Ultra Music Festival returns to Bayfront Park in Downtown Miami for its 27th year, drawing electronic dance music fans from around the world to the three-day event that has evolved from a one-day beach party in 1999. The festival, which moved to Bayfront Park in 2001 and expanded to three days in 2011, continues to attract devoted followers despite complaints from local residents about noise and traffic disruptions.
“I haven’t missed one,” said Scott Smith, 55, an Ultra Music Festival veteran who has attended every event since the first one at Collins Park. Smith, who prefers to enjoy the high-energy atmosphere while shirtless, represents the dedicated fan base that has followed the festival through its various locations and expansions, including a brief move to Virginia Key in 2019.
For many attendees, Ultra Music Festival serves as the centerpiece of a larger celebration that extends throughout Miami. “There are different pool parties and night parties,” said Lindy Campbell, who views UMF as part of the broader Miami Music Week festivities that include the Miami Music Festival and the Winter Music Conference, which started in 1985 as a haven for DJs.
Festival-goers are preparing for an intensive three-day experience, with some planning to stay until the very end. “We are going be here until it closes … I’m really excited for Martin Garrix tonight going back to back with Alesso,” said Deanna Nicolo, speaking alongside Nicolette Waldman on Friday morning as they prepared for the opening day.
The festival’s fashion culture embraces bold choices that reflect the electronic dance music scene’s aesthetic. “Colorful, spandex, glitter,” said Mariana Weber, describing the UMF fashion that has become synonymous with the event’s vibrant atmosphere.
However, not all Miami residents welcome the annual invasion of electronic music fans. Mark Nelson, who lives in Downtown Miami, expressed frustration with the disruptions caused by the festival and related events. “I can’t leave my house,” Nelson said. “I feel trapped … You can’t get in your car, you can’t drive … you can’t get in your building. You just have to walk everywhere.”
The noise levels from the electronic dance music performances create additional challenges for local residents. “Yeah, the vibrations,” Nelson said, explaining why he cannot sleep during the festival. The sound issues have led some locals to temporarily relocate and rent out their apartments during the event.
Veteran festival-goers recommend extensive planning and preparation as the foundation for surviving the three-day party. Attendees are advised to prioritize comfort by avoiding high heels, long sleeves, or long dresses, instead opting for broken-in sneakers and shorts made from breathable and stretchy fabrics. Weather forecasts show a chance of rain on Sunday, prompting recommendations for water-resistant materials and ponchos, while Saturday’s partly cloudy conditions with temperatures in the 80s and 70s call for linen, cotton, or bamboo fabrics.
Transportation experts strongly recommend using the Metro and MetroMover systems to avoid traffic and street closures, with transfers available at Government Center. The MetroMover’s Inner, Brickell, and Omni loops stop at Bayfront Park Station, First Street Station, and College/Bayside Station, all located close to the UMF entrance along Biscayne Boulevard. These services run until 2 a.m., providing late-night transportation options for festival-goers.
Safety preparations include downloading the Ultra Worldwide app for safety alerts, available at the App Store and Google Play, and being prepared for spotty cell phone service throughout the event. Walk ambassadors are available at 305-415-3896 for assistance, while attendees are warned about pickpockets targeting phones and advised against purchasing items from strangers outside the festival grounds.
The festival continues its run through Sunday, with each day featuring different lineups and performances that will draw thousands of electronic dance music fans to Downtown Miami’s Bayfront Park.