CamelBaks Banned From Electric Zoo

New update from New York's Electric Zoo Festival, which kicks off at the end of this month. Shortly after releasing their anti-drug PSA video as part of their "Come To Life" campaign, they have announced that CamelBak Backpacks will not be allowed inside this year's 3-day Labor Day Weekend event, as they can be "used to hide illicit substances." The festival has announced in a statement via Facebook (seen above), that they "determined the safest way for fans to hydrate during the concert is by using the free cups provided at our high-speed water stations positioned throughout the festival. Any drink containers purchased inside the venue can also be used at these water stations without charge."

This announcement comes in the midst of the debate regarding kandi becoming a prohibited item at festivals like Mad Decent Block Party and HARD Summer, a controversial decision that has caused both Diplo and Gary Richards to see some backlash from attendees.

Now, CamelBak Backpacks, which have become a staple for many festival-goers, are now part of Electic Zoo's prohibited items list. You can check out all of Electric Zoo's Prohibit Item list HERE.

Fans have taken to social media to express their displeasure for the institution of this new policy, which comes in with new heightened security measures following the deaths of two young attendees last year, which resulted in the cancellation of the festival's final day. Check out some of the responses below.

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This controversial decision also comes after information included with purchased wristbands that said empty water bottles, CamelBaks, and reusable bottles were permitted.

Fans have even gone as far as starting up a petition to lift the ban on CamelBaks. Whether or not the festival will listen to the fans and lift this ban remains to be seen. Stay tuned for more as the story develops.

Buy tickets to Electric Zoo here!