my message for anybody thinking about going to a protest for the first time is that they are mostly just kind of boring and the weather is usually crummy. but everybody there will be glad you bothered to show up. the chants are pretty easy to learn, and it's okay if you just clap along instead
it's socially awkward to stand in the street and sort of yell a bit. you can push through it! you don't gotta push through fear for your safety. if things start looking like the news and this is your first time out there, go ahead and plan to calmly skedaddle. leave the spicy stuff to the vets.
and if you want a nice chill vibe, try to pick a protest that's been planned and advertised well in advance, sponsored by big orgs. they're more likely to have permits and lots of other first-time protestors. wear sunscreen and comfy shoes, bring water, and hop off the sidewalk into the streets!