The $675 is for the actual conference. Few buy that outside of industry people.
I think they still sell wristbands that get you in all the shows -- supposedly. I've been turned away from some shows where even the festival badge won't get you in.
But like Eddy said, there are jillions of parties during the day that aren't officially affiliated. Many of these are free and open to the public. I almost always go to the Bloodshot Records party at the Yard Dog gallery. In fact the Yard Dog has shows there almost every day. Lots of labels have daytime shows.
And here's some good news -- most of those daytime parties give you free beer and sometimes food. (I went to this party at the late lamented Las Mananitas restaurant one year -- not sure how I got invited -- that featured Doug Sahm, Augie Meyers, Joe Ely, Freddy Fender and a bunch of great Mexican musicians. They were giving away free tamales and beer. A pretty lady took my beer and opened it for me. I didn't realize for a moment that it was Sandra Bullock. )
Also, if you want to stay at one club all night, most, I understand will let the public in for a cover charge.
I'm a reporter so I've always gotten a comp badge (been there about 10 times since the mid 90s) But I'm almost tempted to try it this year without any badge or wristband to see how I fare.
Can't help much with the price of hotels. My only advice is to make reservations early.
Shtbird said:
So I checked out the website (Never attended a music festival of any sort). Lineup looks pretty fun, I've seen a handful of them on little west coast tours.
But 675 for a Music Badge?
and Hotel Rooms at 150+ a night?
We're talking at least 1500 (including travel, food, drinks, etc.) I don't know about you guys, but I'm dirt poor working class. I can't afford that shit.
Does anyone know of a cheaper way to do this?