The Florida Groves Festival is a vibrant celebration of music, art, and community, set against the sunny backdrop of Orlando, Florida. Scheduled for April 12-13, 2025, at the Central Florida Fairgrounds, this two-day event blends reggae, electronic, and hip-hop performances with live art installations, cannabis culture, and family-friendly activities.
With a diverse Florida Groves Festival lineup featuring headliners like Big Gigantic and Oliver Tree, the festival promises an immersive experience for all ages. This comprehensive guide covers everything from Florida Groves tickets and Florida Groves Festival parking to what to wear and honest festival reviews, ensuring you’re ready for an unforgettable weekend.
What Is the Florida Groves Festival?
The Florida Groves Festival is a multi-genre music and arts event that began in 2023, quickly gaining a reputation as one of Orlando’s most dynamic festivals. Held annually at the Florida Groves Orlando location, the Central Florida Fairgrounds, it combines live performances across three stages—Rhythm Main Stage, Pavilion Stage, and Bass Yard—with unique attractions like glass blowing demonstrations, live mural painting, and a cannabis convention.
The festival’s ethos centers on freedom of expression, community, and creativity, making it a haven for music lovers, artists, and free spirits.
Unlike traditional music festivals, Florida Groves music and art emphasizes a holistic experience. Attendees can explore workshops on sustainable living, watch tattoo artists at work, or enjoy pickleball courts and a skatepark. The event’s cannabis-friendly vibe, rooted in Florida’s medical marijuana program, adds a layer of personal liberty, though strict guidelines ensure compliance with local laws. With its all-ages appeal and vibrant atmosphere, the festival draws thousands from across the globe, celebrating Florida’s unique culture and sunny climate.
Florida Groves Festival 2025 Dates and Event Schedule
The Florida Groves Festival 2025 dates are April 12 and 13, 2025, marking the festival’s fourth year and its 25th anniversary as a cultural event tied to Florida’s citrus heritage. Held over two days at the Central Florida Fairgrounds, the Florida Groves event schedule runs from 1:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. on Saturday and until 11:00 p.m. on Sunday, with gates opening at 1:00 p.m. each day. Music starts at 1:15 p.m., ensuring a full day of performances and activities.
The festival features three stages:
- Rhythm Main Stage: A grass amphitheater by Lawne Lake, hosting headliners and high-energy acts.
- Pavilion Stage: A shaded, intimate venue added in 2024, perfect for mid-tier artists and several thousand fans.
- Bass Yard: A smaller stage for electronic and bass-heavy performances, creating a club-like vibe.
The Florida Groves event schedule also includes non-musical attractions, such as live art from 2:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., glassblowing demos at 3:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m., and a cannabis convention running concurrently with performances. Workshops on healthy living and sustainability are scattered throughout the day, while the skatepark and pickleball courts remain open until sunset. The schedule is designed to keep attendees engaged, with something happening at every turn.
Florida Groves Festival Lineup for 2025
The Florida Groves Festival lineup for 2025 is a dynamic mix of reggae, electronic, hip-hop, and indie artists, catering to diverse musical tastes. Headliners include Big Gigantic, known for their electrifying live sets blending EDM and funk, and Oliver Tree, whose genre-defying performances combine pop, rap, and theatrical flair. Other confirmed acts include Jarv, Shwayze, Beach Fly, BOOGIE T.RIO, The Supervillains, Tasty Vibrations, The Hip Abduction, Little Stranger, Know Good, and Fortunate Youth, with more artists expected in future phase announcements.
This lineup reflects the festival’s roots in the “Cali-Reggae” scene, a fusion of reggae, hip-hop, and oceanic vibes, while incorporating electronic and bass-heavy acts for a modern twist. Past lineups featured artists like Milky Chance, Michael Franti & Spearhead, Thievery Corporation, and Tribal Seeds, setting a high bar for 2025. The Florida Groves music and art focus ensures performances are paired with visual spectacles, like live murals created during sets, enhancing the immersive experience.
Attendees can expect a mix of established and emerging artists, with the Bass Yard showcasing DJs and the Pavilion Stage highlighting acoustic and reggae acts. The lineup’s diversity ensures there’s something for everyone, from reggae purists to EDM enthusiasts, making the festival a melting pot of musical discovery.
Florida Groves Tickets: Prices and Options
Securing Florida Groves tickets is straightforward, with options to suit different budgets and preferences. Tickets for 2025 are available through the festival’s official website and trusted platforms like Vivid Seats, TicketSmarter, and AXS. Here’s a breakdown of ticket types and pricing as of early 2025:
- General Admission (GA): Starts at $99 for a two-day pass, with single-day passes available closer to the event (typically $60–$80). GA tickets grant access to all stages, art installations, and general festival areas.
