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RFID Wristbands
Tap In - Shambhala is going cashless
Your wristband is now your wallet.
We’re excited to launch our streamlined RFID payment system for 2025. Your Shambhala wristband now acts as a secure, cashless payment method you can use across the entire festival. With just a tap, guests can pay, track spending, and skip the hassle. It’s faster, safer, and smoother than ever.
Please note: if you are purchasing Early Entry or Parking Upgrades, you will still need to bring a Credit or Debit card to make these purchases at the gate. Once you are inside the festival, you will be able to use RFID for purchases.
Why We’re Going Cashless
We’ve partnered with Ronin RFID to enhance the guest experience and modernize on-site purchases.
Benefits of Going Cashless:
- Speed and Convenience: No more fumbling with cards or cash
- Safety: Reduced risk of theft or loss
This change is part of our commitment to improving the Shambhala experience with technology that works for everyone.
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How RFID Wristband Payments Work
1. Pre-Festival Registration (Online): You will register a Shambhala RFID account online and create a custom 4-digit PIN that will be used later for purchases. Be sure to enter the phone number that you will be using on the farm. After that, you can link a credit card to your account.
2. Wristband Distribution (On-Site): Receive your Shambhala Music Festival wristband upon arrival on the farm. Your festival wristband will have RFID technology.
3. Activate: At your first point of purchase, provide your phone number and 4-digit PIN to the vendor. This links your account to your physical wristband’s RFID chip (a one-time process).
4. Tap In: Once activated, wristbands work instantly at any payment point on the farm. Simply tap and enter your 4-digit pin to complete a transaction. All charges are processed via the linked payment method.
5. Review: At any time, you can log into your RFID account to view real-time spending history, update or replace card details, and manage account settings from a mobile-friendly dashboard. Receipts and balance updates are available via the user portal.
ENHANCE YOUR EXPERIENCE
Shambhala RFID & Cashless FAQs
Here, you’ll find answers to all your questions about the RFID registration process. Get ready in advance as we gear up for the 26th Annual Shambhala Music Festival!
What is a cashless wristband?
Your wristband that you receive at the gate to Shambhala Music Festival now also acts as a digital wallet using RFID technology. Just tap it to pay for anything at the festival.
Can I still pay with phone tap? Can I use other cards?
Vendors will still accept physical credit or debit card or phone tap payments, however, we highly recommend registering for RFID to ensure you can pay seamlessly across the entire festival.
By linking your credit card to your RFID account in advance, you'll be able to tap your wristband to pay, track your spending, and skip the hassle.
Not only is RFID faster and more convenient, but it also ensures you have both options available if vendor payment methods vary.
What payment methods are accepted on the wristband?
All major credit cards are accepted. Debit cards are not compatible with the RFID system and cannot be loaded onto the wristband.
How do I set up my RFID festival wristband?
You can set it up before you even receive your wristband at the gate! Create an RFID account and add a payment method in advance. It takes just a couple of minutes. You will link your wristband to your account during your first payment on the farm.
What about data security?
We’ve partnered with Ronin RFID to ensure that all transactions are encrypted and secure. No payment data is stored on your wristband.
What if I don’t set up RFID in advance?
You can still set up on-site. Just scan a QR code at the gate or visit a Help Tent.
Can I still enjoy Shambhala without setting this up?
Not fully. RFID is essential for improving wait times across the festival. Setup is quick, free, and part of the full experience.
Can I split a tab with someone else? Can I transfer funds to another wristband?
No, we are unable to offer split tender by choice. If you run out of funds, you will have the option to complete payment with a different method.
Any cash balance or promo balance that is loaded onto your band can only be used on your band.
Can I transfer funds to another wristband?
No, any cash balance or promo balance that is loaded onto your band can only be used on your band.
Is the wristband waterproof?
Yes. The Shambhala Music Festival wristband is waterproof and designed to withstand various weather conditions and activities during the festival.
What if I want to use cash?
Some artisan vendors may still accept cash, but all food vendors are cashless. There will be no ATMs on-site this year, so if you plan to use cash, be sure to bring it with you.
To use cash at the festival, you’ll need to visit a designated RFID Help Tent to load it onto your wristband.
While a few vendors may accept direct cash or card payments, we strongly recommend using your RFID wristband for a smoother, more seamless Shambhala experience. If you didn’t preload funds, you can still link a credit card on-site or through the app. Payment options may vary by vendor.
STILL HAVE QUESTIONS?
Get assistance from our Customer Service team by emailing sales@shambhalamusicfestival.com, or visit the RFID Help Tent on-site at the 26th Annual Shambhala Music Festival.
Have an issue to report? Please submit your feedback here.
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