Boardwalk Rock Festival 2027 Lineup Is Here: Iron Maiden, Korn & Bad Omens Head to Ocean City

Get ready to turn up the volume! Boardwalk Rock Festival is officially returning to Ocean City, Maryland, May 14–16, 2027, and the newly announced lineup is giving rock fans plenty of reasons to plan a beach getaway. Featuring legendary heavy metal icons, alternative rock favorites, and today’s biggest hard rock acts, Boardwalk Rock 2027 is shaping up to be an unforgettable weekend on the coast.

After a year away, the festival is back with three powerhouse headliners: Iron Maiden, Korn, and Bad Omens. With more than 40 bands scheduled to perform across three stages, there’s no better time to start planning your Ocean City vacation. And with the beach, Boardwalk attractions, restaurants, and local hotels just steps away, this is one music-filled weekend you won’t want to miss. It’s the perfect combination of high-energy live music and a classic Ocean City beach vacation!

The Boardwalk Rock Festival 2027 Lineup

The official lineup features an exciting mix of rock and metal legends, alternative favorites, and modern heavy music stars. Here’s a look at who’s performing each day.

Friday, May 14: Korn Takes the Stage

Kicking off the weekend, Korn will headline Friday with a lineup packed with hard-hitting rock and alternative favorites. From Korn’s unmistakable nu-metal sound to Slash’s legendary guitar work, Friday offers a powerful start to three days of live music in Ocean City.

Friday’s featured performers include:

  • Korn
  • Breaking Benjamin
  • The Prodigy
  • Cypress Hill
  • Slash Featuring Myles Kennedy and the Conspirators
  • Clutch
  • Sevendust
  • Theory of a Deadman
  • Filter
  • All Them Witches
  • Corrosion of Conformity
  • Eve 6
  • Local H
  • Nonpoint
  • Soil

Saturday, May 15: Bad Omens Headlines Day Two

Saturday brings a mix of modern metal, alternative rock, and established hard rock acts, with Bad Omens leading the bill. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Good Charlotte or looking forward to seeing Bad Omens live, Saturday offers plenty of reasons to stay for the entire day.

Saturday’s featured performers include:

  • Bad Omens
  • Good Charlotte
  • Marilyn Manson
  • Motionless in White
  • Bullet for My Valentine
  • Poppy
  • Tesla
  • Buckcherry
  • Superheaven
  • Drowning Pool
  • Sponge
  • Showing Teeth
  • Tetrarch
  • Asava

Sunday, May 16: Iron Maiden Closes Out the Weekend

Boardwalk Rock wraps up Sunday with heavy metal royalty. Iron Maiden headlines the final day, joined by an impressive roster of rock and metal performers. With Iron Maiden and Judas Priest on the same day’s lineup, Sunday promises a memorable finale for fans of classic heavy metal and hard rock.

Sunday’s featured performers include:

  • Iron Maiden
  • Alice in Chains
  • Judas Priest
  • Sleeping With Sirens
  • The Pretty Reckless
  • Down
  • The Warning
  • Loathe
  • The Hu
  • Apocalyptica
  • GWAR
  • Dirty Honey
  • The Flys
  • Mac Sabbath

For the complete lineup and the latest performance details, visit the official Boardwalk Rock Festival website.

When Do Boardwalk Rock 2027 Tickets Go on Sale?

If you’re ready to experience Boardwalk Rock in person, now is the time to start planning. The festival’s ticket presale begins Thursday, October 22, 2026, at 10 a.m. ET. Fans who sign up for a presale passcode can access the guaranteed lowest-price general admission tickets for the first hour, with the general public on-sale scheduled to follow at 11 a.m., if tickets remain.

Ticket options include one-day and three-day general admission passes, along with GA+, VIP, and Platinum experiences.

Make It a Beach Getaway: Where to Stay for Boardwalk Rock

A great festival weekend deserves a great place to stay. Rather than making a quick trip just for the concerts, turn Boardwalk Rock into a full Ocean City getaway. Booking your hotel in advance gives you time to find accommodations that fit your budget, travel plans, and preferred location. Whether you want to wake up to ocean views, stay close to the Boardwalk action, or find a convenient home base for exploring town, Ocean City offers accommodations for a variety of travel styles.

