The Ultimate Guide to Surviving (and Thriving) at ROXX Fest in Portage, Indiana

Your Insider Tips for a Weekend of Music, Memories, and Midwest Magic!

If you’re a first-timer or a seasoned festival pro, there’s one truth every ROXX Fest fan knows — you don’t just attend, you experience it. Here’s your all-in-one guide to making the most out of your 2026 weekend in Portage, Indiana — no spoilers, just the good stuff.

1. Where to Stay

If you’re traveling in from out of town, you’ve got options. Portage and nearby towns like Valparaiso and Chesterton offer plenty of hotels, motels, and Airbnbs. Want the full festival vibe? Choose a spot close to the dunes or campgrounds and wake up to that Lake Michigan breeze. Pro Tip: Book early — local accommodations fill up fast once ticket sales open.

2. What to Pack

ROXX Fest weather in June is usually perfect — warm days, breezy nights — but the Midwest likes to keep you guessing. Here’s your must-have list:

·        Sunscreen (you’ll thank us later)

·        Sunglasses and a hat

·        A light hoodie or jacket for night sets

·        Portable phone charger/battery pack

·        Cash (some vendors may not take cards)

·        Comfortable shoes — you’ll be on your feet all day

3. Local Flavor: Eat, Drink, Explore

Portage isn’t just the home of ROXX Fest — it’s home to great eats and sights, too. Before or after the show, check out local favorites like Portage Lakefront and Riverwalk, Indiana Dunes National Park, and downtown restaurants and markets.

4. Pro Tips for the Festival Grounds

·        Arrive Early: The best spots fill fast — especially near the stage.

·        Stay Hydrated: There will be plenty places to buy water — use them.

·        Map It Out: Grab a schedule early and plan who you want to see.

·        Be Kind: Respect others’ space and energy.

·        Charge Up: A portable charger saves your battery and your sanity.

5. How to Keep the Energy Going

Between sets, explore the vendor areas — packed with food, merch, and surprises from local artisans. Once the night winds down, head to the local watering holes like Social Goat or Moods for after-parties or a late-night diner run. ROXX Fest weekends are as much about the community as the concerts — and some of the best memories happen off-stage.

6. Sunday: The Recovery Day

When the final notes fade, take a slow morning at the Portage beach or grab breakfast at a local diner before heading home. The energy might fade, but the stories you’ll tell will keep you buzzing all summer.

7. Bonus: The ROXX Fest Survival Checklist

Want a printable version? Download the “ROXX Fest Survival Checklist” from our website — perfect for your packing prep and social media bragging rights.

Ready to Rock?

Tickets drop soon — and the lineup (trust us) will be worth the wait. Follow us on social media for updates, insider announcements, and sneak peeks at what’s in store for ROXX Fest 2026. Get ready — Portage is about to roar.