The dog days of summer are almost over and Labor Day weekend is here, which means only one thing in Seattle — it's Bumbershoot time.

Perhaps this weekend will be your 35th year at the Seattle Center festival, or maybe you're a newbie. Either way, there are some essentials to know before diving into the four-day music and arts festival.

Tickets get you into all the venues, though night performances on the main stage require an extra pass. They are free, but you will need to obtain them from any of the information booths (except the one in the Center House) by presenting your ticket stub.

Passes are limited to one per person so plan your schedules accordingly. It's first come, first served.

Bring identification (no beer gardens without it), sunscreen or rain gear (umbrellas are prohibited), water, money or a debit or cash card (a number of ATMs will be on site) and a Bumbershoot schedule.

Don't bring cameras or video equipment, alcohol or illegal drugs, beverages in glass containers, weapons of any sort, lasers, chairs and noisemakers. Leave all pets except for service animals at home.

Bumbershoot

Where: Seattle Center campus located on the north end of downtown.

When: Tomorrow through Monday (11 a.m.-11 p.m. each day)

Cost

Adults: one-day pass, $28; two-day pass, $40; four-day pass, $80.

Children: 5 and under, free; 6-12, $8.

Seniors: 65 and older, $8.

Tickets can be purchased at the gate, at all Ticketmaster locations, some Western Washington Starbucks locations and online at the Bumbershoot Web site.

Getting there: See the Seattle Center transportation page for details on bus schedules, directions and parking.

More info: See the Bumbershoot Web site at bumbershoot.org.

Lost and Found items can be dropped off or claimed on the third floor of the Center House.

Parents, prep your kids on what to do if they become separated from you. Show them the locations of all the information booths, how to identify Bumbershoot staff and how to find the Lost Children's Headquarters on the third floor of the Center House. This will also be the location for indoor children's programming. Outdoor events will be on the International Fountain Lawn. Strollers are allowed.

Mass transit is your friend to and from Seattle Center this weekend. Taking the bus will save you the hassle of fighting traffic and possibly missing your favorite event because you can't find a parking spot.

Remember re-entry is permitted. If you need a breather from the crowds or some good eats other than fair food, it's OK to leave.

Be prepared by checking out the Bumbershoot Web site (www.bumbershoot.org) before leaving home.

Vanessa Renée Casavant: vcasavant@seattletimes.com