With thousands of people attending the Festival weekend, many things are often left behind. Below are a few tips on how to keep track of (or make it easier for us to identify) some of the most common items turned in at the Lost & Found desk.
In general, don't bring your "best" or "favorite" items, and label everything.
Use Labels -- small mailing labels that come in the mail are good for quickly labeling items you are going to bring.
Bring cloth bags for holding personal items -- Use something different that will stand out in a pile -- a bright, odd-color bag, etc. -- and put your name on it. Or tie a bright ribbon, handkerchief, or cloth to handles on plain bags, or instrument cases, to help make it easier to find.
Shoes: Attach or tie together when you are not wearing them (rubber bands, shoe strings, or place in a labeled plastic bag). It's a good idea to have your name and address taped on top of the tongue of your shoe (or on the underside, on the arch)
Clothing:
Put your name on the tag of your clothing, or use removable tape (or those address labels) on the inside of your coat, sweater, flannel shirt, etc. Keep all your items together, as much as possible, in a labeled bag.
Mugs/Cups/water bottles:
Put on a label or piece of tape with your name on it. Or -- buy an inexpensive water bottle just for the festival, and write your name on it in permanent marker.
Jewelry: Don't bring your best pieces. Dancing is very physical -- chains catch and break, watches and earrings slip off.
Cell phones: If you can't leave it in your room or car, be sure to keep it with you, or hidden and tucked away in your bag. If you can, tape your name/address to the back of the phone.
