Absolutely, Matthew. This is just something you learn from experience. Sorry that so many people still have to learn the hard way. Most fests I have been to in the last twenty years or so have not allowed you to bring in any beverages or food, obviously following an agreement with vendors that they would have a captive audience. Of course it's cruel to put unsuspecting people in such a bind, but what can also be learned fromt this is that big promoters have absolutely no interest in promoting art, creating a sense of community, or entertaining people for that matter. They want your money, and they'll do anything they can get away with to get it. Probably with this Woodstock thing everybody had insurance, but it will cost a hell of a lot more next time unless they change some policies about bringing in food and/or price gouging. One thing that's interesting about insurance is that there is no politics involved. They want the money, they calculate the risks, and if it looks good they do business. You may have noticed that big (and many small) rap concerts just do not happen anymore because the insurance risk makes it unprofitable. There's no judgement of the music or the values of the crowd - they want everybody's money, but they've learned from experience when they're likely to lose, so they don't risk it. I remember a fest in 1972 or thereabouts where they had the exact same arrangement, and even today at a particular "folk" festival near Asheville, NC, they won't let you bring in wine or beer, and they don't allow coolers on the field where people listen to the music, but they sure do have it for sale at interesting prices. Live and learn, my young friends.

Chet