Rave Culture 101: Understanding the Roots and Values of Rave Culture

Raves have been around since the 1980s as underground dance parties held after-hours in cities. These events have evolved over time, and rave culture has become a global phenomenon. The core values of rave culture are rooted in PLUR, which stands for Peace, Love, Unity, and Respect.

PLUR was coined by Frankie Bones, a legendary DJ from New York City who noticed a movement in the underground music scene. PLUR represents the philosophy that drives rave culture, and it is based on the values of love, respect, and unity. At raves, the people give meaning to PLUR, and it's the foundation of what rave culture is today.

Raves have become more mainstream, and the popularity of EDM festivals has skyrocketed, thanks to the plur rave vibes that make it what it is today. Rave subculture is huge, but the ethos of the events remains true to rave culture's roots. Today, there are many genres and sub-genres of electronic music that can appeal to just about everyone.

One of the most striking features of raves is the way they bring people together in magical ways. You will see people from all walks of life getting along and appreciating one another. Despite our differences, the ideology of PLUR is the common thread that binds us all together.

 

The Origins of Rave Culture

The origins of rave culture can be traced back to the early 1980s in the United Kingdom. At the time, electronic dance music was just emerging as a new genre, with DJs playing at underground parties and illegal warehouse events.

As the popularity of this music grew, so too did the rave scene. By the late 1980s and early 1990s, raves had become a mainstream phenomenon, with events drawing thousands of people and featuring some of the biggest names in electronic dance music.

 

The Culture of PLUR

One of the defining features of rave culture is the philosophy of PLUR, which stands for peace, love, unity, and respect. This philosophy emphasizes the importance of treating others with kindness and respect, and creating a safe and inclusive environment for all attendees.

The concept of PLUR resonates strongly with all ravers, and we celebrate it by engaging in the ritual of trading kandi. Kandi are colorful bead bracelets that often have little messages or charms, and each piece of kandi that you trade comes with a story and marks a special moment you shared with someone during the night. To trade kandi with another raver, you each engage in a special handshake that is accompanied by the mantra, “Peace, Love, Unity, Respect.”

 

Dressing for the Rave

As we mentioned earlier, raves are known for their bright, colorful, and sometimes outrageous fashion. If you're planning to attend a rave, consider wearing comfortable clothes that you can move and dance in, and don't be afraid to experiment with bold colors and fun accessories.

Some popular rave fashion items include neon clothing, tutus, furry boots, and of course, plenty of glow sticks and LED lights. Check out MyLittleRave.com for a wide selection of rave clothing and accessories.

 

Conclusion

Rave culture is a vibrant and energetic community that celebrates music, art, and self-expression. By understanding the origins of this culture, embracing the philosophy of PLUR, and dressing for the occasion, you can fully immerse yourself in the rave experience and have an unforgettable time.