Final DeLuna preps done, crowd forms

PENSACOLA BEACH, Fla. (WALA) - Thousands of people are taking to the beach for the sights and sounds of DeLuna Fest 2012.

The music festival officially kicked off Friday, September 21 with over 20 artists set to perform on multiple stages.

Around 70 musical acts will perform over the weekend, including Pearl Jam Friday night, Foo Fighters on Saturday and the Zac Brown Band on Sunday.

Officials said they expect more than 30,000 people to turn out, many of whom have never been to Pensacola Beach. 

Some folks said the festival was well worth the wait and a trip from far away.
Ron Tabbitas and his teenage son came from New York, getting to DeLuna Fest hours before gates even opened.

PHOTOS: DeLuna Fest 2012

"The early bird catches the worm. We're big believers in that. We stayed at a local hotel, and we figured we'd beat the crowd to get a good spot over by the stage," said Tabbitas.

Tabbitas said  he and his son will get some important bonding time during the concerts.

"I think our lives are so busy with business that it's great to be able to break away and spend the time with your son. It means a lot," Tabbitas said.

But it isn't just the fans that are excited, local businesses and vendors are expecting big things as well.

Austin Sharp, owner of Crude Life, sets up for the festival every year. He said he expects this year's festival to be the best.

"I really expect it to be a great year. We've got some really good bands here. Everyone's doing really good," said Sharp.

Officials said the weather should stay nice through the weekend. They said they expect 2012 to be the best year for the festival.

The festival continues on September 22 and 23 with gates opening around 10:30 a. m.