Music
rail
What does rail mean?
The metal barrier at the very front of a stage, and by extension the spot directly against it — the most coveted place to watch a set.
"We got to the stage four hours early to lock down the rail."
Origin
From the literal 'rail' or barricade at the front of concert stages. The fan culture of camping the rail all day predates EDM but is huge in festival scenes.
Frequently asked questions
What does rail mean at a festival?
It's the front barrier of the stage, and the spot right against it — the most sought-after place to watch a set.
What is a rail rat?
A fan who shows up hours early to hold the front-barrier spot for an entire day or set.
How do you get the rail?
Arrive very early and commit — top spots can be claimed hours before a headliner and held all day.
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