Fyre Festival 2 Faces Doubts Amid Local Officials’ Concerns

ISLA MUJERES, Mexico (AP) — Fyre Festival 2, set for May 30 to June 2, 2025, faces skepticism from local officials who claim they have not been contacted about the event. The festival’s founder, Billy McFarland, has issued a video statement asserting the legitimacy of the event after concerns were raised following reports from the Isla Mujeres tourism board.

In a recent Instagram video, McFarland responded to critics by stating, “Fyre 2 is real.” He emphasized that several partners, including a production team in Mexico, are involved in the planning and execution of the festival. “They’re in charge of all the logistics, productions, and operations. This includes an incredible production team who does not take on fake festivals,” he assured.

However, Edgar Gasca, director of tourism for Isla Mujeres, remarked that there has been no prior communication regarding the festival. “We have no knowledge of this event, nor contact with any person or company about it,” he said. Gasca expressed skepticism about the festival’s plausibility, citing missing permits and logistical issues. “This festival is not going to happen. There are red flags all over the place,” he stated.

Gasca also pointed out inaccuracies related to the event’s location, indicating that coordinates provided on the festival’s website pinpoint an area of ocean between Cancun and Isla Mujeres. “I think they thought they would just announce it and see if it got traction, then ask for permits halfway down the path. It’s a bit of a naive way to think,” he added.

The Isla Mujeres city hall corroborated Gasca’s statements, indicating that no permits have been requested for the event. “No person or company has requested permits from this office or any other municipal government department for said event,” the hall reported.

Fyre Festival 2 plans to sell 2,000 tickets ranging from $1,400 to $1.1 million. The festival aims to feature a mix of electronic, hip hop, pop, and rock music, alongside demonstrations by professional athletes. However, details regarding specific performers have not yet been disclosed.

McFarland, who previously served prison time for fraud related to the original Fyre Festival, emphasized that accommodations have been arranged. He noted, “Naturally, this is a huge point of emphasis given the issues surrounding Fyre 1. Our accommodations include contracts with a number of villas, yachts, and hotels.” McFarland claimed that discussions with certain hotels leading to reports of non-involvement have resulted in terminated contracts.

He also highlighted his commitment to restitution, explaining, “Since being released 30 months ago, I’ve made 40 payments to restitution. I’ve also made it my mission to do more than [is] legally required.”

As doubts linger, McFarland assured that communication would be direct and transparent moving forward. “Fyre 2 is moving forward and we are moving forward with full integrity,” he said. “If anybody wants to join us and help us make history, please direct message me. I look forward to sharing this with the world.”