Ocean’s Calling 2025 – Times & FAQ’s

Ocean’s Calling is a three day music festival taking place this September in Ocean City Maryland. Featuring headliners such as Green Day, Noah Kahan, Fall Out Boy, and Weezer, the event brings in a huge crowd each year. The festival grounds are right on the beach, creating one of the most unique and memorable venues ever! With endless food vendors, onsite bars, merch stands, and music all day long, Ocean’s Calling is an experience that you’ll never forget! If you’re planning a visit or looking to buy tickets, check out our blog about which artists are to appear onstage here.

Friday, September 26

Kicking off the festival are artists Izzy Escobar and Chef Antonia Lofaso, who will take the Sea Bright and the Carousel stages at 12:15. Water stands, merch stands, bars, food vendors, and more will also open at this time. Friday includes many well-known artists and bands such as the Spin Doctors, Fountains of Wayne, Live, Nelly, O.A.R., The Black Crowes, Cake, Lenny Kravitz, and Green Day! Green Day will take the final performance on Friday with an almost 2 hour set accompanied by an ASL interpreter.

Saturday, September 27

With artists like Noah Kahan and bands like Good Charlotte, Modest Mouse, and Franz Ferdinand, Saturday is going to be packed with incredible music! Don’t miss O.A.R. & Friends, which features a mystery guest appearance. The final performance by Noah Kahan is ASL interpreted, ensuring a great night for everybody! While the doors open at 12:00 p.m., the first performances are not set to begin until 12:30. If you don’t want to miss any music, it’s the perfect amount of time to stop by the merch stands set up around the festival grounds!

Sunday, September 28

The final day of the festival, Sunday, September 28, keeps the music going with sets from Marcy Playground, 4 Non Blondes, and Blind Melon. Weezer will also take the stage, delivering their signature hits to the Ocean City crowd for the second year in a row. Closing out the weekend, Fall Out Boy headlines with a nearly two hour set beginning at 9:15 p.m. on the Sea Bright stage!

FAQ

  • Are tickets for Ocean’s Calling still available?

Yes, tickets for the event are still available for purchase through the official Ocean’s Calling website! Three day tickets are currently waitlisted, but there are single day passes still for sale.

  • What is the best time to arrive at the festival grounds?

If you’re looking to beat the crowds and find parking, it’s best to arrive from 11 to 12. Doors open at 12:00 p.m., so arriving earlier will give you time to get a good spot in line.

  • What am I allowed to bring into the festival?

You can bring:

  • Check what bags are allowed at the festival
  • Empty reusable water bottles and hydration packs, and plastic or aluminum water bottles
  • Baby strollers, including stroller wagons designed to transport children with children present
  • Binoculars
  • Cameras (basic point and shoot consumer-grade cameras) without detachable lenses and other accessories (monopods, selfie sticks, tripods, GoPro mounts, and other attachments are not allowed)
  • Personal-sized hand sanitizer
  • Portable battery packs
  • Personal misting fans with a bottle no larger than 1.5 L (must be empty upon entry)
  • Sunscreen in non-aerosol containers is allowed in the size of 3.4 ounces or less
  • Factory sealed Naloxone/Narcan kit
  • Hydration/Electrolyte packets in factory sealed single serving package(s)
  • Frisbees
  • Blankets, sheets, towels

You cannot bring:

  • Any bag that is not aligned with the allowed bags
  • Aerosol containers, including sunscreen and personal beauty products
  • Coolers of any kind. (Exceptions may be made for medical use)
  • Any and all professional audio recording equipment
  • Professional cameras and professional recording (photo, video, audio) equipment
    • NO large professional detachable zoom lenses, stands, monopods, tripods, attachment sticks (selfie sticks) or other commercial equipment
  • Any and all professional video equipment. No video recording will be allowed
  • Drones or any other remote flying device
  • Hammocks
  • Inflatables of any kind
  • Glass containers of any kind
  • Illegal and illicit substances of any kind
  • Outside food or beverage (including alcohol) of any kind
  • Umbrellas
  • Pets (except service animals)
  • Selfie sticks
  • Skateboards, scooters, bicycles, wagons, carts, or any personal motorized vehicles
  • Tents, canopies, or shade structures of any kind
  • Unauthorized/unlicensed vendors are not allowed. No unauthorized solicitation and materials including handbills, flyers, stickers, beach balls, giveaways, samples, etc.
  • Weapons or explosives of any kind
  • Fireworks
  • Large chains or spiked jewelry
  • Bicycles inside festival grounds (free parking is available near festival entrance)
  • Carts of any kind (including Red Wagons)
  • Chairs of any kind
  • Smoking (including vaping)

More Info

For more information about Ocean’s Calling, check out their website here. The website includes festival maps, transportation guides, hotel booking services, merchandise, and more! Visit their help page for any questions about the event.