- VIP Passes: Priced at $200–$400, VIP tickets include perks like air-conditioned restrooms, shaded seating, exclusive bars, and priority entry. Some attendees report VIP is worth it for the comfort, especially in Florida’s April heat.
- Children’s Tickets: Kids under 6 enter free, making the festival family-friendly. Children over 6 require a standard GA ticket.
Ticket prices increase as tiers sell out, with Tier 3 tickets (99% sold out by March 2025) rising after March 14, 2025. A Limited Loyalty Sale in May 2025 offered discounted rates, but these sold out quickly. The festival is rain or shine, with no refunds, so plan accordingly. For the best deals, purchase early through the official website or use discount codes like “DISCO” for 5% off.
The box office at 4603 W Colonial Dr, Orlando, FL, opens on festival days for upgrades or last-minute purchases. Be prepared to park or use rideshare to access the box office, as it’s located at the main gates.
Where Is Florida Groves Festival Held?
The question of where the Florida Groves Festival is held is easily answered: the Central Florida Fairgrounds at 4603 W Colonial Dr, Orlando, FL 32808. This sprawling venue, known for hosting events like the Florida Strawberry Festival, offers ample space for the festival’s three stages, art installations, and activities. Its location near Lawne Lake provides a scenic backdrop, with the Rhythm Main Stage set against the water for a picturesque festival vibe.
The Florida Groves Orlando location is just 5 miles from downtown Orlando, making it accessible for locals and tourists. The fairgrounds feature a mix of open fields, shaded pavilions, and indoor spaces, ideal for the festival’s diverse offerings. Its proximity to major highways like Interstate 4 and State Road 408 ensures easy access, while nearby hotels and hostels cater to out-of-town visitors.
The venue’s all-ages setup includes wheelchair accessibility, mobile charging lockers, and on-site medical staff. However, there’s no re-entry, so plan to stay for the day. The fairgrounds’ layout supports the festival’s eco-conscious ethos, with partnerships to minimize its environmental footprint through recycling and sustainable practices.
Florida Groves Festival Parking and Transportation
Florida Groves Festival parking is well-organized but requires planning. Parking at the Central Florida Fairgrounds costs $20 per day on Saturday and Sunday, with free parking on Friday for early arrivals. Lots are managed by the venue and accessible from W Colonial Dr, with spaces for standard vehicles and larger ones (over 20 ft) at the same rate. Arrive early to secure a spot, as lots fill up during peak hours.
For those avoiding parking fees, rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are popular, with designated drop-off points near the main gates. Public transit options include Lynx bus routes servicing W Colonial Dr, though schedules may require extra planning. Biking or walking is less practical due to the venue’s distance from downtown Orlando, but some locals opt for carpooling to split costs.
The festival’s no-re-entry policy means you’ll need to bring everything you need for the day, as you can’t return to your car without purchasing a new ticket. Mobile charging lockers are available for convenience, and the venue’s layout ensures parking lots are within a short walk of the gates. For Florida Groves Orlando location visitors staying near Disney World (20 miles away), a 30-minute drive via I-4 is the most direct route.
Florida Groves Music and Art: The Creative Heart
The Florida Groves music and art component is what sets this festival apart. Beyond the stellar Florida Groves Festival lineup, the event weaves art into every aspect of the experience. Live muralists transform blank canvases into colorful installations throughout the weekend, often syncing their work to the music. Glassblowing demonstrations, held twice daily, captivate audiences as artisans craft intricate pieces from molten glass. A tattoo convention with over 25 artists offers on-site ink for those seeking a permanent festival memento.
The cannabis convention, a nod to Florida’s medical marijuana program, features vendors showcasing accessories, plants, and educational booths. While recreational use isn’t permitted, the convention fosters open dialogue about cannabis culture and personal freedom. Additional attractions include a skatepark with live demos, pickleball courts, and workshops on topics like sustainable living and artistic expression.
These elements create a vibrant, immersive atmosphere where attendees can engage with art, learn new skills, or simply soak in the creativity. The festival’s commitment to community shines through, with friendly staff and vendors fostering a welcoming vibe that resonates with first-timers and returning fans alike.
What to Wear to Florida Groves Festival
Deciding what to wear to Florida Groves Festival is key to staying comfortable in Orlando’s April weather, which averages 75–85°F with occasional rain. The festival’s laid-back, hippie-inspired vibe encourages expressive, practical outfits. Here are some tips:
- Clothing: Opt for lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen. Flowy dresses, tie-dye tees, or reggae-inspired graphic shirts fit the festival’s aesthetic. Shorts, crop tops, and rompers are popular for women, while men favor tank tops and board shorts. Layer with a light jacket or flannel for cooler evenings.
