So, you’re going to Ultra Music Festival for the first time? Congrats! You’ve just signed up for three days of nonstop bass, questionable decision-making, and enough energy drinks to power a small village. Whether you’re here to witness history, lose your friends in record time, or just see a guy in an astronaut suit absolutely destroy the dance floor, this guide will help you make it through Ultra with your sanity (mostly) intact.
1. Dress for the Occasion (and the Heat)
Ultra is in Miami in March, which means two things: it’s hot, and so is the fashion. Think bright colors, funky accessories, and less is more. If you show up in jeans and a sweater, security might actually check to see if you’re lost. Pro tip: Comfortable shoes are a must—your future self will thank you when you’re still dancing at 2 AM instead of limping to an Uber. It also wouldn’t hurt to throw a rain poncho it your bag either- just in case.
2. Hydrate Like Your Life Depends on It (Because It Does)
Between the Miami heat and all that dancing, you will sweat buckets. Bring a hydration pack or a reusable bottle to refill at water stations. Dehydration is not a good look, and trust me, passing out mid-bass drop is a surefire way to miss the best part of the festival.
3. Ear Protection = Your New Best Friend
Yes, you want to hear every drop in full force, but you also want to HEAR after the festival ends. Bring earplugs—your ears will thank you when you’re not still hearing ghost echoes of house beats three days later.
4. Don’t Be That Person with a Dead Phone
Your phone will die faster than you think. Bring a portable charger (or two), and turn on low-power mode before you even get there. Also, resist the urge to record entire sets—nobody is going to watch your shaky, bass-distorted, 27-minute video later (not even you). Snap a few clips, soak in the moment, and for the love of all things EDM, don’t be the person live-streaming with their flash on.
5. Meet People, But Keep Track of Your Crew
Ultra is a social playground where you’ll make friends with people from all over the world. But losing your friends in a sea of 50,000 people? Not ideal. Set a meeting point in case you get separated, because trying to text “where r u??” with spotty service is a nightmare.
6. Plan Your Schedule, But Be Flexible
Ultra’s lineup is stacked with world-class DJs, but unless you’re wizard—you can’t see everyone. Pick your must-sees ahead of time, but don’t stress if you get sidetracked by a surprise set or a new friend who insists you must check out an artist you’ve never heard of. Some of the best moments at Ultra happen when you least expect them.
7. Fuel Like a Festival Pro
Ultra is basically a three-day cardio session disguised as a music festival, and if you don’t eat, you’ll be running on pure adrenaline and bad decisions. Pack some easy-to-carry snacks like granola bars, trail mix, or anything that won’t melt in your pocket. Trust me—your future self will thank you.
8. Bathroom Quest Wisely
Festival bathrooms are like a game of roulette—you never know what you’re going to get. Lucky for us, Ultra has brought back their Upgraded Bathrooms, which are quite a step up from the average porta potty. That being said, go before you have to, bring travel tissues, and if you see a short line, RUN.
9. Bring Sunglasses: Not Just for Style, but for Survival
Sunglasses aren’t just for looking cool, they’re your lifesaver against the blazing Miami sun and the insane lasers. Bonus points if you bring a backup pair—because at some point, yours may mysteriously disappear.
10. Just Have Fun!
At the end of the day, Ultra is all about letting go and enjoying the music. Don’t stress about catching every set, getting the perfect Instagram shot, or keeping your hair in place (spoiler: it won’t happen). Just dance, vibe, and soak in the madness.
Ultra is a marathon, not a sprint—so pace yourself, stay hydrated, and most importantly, have fun. See you in Miami!
