Barefoot CountryBeachfront country music festival with vibrant, laid-back vibes.

Barefoot Country Festival is one of the most vibrant and family-friendly music festivals in the United States, celebrating country music and laid-back beach culture. Held annually in Wildwood, New Jersey, the Barefoot Country Festival brings together country music lovers from all over the country for an unforgettable weekend filled with top-notch performances, fun beach activities, and a welcoming community atmosphere.

History

The Barefoot Country Festival was first launched in 2021 by a partnership between Southern Entertainment and the City of Wildwood. What started as a relatively small event has quickly grown into one of the largest country music festivals on the East Coast, attracting over 30,000 attendees each year. Known for its beachfront location and impressive lineup of country stars, the festival has become a staple in the summer concert scene.

Location

The festival takes place on the scenic beaches of Wildwood, New Jersey, offering the perfect setting for an oceanfront country music festival. The wide, sandy beach provides ample space for multiple stages, food vendors, art installations, and even beach games, creating a relaxed and fun environment where attendees can soak up the sun while enjoying their favorite artists.

Music and Artists

Barefoot Country Festival is famous for its diverse lineup of country music artists, spanning various styles within the genre. Whether you’re a fan of classic country, contemporary hits, or rising stars, this festival has something for everyone. Some of the genres represented include:

• Classic Country
• Country Pop
• Bluegrass
• Southern Rock
• Americana

Past performers have included a mix of legendary headliners and new talent. Some favorites from previous years include:

• Carrie Underwood
• Luke Bryan
• Dan + Shay
• Blake Shelton
• Dierks Bentley
• Zac Brown Band

Art Installations

While the focus of Barefoot Country Festival is undeniably the music, there are also several creative art installations and beach-themed decorations scattered throughout the venue. These installations add a lively touch to the festival grounds, offering great photo opportunities and a chance for attendees to interact with the festival’s artistic elements.

• Beach-themed Sand Sculptures
• Interactive Light Displays at Night
• Colorful Murals and Posters
• Live Art Performances on the Beach

Festival Experience

Attending Barefoot Country Festival is about more than just music—it's a full weekend of fun, sun, and community on the beach. Here’s what you can expect:

• Multiple Stages: With performances happening across various stages, you’ll always have something to see and hear, no matter your taste in country music.
• Food and Drinks: A wide variety of food vendors offering everything from Southern barbecue to seafood, along with refreshing drinks like cocktails, lemonade, and local brews.
• Fashion: The festival embraces a laid-back, beach-friendly dress code, with attendees often sporting cowboy boots, denim, and country-themed outfits, paired with flip-flops for the beach.
• Beach Activities: Take part in beach volleyball, frisbee, or simply relax by the ocean between performances.
• Camping: While there’s no camping on the beach itself, there are plenty of nearby accommodation options ranging from hotels to campgrounds for the full weekend experience.

Accommodation

While the festival does not offer on-site camping, there are plenty of nearby accommodations in Wildwood. The area is home to a variety of options, including:

• Hotels: From beachfront resorts to budget-friendly motels, Wildwood offers plenty of hotel choices within walking distance of the festival grounds.
• Vacation Rentals: Many visitors opt for rental homes or condos, which can provide a more private, comfortable space for groups.
• Campgrounds: If you're looking for a more outdoorsy experience, several campgrounds are available within a short drive of the festival. These offer both tent and RV options.

Booking early is recommended as accommodations tend to sell out quickly due to the popularity of the event(Cat Country 107.3)(Cape May County Herald).

Transportation

Wildwood is easily accessible by car, and many attendees drive to the event. Parking can be found in designated lots, but spaces are limited, so arriving early is advisable.

• By Car: The most convenient way to get to Wildwood is by driving. Wildwood offers multiple parking options, including daily and weekend passes for those who want to park near the venue.
• Shuttles: For those staying in nearby towns or further hotels, shuttle services often run between key locations and the festival grounds. These are a popular option for avoiding the hassle of parking.
• Public Transit: New Jersey Transit provides bus services to Wildwood from cities like Philadelphia and Atlantic City, though schedules should be checked in advance for festival weekends.
• Bike: Since Wildwood is a beach town, many attendees choose to bike to the event from nearby accommodations(Cat Country 107.3)(Tim Hawk Photography).

Tickets and Attendance

The Barefoot Country Festival attracts around 30,000 attendees each year. Tickets are typically released several months in advance, with options for various budgets. Due to the festival's popularity, it’s recommended to secure tickets early, as they tend to sell out quickly. Ticket options include:

• General Admission: Standard access to all festival stages and performances.
• VIP Passes: Premium experience with perks such as exclusive viewing areas, private lounges, and upgraded facilities.
• Super VIP: The ultimate festival experience with meet-and-greet opportunities, complimentary drinks, and front-row access.

Sustainability Efforts

Barefoot Country Festival is committed to minimizing its environmental impact, despite its large size. To help maintain the natural beauty of Wildwood's beaches, the festival has adopted several eco-friendly practices:

• Waste Reduction: The festival promotes recycling and has installed waste stations throughout the grounds to reduce litter.
• Hydration Stations: Attendees are encouraged to bring reusable water bottles, with hydration stations set up to reduce the need for single-use plastics.
• Local Partnerships: Partnering with local businesses and food vendors helps reduce transportation emissions and supports the local economy.
• Beach Cleanups: The festival organizes post-event beach cleanups to ensure the area remains pristine for both locals and future events.