- Footwear: Comfortable shoes are a must, as you’ll be on your feet all day. Sneakers, sandals, or sturdy flip-flops work well on the fairgrounds’ mix of grass and pavement. Avoid open-toe shoes if you plan to mosh or skate.
- Accessories: Sunglasses, hats, and bandanas protect against the sun and add flair. A small backpack or fanny pack is ideal for carrying essentials like sunscreen, water bottles (empty, refillable ones allowed), and your phone.
- Festival Flair: Embrace the vibe with flower crowns, temporary tattoos, or LED jewelry for nighttime sets. Cannabis-themed accessories, like leaf-patterned hats, are common but keep them subtle to align with festival rules.
Check the weather forecast closer to the Florida Groves Festival 2025 dates and pack a poncho for potential showers, as the event is rain or shine. Prohibited items include large bags, drugs, and glass containers, so review the festival’s guidelines before packing.
Florida Groves Festival Review: What Attendees Say
The Florida Groves Festival review landscape is overwhelmingly positive, with attendees praising its unique blend of music, art, and community. Here’s a summary of feedback from past years and early 2025 buzz:
- Vibes and Atmosphere: Fans describe the festival as a “hippie convention” with “incredible vibes.” The friendly crowd, diverse activities, and cannabis-friendly ethos create a welcoming, inclusive environment.
- Music: The 2024 lineup, featuring Milky Chance and Michael Franti, was a highlight, with the 2025 lineup generating excitement for its reggae and EDM focus. Some critique headliners like Oliver Tree for being too theatrical, but the undercard (Jarv, Fortunate Youth) is a fan favorite.
- Art and Activities: The skatepark, glassblowing, and live murals are consistently praised for adding depth. The cannabis convention is a unique draw, though some wish for clearer rules on medical marijuana use.
- Logistics: Attendees appreciate the shaded Pavilion Stage and mobile charging lockers but note long lines on opening day and occasional vendor stock issues. Parking at $20 is seen as reasonable, though early arrival is advised.
- Value: At $99 for two days, the festival is considered a steal compared to pricier events like Coachella. VIP perks are debated, with some saying GA is sufficient for a great experience.
First-timers in 2024 reported discovering new artists, enjoying the skatepark, and feeling energized by the community spirit. While some felt the 2025 lineup is a step down from 2024’s Sublime, the festival’s overall experience keeps fans coming back.
FAQs About Florida Groves Festival
- What are the Florida Groves Festival 2025 dates?
The Florida Groves Festival 2025 dates are April 12-13, 2025, at the Central Florida Fairgrounds, with gates opening at 1:00 p.m. daily. - Who is in the Florida Groves Festival lineup for 2025?
The Florida Groves Festival lineup includes Big Gigantic, Oliver Tree, Jarv, Shwayze, Fortunate Youth, and others, blending reggae, EDM, and hip-hop across three stages. - Where can I buy Florida Groves tickets?
Florida Groves tickets are available through the festival’s official website, Vivid Seats, TicketSmarter, and AXS, with GA starting at $99 and VIP at $200–$400. - Where is Florida Groves Festival held?
The festival is held at the Florida Groves Orlando location, Central Florida Fairgrounds, 4603 W Colonial Dr, Orlando, FL 32808, near Lawne Lake. - How much is Florida Groves Festival parking?
Florida Groves Festival parking costs $20 per day on Saturday and Sunday, with free parking on Friday. Lots are near the main gates. - What should I wear to Florida Groves Festival?
For what to wear to Florida Groves Festival, choose lightweight, expressive outfits like tie-dye tees, shorts, and sneakers, plus sunglasses and a hat for sun protection. - Is the Florida Groves Festival worth attending?
Based on Florida Groves Festival review feedback, the event’s affordable tickets, diverse lineup, and unique art and cannabis elements make it a standout for music and culture fans.
Conclusion on Florida Groves Festival
The Florida Groves Festival is more than a music event—it’s a celebration of creativity, community, and freedom that captures the spirit of Orlando’s vibrant culture. Set for April 12-13, 2025, at the Florida Groves Orlando location, this festival offers a stellar Florida Groves Festival lineup, immersive Florida Groves music and art experiences, and a welcoming vibe for all ages.
From securing Florida Groves tickets to navigating Florida Groves Festival parking and choosing what to wear to Florida Groves Festival, this guide equips you for an unforgettable weekend. With glowing Florida Groves Festival review feedback and a packed Florida Groves event schedule, it’s a must-attend for anyone seeking music, art, and good vibes in the Sunshine State.