Here are a few tips for planning your festival stay:

  • Book early. A major three-day music festival can increase demand for accommodations, so start exploring hotel options as soon as possible.
  • Choose your location wisely. Consider whether you prefer staying near the Inlet and festival grounds or along the Boardwalk and Coastal Highway.
  • Plan for more than concert time. Leave room for beach walks, local restaurants, shopping, and Ocean City’s attractions between performances.
  • Consider a multi-night stay. Arriving before the festival starts and staying through Monday can give you more time to enjoy the beach without rushing home after the final set.

Ready to find your festival weekend accommodations? Browse all of our hotels on this page to explore places to stay and start planning your trip.

Explore Ocean City Between Sets

One of the best things about Boardwalk Rock is its setting. You’re not just attending a music festival; you’re experiencing one of Maryland’s favorite beach destinations. Between performances, make time to enjoy everything Ocean City has to offer.

Take a stroll along the Boardwalk. Browse local shops, grab a classic Boardwalk treat, and soak up the lively atmosphere that makes Ocean City a summer favorite.

Visit Jolly Roger at the Pier. Located within the festival grounds, this Ocean City landmark offers amusement rides and games for a little extra fun between sets.

Grab a bite to eat. Check out local restaurants, bars, and food vendors for everything from quick festival-day bites to a sit-down meal after the music winds down. (We suggest Harrison’s Harbor Watch or The Wedge!)

Enjoy the beach. May is a wonderful time to experience Ocean City’s shoreline, whether you want a morning walk along the sand or a relaxing break from the crowds.

With live music, ocean views, and plenty to explore, Boardwalk Rock offers an excellent excuse to kick off your 2027 beach season early.

Start Planning Your Boardwalk Rock 2027 Weekend

With Korn, Bad Omens, and Iron Maiden leading a lineup of more than 40 bands, Boardwalk Rock Festival is set to bring three days of rock music to Ocean City, Maryland, May 14–16, 2027.

Whether you’re traveling with fellow rock fans, planning a weekend with friends, or simply looking for a new reason to visit the Maryland coast, this festival combines the excitement of live music with the laid-back atmosphere of a beach getaway. Don’t wait until the last minute to make your plans. Check the official festival website for tickets and lineup updates, then explore your options for accommodations.

Find your perfect place to stay with OCMD Hotels and get ready to rock Ocean City in May 2027!

Best Hotels Near Oceans Calling Festival 2026 in Ocean City, MD

If you’re planning to attend the Oceans Calling Festival 2026 in Ocean City, Maryland, finding the right place to stay can make a huge difference in your experience. Many visitors start searching early for hotels near Oceans Calling Festival 2026 because the popular beachfront music festival attracts more than 50,000 attendees each day. With crowds that large, traffic congestion, crowded parking lots, and long waits for rideshares are common, so booking a conveniently located hotel ahead of time can help you avoid unnecessary stress.

One of the easiest ways to make your festival weekend smoother is by booking a hotel within walking distance of the Oceans Calling Festival grounds. Staying nearby allows you to skip the traffic, enjoy Ocean City’s famous boardwalk, and easily walk back to your room after a full day of live music. Instead of worrying about transportation, you can focus on enjoying the performances, the beach, and the vibrant atmosphere of Ocean City.

To help you plan your trip, here are some of the best hotels near the Oceans Calling Festival in Ocean City, MD, all located within a short walk of the festival.

The Oceanic Motel

Oceanic Motel — 105 S 1st St, Ocean City, MD 21842
Distance from the festival: 0.3 miles

The Oceanic Motel is one of the closest hotels to the Oceans Calling Festival grounds, making it a top choice for festivalgoers who want maximum convenience. Located just a short walk away, this motel lets you go from your room to the festival stages in just minutes. Its proximity to the Ocean City boardwalk and beach also makes it a great option if you want to enjoy the ocean between sets.

Plim Plaza Hotel

Plim Plaza Hotel — 109 N Atlantic Ave, Ocean City, MD 21842
Distance from the festival: 0.6 miles

Located directly on the Ocean City boardwalk, Plim Plaza Hotel is another excellent hotel near the Oceans Calling Festival. Guests can easily walk to the festival grounds while also enjoying nearby restaurants, beach access, and boardwalk attractions. Its lively atmosphere and central location make it a popular choice for visitors spending the weekend enjoying live music in Ocean City.

Harrison Hall Hotel

Harrison Hall Hotel — 1409 Atlantic Ave, Ocean City, MD 21842
Distance from the festival: 1.5 miles

Harrison Hall Hotel is a historic oceanfront property located along the famous Ocean City boardwalk. About a 1.5-mile walk from the festival grounds, it offers a classic beachfront stay while still being conveniently close to the Oceans Calling music festival. Guests can enjoy ocean views, easy boardwalk access, and a relaxing place to unwind after a full day of concerts.

