ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. – On South Tampa Avenue, hundreds made their way to Electric Daisy Carnival as the three-day event kicked off Friday.
Clayton Graff, who’s heading to EDC, said, “Just the energy—everybody coming together, the crowd roaring, and the bass bumping.”
Gracie Angulo, another festivalgoer, said, “Just the music, the vibe, the dancing, meeting new people.”
The Orange County Medical Director’s Office says first responders are prepared for the big crowds this weekend, but they’re also sharing a recent alert from Project Overdose about the rise of the deadly opioid carfentanil in Orange and Seminole Counties.
Andrae Bailey, CEO of Project Overdose, said, “We just want to warn people. We know there’s gonna be drugs there, but be careful. One pill might kill you at this festival.”
Bailey unveiled a new AI system last week with the Orange and Seminole County Sheriff’s Offices called DrugAlert.AI, which uses real-time data to track dangerous drugs.
“We saw over a 400% increase in carfentanil-positive tests in just over 90 days,” Bailey said. “It’s a tiny powder that can be mixed in with other drugs—you would never take it on its own.”
He said they believe the festival could be a hotspot for dangerous drug activity, which is why they’re warning people ahead of time.
Graff added, “Don’t buy your drugs at the festival. Test whatever you’re doing.”
EDC alone is expected to generate over $100 million for the local economy and attract thousands of music lovers from across the country.
This weekend’s festivities also include the Orlando Magic game, the Orlando Pride playoff match, and the musical “Water for Elephants” at the Dr. Phillips Center.
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While many at EDC are looking to have fun, some are also focused on safety.
Jose Mendolia, who’s attending EDC, said, “Making sure that they’re checking everything they’re supposed to. It’s mainly safety—and making sure you’re with a good group. That changes everything. Even if security isn’t as good as it needs to be, with a good group, you have support, you can be with them, and they’re looking out for you.”
Dozens of road closures are planned for the weekend’s events. Mayor Buddy Dyer recommends people use available transportation options to get around downtown—or avoid the area altogether if they don’t plan to attend.