Sunset Music Festival 2018

By alantvuong on June 8, 2018

I had such an amazing time at Sunset Music Festival last year that I wanted to repeat it again this year. I already reviewed about accessibility at this event at last year’s post, so I will just write about changes or differences from last year. This was held at Raymond James Stadium again and not much has changed since last year. This year however was rainy and the temperature was not as hot as last year. Headliners this year includes Marshmello, Rezz, Excision, Illenium and many more.

we took a 20 min accessible taxi from our hotel, Quality Inn & Conference Center

Heidi is back this year to help with all ADA needs

When we arrived at the stadium, we had to wait for Heidi who was in charge of everything ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) again. Everything was pretty similar to last year as she gave us a companion wristband and helped escort us in the festival through a shorter line. Even with shorter line and fast access to the venue, I am glad we have our ponchos on to minimize getting too wet.

same ramp access to ADA viewing platform at Horizon stage as last year

There are the same 3 stages (main Sunset stage, Eclipse stage and Horizon stage) as last year plus there is a new mini stage added called Corona Electric Beach. This mini stage is enclosed in a giant bubble. This area is not as big as the other 3 stages so not as many people can come and enjoy the music here. This area also features real beach sand so it was a bit harder to get in and maneuver around in a manual chair. I had to get help to tilt my wheelchair back on the back wheels only so we could get through the sand easier.

First-Aid tent

inside Corona Electric Beach

Again the Horizon and Eclipse stage had a manual ramp to get to the ADA viewing platform. The rain affected the elevator lift to get to the ADA area of the main Sunset stage so I did not get a chance to use that viewing platform. We were told that it will be fixed and ready to use before day 2 of the music festival occurred. Accessible porta potties are located at every viewing platform again and can also be found at other designated areas too.

elevator lift to the main stage was down due to rain

The Access Center, First Aid booth and free water refill stations are back this year. Paying for food and drinks can again be tapped from your wristband. This really makes it easier since you don’t have to worry about pulling out extra cards to pay. Getting around is a bit different than last year. The rain made the grass soft and muddy so we tried to stay on the paved pathways if possible. There are giant covered tent spaces scattered around the venue too in case you didn’t have a poncho, but these spaces fill up fast when the rain comes down.

did get a bit muddy at some areas because of the rain

covered tent areas

Accessibility at Raymond James stadium is still a great venue to host the Sunset Music Festival. Despite the rain, the muddy areas did not affect the accessibility at all. Day 2 of this festival was canceled due to a hurricane storm warning. That day ended up being nice and sunny with a few sprinkles. Partial refunds are coming and I can’t blame the festival for shutting down since it was Tampa Sports Authority and police who shut down the event. I was still pleased with everything and really enjoyed the first day and hope to be back next year.