VOLUSIA COUNTY, Fla. – Sweltering temperatures aren’t stopping tens of thousands of music fans from pouring into the Daytona International Speedway for this year’s Welcome to Rockville festival.
More than 200,000 people are expected to attend the four-day event, which features an electric lineup of rock and metal bands. From first-timers to returning fans, many say the atmosphere and music are well worth braving the Florida heat.
“We just spent the last hour hiding in the shade. It’s so hot out here,” one concertgoer said. “These hats are lifesavers. They really help protect your face and shoulders.”
Despite the high temperatures, fans say the experience is unforgettable.
Others described the vibe as something deeper than just a music festival.
“It feels like a community,” one fan told News 6. “Everyone watches out for each other. We’re all here for the same reason the music.”
Staying safe in the heat is top of mind for many, who are relying on water, shade and plenty of sunscreen to power through.
“It’s constant water and sunscreen,” said one attendee. “Every hour, reapply, reapply.”
Organizers have made hydration stations available and even sprayed water over the crowd to help keep fans cool.
And of course, there’s the food. From cheesy tots to island noodles and empanadas, fans say the festival menu is another reason to show up hungry.
“The food is incredible,” one attendee said.
Even with the crowds and the heat, fans say the atmosphere is hard to beat.
Some fans say the chance to finally see bands from the ‘90s they grew up with is what brought them here.
“We’re in our 20s now, and these are the bands we grew up listening to,” said a fan who traveled from Kissimmee. “Now we get to see them live.”
“I crowd-surfed!” one excited fan said. “Everyone was super nice. If you fall, someone helps you up. It’s all good vibes.”
As Welcome to Rockville continues through the weekend, festivalgoers are encouraged to come prepared for the heat, stay hydrated, and expect heavy traffic in and around Daytona Beach.