Okeechobee Music Arts Festival 2026 Policies Amenities And On-Site Offerings

The Okeechobee Music & Arts Festival (OMF), scheduled for March 19–22, 2026, at Sunshine Grove in Okeechobee, Florida, is an all-ages event with specific policies and amenities for attendees. While the festival is primarily a ticketed music and arts experience, the provided documentation outlines a range of on-site facilities, services, and rules that impact what attendees can access, purchase, or bring into the venue. This article details the festival's operational policies, on-site shopping, and other relevant information for potential attendees.

Festival Policies and Entry Requirements

Admission to OMF requires a valid ticket, which must be purchased through the official Front Gate Tickets system to avoid fraud. Tickets are non-refundable and will begin shipping 1-2 months prior to the event. If tickets are not received within one week of the festival, attendees should contact Front Gate Tickets for a replacement, which can be picked up at the box office.

Identification is required for entry. All ages are welcome, and children 10 years old or younger at the time of the festival may attend without a ticket if accompanied by a ticket-holding adult (limit of 2 children per adult). Proof of age, such as a photocopy of a passport or birth certificate, is required for these children, who must also have a Tag-Your-Kid wristband before entering the festival. Anyone 11 years or older must purchase a festival pass.

For adults, acceptable identification includes a government-issued driver’s license or passport. An expired ID is only acceptable if accompanied by DMV renewal documentation. If an ID is lost or stolen, a government-issued interim license, non-driver ID card, military ID, or passport will be accepted. Foreign government-issued driver’s licenses are acceptable when accompanied by a photocopy of a passport. A foreign government-issued passport is acceptable on its own. Consular IDs are not considered acceptable identification.

All attendees, regardless of ticket type, must submit to a thorough, TSA-style security search upon entry, which includes emptying pockets and bags, a full pat-down, and possibly removing shoes. This policy applies to all vehicles entering the venue as well. The festival reserves the right to refuse entry to anyone.

On-Site Shopping and General Stores

For attendees who have forgotten items, the festival provides General Stores. These stores are located at central pods and are stocked with camping supplies, ice, snacks, hygiene items, and other everyday needs. If an item is not in stock, attendees can place a request, and staff will attempt to acquire it. General Store pricing is noted as being similar to market pricing at major retailers.

In addition to the General Stores, there is an option to purchase a tent package as an add-on during ticket checkout. This package can be picked up at the General Store upon arrival at the festival, allowing attendees to travel light.

Prohibited Activities and Policies

OMF enforces a zero-tolerance policy for drug use and possession. Police officers are present inside and outside the event, and all narcotics laws are strictly enforced.

Additional policies include: - No sitting on designated dance floor areas. - No moshing, crowd-surfing, or stage-diving. - No unauthorized or unlicensed vendors. - No unauthorized solicitations, handbills, sampling, or giveaways. - Attendees are expected to treat everyone with love, respect, and kindness.

The festival has a strict no re-entry policy. Once an attendee has entered the festival grounds, they are not permitted to leave and return. Planning accordingly is essential.

The festival grounds are divided into several areas: - The Grove: The main festival area with two main stages (BE Stage and NOW Stage), enclosed by a canopy of trees. - Moonlight Oasis: Contains the third main stage (HERE Stage), Aquachobee Beach, Jungle51, and Chobeewobee Village. This area is open during the day and into the night, though the beach closes at night. - Chobeewobee Village: A central gathering area featuring locally curated art and food, art installations, and activities like Yogachobee and Drag bingo. - Campgrounds: Located around The Grove and Chobeewobee Village, where attendees camp for the duration of the festival.

Amenities and Services

Water Stations: Water droplet symbols on the map indicate the locations of water stations throughout the festival and campgrounds.

Lockers: Lockers are available for securing belongings and charging cell phones. They provide unlimited in-and-out access for both days of the festival and include a universal cell phone charger.

Aquachobee Beach: Attendees are encouraged to bring a swimsuit, towel, and sunscreen. Swimming is permitted only during posted swim times, with lifeguards on duty in the designated area. Swimming outside of approved hours or in non-designated areas will result in immediate removal from the festival. Minors must be actively supervised by a parent or guardian in or near the swimming area.

Restrooms and Hygiene: Portable restrooms are located throughout the festival grounds and campsites, cleaned daily. Hand washing stations and hand sanitizer are also available.

Guest Services: Ticket help and info booths are staffed with knowledgeable team members throughout the grounds.

Safety and Medical: Security, police, and medical staff are present throughout the entire event.

Parking and Transportation

There is no free parking at the festival. The only parking option available at this time is camping. Day parking options for those local to Okeechobee are extremely limited and may be available at a later date; attendees are advised to check back for updates.

A dedicated ride-share lot is on site, but availability is limited in the surrounding area.

Camping Information

Camping check-in is available on Thursday, March 19, from 9am–2am; Friday, March 20, from 8am–6pm; and Saturday, March 21, from 8am–2pm. No camping admittance is permitted on Sunday, March 22.

A Car Camping pass allows one vehicle admission to the campgrounds, parked within a 20’ X 20’ campsite. For RVs, each space is approximately 20′ X 50′, and tents and canopies can be set up within this space. RVs are not permitted to be dropped off in advance by non-ticket holders.

Conclusion

The Okeechobee Music & Arts Festival provides a comprehensive on-site experience with amenities such as General Stores, water stations, lockers, and a swimming area. However, it is a ticketed event with strict policies regarding entry, re-entry, security, and prohibited activities. Attendees should be aware of the no re-entry policy, the requirement for valid identification, and the zero-tolerance drug policy. For forgotten items, General Stores offer camping supplies and other essentials at market pricing. There is no free parking; camping is the primary accommodation option, and day parking is limited. All information is based on the official festival documentation.

Sources

1. Okeechobee Music & Arts Festival - FAQs
2. Okeechobee Music & Arts Festival - Before the Event
3. Okeechobee Music & Arts Festival - During the Event