Music fans of all ages packed the Jones Beach Theater for the first ever Billboard Hot 100 Fest. Headlining acts such as Nicki Minaj, the Weeknd and Justin Bieber attracted thousands to the two day event on August 22 and 23.

The Billboard Hot 100 Fest consisted of three stages, spread across the venue to create an intimate and enjoyable experience for audiences. The Beach Stage showcased R&B/Hip Hop artists like Christina Milian, Fetty Wap and Tori Kelly. Fans were able to enjoy the sets at this stage in a general admission setting.

The Samsung Level Stage offered more alternative rock acts such as X Ambassadors, American Authors and The Maine. Again, this stage was a general admission style where fans had to stand by the stage.

“The Samsung Level Stage gave me a chance to see my favorite band [The Maine], who normally plays small club venues, in a festival setting,” senior Marissa Mangione said.

The main attraction, however, was the Hot 100 Stage, which was in the Nikon at Jones Beach Theater. Acts ranged from Jason Derulo, Lil Wayne and The Weeknd on the first day to Nicki Minaj, Skrillex and Justin Bieber on the second day. Fans packed the stadium — according to News 12, there were 17,000 fans in attendance on the first day and 23,000 on the second day.

As for organization, Jones Beach Security seemed overwhelmed by the turnout for the headlining acts. Many seating sections were blocked off because seats had been filled up. Before Nicki Minaj’s set on Sunday, three security guards had to hold off hundreds of fans standing on the stairs because they couldn’t get seats. While there were other acts on both the Samsung Level Stage and the Beach Stage at the time, it was clear Minaj and Bieber brought in the majority of the fans.

Time in between sets was very short considering how long a tech crew usually has to set up for a show on tour. However, X Ambassadors and Justin Bieber had trouble with their in ear monitors, which are worn to hear their vocals while on stage, but members of the tech crew efficiently solved these issues. Also, during Nicki Minaj’s set, a main camera was delayed, making it appear the performer was lip syncing when she was using a live microphone.

Overall, the Billboard Hot 100 Fest provided a high energy environment with a variety of music acts that kept the crowds entertained from the start of the day to the end. Billboard’s first event was so successful, they are planning for the Hot 100 to return next year. Ultimately, Billboard hit a high note bringing the hottest acts to the beach this summer.