Is It Legal to Throw a Rave Inside Bass Pro Shops? A Quick Guide

Picture this: you’re in the middle of a Bass Pro Shop, surrounded by fishing rods that could double as rave‑stage props. The lights flicker, the bass drops, and you’re wondering whether you’ve just committed a felony or simply found the ultimate party venue. Let’s break it down in classic FAQ style, because who doesn’t love a good question‑answer format with a side of sarcasm?

1. What is the legal definition of a “rave”?

A rave, in most jurisdictions, is defined as an event that involves:

• Public gathering of more than a handful of people
• Use of amplified music (think “DJ booth” or a high‑volume Bluetooth speaker)
• Any sort of drug usage, even if it’s just a harmless “snack” (you know, the ones that smell like glitter)
• Lighting effects that could induce a mild existential crisis

If your event ticks any of those boxes, you’re probably looking at a “rave”. And yes, that includes your spontaneous Bass Pro Shop dance-off.

2. Do local ordinances actually cover this?

Every city has a set of noise ordinances, public assembly laws, and, in the worst cases, a dedicated “Rave‑Control” department. In most places:

1. Noise ordinances limit decibel levels between 8 a.m. and 11 p.m. (or 9 p.m., depending on how strict your mayor is).
2. Public assembly laws require a permit if you’re hosting more than 50 people in a public space.
3. Drug laws are always in effect. Even a single “edible” can land you on the wrong side of the law.

So, if your Bass Pro Shop rave is a small gathering of 10 people, you might be fine. If it’s a full‑scale festival with a DJ, laser lights, and a 200‑person crowd, you’ll probably need a permit, a police escort, and maybe a lawyer with a sense of humor.

3. Can I legally bring my own DJ booth into a Bass Pro Shop?

Technically, yes—provided you get the store’s permission. Here’s how it usually works:

If you skip step 1 and just start blasting music at 3 p.m., the manager will probably call the cops—and you’ll end up with a fine, not a rave.

4. What about the “Bass” in Bass Pro Shop? Does that mean you’re automatically allowed to play bass music?

Good question. No, the word “Bass” is just a brand name. The only thing that’s guaranteed to be legal is the fishing gear. Anything else—like a bass guitar or DJ booth—is subject to the same laws as any other event.

5. Can I sell drinks or snacks during the rave?

If you’re selling alcohol, you need a liquor license. If you’re just handing out popcorn, you’re probably fine—unless you accidentally sell someone a “mystery” snack that turns out to be a psychedelic mushroom. In that case, you’re definitely not fine.

6. What if someone gets sick or injured?

Insurance, my friend. You’ll need liability insurance that covers:

• Slip and fall incidents (yes, even if it’s on a slick fishing pole)
• Music‑related ear damage (the same as if you’re at a concert)
• Drug‑related accidents (the most expensive part of the policy)

Without it, you’ll be looking at a court‑ordered payment that could make your bank account feel as empty as a fishing net after a bad day.

7. What if the local police show up?

Here’s the quick survival guide:

1. Stay calm. Don’t start dancing in front of them.
2. Show your paperwork. Have the store’s permission, your insurance, and any permits handy.
3. Offer to cooperate. Ask if they need a copy of the event plan.
4. Leave if you’re told to. The alternative is a fine that might be larger than the cost of your DJ equipment.

8. Is it ever legal to host a rave in a Bass Pro Shop without permission?

Short answer: No. Long answer: The only time it might be legal is if the store is closed, you’re in a storage unit they don’t care about, and you can convince them that your lights are “for decoration.” That’s a stretch.

9. What if I want to do a “silent rave”?

A silent rave means you’re wearing headphones. That’s cool, but the store still cares about:

• Noise levels (the headphones themselves are silent, but you’re still dancing)
• Crowd control (the crowd could still be large enough to need a permit)
• Safety (headphones don’t prevent someone from tripping over a fishing pole)

So, the same rules apply.

10. Final sanity check: Is it worth the risk?

If you’re looking for a quick cash‑in from ticket sales, the risk is not. If you’re doing it for a cause—say, raising money for a local fishing club—make sure the legalities are sorted first. The alternative is a story that ends with you in handcuffs and a very loud “Bass Pro” sign behind you.

Conclusion

Throwing a rave inside a Bass Pro Shop is like trying to sell ice to an Eskimo: it’s technically possible, but you’ll need a lot of paperwork, a good relationship with the store manager, and a solid insurance plan. If you’re all about that DIY party life, remember: permission is key. Without it, you’ll probably end up with a fine that feels heavier than the biggest fishing rod in the store.

So, before you crank up those speakers and start dancing on a fishing ladder, check the local ordinances, get written permission, buy insurance, and maybe—just maybe—give the store a call. Or you can always try a “silent rave” in your own living room. That’s always legal.

And now, for a quick laugh before you go back to your spreadsheet: