Summer festivals can stress your heart and health

Last updated on Jul 30, 2026

Posted on Jul 30, 2026

2 min read

DEAR MAYO CLINIC: My dad’s favorite band is playing at a music festival this summer. I’d love to take him, but he has a heart condition. I know it could be kind of intense. Do you have any tips for making the experience safe for him?

ANSWER: Festivals can be surprisingly physically demanding. Hours spent standing, walking or dancing can put extra strain on the heart, especially for those with pre-existing conditions such as heart disease, high blood pressure or diabetes.

For people with heart failure, this can lead to shortness of breath or a worsening of symptoms.

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