MIAMI GARDENS, FLA. (WSVN) - The 2021 Rolling Loud hip-hop festival kicked off Day 2 with large crowds at Hard Rock Stadium and some traffic congestion in parts of Miami-Dade County.
For many fans who flocked to the Miami Gardens venue, the three-day showcase is the first major event they’ve attended since the start of the pandemic.
“This is the first concert back,” said a concertgoer.
The pandemic was what prompted organizers to cancel the 2020 edition of the festival.
“We’ve been locked inside for almost two years. We’re trying to get lit,” said another concertgoer.
The day’s lineup includes headliner Travis Scott, who is expected to take the stage Saturday night.
“It’s a whole different vibe in Miami,” said a concertgoer.
That energy has been flowing since doors opened on Friday. That night, rapper Bobby Shmurda debuted new music during his set.
The fan frenzy was spotted as far south as Brickell, where Scott made a stop at a 7-Eleven on Saturday.
Cellphone video posted by Only in Dade showed the Grammy winner body surfing his way out of the store.
Up until late Saturday afternoon, the weather at the festival was cooperating, but the rain that fell Saturday night did not dampen concertgoers’ spirits.
“It’s going to be a big weekend, man,” said a concertgoer.
The big weekend on stage has led to traffic headaches. Several detours around the stadium has led to bumper-to-bumper traffic along Northwest 199th Street.
Over in South Beach, road closures are set to remain in place through Sunday night.
As for concertgoers, they said they plan to celebrate and make up for lost time.
“We’re just trying to be out and have a good time and get some fresh air,” said a concertgoer.
Miami Beach Police advise drivers to expect delays into the city through the major causeways due to eastbound lane closures.
Rolling Loud 2021 is scheduled to wrap up Sunday night.
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