Ultra Marks 20 Years In Miami Amid Tighter Security

MIAMI, FL — Thousands of music lovers from around the world poured into downtown Miami on Friday as the colorful three-day Ultra Music Festival opened amid heightened security. The electronic dance event has grown to become one of the largest and best known events in the world. This year also marks Ultra's 20th birthday.

As many as 165,000 people were expected to attend the music extravaganza but it wasn't always that way, according to Ultra's Albert Berdellans, who described the early days as a labor of love.

"For the first several years it was very, very difficult. This type of music was not as popular. It's very niche," recalled Berdellens ahead of this year's event. "But through hard work and dedication — and of course the beautiful background of the city of Miami — it has grown to what it is today."

Miami Police Chief Jorge Colina said in an interview with Patch that he was not aware of any specific threats to the Ultra event but that police were implementing additional security measures following last year's deadly mass shooting at an outdoor concert in Las Vegas. Officials learned after the tragedy that the suspected gunman failed to raise suspicion even though he checked into his hotel suite with an unusually large number bags.

"We've been in much closer contact with all the area hotels and buildings to make sure that if someone enters into one of these high-rises that's acting suspicious, or for example, if someone is by themselves — they are checking in with 12 pieces of luggage — they are to contact us," the Miami chief explained. "We've already established a direct liaison with different officers just as an extra layer of security."

Colina said that officers will be positioned in strategic locations high above the festival as yet another precaution.

"We have officers in elevated positions so they have a good look down at the event from different angles," he said. "If something did happen we would have the ability to recognize it quickly and then respond appropriately."

Popularity Of Electronic Music

The continuing popularity of Ultra reflects worldwide interest in electronic music as a genre fueled by greater access to computers, according to Berdellens, who said the event attracts people of all ages, including one person who was 80.

"Previously, making music was difficult. You need the band. You need instruments," he explained. "Now, just some kid with his laptop can change the world overnight. All it takes is talent and dedication."

Ultra recently announced a new event in Beijing and the acquisition of the Legendary Winter Music Conference, which has been an important stop for artists and industry leaders in Miami.

One of the things that organizers worry about is how to keep Ultra fresh year after year.

"It's a constant battle. It's not easy," Berdellens acknowledged to Patch. "We try to provide a platform where our stages are state of the world, where the whole world is watching. We give them as much creative freedom and resource as possible. And as a result, the things that they've been able to create combining their creativity and talent with our resources and platform has been astounding over the years."

Medical Problems

Every year some people find themselves in need of medical attention at the event.

Capt. Ignatius Carroll of Miami Fire Rescue told Patch that his agency planned to have more than 90 first responders stationed around the grounds at Bayfront Park.

"You have some that are a two-person foot patrol that will be able to walk around the crowds, providing EMS services to areas that are very difficult to get any all terrain vehicle through there," he explained. "You also have six to seven of the all terrain vehicles that have transport capabilities. They have a stretcher on it, staffed by three paramedics as well. And then you also have paramedics that are staffing the medical tents that are provided by Ultra. The last thing we put in is five transport units. Those transport units are staffed like your regular Fire Rescue units you see at stations with three paramedics that will be only transport units for Ultra."

First responders have treated numerous dehydration cases in prior years but they also see much more serious cases involving drugs and alcohol.

"What we try to tell people to do is know your limitations," Carroll told Patch. "When you are coming out here, stay hydrated with the free water stations that they have here. If you have any medical conditions make sure that you address those properly but also find out from Ultra if certain medical requirements that you have to sustain yourself is allowed in the park."

Carroll said it's important for Ultra goers to alert first responders if they see someone who may need help.

Many times people assume that someone is just relaxing when they may be experiencing something much more serious.

"If you see somebody down, stop and make sure they're okay," Carroll stressed.

Smartphone Connections

If you've ever been to one of the Pitbull concerts in Bayfront Park on New Year's Eve you know it can be difficult to get a mobile signal when thousands of other people simultaneously want to get on the Internet or make a call.

AT&T is hoping to ease that problem for its customers who plan to attend Ultra with something the wireless company affectionately refers to as a COW — or cell tower on wheels. The equipment will bring faster and more reliable connections, according to AT&T's Kelly Starling.

“Events like this are full of moments customers want to share through texts, pictures, status updates, and phone calls,” added Joe York, AT&T Florida president. “We’re working to give them great coverage and fast speeds."

Traffic Tips And Important Information

If you are planning to attend the Ultra Music Festival or you plan to be downtown this weekend, here is what you should know about traffic and security:

• All northbound traffic along Biscayne Boulevard is being rerouted to the southbound lanes starting at SE 1 Street.
• All southbound traffic along Biscayne Boulevard is being rerouted eastbound and westbound at NE 6 Street.
• There will be no southbound traffic allowed on Biscayne Boulevard south of NE 6 Street.
• The 2018 Ultra Music Festival has a community hotline for questions concerning the event. Call 786-999-4105 during regular business hours and while the event is underway on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
• TEXT 69050 with the message “Ultra” (space) and any safety/police-related message if you see a possible threat or something that needs police attention.

• Dial 3-1-1 for questions regarding Miami-Dade Transit changes.
• Friday, Ultra gates open at 4 p.m. and close at midnight.
• Saturday, Ultra gates open at noon and close at midnight.
• Sunday, Ultra gates open at noon and close at 11 p.m.

Most Memorable Performances

Ultra's Berdellens has seen too many acts to count over the two decades the festival has rocked Miami. But he has his own favorite type of electronic music.

"I'm a big fan of UK drum and bass," he said. "I like Sub Focus and that type of thing. It's very easy to listen to."

A woman walks past the site of the 20th anniversary Ultra festival in downtown Miami as workers put the finishing touches on multiple stages. Photo by Paul Scicchitano.