With three jam-packed days of music, ocean views, and nonstop entertainment, Ocean’s Calling is shaping up to be one of the biggest music events of the year! Whether you’re here for your favorite band just to soak up the festival atmosphere, this is one weekend you won’t want to miss.

Performances at the Freeman Arts Pavillion

Locals Under the Lights, July 31, 7:00 pm

Locals Under the Lights returns to Freeman Pavilion for the 13th season! Audience members can sit back, relax and enjoy local and up-and-coming artists performing on the same stage as national acts, such as Sam Hunt, Buddy Guy and Counting Crows!

Super 70s Rock Show featuring Super Trans Am, August 8, 7 pm

Super Trans Am is the most unique and innovative theme band on the market today, playing all of your favorite arena anthems and chart-topping radio hits of the 1970s.

Combining unparalleled musicianship with artistic and inspired A/V production, you’ll enjoy revisiting classic singalongs from one of the most definable decades in American history. Performing masterworks from icons such as The Eagles, Hall & Oates, Queen, The Doobie Brothers, Paul McCartney & Wings, Peter Frampton, Foreigner, Kiss, Boston and Journey as well as “Yacht Rock” favorites such as “Still the One” by Orleans and Pilot’s “Magic,” your audience will fall in love with this epic decade of memorable music all over again.

Ms. Niki, August 2, 10:00 am

Nicole “Ms. Niki” Addison is a classically trained singer/songwriter from Washington, D.C. One of family music’s most compelling and talented new emerging artists, Ms. Niki is a member of the GRAMMY-nominated 1 Tribe Collective‘s All One Tribe album featuring “Rainbow.”

Ms. Niki is where joy meets learning! Join music edutainer, Ms. Niki on a colorful adventure through upbeat original songs and classics with a twist you’ve never heard before.

John Fogerty, August 2, 7:00 pm

John Fogerty is a true American treasure. As founder of Creedence Clearwater Revival, Fogerty’s career spans 50 years and he is hailed as one of the most influential musicians in rock history. As the writer, singer and producer of numerous classic hits including “Born on the Bayou,” “Green River,” “Proud Mary,” and “Bad Moon Rising,” Fogerty is a Grammy winner who has been honored as one of the 100 Greatest Guitarists, 100 Greatest Songwriters, and 100 Greatest Singers by Rolling Stone. Earning induction to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Songwriters Hall of Fame, and Baseball Hall of Fame, he is also a New York Times best-selling author for his memoir, Fortunate Son: My Life, My Music

Foreigner, August 4, 7:00 pm

With 10 multi-platinum albums and 16 Top 30 hits, FOREIGNER is universally hailed as one of the most popular rock acts in the world with a formidable musical arsenal that continues to propel sold-out tours and album sales, now exceeding 80 million.

Responsible for some of rock and roll’s most enduring anthems including “Juke Box Hero,” “Cold As Ice,” “Hot Blooded,” “Waiting For A Girl Like You,” “Feels Like The First Time,” “Urgent,” “Head Games,” “Say You Will,” “Dirty White Boy,” “Long, Long Way From Home” and the worldwide #1 hit, “I Want To Know What Love Is,” FOREIGNER still rocks the charts almost 50 years into the game with massive airplay and continued Billboard album chart success. Audio and video streams of FOREIGNER’s hits exceed 15 million per week.

Lyle Lovett and his Large Band

A singer, composer and actor, Lyle Lovett has broadened the definition of American music in a career that spans 14 albums. Coupled with his gift for storytelling, the Texas-based musician fuses elements of country, swing, jazz, folk, gospel and blues in a convention-defying manner that breaks down barriers.

Whether touring as a ‘Duo’ or with his ‘Acoustic Group’ or his ‘Large Band,’ Lovett’s live performances show not only the breadth of this Texas legend’s deep talents but also the diversity of his influences, making him one of the most compelling and captivating musicians in popular music.

Ocean City, Maryland’s Top Ten Places to Visit

 From the shores of Assateague Island to Jolly Roger Splash Mountain, Ocean City has a collection of attractions like no other! To help narrow the list of possibilities, these are Ocean City, Maryland’s top ten places to visit.  

