Thousands of fans began filling the Empire Polo Club in Indio Friday, as they got set for the three day Phish Festival 8.
Organizers expect some 60,000 Phish fans to camp on-site for Festival 8, which begins at 7:30 p.m. Friday. The band will play a second set at 10 p.m. Phish will perform a special Halloween set on Saturday, covering a classic album by another artist.
The band will play three sets on Saturday, beginning at 3 p.m., and three more sets on Sunday.
"I believe the turnout will be great,'' said festival spokeswoman Marcee Rondan. "I think that people will be in for a real treat.''
Dedicated Phish fans from across the county have flocked to this event for the weekend.
"I bankrupted my small buisness to see Phish this year," said Nathan Bass of South Carolina. "It was worth every penny."
Cultural EventsA 100-foot Ferris wheel was set up as a beacon at the festival entrance. Other landmarks include art booths and a Certified Farmers' Market on site-- the same one that visits La Quinta and Palm Springs each week.
"They support local and organic farms all throughout the country wherever they go," said Paul Palodichuk of Certified Farmers' Market.
Local artists have set up booths where fest-goers can try their hand at various forms of art, from printing to making rock sculptures.
Fans say the event is not only about the music, but the culture as well.
"We're happy, they're happy, we can energize [the band] and all reach together for community goodness," said Jacob Paul of Denver.
Traffic WarningTo avoid Phishlock, Indio police urged motorists to avoid south Indio near the concert site over the weekend.
Avenue 49 at Monroe, Avenue 50 between Jackson and Madison streets, Hjorth Street between Avenue 49 and Avenue 50 and Madison Street between Avenue 49 and Avenue 50 will be closed through Sunday.
Drivers should avoid southbound Jefferson Street from Indio Boulevard to Avenue 52; southbound Monroe Street from Interstate 10 to Avenue 52; Highway 111 at Jefferson Street; Highway 111 at Monroe Street; and eastbound I-10 off-ramp at Jefferson and Monroe streets.
Motorists were asked to use Madison Street, Jackson Street, Calhoun Street and Golf Center Parkway as alternatives.
