One August weekend in 1969 changed the concert-going experience irrevocably. That weekend was of course the first Woodstock, where 32 rock and roll legends came together to create history. Woodstock changed the concert-going experience and its effects are still being felt today, most recently at the All Points West Festival at Liberty State Park in New Jersey.

Typically, a concert involves a throng of sweaty, stinky guys, alcohol and the occasional whiff of pot all in one crammed, dark spot. All Points West, held from Aug. 8 through 10, was different. There were still stinky guys, drugs and more, but this time it was outdoors.

Matt Simpson, an outdoor festival blogger for CBS radio and overall concert enthusiast, said events like All Points West are all the rage these days.

“Since Bonnaroo began in 2002 it seems like the summer music festival has become THE thing to do in the U.S.,” he said. “And rightfully so, in my mind. What could be better than a three-day extravaganza of music, art, food and fun?”

Outdoor music festivals, like All Points West and Bonnaroo, an annual festival held in Tennessee, usually take place in a large outdoor field or park. This lends itself to a relaxed atmosphere that is nonexistent in traditional performances. There are vendors from all over peddling goods and food and often there are other types of artists that come to display their work. This aspect of the festival allows for a more “free spirited” approach to the whole experience.

But, a massive venue and artist lineup can pose a problem to avid fans.

“Sometimes there are conflicts that are just plain unfair to the fans who want to see both bands,” Simpson said. “But it’s all part of the experience. Making those tough choices shapes the experience and … it can often lead you to stumble across that crazy band you’ve never heard of, and that’s the goal.”