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March 12, 2027
Event date:
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March 14, 2027
Event end:
Overview
The GroundUP Music Festival returns to the sands of North Beach in March 2027, continuing its tradition as one of the most intimate and artist-centric music gatherings in the world. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean, the festival utilizes the historic Miami Beach Bandshell and its surrounding palm-fringed groves to create a musical sanctuary. Since its founding by Snarky Puppy’s Michael League, the event has focused on breaking down the barriers between performers and fans, fostering a community where discovery and spontaneity are the primary headliners.
The 2027 edition features an incredibly diverse lineup of “musician’s musicians,” spanning genres from jazz and world music to funk, soul, and experimental electronic. A hallmark of the festival is its unique scheduling philosophy; with two stages and absolutely no overlapping sets, attendees never have to choose between artists and can experience every single note played over the weekend. This immersive format encourages a deep, attentive listening environment that is rare in the modern festival landscape, allowing each performer to truly connect with a dedicated audience.
Beyond the stage performances, GroundUP is famous for its extensive schedule of workshops, masterclasses, and “artist-to-artist” talks held right on the beach and in the shaded park areas. These sessions offer fans rare insights into the creative processes of Grammy-winning virtuosos and global innovators. Whether it is a spontaneous jam session in the sand or an organized panel on music theory, the festival creates a weekend-long conversation about the power of music, all while maintaining a daily capacity limited to ensure an uncrowded and personal experience.
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Event Highlights
- Snarky Puppy Residency: The Grammy-winning collective performs a full set every single night, often featuring the legendary Family Dinner collaborations where they invite guest artists for spontaneous performances.
- No Overlapping Sets: The festival is masterfully scheduled so that music alternates between two stages, ensuring fans can see every artist on the lineup without missing a moment.
- Interactive Workshops: Attendees can participate in intimate masterclasses and panels led by world-class musicians, covering everything from rhythmic techniques to songwriting and production.
- Oceanfront Atmosphere: The venue offers a unique tropical setting where fans can enjoy world-class music just steps away from the ocean waves and under the iconic canopy of the Bandshell.
Why Attend
Attending the GroundUP Music Festival is a transformative experience for anyone who values musical virtuosity and creative exploration over commercial trends. It is widely considered one of the best-kept secrets in the music industry because of its commitment to high-quality sound and an attendee-focused layout. Unlike massive corporate festivals, GroundUP prioritizes the comfort of the audience, providing a relaxed environment where you are more likely to run into your favorite artist grabbing a coffee than you are to be stuck in a massive crowd.
The event is ideal for professional musicians, serious students of music, and adventurous listeners who love discovering global sounds they won’t hear on mainstream radio. The benefits of attending include the opportunity to network with a global community of music lovers and gain direct access to legendary artists in a casual setting. With its combination of beautiful Miami Beach scenery and world-class talent, the festival offers a rejuvenating escape that feeds both the soul and the musical intellect.
Date & Duration
- Event Date: March 12 – March 14, 2027
- Event Duration: 3 Days
Visiting this event? Don’t miss out on these amazing activities and local experiences while you’re here.
Ticket Information
- How Tickets Are Sold: Tickets are available for purchase online through the official festival website and authorized ticketing partners such as DICE or Tixr.
- Admission Type: Options include 3-Day General Admission passes, Single-Day Saturday or Sunday tickets, and all-inclusive All-In passes.
- Ticket Pricing: General admission prices typically range from $95 for single days to $650 for comprehensive weekend packages.
- Special Seating Options: The Bandshell features a mix of open dance floor space and fixed bench seating, while the park areas offer relaxed lawn and beach viewing.
- VIP Options: Premium VIP passes include access to the Artists’ Skylounge, shaded viewing decks, private bars, air-conditioned restrooms, and exclusive artist meet-and-greet opportunities.
Venue / Location
- City and Country: Miami Beach, USA
- Venue Name: Miami Beach Bandshell
- Google Maps Address: 7275 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33141, United States
Contact Information
- Email: info@gumfoundation.org
- Phone Number: 786-395-5238
- Official Website: https://www.groundupmusicfestival.com/
- Social Media Links:
- https://www.facebook.com/groundupfest
- https://www.instagram.com/groundupfest
- https://www.youtube.com/@Groundupfest
Getting There
- Nearest Airport: Miami International Airport is located approximately 12 miles from the Miami Beach Bandshell.
