Music lovers, get ready! Oceans Calling Festival 2025 is set to take over Ocean City, Maryland, from September 26-28, 2025, with an unforgettable lineup of legendary rock bands, alternative favorites, and incredible live performances. Whether you’re a longtime festival-goer or planning your first visit, this guide will provide all the details you need to make the most of your experience.
What is the Oceans Calling Festival?
Oceans Calling is an annual music festival in Ocean City, Maryland, bringing together some of the biggest names in rock, alternative, and pop. With stunning ocean views, thrilling amusement park rides, and a world-class culinary experience featuring top chefs, this festival is more than just music—it’s an all-encompassing entertainment event.
The festival has a very similar vibe to the HFStival, the legendary alternative music festival once hosted by WHFS, the iconic Washington-Baltimore radio station. Fans who grew up listening to WHFS and attending HFStivals – like me – will feel right at home at Oceans Calling 2025, as it brings together the same mix of rock, punk, and alternative music that defined an era.
Oceans Calling 2025 Lineup Breakdown
This year’s festival features an incredible lineup with Green Day, Noah Kahan, Fall Out Boy, Weezer, and Lenny Kravitz as headliners, plus many more talented artists. Here’s a detailed breakdown of each day’s performances:
Friday, September 26: Green Day, Lenny Kravitz & More
The festival kicks off with a bang, featuring Green Day, one of the most iconic punk rock bands of all time. Joining them is the legendary Lenny Kravitz, known for his timeless rock anthems. Other major acts on Friday include:
- The Black Crowes
- Nelly
- O.A.R.
- Cake
- Live
- The Fray
- Fountains of Wayne
- The 502s
- Spin Doctors
- Letters to Cleo
- Ballyhoo!
- BEL
- Izzy Escobar
With this diverse mix of rock, alternative, and hip-hop, Friday at Oceans Calling is set to deliver high-energy performances from start to finish.
Saturday, September 27: Noah Kahan, Vampire Weekend & More
Day two of Oceans Calling Festival 2025 brings together an eclectic mix of artists, headlined by Noah Kahan, the indie-folk sensation whose heartfelt lyrics and powerful vocals have taken the music world by storm. He is joined by the critically acclaimed Vampire Weekend, along with pop-punk legends Good Charlotte. Other must-see artists performing on Saturday include:
- Modest Mouse
- Jack’s Mannequin
- Collective Soul
- En Vogue
- Franz Ferdinand
- Natasha Bedingfield
- DJ Jazzy Jeff
- Mat Kearney
- Wheatus
- Bumpin Uglies
- Rachel Ana Dobken
This lineup blends indie, pop-punk, and R&B, making Saturday a can’t-miss day for festival-goers.
Sunday, September 28: Fall Out Boy, Weezer & More
The grand finale of Oceans Calling 2025 features Fall Out Boy and Weezer, two of the biggest names in alternative rock. Expect electrifying performances packed with classic hits and new anthems. Other exciting artists set to perform on Sunday include:
- Train
- Devo
- Vance Joy
- Ziggy Marley
- 4 Non Blondes
- Michelle Branch
- Blind Melon
- Burning Spear
- Marcy Playground
- Special Set by O.A.R. and Friends
With a mix of alternative rock, reggae, and pop favorites, Sunday is the perfect way to wrap up an unforgettable festival weekend.
More Than Just Music: Culinary & Entertainment Highlights
Beyond the music, Oceans Calling Festival 2025 will feature a culinary experience hosted by celebrity chefs such as:
- Robert Irvine
- Michael Voltaggio
- Bryan Voltaggio
- Anne Burrell
With Jason Biggs as the host, festival attendees can look forward to live cooking demonstrations, delicious food options, and special appearances from renowned chefs.
Why You Can’t Miss Oceans Calling 2025
- Unbeatable Lineup: With headliners like Green Day, Noah Kahan, Fall Out Boy, and Weezer, this year’s lineup is stacked with legendary performers.
- Stunning Oceanfront Location: Enjoy music with breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean in Ocean City, Maryland.
- Diverse Music Genres: From rock and pop-punk to indie, hip-hop, and reggae, there’s something for everyone.
- Culinary & Cultural Experience: Enjoy top-tier food and cooking showcases from celebrity chefs.
- Festival Atmosphere: Amusement rides, local vendors, and interactive experiences make it more than just a music festival.
- Nostalgic Vibes for WHFS & HFStival Fans: The festival’s alternative and rock-heavy lineup will appeal to those who fondly remember the Washington-Baltimore area’s legendary HFStival days.
How to Get Tickets
Tickets for Oceans Calling Festival 2025 are expected to sell out fast! Be sure to visit OceansCallingFestival.com for ticket information, pricing, and VIP package details.
Final Thoughts
Oceans Calling 2025 is shaping up to be one of the most exciting music festivals of the year and one that will make me nostalgic of my high school summers attending HFStivals. With an all-star lineup, stunning coastal views, and an incredible food and entertainment experience, it’s a must-attend event for music lovers of all kinds. Mark your calendars for September 26-28, 2025, and get ready for an unforgettable weekend in Ocean City, Maryland!
👉 Are you planning to attend Oceans Calling Festival 2025? Let me me know on X @kylemccarthyism.
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