How To: Boiler Room Raves

By Katelyn Phan

K★YLA / @KaylaShykoraa on Pinterest

Let’s set the scene. You’re in an underground room. Vibrations from the speakers bounce off the walls and into your bones. Bodies swarm around you, and it’s dark. You, my friend, are in what’s known as a Boiler Room-style rave.

Boiler Room raves originate from the London-based broadcasting company Boiler Room, which started as a weekly webcam stream of founder Blaise Bleville’s electronic dance music (EDM) sets. Unlike larger music events, Boiler Room provides a global platform for up-and-coming DJs and producers while broadcasting underground club culture.

A unique highlight of boiler rooms is the “360 set”. Essentially the crowd is surrounding the DJ who is typically centered in the middle of the dance floor. This style of rave drastically differentiates itself from a traditional rave where the crowd is separated from the DJ.

There is a multitude of ways to conquer a boiler room rave with your dignity, outfit, and hearing still intact. Here are a few tips and tricks.

What am I Going to Wear?

Boiler Room raves take place indoors in tight spaces, so be prepared to feel the heat. The crowds are often packed shoulder to shoulder—that’s part of the experience. Due to the unique nature of a boiler room, there is no strict dress code. Accessories such as brightly colored scarves, also known as a “pashmina scarf," or big sunglasses are often sported in boiler rooms.

Wear an outfit that won’t restrict movement and will allow for as much dancing as possible, including shoes. Leave the stilettos at home and break out dancing shoes. Whether those are black platform knee-high boots that are currently in style, or beaten in high-top Converse(a personal favorite).

Boiler Room Culture: A Raver’s Code

Figuring out what to wear is only half the battle. Boiler Room raves—and raves in general—offer an escape from everyday life, creating an immersive experience centered around music.

That’s why PLUR—Peace, Love, Unity, and Respect—remains an essential part of rave culture. This philosophy encourages community, inclusivity, and looking out for one another. Whether you’re at a major festival like Tomorrowland or an intimate Boiler Room event, PLUR ensures that everyone feels welcome and safe.

Following PLUR as a philosophy and code of conduct promotes a sense of community and inclusivity that ensures everyone feels safe and welcome, whether the experience is as big as Tomorrowland or as small as a boiler room. 

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