- Nearest Train/Metro Station: The Miami Beach Trolley provides free local transport, connecting with regional bus lines that head toward the Metrorail stations.
- Bus Routes or Public Transport Options: Miami-Dade Transit bus routes 119 and 120 offer frequent service along Collins Avenue directly to the venue.
- Parking Availability: A public parking lot is located directly across the street from the venue, with several additional municipal lots within walking distance.
- Directions by Car: Accessible from the mainland via the Julia Tuttle Causeway (I-195) or the Broad Causeway (NE 123rd St), heading toward Collins Avenue.
What is this event?
The GroundUP Music Festival is an artist-centric three-day event held annually on the shores of Miami Beach. It focuses on showcasing a diverse array of global musical talent with a heavy emphasis on improvisation, virtuosity, and genre-defying collaborations.
The festival is hosted by the GroundUP Music Foundation and is known for its intimate scale, limiting attendance to ensure a high-quality experience. It serves as a creative hub for the international music community to gather and share ideas.
Why is it popular?
The festival is popular because it offers a rare, high-quality listening experience where fans are treated like guests rather than just ticket holders. Its reputation for “no-conflict” scheduling means fans can enjoy a stress-free weekend of non-stop music.
It has gained a cult following due to the involvement of Snarky Puppy and the high caliber of musicians they curate for the lineup. The ability to interact with artists during beachside workshops makes it a favorite for those seeking a more meaningful connection to music.
Tips before you go
- Wear light, breathable clothing and sandals, as much of the festival takes place on the sand and in open-air tropical environments.
- Bring a refillable water bottle to take advantage of the hydration stations located around the venue and stay cool in the Miami sun.
- Arrive early in the afternoon to participate in the workshops and masterclasses, which often provide some of the most memorable moments of the weekend.
- Check the schedule for late-night shows held at local venues, as these often feature high-energy jam sessions that go late into the night.
- Take time to explore the North Beach neighborhood, which offers fantastic local dining options and a more relaxed vibe than the busier South Beach area.
Attendee Experiences
- There is no other place on earth where you can watch a masterclass on the beach and then see the same artist perform on the main stage an hour later.
- The sound quality at the Bandshell is absolutely perfect, and not having to run between stages makes the whole weekend so relaxing.
- I met people from four different continents in the merch line; the sense of community at this festival is truly something special.
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FAQ
What is the policy regarding children attending the festival?
GroundUP is a family-friendly, all-ages event that encourages music lovers of all generations to enjoy the performances together. Children aged 10 and under are generally admitted free of charge when accompanied by a ticket-holding adult, making it a great option for families. Parents are advised to bring ear protection for children, as the volume near the stages can be quite high during the evening sets.
Is there a clear bag policy or specific security restrictions?
For the safety of all guests, the venue typically conducts bag checks at the entrance and may enforce a small or clear bag policy depending on current security standards. Prohibited items generally include outside food and beverages, professional recording equipment, umbrellas, and chairs with metal frames. It is recommended to travel light and only bring essentials like sunscreen, a hat, and a small personal bag to ensure a quick entry process.
Can I leave the venue and return later in the day?
Re-entry policies are designed to be flexible for attendees, with Premium and All-In pass holders typically enjoying unrestricted re-entry throughout the day. General admission ticket holders are usually allowed re-entry until a certain time in the early evening, such as 6PM, allowing them to visit local restaurants. Please make sure your wristband is securely fastened and clearly visible to the security staff whenever you exit or re-enter the festival gates.
What happens if it rains during the scheduled festival dates?
The GroundUP Music Festival is a rain-or-shine event, and the music will continue unless weather conditions become hazardous or involve lightning near the stage. The Miami Beach Bandshell has a large canopy that provides significant cover for the main stage area and seating, keeping fans dry during passing showers. Since South Florida weather can be unpredictable, bringing a lightweight, packable rain poncho is always a smart idea for outdoor festivals.
How can I find out the exact schedule for the workshops and talks?
The specific schedule for masterclasses, panels, and "Artist-to-Artist" talks is usually released on the official website and mobile app a few weeks before the festival begins. These sessions often take place in the Grove or on the beach sand starting in the early afternoon before the main stage music kicks off. Printed schedules are also typically available at the information booth and on large display boards located throughout the venue campus.
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