One of the most important components of any subculture is the people who comprise it.  No matter how hard the beats hit, no gathering could be called a "rave" unless there is the right crowd.  Known as "party kids", "party people" or "ravers" the frequenters of raves are often called modern day hippies.  The bell bottoms have changed shape to be wide from the top to the bottom and are now called "Phat" pants, and the long straight hair has been traded for funky shorter styles. (by some, not the author :)  )  Themes of peace and love prevail and a sense of community is spread by everyone.  Acronyms like PLUR (Peace, Love, Unity Respect) do a good job describing the attitude of tolerance and equality felt at these events.  At a "party" people of all different walks of life, races and genders throw their differences aside to take part in the vibe. 

People:
     The body of persons who compose a community, tribe, nation, or race; an aggregate of individuals forming a whole; a community; a nation.

Webster's 1913 Unabridged

The Vibe
The vibe is a form of energy that permeates the crowd.  This energy is often created by people's reaction to the music combined with their attitude toward each other.  The vibe of each party is different, some better than others.  Although an intangible item, the vibe can be felt and for most people determines how they feel about a party and determines what kind of time they have.

To allow you to learn about the people in this "subculture", or if you consider yourself a member, I have included some pages that will provide some resource.

Visit my Photo Archive for my collection of visual stimuli, consisting of friends, DJs and random party people. Also included are numerous more artistically striking photos that have made this site famous.

Check out my Rave Links page for a listing of the sites that I frequent and support.

Pittsburgh and Cleveland People can check out my personal PB-CLE Raves page and the official website.