Sunset Music Festival 2017

By alantvuong on June 7, 2017

Sunset Music Festival or SMF is an electronic dance music festival in Tampa. The 2017 edition is it’s 6th consecutive year that the festival has taken place and it is a 2-day event that takes place over Memorial Day weekend at the Raymond James Stadium. They offer fresh new sounds along with top hot DJ’s that are in demand. This year’s edition include Major Lazer, Above & Beyond, RL Grime and many more. Since I do like EDM, I booked my whole vacation around this festival and a cruise.

waiting for wristbands

I made sure to email the people at SMF a few months earlier to ask about accessibility and was pleasantly surprised at how friendly and accommodating everyone was. I wasn’t sure if I was able to attend since I just got out of the hospital recently. They answered all my questions, explained how the venue was, bathrooms, viewing platforms, entry and medications. They said there would also be an Access Center on site. 2-day General Admission tickets start at about $160 USD plus taxes and fees, and get more expensive closer to the date of the event.

greeted by Heidi who was very helpful with all ADA needs

When we arrived at the stadium, we were immediately greeted by Andrew who took us to see Heidi who was in charge of everything ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) related. She explained to us where the accessible bathrooms were and where the raised platforms are so wheelchair users can see the DJ’s at every stage. My buddy who came with me also received an ADA wristband that allows him to accompany me everywhere that is reserved for ADA areas. We were even upgraded to VIP which means we get to use shorter VIP lines for entry, less crowded viewing areas and bathrooms. Combined with ADA access, the VIP access made us enjoy this experience even more.

wheelchair accessible bathroom big enough to turn around and room for a caregiver

There are 3 stages at this festival. The main stage also known as the Sunset stage is the biggest stage and is the only one to feature an elevator lift to get on the ADA viewing platform. The Horizon and Eclipse stage both feature a ramp to get to the ADA viewing platform. The Eclipse stage is surrounded by sand so it might be a bit more difficult to wheel onto.

checking out Horizon stage up close

All 3 ADA viewing platforms have a wheelchair accessible porta potty right beside it. It is quite spacious and has enough room for my manual wheelchair to fully turn around and enough room for my attendant to be inside the porta potty to assist me. I found that very convenient. All stages have great views, great sound and flashy lights so when the music starts, it is always an amazing time every time.

elevator lift to the main Sunset stage

viewing area of Sunset stage

ADA viewing platform and bathroom at Horizon stage

Looking around we found the Access Center, First Aid booth, and a few free water refill stations. It is always a good idea to stay hydrated especially in the warm weather. There are paved pathways at this venue but it is mostly grass everywhere and sand at one area. Good thing it didn’t rain while we were there or it can get a bit muddy. There are rest areas if you wanted to take a break from the music and even covered areas to get away from the sun and wind. Free earplugs are also given out if you find the music too loud. Buying food and/or drinks is also really easy. You just have to load your wristband at top-up locations throughout the festival. Then tap your wristband at various vendors to get your food or drink.

the Eclipse stage

make sure to stay hydrated at one of the free water refill stations

Overall, I thought that the Raymond James stadium is pretty accessible and a great venue to host the Sunset Music Festival. I chose to go in my manual wheelchair but I definitely could have gone in my powerchair. Whether you are new to music festivals or not, attending the Sunset Music Festival at the Raymond James stadium is quite possible. The staff is very helpful in trying to make sure you have a great musical experience.