Raves are all-night dance parties that may or may not be legal, often associated with drug use. They emphasize acceptance and love of electronic music, but can be dangerous. It is recommended to attend legal events, go in groups, and take safety precautions such as watching drinks and having a designated driver.
A rave is a type of all-night dance party popular in many parts of the world. The term is taken from the Jamaican word for party, but real raves didn’t start until the 1980s. They may or may not be legal, depending on where the event is being held, and while partying all night long isn’t usually illegal, activities associated with parties may be.
For a time, some night parties were held in abandoned warehouses or unzoned places for large numbers of people or party activities. These were often semi-spontaneous events, with announcements spread by word of mouth. It should be noted that many raves are held legally, although activities at them often spiral into illegality when underage children are served alcohol or when drug use is rampant.
Common to the early rave movement in many countries was the use of ecstasy, and while not all attendees used the drug, many did. Today’s holidays, legal and otherwise, are often marked not only by the use of ecstasy but also other drugs such as methamphetamines, cocaine and hallucinogens. There is also concern about the use of date-rape drugs as, given the dark and loud atmosphere of most parties, it’s quite easy to spike a drink. There are therefore rules for participating in raves to protect people’s safety.
The rave party is rarely characterized by violence, and as a consequence of the hippie movement and acid subculture, is more likely to emphasize acceptance of the behavior of others, a shared love of electronic music, and a desire for fun. Ironically, the popularity of these parties and their acceptance in the general culture has led to more violent events than previously existing in illegal ones.
Parents were certainly right to worry about their teens’ safety at raves as drug dealers often prowled for them. Sometimes, parents plan safer dance parties for the kids, and all-night parties are common for prom or graduation events. Only undergraduates can participate and cannot go out during an event.
In both the United States and Canada, these parties are increasingly accepted, especially when they are conducted legally and controlled. It is recommended that people only attend legal events and always go in groups.
For safety reasons, it’s a good idea for party-goers to be concerned with the drinks they consume and to have a friend when they use the bathroom. Anyone who leaves a drink unattended should throw it away and no one should accept a drink from someone they don’t know well. Individuals should never drive with someone they don’t know, and if friends plan to drink, they should designate a sober driver. They should also make sure they keep a cell phone handy and have an emergency contact if the designated driver doesn’t follow the rules.
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