SARATOGA SPRINGS, N.Y. -- "You have to wait in line for an hour, probably more than an hour. So this year we're like VIP," said EJ Perka. "We parked behind the Hall of Springs and we're going to see Dave Matthews!"

Hours before the band took to the stage, EJ Perka and his friends arrived early to avoid the parking nightmare. But these early birds weren't the only ones seen at SPAC. Crews were busy gearing up for the weekend's large crowd.

"We'll be spending all day today setting up, taping off all the roadways and getting our staff ready to go," said Robert Kuhn, assistant regional director of state parks.

With more than 50,000 fans expected over the next two days, Live Nation and the State Park have made some changes.

"To have that many people arriving here all at the same time is a real challenge. We put extra park police on duty," said Kuhn.

In addition to more law enforcement, there's a parking fee change. You'll now have to pay $10 after 5 p.m. The goal is to get people to come early and reduce traffic. Kuhn suggested carpooling.

"Meet up with your friends ahead of time. Come to the show as a group in a single vehicle. That really helps cut down on congestion," Kuhn said.

There's also the issue of trash. John Huff, Live Nation's general manager, helped institute a recycling program. There are 70 collection units scattered throughout SPAC.

"We've really increased our efforts to recycle. We're asking our fans to take care of the park and take care of SPAC," said Huff. "One way they can do that is by recycling. Instead of throwing their trash in the recycling, make sure that they put the right items in the recycling container."

They're efforts SPAC hopes will encourage fans to enjoy shows while keeping the grounds green.