As the Boston Calling Music Festival kicked off Friday night, concertgoers saw and felt added security first-hand, in the wake of this week's terrorist attacks in England.
"Honestly, I'm kind of used to it. Growing up I came of age in the September 11th generation so it's always getting worse, just something you have to deal with,” said concertgoer Mike Moore.
Following the bombing outside the Ariana Grande concert Monday night in Manchester, England, organizers and police in Boston have stepped up security for the three day festival at the Harvard Athletic Complex in Allston.
"My dad was definitely very worried telling me, 'just keep an eye out, you can't stop living, keep on going in life,'" recalled festival goer Alexandra Abreu.
Concertgoers waited in long lines to be scanned by metal detectors and to be patted down, while wristbands were scanned. They were only allowed to bring in as many items as they could fit into a clear 12 by 12 bag — and some items were banned completely.
"They just checked the bag. It wasn't that big of a deal, I'm glad they are doing that because of what's been happening recently," said concertgoer Colette Buser.
Boston Police said they also increased the number of explosives detection K9s at the festival.
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Concertgoers said they welcomed the added security.
"I'm pretty confident in Boston and the Boston police since they upped security and everything," said one attendee.