10: Paradise Watersports 

With the largest reserved jet ski area in Ocean City, Paradise Watersports is a great destination for a thrilling experience on the water! You can rent a jet ski, go parasailing, or even climb aboard a safari boat for a tour of the wild ponies and animals of Assateague Island. You can also board their tiki boat for the ultimate party experience! Each boat is equipped with a Coast Guard Certified Captain and first mate to ensure a safe and exciting time. 

9: Dumsers Dairyland 

Since 1939, Dumsers Dairyland has been a part of Ocean City’s nostalgic beach-town atmosphere. Whether you’re searching for a quick treat or a place to relax in the hot summer weather, any of Dumsers Dairyland’s seven locations will be perfect for you! You can choose from many types of soft serve ice cream, hand scooped ice cream, milkshakes, sundaes, sorbet’s, specials, and more! 

8: Baja Amusements 

Ever since its first race in 1981, Baja Amusements has delivered fun for all ages on their 8 high-speed go-kart tracks. Kids as young as 5 years old can have their turn behind the wheel on the Junior Speedway. Baja also features several rides including a carousel, the frog hopper, and the spin zone! If you’re looking for even more excitement, you can try your hand at mini golf, test your skills in the arcade, or grab a snack and relax between races. With a mix of adrenaline-pumping tracks and attractions, Baja Amusements is the best stop for a full day of fun!

7: Jolly Roger Splash Mountain 

Jolly Roger at 30th St. is a must-visit destination for both tourists and locals looking for family-friendly fun in Ocean City! One of the park’s four areas is Splash Mountain, home to 16 thrilling water slides that offer something for every age. Among them is the Aqualoop, a 360º semi-transparent looping slide that’s the only one of its kind on the East Coast! Park passes are available at the main entrance, but visitors should keep an eye out for discounted passes offered at participating OCMD hotels.

6: Harrison’s Harbor Watch 

Whether you’re planning a relaxing date night or looking for the perfect lunch spot, Harrison’s Harbor Watch is a must-visit. With its unmatched views of the inlet, the setting is as memorable as the meal. The restaurant is also well-suited for groups, offering spacious booths and large tables for comfortable dining. The menu features a variety of fresh seafood dishes made with high-quality ingredients, making it a go-to destination for anyone craving a taste of the coast.

5: Trimper Rides 

If you’re looking to add a little thrill to your Ocean City visit, Trimper Rides on the boardwalk is a great place to start. Just steps away from Harrison’s Harbor Watch, you can end your visit with a meal by the inlet. Trimpers offers 22 rides that range from classic carousels to high-energy roller coasters, making it a staple of the Ocean City experience.

4: Northside Park 

Northside Park is a scenic 58-acre bayfront recreational space offering year-round fun for everybody! Visitors in the summer can enjoy Sundaes in the Park for free bayside concerts and beautiful sunset views. After the sun sets, fireworks are set off over the bay as a magical end to an unforgettable night.

3: The Wave Riding School

If you’re looking to catch some waves during your visit in Ocean City, there’s not better place to go than K-Coast Surf Shop! Partnered with the Wave Riding School, the shop offers 1.5 hour long surf lessons at only $99. The school’s team of instructors are among the best, ensuring a safe and productive experience for surfers of any level. Call or text 443-203-WAVE (9283) for details and book online today!

2: Breakfast at Coastal Salt

Coastal Salt opened its doors in the Spring of 2020 with visions of providing excellent culinary experiences through honest, inventive, and locally sourced cuisine. Located right on the boardwalk, it’s the perfect place to enjoy the early morning sun with a fresh ocean breeze! Coastal Salt has a wonderful breakfast menu complete with different types of omelets and morning delicacies.

1: Assateague Island

Assateague Island is an unforgettable destination, best known for its wildlife that roam freely across the beaches and marshes. The island’s coastline offers a place for swimming and sunbathing without the crowds. Hiking and biking trails wind through the area, offering beautiful views and encounters with herds of wild ponies. Whether you’re drawn by wildlife, adventure, or relaxation, Assateague is a destination for every type of traveler!

Your Guide to Fourth of July Weekend in Ocean City, Maryland

Nothing can compare to the sight of fireworks over the nighttime waves of Ocean City, Maryland. The classic beach-town charm builds a magical atmosphere for the perfect Fourth of July celebration. From the iconic downtown fireworks to hidden gems such as the Chesapeake Ghost Walk, Ocean City has just about everything to offer! 

