Ocean City, Maryland, is set to welcome some of the biggest names in country music this weekend as the inaugural “Country Calling” festival kicks off at the Inlet on October 4-5. With over 25 artists scheduled to perform on three stages, country music fans can expect an exciting weekend of live performances, local food, and Ocean City’s iconic beach atmosphere.
Headliners Set to Shine
Headlining the festival on Friday night is Eric Church, whose unique blend of country rock has earned him legions of fans over the years. Known for hits like “Springsteen” and “Record Year,” Church is expected to bring his energetic and electrifying stage presence to the beachside crowd. Saturday’s headliner, Tyler Childers, will close out the festival with his mix of traditional country and folk influences, delivering fan-favorites like “Feathered Indians” and “All Your’n.”
Other notable acts include country legends like Dwight Yoakam, Clint Black, and Tanya Tucker, along with rising stars like Bailey Zimmerman and Lainey Wilson. The diverse lineup ensures that attendees will hear a range of country subgenres, from traditional sounds to modern takes on the genre.
Stages, Food, and More
Country Calling will feature performances across three stages, two set along the beach and one located on the boardwalk. This unique setup offers fans a chance to enjoy the music with a scenic ocean backdrop or a stroll along the boardwalk while they listen to their favorite artists.
In addition to the music, the festival will offer a variety of local food options. East Coast bites from vendors located right on the beach will be available, as well as culinary offerings from nearby Boardwalk businesses. Festivalgoers can indulge in seafood, BBQ, and more while catching performances or taking a break between sets.
For those seeking more than just music, the Jolly Roger Amusement Park at the Pier will be within the festival footprint, providing fun distractions like rides, games, and other entertainment. Whether you want to hit the Ferris wheel for a view of the entire festival or enjoy classic carnival games, Jolly Roger offers a fun way to take in the festival experience.
Full Lineup Promises Nonstop Entertainment
The lineup for the festival is packed with talent from start to finish. Alongside the headliners, festivalgoers can catch performances by Brothers Osborne, known for their hits like “It Ain’t My Fault,” and Martina McBride, whose powerful voice has delivered country classics for decades. Jelly Roll, a multi-genre artist blending country, rock, and hip hop, will bring his eclectic sound to the stage, while Lainey Wilson, 2022’s CMA New Artist of the Year, promises to captivate with her heartfelt lyrics and high-energy performances.
Some other notable names include:’s
- Alana Springsteen: Rising star with heartfelt storytelling in her music.
- Aidan Canfield: Young talent making waves with his fresh take on country.
- Riley Green: Known for his authentic country sound and relatable lyrics.
- Drayton Farley: Up-and-coming singer-songwriter with a rootsy, Americana vibe.
- Paul Cauthen: His genre-blending “countrified soul” is sure to stand out.
- Needtobreathe: A Southern rock band with country influences that has garnered a dedicated fanbase.
This blend of established stars and emerging artists ensures that Country Calling will appeal to country music fans of all kinds, with something for everyone across the weekend.
More Than Music
While the lineup of talent is impressive, the festival is also about celebrating the Ocean City lifestyle. Between sets, attendees can take in the local culture, including the various shops, bars, and restaurants along the Boardwalk that fall within the festival grounds. The atmosphere of the town, combined with the thrill of live music on the beach, is likely to make this a weekend to remember.
The event organizers have also emphasized a family-friendly atmosphere, so festivalgoers of all ages are welcome. Whether you’re coming for the music, the food, or simply to experience Ocean City, the Country Calling festival is shaping up to be one of the most exciting new events in the region.
Tickets and Logistics
With the event taking place at the southern end of Ocean City, traffic is expected to be heavy, so attendees are encouraged to arrive early and consider using public transportation or rideshare services.
Gates will open at 11 a.m. on both days, with music starting shortly after and running into the night. In addition to ticketing, festivalgoers can find more information on the official event website, including stage schedules, performer bios, and any last-minute updates on parking or access.
With a promising lineup and a scenic location, Country Calling is set to deliver a weekend of fun, music, and unforgettable memories. Whether you’re a die-hard country fan or just looking for a fun time in Ocean City, this festival is sure to deliver.
