During the month of October, music fans, young and old, flock to New York City for the annual College Music Journal Music Marathon. The Marathon, now in its 32nd year, is a six day music event that takes place in not just one stage, instead all of NYC is used as a stage to host the hundreds of participating bands. The venues range from small NYC bars to music venues such as the Bowery Ballroom or Terminal 5.
However, the music festival proves to be problematic for many young college students who wish to see their favorite bands. The majority of college students are not old enough to drink. Many of the events of the CMJ Music Marathon take place at bars or sponsored by alcoholic beverage companies, thus requiring attendee to be at least 21 years of age.
"If the problem is the time and the rowdiness, or if the sponsors happen to be breweries, at least open up venues or locations that allow a slightly younger crowd," said Hunter College student Leah Marks.
Surely there must be some loophole? Disappointed music fans have a few options. The first work around is to find shows with out the 21+ age restriction. While there are some shows that are only 18+, there are not a lot of choices. Chances are, the bands you want to see the most are playing popular venues such as Arlene's Grocery or the Cake Shop, which are bars with age restrictions. The other "loophole" is to talk to the bouncers. There is a slim chance to . From experience, some are nice, and some aren't so nice, but it never hurts to try.
“I’m really against the age restrictions. Bands are performing to play music to their fans, no matter their age, said Marks. “"I personally don't know the reasons behind CMJ's age restrictions, but there can be a solution."
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