Waterfront Blues Fest kicks off first day with music, food and fireworks

The biggest party of the summer is just kicking off Thursday at this year's Waterfront Blues Festival.

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) -- The biggest party of the summer is just kicking off at this year's Waterfront Blues Festival.

The events kick off Thursday morning and the first performers take the the South Stage at 1 p.m.

There will be performances across four stages throughout the day, culminating in the 4th of July firework show at 10 p.m.

This year, there are a few new rules as far as what you can and can't bring with you to venues at Tom McCall Waterfront Park. Check out the detailed list below.

What to leave at home:

• Oversized bags (bags must not exceed 18" x 6" x 12")
• Cannabis, drugs, outside alcohol and other controlled substances
• Coolers of any kind
• Balloons, beach balls, frisbees, inflatable devices or outdoor games
• Professional audio or video recording devices and equipment
• Animals, except service animals
• Glass of any kind
• Smoking, vaping or chewing tobacco
• Tents or canopies
• Oversized blankets
• Carts or wagons
• Weapons of any kind
• Fireworks, explosives or accelerants of any kind
• Drones

What you can bring:

• Your festival tickets
• Valid ID
• Empty reusable water bottles (or factory-sealed bottled water)
• One low-profile lawn chair per attendee (attendees with chair seats more than 12" off the ground will be required to sit in specially designated areas)

But most important of all, attendees are always encouraged to bring good vibes!