LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – Thousands of people are pouring into the Arkansas State Fairgrounds for two days of music, but they’re also braving some brutal heat.
Friday marks the first day of summer, Arkansas’ first heat advisory and the first day of the Rock the Country Festival which features artists like Nickelback, Kid Rock, Hank Williams Jr., Ying Yang Twins and more.
Festivalgoers shared how they are trying to stay cool in their own ways.
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“Not wearing a shirt and staying hydrated,” Jared Ritter said. “Well, it’s not hot for me. I’m used to working outside, so it will be alright.”
For others, the heat is more than just background noise, it’s part of the strategy.
“Drinking plenty of beer, we got fans, mist fans. We are having a good time and tailgating until the doors open,” Chelsea Posey said.
From fans to cold rags to finding any patch of shade, everyone has their own way of keeping cool.
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“Don’t wait, hydrate,” Roger Rose said.
For some, hydration is key, while others say it’s worth the few bucks.
“Well, we tipped 20 bucks to get over here in the shade,” Seth McLovin said.
Some are even bringing their own science to the scene.
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“We are just drinking water. We got our Frogg Toggs; we got our fans, we are just staying in the shade, we are going to have fun,” One festival-goer said. “We’ll dip it in ice water, and then it will stay cool all day.”
Despite the sweat, spirits are high. If the heat doesn’t scare them off, neither will the blacktop concrete that the concert sits on.
When asked if the heat was worth it to watch the lineup prepared at the Rock the Country music event, we were met with the word “Absolutely.”
“It definitely is for Kid Rock,” Taylor said. While Taylor Pratts says, he is here for Hank Williams Jr.
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No matter the temperature, it’s clear—music and memories are heating up Little Rock.
