A Virgin Fest preview for Virgin Fest virgins

By Christine Czerniecki

Those of you who missed out on Coachella this year should definitely look into the “mini-me,” cheaper imitation of Coach, the Virgin Festival. Okay, it’s not in California and it doesn’t have a cool name like Coachella (although hearing about going to a “Virgin” festival did catch my attention) and it is in Baltimore. Yes, Maryland. Here is why you should be there August 4-5 and, dare I say, even travel from afar to go to Maryland.

This show has a LOT of Coachella bands, minus the main headliners. No Bjork, Rage, or RHCP, but the two-day event does have The Police and Beastie Boys and Smashing Pumpkins.

What tops this fest is that it gives a little “suttin suttin” for every type of indie fan. For electro-indie types, there is LCD Soundsystem and Interpol, both with new albums out that do not disappoint. Fans of indie chick rockers will groove to Amy Winehouse, Regina Spektor and the Yeah Yeah Yeahs.

The "I don't dance" folks will be the last ones standing at the foot of the stage, glowsticks in hand, after sets by amazing DJs like Crystal Method and Danny Tenaglia. Pills are not necessary to appreciate these guys. The Fratellis, TV on the Radio, and Peter Bjorn have the perfect amount of spunk and shake for this sort of indie-hipster concert.

Even Wu-Tang will be there!

My guess as to why Maryland was the lucky winner for hosting the show is because it's smack dab in between DC, Philly, and New York. Bostonians and Rhode Island college kids will not hesitate to make the trip if they know what’s good for them. Besides the great music, the food is going to be awesome--Maryland seafood at its finest. Finally, someone with brains realized that if they’re going to rip us off, then they should feed us well.

There is an option to camp or you can stay in a hotel. Both choices sound equally fun. With hotels filled with young concert-goers, there is bound to be some mischief stirring up someplace. On the other hand, camping in a field with these same people calls for some down and dirty fun. The only catch is that camping is not onsite, but there are a number of suggested campgrounds within an hour's drive.

This weekend is going to be a circus. Besides the bajillion awesome artists, the festival is going to have tons of art exhibits-- including graffiti artists, fire sculptures, and robots! Attractions include fire eaters, stilt walkers and my favorite two activities… ROLLERGIRLS and INCREDIBLY STRANGE WRESTLING!!!! I hope this is audience volunteer only.