Rave Culture 101
Raves began to emerge in the 1980’s as secret dance parties that usually happened after-hours in metropolitan cities. During these humble beginnings, the philosophy of PLUR was created, which is still present to this day!
Frankie Bones, a legendary DJ from New York City, coined this term to represent a movement that he noticed in the underground music scene.
What does PLUR Mean?
PLUR stands for Peace, Love, Unity, and Respect; which are the core principles that rave culture is based on. Raving and rave culture is all about celebrating our love for dance, music, and self-expression!
But what is PLUR?
PLUR has become embedded in rave culture and is the foundation of what raving culture is today. Raves have become adopted by the mainstream culture and has evolved into something much greater and inclusive than what it once was. At raves, it's the people that give PLUR meaning, so bring good vibes and come prepared to be part of the experience!
@jennifer_jimenez
EDM Culture
The popularity of EDM festivals has skyrocketed thanks to the plur rave vibes that make it what it is today, which has resulted in the innovation of electronic music and EDM festivals. Rave subculture is huge, but the ethos of the events are still true to rave culture's roots. Today, there are many genres and sub-genres of electronic music that can appeal to just about everyone.
Lightning Flash Reflective Outfit
Raves have a way of bringing people together in magical ways, as you’ll see people from all walks of life getting along and appreciating one another. No matter how different we can be, the ideology of PLUR is the common thread that binds us all together.
Augmented Reality Reflective Outfit
What are raves like?
The idea 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 although these are really cute, they represent something more than just a bracelet.
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.”
Whether or not the raves that we see today are what its founders had intended, we are very happy with what it has become. The EDM community is beautiful, vibrant, and thriving!
This overgrowing rave community has passed down the traditions of raving to keep the legacy of PLUR alive. For many ravers, PLUR has evolved from a concept to a lifestyle where you strive to be a more compassionate and understanding person.
What Wear To A Rave? Next ->
Published by Angela Le
Last Updated: 1/19/2024 by Julia Sachs
