From the lineup to tickets and survival tips, here’s how to ace Ultra Music Festival.
We’re just two excruciating weeks away from the highly anticipated Ultra Music Festival Singapore and the excitement is palpable. This year, the two designated days of raving falls on the 15th and 16th June, which is also the Hari Raya long weekend (that means we have Sunday to rest up before the work week begins). As seasoned Ultra pros, we’ve selflessly consolidated our experience into this guide for you. From the lineup to fashion tips to important dos and don’ts, here’s how you can join the ranks of Ultranauts.
The origins of Ultra
Ultra Music Festival launched in Miami way back in 1999 and since then has become a stage for the world’s most famous DJs and producers to show us what they’ve got. Countless countries have played host to this iconic event including Croatia, Brazil, Korea and Taiwan. Ultra first graced Singapore’s shores in 2015 and if last year’s edition of Ultra Singapore taught us anything, it’s that this gargantuan music festival only gets better with time. To supercharge the event, this year’s Ultra Singapore will feature the renowned Ultra Worldwide stage for the first time in Southeast Asia. With its unique arching open stage concept, expect to be transported into electrical paradise. This year’s gonna be dope.
The Ultra lineup
Okay, okay. Compared to previous years, this edition’s lineup isn’t packed with a bunch of eye-boggling names. But keep those eyes peeled, here’s the lowdown on why Ultra isn’t all about Hardwell, Tiesto and Martin Garrix.
There are still some serious names
Anyone who vaguely listens to EDM and House would have heard of Afrojack. This Amsterdam legend is back at Ultra after last performing here in 2016. DJs joining him on the prestigious Main Stage include his Dutch counterpart Nicky Romero, Swedish House Mafia member Steve Angello, and trance kings Above & Beyond.
Trap and bass is why Ultra is gonna rock this year
This year’s lineup features a slew of trap and bass artists. For those of you who aren’t familiar with this genre, think deep kicks and a heavy use of synthesisers, something like Purple Lamborghini, the soundtrack of Suicide Squad. Headlining the list of trap and bass artists is the iconic DJ Snake, who will be performing at the Main Stage. The inaugural debut of the Worldwide Stage will see the likes of artists such as renowned trap legend RL Grime and American DJ Illenium. Watch out for up and coming Trap superstar Cesqeaux as well, with several Tomorrowland appearances under his belt, we just know he’s gonna be huge someday.
These DJs will be raising the bar at Ultra
If one female DJ isn’t enough, how about two? Arguably the world’s most famous DJ duo, Nervo comprises of two Australian twins who have collaborated with the likes of Armin Van Buuren and Steve Aoki so our bet’s on them to really knock the ball out of the park. Don’t miss out on Unmet Ozcan as well. This seasoned veteran will be using his years of experience to put on a rad performance. Paying homage to our local scene, look out for Myrne. We can’t fathom how this SMU student is pursuing both a degree and a DJ career at the same time. But judging from his popularity, he clearly has his own secret formula.
For a breath of fresh air
Featuring less commercial names, the Resistance area is where you’ll find your up and coming DJs. This year, techno guru Loco Dice is in town to tear the stage up with his top beats. Other allies joining the resistance include electronic and dance artists Coyu, Popof and Oxia.
For the love of short shorts:
In all honesty, dressing for Ultra is a no brainer (it’s hot and humid Singapore). It can be summed up in three points:
1. Be practical. This means no long sleeves, jeans, or boots. You’re here to rave.
2. Show consideration. Please reconsider the ridiculous necklaces, spiked bracelets that can take an eye out during overenthusiastic dancing, or worse, war paint on your face that you’ll smear on your fellow festival goers when you turn into a sweaty mess. Oh, and we know it’s hot, but do come in sufficient clothing.
3. Self preservation is key. Bring your caps and apply your sunscreen. You don’t want to go to work the next week looking like a walking lobster.
If this three-pronged approach doesn’t offer sufficient clarity, dive into our music festival fashion do and don’ts.
Tricks of the trade
We told you, we’re pros. Here are some tips to help you get by, especially if it’s your first time.
- Don’t go wild on day one. The cardinal rule of any multiple day music event and we learnt the hard way. Don’t push yourself to the limit for the first day, you don’t want to be knocked out cold the whole of the second.
- Clear bags only. Clear plastic, clear PVC and mesh no larger than 13’’ by 17’’ in size are acceptable.
- No outside beverages. Don’t even try your luck, and for the love of Afrojack do not even attempt to sneak in alcohol.
- Bring ear plugs. Volume levels can exceed 100 decibels. If you don’t want your ears to be ringing for till the next morning, you know what to do.
- Bring your cash and ID. Sounds simple but many people forget their ID. There are no ATMs on site and you’re not allowed to re-enter after you leave so bring a sufficient amount of cash.
If you’re a total newb, Ultra’s guide for first-timers at this festival is a good idea.
Get your Ultra tickets
The various prices and categories can get confusing, here’s a simplified breakdown:
First off, if you’re wondering what the different tiers mean, it’s something of a first come first serve system. Eg: Tier 1 is sold first. When Tier 1 is sold out, Tier 2 goes on the market, likewise for Tier 3. However, at this stage, only Tier 3 tickets are available. Told ya you’ve gotta be quick… or, you’ve gotta get lucky. Did we mention we’re giving away three pairs of tickets?
General Admission: Entry via west entrance and access to every stage.
GA one day Tier 3 ticket for either 15 or 16 June: $120
GA two day Tier 3 ticket: $185
Premium General Admission: Think of this like the equivalent of a premium economy class. Entry through the south entrance, access to the VIP Village and PGA-only viewing areas at the Main Stage and Live Stage.
PGA two day Tier 3 ticket: $245
Standing VVIP: Basically the best of everything. VVIP entrance, VVIP platform and a VVIP village with air conditioned restrooms (how luxurious).
Standing VVIP two day ticket: $550
And it’s all about those after parties
For those who can’t get enough of partying, rooftop bar Ce La Vi has graciously opened its doors for you maniacs. We get that your adrenaline levels will be sky high after a full day of revelry, but here’s a little reminder. Don’t forget tip no.1.
The jury is still out on whether this year’s Ultra is going to outdo the last (we say it will). But you can be sure of one thing, it will be two full days of merrymaking and all out raving.
Wanna win those tickets?
We’re giving away three pairs of Tier 3 GA tickets to Ultra, with access to both days of the festival! Each pair of tickets is valued at $370. Want in? To enter, pop in your details below.* This competition ends Monday 11 June and winners will be announced here. See our full competition terms and conditions.
Update: This giveaway has ended.