MIAMI (WSVN) - Thousands of revelers have descended on Downtown Miami to take part in this year’s Ultra Music Festival.
The annual electronic dance music showcase turned Bayfront Park into the hottest spot in the Magic City Friday night.
Crowds ready to party came from countries as far as Thailand and Lituania to experience those pulsating beats.
A man wearing a red tank top that reads “Star fresh and turnt” and a handkerchief covering part of his face said he came to have a great time.
“Have fun, definitely,” he said before taking off the handkerchief.
“I think what’s best for everyone is just have a good time,” he added.
Girls seen wearing glowing feathered tutus underscored just how important wardrobe is to Ultra goers.
When asked why he and so many others were covering their mouths, the reveler in the red tank top replied, “It’s just like different trends. They’ve been doing different designs. This [handkerchief] was actually from Miami. They sent it with our tickets.”
A couple loves Ultra so much they decided to celebrate their engagement amid the booms, flames and lasers.
The newly engaged woman flashed her ring to 7News cameras.
“I’m so happy,” said her fiancé.
When asked if she felt special, the woman said, “Yes.”
Hours earlier, 7Skyforce hovered above the empty stages, shortly before the gates opened, just after 3 p.m.
Cheering crowds waved to 7News cameras as they flocked en masse into the venue, seconds after it opened to ticket holders.
People dressed down for the occasion walked northbound along Biscayne Boulevard as they made their way to the gates.
“Ultra’s amazing, man. It’s like a different type of vibe. It’s like magical,” said one fan.
His companion tried to explain that sensation. “It’s honestly the experience you feel with people all around you, people from different countries,” he said.
A young woman accompanying these electronic dance music fans said nothing compares to listening to those pulsating beats live. “It’s like funny, because you listen to that music on your own, and then when it’s actually there, it’s such a different feeling,” she said. “It’s so loud and nice.”
The trio joined thousands of bass-hungry EDM lovers who are taking in the megawatt party.
“I’m expecting a crazy time,” said a woman.
Drivers encountered heavy traffic, especially between Southeast First and Sixth streets. Detours are currently in place for the duration of the festival.
Traffic is shut down in several spots, particularly northbound lanes.
City of Miami Police are out in full force to ensure traffic flows as smoothly as possible and revelers stay safe.
Ninety firefighters and paramedics are also on hand. Some are on foot and some are riding all-terrain and rescue vehicles, so they can quickly respond to emergencies.
Friday night, police said they have made several arrests, but they have all been for minor drug offenses.
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