Rave is synonymous with acid house parties that use light and laser shows along with electronic music. Rave has many definitions to its name. In 1999, Gibson defined the term as a harmonizing practice of music, dance, and light. He considered rave parties to be the powerful entertainment event that allowed individuals to experience the magic of trance, personal issues, and religion. Another definition tells that rave is a global subculture that follows the ethical code of conduct, develops deep philosophical thoughts, forms an important part of religious movements, and also has the potential to re-invent the spiritual practices of pagan.
The history of rave dates back to the 1980s. With punk and disco dominating the whole of 80s and the majority of 90s, Belgian techno sound started to add increasing amounts of break beats that later came to be known as hardcore by the British. More break beats were incorporated into sound, the more upbeat and energetic the techno sound became. This is the first definitive rave music. One of its sub-genres is called kiddie rave. Apart from rave music, there are also different and many types of rave wear. The rave gear comprises of different clothing types namely: pumps, white gloves, three button shirts, white belts, and fluorescent yellow jackets.
Despite not being a part of the mainstream society, the post-modern rave culture has successfully attracted a huge fan following. Ravers consider the raving to be the platform for spiritual healing and self-identification. Ravers from indigenous culture have contributed immensely to rave dancing. For example, the Numic People from Great Basin have employed their culture in rave dancing ritual as a temporal escape. The four basic principles governing a rave party are music, lighting, location, and dance. A person starts to dance rhythmically along with chanting in order to disengage from the physical world to connect with entities that directs his or her belief system.
Even today, rave parties are commonly considered as outdoor and underground events. Raves are considered as gatherings frequently found in parties and dance clubs, where wall-shattering music is played to which people dance on the floor. Rave parties key features are dark dance floors and minimal lighting. The lighting source for the dancers is provided by the glow sticks, which is held by them to avoid bumping with other dancers. Glow sticks leave a beautiful and a unique trail of light when moved fast.
It is almost impossible to find a rave party without glow sticks. Glow sticks are used for recreational purposes and were invented by Frank Arthen. The predominant usage of glow sticks are for dancing, entertainments and parties such as raves, dance clubs, and concerts. The other glow products available in the market include glow bracelets, glow necklaces, glow yo-yo balls, glow crayons, glow wands, swords, and flags.