Oceans CallingBeachside music festival blends indie rock with coastal vibes.

The Oceans Calling Festival is a major music event held annually in Ocean City, Maryland, with the 2024 edition scheduled for September 27-29. It takes place along the iconic Ocean City Boardwalk, providing festival-goers with a mix of live performances, culinary experiences, and access to local attractions. The atmosphere combines beach vibes with world-class entertainment, drawing a diverse crowd for a memorable weekend.

Music and Artists

• Genres:
  • Indie Rock
  • Alternative
  • Pop
  • Folk
  • Punk Rock
• Notable past performers:
  • Jack Johnson
  • The Lumineers
  • Alanis Morissette
  • Dave Matthews Band
  • John Mayer
• Stage setups: The festival features three main stages along the Boardwalk, each designed to capture the oceanfront views while delivering premium sound quality. The stages are spaced out to allow for smooth transitions between performances, creating a continuous flow of music.
• Unique musical features: The festival integrates regional talent and blends local music traditions with big-name artists.

Location

• Venue: Ocean City Boardwalk and Inlet
• Surrounding area: The festival is set on the beachfront of Ocean City, with views of the Atlantic Ocean, making it a quintessential beach-side experience. The surrounding area offers amusement parks, restaurants, and local shops.
• Venue capacity and layout: The festival grounds can accommodate tens of thousands of attendees, with the space transformed into a vibrant festival arena complete with stages, food stalls, and art installations.

Art Installations

• Significant features: The festival often includes art installations that reflect coastal themes, blending the local marine environment with artistic expression.
• Interactive elements: Past festivals have featured interactive murals and sculptures that invite attendees to participate, enhancing the sensory experience.
• Notable artists: Installations have been created by local and regional artists, offering a chance to showcase Maryland’s artistic talent.

Festival Experience

Multiple Stages

• The three main stages each have distinct atmospheres, catering to different genres while maintaining close proximity to food and beverage vendors.

Food and Drinks

• Cuisine: Attendees can enjoy locally sourced seafood, Maryland crab cakes, and other regional delicacies. There are food trucks and stalls offering everything from classic American fare to vegan options.
• Beverage options: A wide range of beverages are available, including local craft beers, wine, and beach-inspired cocktails.

Fashion and Culture

• Festival fashion is eclectic, often featuring beachwear with a creative twist. Attendees express themselves with vibrant colors, hats, and accessories suited to a beachside festival atmosphere.

Workshops and Activities

• Culinary demos: Celebrity chefs like Robert Irvine and Amanda Freitag have hosted live cooking demonstrations in past events, adding a unique culinary touch to the experience.
• Workshops:
  • Beach yoga
  • Eco-friendly craft making
  • Music appreciation sessions

Camping

• While camping is not offered on-site, nearby campgrounds provide attendees with options for more immersive festival experiences.

Accommodation

Ocean City offers a variety of accommodations, from beachfront hotels to vacation rentals. Many hotels within walking distance of the festival provide special packages for festival-goers, enhancing the convenience of staying nearby.

Tickets and Attendance

• Attendance: In previous years, the festival has drawn tens of thousands of attendees, making it one of the largest music events in the region.
• Ticket options: Available ticket types include General Admission, VIP, and Platinum, with perks such as priority seating, exclusive lounges, and dedicated viewing areas.
• Ticket sale process: Tickets often sell out quickly. For 2024, resale tickets are available through verified platforms.

History

• Founding year: The Oceans Calling Festival was first held in 2022.
• Growth: Since its inception, the festival has rapidly grown into a must-attend event, attracting internationally renowned artists and becoming a staple in the U.S. festival circuit.

Sustainability Efforts

• The festival emphasizes waste reduction with recycling stations across the venue. Organizers also encourage the use of public transportation and offer shuttle services to minimize the environmental impact.

The Oceans Calling Festival offers a perfect blend of music, art, and coastal charm, providing a unique experience for festival-goers​

Sources: Oceans Calling Festival, Ocean City Guide, OceanCity.MD, Ocean City Guide.