It's true, New York City's famed Electric Zoo will be back for another Labor Day. Returning to the city after the city of New York cancelled the festival's last day in reaction to drug-related deaths last year, the festival will indeed return to Randall's Island August 29th-31st this summer, with some updates to security and fan experience in the wake of last year's scandal. Check out the updates below and look out for presale tickets on sale April 29th at 10 AM EST, and sign up HERE.
Security: Electric Zoo has contracted with a leading security company and in consultation with that firm has decided to add the following features to its 2014 shows:
- Increased use of plainclothes undercover security officers; off-duty and former NYPD with a background in narcotics investigations.
- The addition of drug-sniffing canines to be placed at all entrances to the festival.
- The institution of background checks of all on-site vendors and employees.
- An increased security posture at the transportation staging areas; initial screenings will be done here.
- An increased use of clear and concise signage listing prohibited conduct and potential penalties.
- An increased and highly visible security presence at the various venues inside the festival.
- An even greater use of social media as it relates to event security.
- A security survey to be sent to each ticket purchaser.
Medical: With SFX’s purchase of Made Event in late, 2013, Electric Zoo was given access to leading medical experts, and established the following new protocols for this year’s show:
- Electric Zoo will provide electrolytes at little or no cost to concertgoers.
- Organizers will shorten the length of each day’s show.
- Consistent with past years, festivalgoers will have access to unlimited free water.
Messaging: Electric Zoo will develop a youth-oriented, holistic media campaign that will include:
- A robust PSA campaign developed by a youth-culture oriented marketing firm and featuring leading artists.
- A proactive social media campaign to put out a clear message on prohibited conduct and the inherent dangers of drugs, including but not limited to, Molly.
- A PSA that fans will be required to watch before they can validate their ticket.
