When I was walking around this year, I noticed tons of people (deservedly) hating on how shitty University Ave. gets because of trash during Fest weekend. I think I may have a solution that could help everyone out.

Though I know that, in reality, we should all just try extra hard to pick up our shit after ourselves, why not put together a Fest clean-up crew? Get fifteen or so volunteers to walk the loop between Main and 13th, bagging and collecting trash and recyclables. They take two hours out of their Fest, and the city gets a much nicer street. Obviously, it would be sweet if this wasn't necessary--but I feel like it could be a major thumbs up between Festers and the city if we just took care of it ourselves.

At Rock-im-Park in Germany they give everyone a trashbag during registration. When that bag is returned full of trash, they receive $5. Pretty sure they just charge $5 more for the tickets to compensate for the rewards, though. Then again, it takes place in a giant field with camping instead of downtown.

Or Groezrock in Belgium which has convicts (at least thats what they looked like) come the day after the festival ends to pick up all the trash. Then again, it's also in a giant field with camping instead of downtown.

Also, all beer is served in hard plastic cups at both festivals, which you pay a $1 deposit for. You can either refill your cup without having to pay the extra dollar, or you can return the cup and get the dollar back.

I agree with the idea of adding a community service aspect to things like The Fest (and Occupy Movements).

On Friday morning, I had to drop off the car at my wife's job and walk two miles back to my house to get the bike, before going off in Fest direction. I picked up quite a lot of trash during this walk.

There should also be extra trashcans and recycle bins set out on the street during Fest.

I think some extra bins would already help a lot... at the venue its bad every year and mostly as the bin there is full early.. and also the businesses should be involved, I think half of the trash I saw were plate from 5 star pizza... but of course what shall people do if there is simply no bin... a huge bin in front of every venue would do most of the job

I also picked up like 8 cans from the parking lot south of Boca and East of Zen Hostel. Luckily Sharkie's place is just a couple blocks form there, and he keeps his recycle bin on the front porch.

As a Gainesvillian, the town was spotless the day after. Trust me, it might get grungy Fest weekend, but it's FAR worse the day after a home game.

You did good keeping the town clean, Festers. Locals tend to just be haters, and haters gonna hate.

Cleaning up is a great way to roll. It is also true that the city posts temporary garbage cans all over the downtown area specifically to help reel in the insanity. It would be good if they were emptied daily (or repeatedly), but do know that the city is aware, and at least on this level, involved.

This is a nice idea.

ashtrays down university ave and more on the holiday inn grounds.