The firework show in downtown Ocean City is one of two simultaneous firework displays on the Fourth of July. The celebration will begin at 8:00 p.m. on the beach when DJ Kutt takes the Caroline Street Stage. The official show is expected to begin at 9:30 p.m. over the ocean, so don’t forget to bring a blanket and beach chair!

At Northside Park, 125th Street and the bay, a separate firework show will take place at the same time as the downtown celebration. Radio Ocean City will kick off the northern event at with DJ entertainment from 8:00 p.m. until 9:30 p.m. “Northside Park is the perfect place for families to watch the colorful displays light up the evening sky and lagoon,” said Mayor Rick Meehan. “We encourage spectators to get there early to claim their spot to watch the fireworks.”

It is important to keep in mind that parking will be very limited throughout the day. The Inlet Lot will have a rate of $6 per hour, but it is suggested to take a bus. The bus will run from 6:00 a.m. to 3:00 a.m. and provide ride all-day passes for $4. Anybody on the road should expect delays due to heavy traffic.

Other Weekend Events in Ocean City

Ocean City is always buzzing with exciting places to go and unforgettable experiences, but July 5th and 6th have a variety of special events you won’t want to miss. 

Ocean Pines Farmers and Artisans Market

On July 5th, Ocean Pines is proud to open the Farmers and Artisans Market, where you can find one-of-a-kind goods and enjoy the cozy atmosphere of White Horse Park! It’s the perfect place to find fresh produce and locally handcrafted items while supporting one of Ocean City’s communities. If you’re looking for a getaway from the weekend crowds, the Farmers and Artisans Market should be on your list of places to go. The event runs from 8:00 a.m. to noon on Saturday. 

Chesapeake Ghost Tours

Locally owned since 2014, Chesapeake Ghost Tours presents one of nine locations right here in historic Ocean City! From 8:00 p.m. to 9:45 p.m. on Saturday night, guests will be taken on a journey through the very streets on which haunting stories take place. The tour will uncover stories of eerie local legends and unexplained occurrences throughout the town’s history. Can you brave the secrets of Ocean City’s paranormal? 

Camel and Ostrich Races

For an event you won’t forget, visit Ocean Downs Casino to watch camels and ostriches live on the race track! The event is well-organized and focuses on the safety of both the animals and attendees. Seating is available, but standing areas provide great views of the action as well. It’s recommended to arrive early, as parking and seating can fill quickly! Watch the races on Saturday between 6:30 and 8:30 p.m.

Sundaes in the Park

On Sunday evening from 7:00 to 9:00, Northside Park is the ultimate destination for kids and adults alike! Free live music spanning across many genres is only one of the park’s excellent entertainment options. Kids can play while you indulge in ice cream or a featured beverage under a stunning sunset view. Whether you’re ending your weekend or just getting started, Sundaes in the Park is a perfect way to enjoy a summer evening.

Marlin Moon Featured Cocktails

Marlin Moon’s special July cocktail menu features refreshing, summer-inspired drinks crafted to celebrate the season. The featured highlight is a vibrant blend of Tito’s Vodka, blue curaçao, cherry juice, and sparkling lemonade. Keep an eye out for additional limited-time cocktails that showcase bold flavors, seasonal ingredients, and the spirit of summer in every sip.

Updated Boardwalk Rock Lineup

Concert week is finally here! If you’re looking for the perfect mix of sun, sand, and rock, the Boardwalk Rock Festival in Ocean City, Maryland delivers all that and more. Held right on the sand along the iconic Ocean City Boardwalk, this inaugural event is celebration of live music, local flavor, and East Coast beach culture. Checkout the updated Boardwalk Rock lineup below.

Whether you’re a die-hard rock fan or just visiting for the weekend, here’s why this festival is one of the best reasons to get to Ocean City this weekend.

The Lineup & Stages

Big names rock the stages! The Boardwalk Rock lineup boasts on Saturday its Rob Zombie, Bush, Flyleaf, Halestorm and closing the night is Def Leppard. On Sunday, rock legend Alice Cooper takes the stage along with Shinedown, Bret Michaels, Three Days Grace and Nickleback.

