ORLANDO, Fla.,None — Party-goers are gathering at Tinker Field in downtown Orlando on Friday for a controversial rave party called the "Electric Daisy Carnival."
In 2010, the rave was hosted in Los Angeles, and dozens of people were hospitalized from drug overdoses.
There is a huge police presence and the city of Orlando has a special contract with the promoter, that won't allow people to bring in backpacks, eye drops and lip balm. Police said they are trying to stop people from bringing drugs and alcohol into the party. Although, alcohol will be sold at Tinker Field.
The city expects 15,000 people to pack Tinker Field on Friday night. The two-day music festival features live DJ's, rides, dancing and art.
Two party-goers, Ariel Edgeworth and Steven Byrn, drove seven hours from South Carolina just to be in Orlando for the party.
"I know people are probably gonna be on drugs here and there will be arrests, but we're just coming to dance all day and have fun," said Edgeworth.
The event came under scrutiny last June of 2010, when a 15-year-old died after overdosing from drugs at the event in Los Angeles. That same night, more than 100 people were arrested and dozens were taken to emergency rooms.
The event promoter told WFTV they have identification scanners to make sure party-goers are at least 18 years old. Plus, they offer free water so people won't get dehydrated.
"It was an unfortunate action, but we've taken steps to change that," said Donnie Estopinal, the event promoter.
WFTV asked Orlando leaders why they would allow an event like this on city-owned property.
The city said its the company's First Amendment right, but the city did place stricter rules on the event. Instead of going all night long, the rave will run from 2:00pm to midnight.Also, the city said they are allowing only 20,000 people into the rave.
Party-goers told WFTV they are not concerned about drugs.
"As long as you're there to party the right way you're safe," said Ceser Garcia.
Tickets don't come cheap to this event. Each one costs $80.