what you want from your stay. The festival usually draws a large crowd for live music, which can create a lively and festive atmosphere in town. Even if you don’t buy tickets, the streets around the venue, local restaurants, and shops may be busier than usual, and you’ll likely notice the energy and music from a distance.

Here are some pros and cons to consider:

  • Pros: The town will have a fun, vibrant energy with live music and possibly some free public events or street performers. Local businesses may have special events or deals connected to the festival. If you enjoy people-watching, a lively atmosphere can be enjoyable.
  • Cons: Accommodation prices are usually higher during festival weekends, and availability may be limited if you wait too long to book. Traffic around the main event venues could be heavier, and some popular restaurants may be crowded or require reservations. Parking can also be more challenging.
  • Timing consideration: If your family prefers a quieter stay, you might consider arriving the day before the festival ramps up or staying slightly outside of Mammoth Lakes and driving in for day trips. Alternatively, if you enjoy music and a festival vibe, it could be a memorable experience to coincide with the event.

Accommodation advice:

  • Book as early as possible due to limited availability and potential price hikes. Consider rentals slightly outside town for more space and quieter evenings.
  • Check if any hotels or rentals offer festival packages or shuttle services to reduce parking and traffic hassles.

Overall, your choice depends on your family’s preference. If you enjoy lively events and don’t mind crowds and higher prices, being in Mammoth during the Blues Apalooza could be a highlight of your trip. If you prefer a peaceful stay with more flexibility and lower costs, consider adjusting your schedule to avoid the main festival weekend.

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