Ocean City, Maryland, is set to host a new music festival, Boardwalk Rock, on May 17-18, 2025. Organized by C3 Presents, the team behind the successful Oceans Calling and Country Calling festivals, this event promises a dynamic lineup of rock legends and rising stars, solidifying Ocean City’s reputation as a music festival destination.

Boardwalk Rock will take place along the iconic Ocean City Boardwalk, offering attendees a mix of live music and coastal scenery. The festival will feature performances across multiple stages, creating an immersive experience for music fans.

Headlining the performances on Saturday, May 17, 2025, are Def Leppard and Mötley Crüe, joined by Halestorm, Bush, Chevelle, Flyleaf with Lacey Sturm, The Struts, Extreme, Everclear, Puddle of Mudd, Trapt, Kat Von D, and Royale Lynn. On Sunday, May 18, 2025, Nickelback and Shinedown will headline, with additional performances by Three Days Grace, Alice Cooper, 3 Doors Down, Bret Michaels, Candlebox, Night Ranger, Crossfade, Dorothy, Black Stone Cherry, Fuel, Saliva, and Tim Montana.

Renowned rock and metal radio personality Eddie Trunk will host the event, adding his expertise and enthusiasm to the weekend’s festivities.

Credit: Ismael Quintanilla III

Tickets for Boardwalk Rock are available now at boardwalkrockfest.com. Fans are encouraged to secure their spots early as the event is anticipated to draw a significant crowd.

Boardwalk Rock aims to build on the success of its sister festivals. Oceans Calling, held in September 2024, featured over 30 performances on three stages, with headliners such as Blink-182, The Killers, and Dave Matthews Band. Meanwhile, the Country Calling Festival, scheduled for October 4-5, 2024, set the spotlight country music’s biggest names.

The addition of Boardwalk Rock broadens Ocean City’s festival offerings, drawing visitors during the spring and providing easy access to local attractions, dining, and entertainment. Attendees can expect a variety of amenities, including regional food vendors and nearby amusement park rides and games.

As the event date approaches, additional details about supplementary activities will be shared. Prospective attendees can subscribe to updates through the festival’s official channels to stay informed about the latest developments.

Boardwalk Rock is poised to become a hallmark event for Ocean City, offering a new platform for live music and community engagement along Maryland’s picturesque coastline.


David M. Higgins II is an award-winning journalist passionate about uncovering the truth and telling compelling stories. Born in Baltimore and raised in Southern Maryland, he has lived in several East...

Leave a comment

Leave a Reply