Just Post the Damn Set Times
on the Hidden Costs of Club Night Mystique
In the ecosystem of club culture, anticipation is a currency. Fans build up excitement, meticulously planning their nights out, coordinating with friends, and preparing to lose themselves in the music. But there’s one persistent hiccup that undermines this experience: the delayed release of set times. What might seem like a minor detail actually carries significant weight—especially for those with neurodiverse needs, caregiving responsibilities, or sensory sensitivities. It’s time to rethink this outdated practice—just post the damn set times.
The Disruption of Uncertainty
A seamless night out is rarely spontaneous—it’s carefully constructed. People arrange transportation, ensure their pets or family members are looked after, and manage various responsibilities just to carve out a few hours for themselves. When set times are withheld until the last moment, it disrupts all this preparation. Instead of enhancing the experience, it forces attendees into a state of flux, where they’re making snap decisions and often missing out on what they came for.
For those navigating neurodivergence or managing caregiving duties, knowing the schedule isn’t a trivial request—it’s essential. The allure of spontaneity fades quickly when it conflicts with the realities of people’s lives. The lack of transparency in set times doesn’t create excitement; it creates stress and exclusion.
Accessibility Isn’t a Bonus—It’s a Necessity
This isn’t a matter of convenience; it’s a question of accessibility. Events should be designed to be inclusive, ensuring that everyone, including those with neurodiverse needs, disabilities, or mental health conditions, can participate fully. Advanced notice of set times allows these individuals to plan their energy, navigate potential stressors, and actually engage with the event on their terms.
For many, attending a club night is akin to preparing for a marathon. They need to carefully budget their energy, and when the schedule is ambiguous, it can become an insurmountable risk. Exclusion isn’t just a missed opportunity for individuals—it’s a failure of the event to live up to its inclusive ideals.
The Fallacy of Manufactured Mystique
There’s a persistent belief among some promoters that keeping set times under wraps adds a layer of mystique or coolness to an event. But let’s dissect that for a moment. The idea that leaving your audience in the dark somehow enhances the experience is an outdated and narrow view. Real excitement doesn’t stem from uncertainty; it comes from the certainty that you’re in the right place at the right time.
Transparency doesn’t dilute the magic of the night—it amplifies it. When everyone can engage fully without the anxiety of not knowing what’s next, the atmosphere becomes more electric, not less.
Balancing Surprise with Clarity
Maintaining an element of surprise doesn’t have to mean keeping people in the dark. Here’s how promoters can strike the right balance:
Staggered Releases: Roll out key details gradually. Tease parts of the lineup early, with the full schedule revealed closer to the event. This keeps the anticipation alive without leaving people guessing.
Partial Set Times: Release some of the schedule in advance, leaving room for a few surprises. This approach allows for planning while preserving a bit of the unknown.
Consistent Communication: Ensure that when set times are announced, they’re easily accessible and clearly communicated—whether through social media, an event app, or even at the venue.
The Importance of Respecting Your Audience
Failing to post set times isn’t just an inconvenience—it’s a disregard for the diverse needs of your audience. Attendees aren’t just a homogeneous crowd; they’re individuals with lives, obligations, and different levels of ability. Respecting these needs by providing crucial information fosters trust and builds a loyal community.
By being transparent, you’re sending a clear message: “We value you and want you to have the best experience possible.” That respect translates directly into loyalty and repeat attendance.
It’s About the Experience, Not the Secrets
At the core of a successful event isn’t secrecy—it’s the experience. The collective energy, the music, the shared moments when everything aligns—those are what make a night memorable. Posting set times won’t diminish these moments; it will make them more accessible and enjoyable for everyone.