Governor welcomes Firefly Music Festival back to Delaware

Organizers of the Firefly Music Festival say this year’s attendance is in line with the turnout for last year’s event, which drew 90,000 fans.

Gov. Jack Markell welcomed festival organizers back to the Woodlands site near Dover International Speedway on Friday, joined by state and local officials and U.S. Sen. Tom Carper.

Stephanie Mezzano, chief operations officer for Red Frog Events, says organizers have invested more than $1 million in site improvements since last year, including drainage improvements and new roads and pathways.

This year’s festival also includes several new attractions, including a beach volleyball court. Headliners include Kings of Leon and Mumford and Sons.

State tourism director Linda Parkowski says Firefly is a huge economic boost for Delaware, with the 2014 festival generating a regional impact of $68 million.