2016 Tortuga Music Festival Sets Attendance Record Despite Rough Weather

Rain couldn't totally dampen the spirits of those at the 2016 Tortuga Music Festival. Despite bad weather on Friday night (April 15), which temporarily derailed the event, the festival saw record crowds throughout its three days (April 15-17).

According to a press release, nearly 90,000 fans partied at Fort Lauderdale Beach Park in Florida, flocking to the venue from 47 states and 16 countries. On Friday night, however, following sets from Cam, Randy Houser and more, those country music lovers had to evacuate around 7PM -- just before Old Dominion were set to take the stage -- due to thunder, lightning and rain. 

Unfortunately, the rising country band was not able to perform at Tortuga due to the delay, but festival organizers were able to resume the event later that evening; gates re-opened around 9PM, and headliner Dierks Bentley took the stage just before 10PM.

"To those who are mad at the festival for canceling us, it truly was for everyone's safety, and it had to be done," Old Dominion wrote on Instagram, after performing the nearby Bahai Cabana instead. "The last thing we want is for someone to get hurt."

The evacuation was a first in the Tortuga Music Festival's four years, as were the Friday performances; previously, the event took place only on Saturday and Sunday.

The 2016 Tortuga Music Festival also featured headliners Blake Shelton and Tim McGraw, as well as performances from Sam Hunt, Thomas Rhett, Kip Moore and more. Throughout the years, the event has raised more than $250,000 for marine and ocean research and conservation organizations.