🌈 The Rise of Kandi Culture & Why People Trade Bracelets at Raves

If you’ve ever been to a rave or EDM festival, you’ve probably seen colorful, beaded bracelets wrapped around people’s wrists—sometimes stacked all the way up their arms. These little pieces of art aren’t just decoration. They're called Kandi, and they carry a powerful meaning rooted in connection, creativity, and the values of PLUR: Peace ✌️, Love ❤️, Unity 🤝, and Respect 🙏.

Where Did Kandi Come From? 

Kandi culture emerged from the underground rave scene in the 1990s, especially on the U.S. West Coast. Influenced by rave fashion, DIY spirit, and the desire to express individuality, ravers began making and trading colorful bracelets made of plastic pony beads. Each bracelet was unique, often featuring names, messages, or symbols.

Over time, the act of exchanging Kandi became a ritual—a moment of connection and shared energy between strangers.

The PLUR Handshake

One of the most iconic parts of Kandi trading is the PLUR handshake, a symbolic gesture used when trading bracelets. Here’s how it goes:

       1. Peace – touch fingertips
       2. Love – make a heart shape
       3. Unity – clasp hands
       4. Respect – slide the bracelet from one person’s arm to the other

This isn’t just a fun exchange—it’s a moment of mutual respect and understanding. It’s about more than the beads.

Why People Still Trade Kandi 🧡

Despite the rise of new tech and trends in festival culture, Kandi trading has stayed alive—and for good reason. It's personal. It's handmade. It’s about authentic connection in a world that often feels fleeting and digital .

Many ravers collect Kandi as souvenirs, tokens of friendship, or reminders of special moments. Others use Kandi to meet people, share positivity ✨, or spread messages they care about.

Kandi is a love letter to the rave community, crafted one bead at a time.

Until then, pass the vibe forward. 💜