Oceans City’s Biggest Bash: Is Oceans Calling For You?
Delaney Senard '26
Staff Writer
This September 26-28, the Ocean City Inlet is going to be packed as the Oceans Calling Festival returns for another three-day weekend. With huge names like Twenty One Pilots and Dave Matthews Band taking the stage right on the beach, the boardwalk is expected to see over 50,000 people every day during the festival.
“I had such a blast at Ocean’s Calling last year! The energy on the boardwalk was absolutely incredible.” said Emily Walls. While the festival is a massive deal for the city, a lot of Cape students are wondering if the lineup is actually targeted towards high schoolers. Most of the headliners, like The Dave Matthews Band and Matchbox Twenty, were popular decades ago. Students think it feels like the organizers are targeting tickets towards an older age group.
"I barely know any of the bands on the poster," said Cape Freshman Meredith Frederick. “My parents are actually more hyped for it than I am. It feels like the organizers are mostly trying to get older generations to buy tickets.”
Not all students agree with this sentiment, however. Cape Sophomore Grady Trivits said, “My dad bought me an Oceans Calling ticket for Saturday and me and my friends are going. I’m so excited to see Twenty One Pilots.
Even though the music might feel a little "old school," the festival isn't just about the bands. Another popular aspect of the festival is that a ticket gets you into the Jolly Roger at the Pier for free. You can ride the Ferris wheel, or other rides, while hearing the music from the main stages. There are also celebrity chefs like Robert Irvine doing cooking demonstrations, and students can also enjoy Thrasher's Fries and Fisher's Popcorn.
Safety is a big focus this year since the crowds are so huge. The city is recommending that everyone use shuttle buses because parking near the Inlet will be extremely difficult.
Whether you're a fan of the "dad rock" lineup or just want to hang out on the boardwalk with your friends, Oceans Calling is officially the biggest local event of the fall. It might not be Coachella, but it's definitely putting Ocean City on the map for more than just summer vacation.
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