More Than Just Music

Beyond the incredible performances, the Boardwalk Rock Festival offers an array of activities for attendees. Visitors can explore:

  • Merchandise Booths – Snag exclusive festival gear and band memorabilia.
  • Beach & Boardwalk Fun – Take a break from the music and enjoy Ocean City’s famous beaches, arcades, and amusement rides.
  • Check out Dining Options – Ocean City favorites like Harrison’s Harbor Watch and The Wedge Bar are located inside the festival footprint. Enjoy great food and drink during the festival there!

The Vibe: Pure Ocean City Fun

This isn’t your average music festival. Set against the backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean, the Boardwalk Rock Festival blends beachside relaxation with high-energy entertainment. Between sets, stroll the boardwalk to grab an orange crush for the Wedge bar or sit down for a Maryland crabcake at Harrison’s Harbor Watch.

Families, couples, and groups of friends all come together in a laid-back, welcoming atmosphere that’s fun for all ages, with plenty of photo ops, local vendors, and activities for kids and adults alike.

Tips for Festival-Goers

  • Arrive early for the best seating and parking options.
  • Bring sunscreen, a beach towel, and a light jacket—it cools off at night!
  • Stay overnight! Last minute hotel rooms are available, click here to find one!
  • Check the official festival schedule below and ahead of time to catch your favorite bands.
  • See the map below for the bus routes and entrances.

Don’t Miss Out on the Fun!

Whether you’re visiting from out of town or a longtime fan of Ocean City, the Boardwalk Rock Festival is an unbeatable way to experience the beach, the boardwalk, and a full day (or weekend) of unforgettable music. With a friendly crowd, nonstop energy, and a picture-perfect setting, it’s the kind of event that makes Ocean City memories last a lifetime.

Country Calling 2025 Dates Announced

Big news today for country music fans! Promoters announced today that the festival will be a three day event, adding an extra day over last year. The 2025 festival is scheduled for October 3-5, 2025. While the lineup for 2025 has not yet been announced, attendees can expect a similar format with multiple stages and a diverse selection of country artists.

The Country Calling Festival is an annual country music event held in Ocean City, Maryland. The inaugural festival took place on October 4-5, 2024, featuring over 25 artists performing across three stages—two on the beach and one along the boardwalk.

Now’s the time to reserve your hotel reservations, with several great opportunities available close to the venue. Just steps from the entrance gates, check out the Oceanic Motel at the Inlet and the Plim Plaza Hotel on Second Street. Further down along the boardwalk, check out the Harrison Hall hotel and Courtyard by Marriott hotel on 15th street. Keep walking down the boardwalk and you’ll find the Quality Inn Boardwalk on 16th street and the Holiday Inn & Suites on 17th street. Before leaving the boardwalk, you will find the Flagship Hotel on 26th street, Dune Suites, Dunes Court and the Seabonay on 27th street. All are perfect locations for concert attendees in Ocean City, Maryland! For more information on the concert, please visit CountryCallingFestival.com.

Boardwalk Rock Festival

Are you ready to rock? The Boardwalk Rock Festival is an electrifying two-day music event taking place on May 17 and 18, 2025, in Ocean City, Maryland. Held along the iconic boardwalk, this festival celebrates rock music with performances by local and national artists, offering a mix of classic rock, alternative, and emerging bands.

This year’s lineup is nothing short of spectacular, featuring headliners like Def Leppard, Mötley Crüe, Nickelback, and Shinedown. Fans can also look forward to powerhouse performances from Halestorm, Three Days Grace, Alice Cooper, Chevelle, Bret Michaels, and many more. With over 25 acts scheduled across two jam-packed days, it’s the ultimate destination for rock enthusiasts.

But the festival is more than just music. Indulge in mouthwatering food and drinks from a variety of vendors, explore unique merchandise stalls for souvenirs, and dive into interactive experiences that make the weekend unforgettable. The festival’s location along Ocean City’s scenic beachfront creates the perfect setting to enjoy great music and soak up the coastal vibes.

Tickets go on pre-sale this Friday, 12/13, so don’t wait—secure your spot at this must-attend event! Also, be sure to plan your weekend by booking one of Ocean City’s nearby hotels to stay close to the action. The Boardwalk Rock Festival is the ultimate way to kick off the summer season, whether you’re a local or a first-time visitor. Gather your friends, enjoy the electric atmosphere, and create lasting memories with the roaring ocean as your backdrop. For more details, festival schedule, and ticket information, visit www.boardwalkrockfest.com.

Get ready for a rockin’ weekend in Ocean City—this is one event you don’t want to miss!

The line up for Boardwalk Rock Festival in Ocean City Maryland.
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