Courtyard Ocean City Oceanfront

Courtyard Ocean City Oceanfront — Two 15th St, Ocean City, MD 21842
Distance from the festival: 1.5 miles

For visitors looking for a more modern stay, Courtyard Ocean City Oceanfront offers comfortable accommodations and excellent amenities. Guests can dine at the popular Captain’s Table restaurant located inside the hotel before or after attending the Oceans Calling Festival. Its boardwalk location also makes it easy to explore nearby attractions, shops, and restaurants.

Quality Inn Boardwalk

Quality Inn Boardwalk — 1601 Atlantic Ave, Ocean City, MD 21842
Distance from the festival: 1.5 miles

Quality Inn Boardwalk is another convenient Ocean City hotel near the Oceans Calling Festival. Located right on Atlantic Avenue, the hotel provides easy access to the boardwalk and the festival area. There’s even a Starbucks just outside the hotel, making it easy to grab a coffee before heading out for a full day of music and entertainment.

Holiday Inn & Suites Ocean City

Holiday Inn & Suites Ocean City — 1701 Atlantic Ave, Ocean City, MD 21842
Distance from the festival: 1.6 miles

If you prefer a full-service hotel experience, Holiday Inn & Suites Ocean City is a fantastic option. Guests can enjoy amenities such as pools, a fitness center, and an on-site restaurant when they’re not attending the festival. It’s a comfortable and convenient place to stay while visiting the Oceans Calling Festival in Ocean City, Maryland.


Where to Stay for Oceans Calling Festival in Ocean City

With thousands of visitors attending every year, booking a hotel near the Oceans Calling Festival in Ocean City, MD as early as possible is highly recommended. Staying within walking distance allows you to avoid traffic and parking headaches while making it easy to return to your room whenever you need a break from the crowds.

Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly motel, a historic boardwalk hotel, or a full-service oceanfront property, these accommodations offer convenient access to the Oceans Calling Music Festival 2026. Secure your stay early and get ready for an unforgettable weekend of live music, ocean views, and boardwalk fun in Ocean City.

Don’t forget to check out the lineup announcement here.

Your Guide To Springfest 2025

Get ready to celebrate at Springfest 2025! From April 24-27, this beloved festival brings four days of live music, incredible shopping, delicious food, and exciting activities—all with FREE admission. There are over 30 free bands as well as ticked performances for entertainment, unique artisan vendors, and special 150th-anniversary celebrations. Mark your calendar and join us for a can’t-miss weekend!

Thursday-Saturday 10:00am – 8pm, Sunday 10:00am – 6pm

With the inlet lot being closed for this event, parking will be sure to fill up fast. If you’re staying at one of our hotels, consider using the city’s bus service or even taking a stroll down the boardwalk to Springfest. The event is rain or shine, so remember to dress for the conditions!

If you’re still looking for lodging options, Plim Plaza and The Oceanic are only steps away from Springfest! Visit our page on hotels for more information.

Live Music

Not only are there over 30 free live performances on the two main stages, there is also ticketed headliners to bring the fun to Ocean City! Visit the full lineup and purchase tickets here.

Thursday: STRANGELOVE The Depeche Mode Experience 7pm

Friday: Hunter Hayes 7pm

Saturday: The Legendary Wailers feat. Junior Marvin & Passafire 6pm

Shopping, Vendors, & Food!

One of the best reasons to come to Springfest is walking through all the tents of artisans and merchants! You can find 8 tents featuring over 200 vendors each, with everything from jewelry and garden sculptures to dog accessories and bath products.

Another favorite reason you’ll find locals and tourists alike at Springfest has to be the food! You can find anything from fresh seafood, Korean and Asian specialties, pit beef, Philly cheesesteaks, gourmet sausages, deep-fried candy bars, soft pretzels, and so much more! Enjoy onsite, or go browsing for things to take home for later!  Vendors will also be on-site selling jams, Amish goods, seasonings, olive oils, and other delicious treats.

Other Fun Can’t-Miss Things at Springfest 2025!

Experience a variety of events including a sea glass workshop, yoga on the beach, outdoor games, and a fun scavenger hunt. In celebration of Ocean City’s 150th anniversary, enjoy a stunning flower wall, hands-on workshops, and the 150th Walk of Years showcasing historic photos and exhibits. You also don’t want to miss the OC Stars performance, which is one of Springfest’s annual traditions.

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