OCEAN CITY, Md. — Country music fans are gearing up for a coastal celebration as the 2025 Country Calling Festival returns to Ocean City, Maryland, from October 3-5. The festival’s highly anticipated lineup, released on March 26, 2025, promises three days of top-tier performances along the iconic Ocean City Inlet and Boardwalk, blending twangy tunes with salty air.
Organized by C3 Presents—the team behind Oceans Calling and the upcoming Boardwalk Rock festivals—Country Calling expands to a three-day event this year after a successful two-day debut in 2024. The lineup features some of country music’s biggest names, ensuring a weekend of unforgettable melodies and beachside vibes. Headliners include Carrie Underwood, Luke Bryan, and Luke Combs, joined by legends like Brooks & Dunn and a roster of over 35 artists across three stages: Boot, Scoot, and Boogie.
Friday, October 3, kicks off with Carrie Underwood and Brooks & Dunn topping the bill. The duo’s classic hits and Underwood’s powerhouse vocals will set the tone, supported by Jon Pardi, Tyler Hubbard, Tucker Wetmore, Chase Rice, LeAnn Rimes, Avery Anna, John Morgan, Drew Baldridge, Luke Borchelt, and Cale Tyson. Saturday, October 4, spotlights Luke Bryan, with Zach Top, Jordan Davis, Treaty Oak Revival, Flatland Cavalry, Wynonna Judd, Gretchen Wilson, LOCASH, Ingrid Andress, The Band Perry, Jimmy Charles, Jack Van Cleaf, and Colton Bowlin rounding out the day. Sunday, October 5, closes with Luke Combs, joined by Koe Wetzel, Ryan Bingham & The Texas Gentlemen, Gary Allan, Gavin Adcock, Gabby Barrett, Stephen Wilson Jr., Chase Matthew, Margo Price, The Castellows, Laci Kaye Booth, and Thelma & James.
The festival’s 2024 inaugural run drew thousands, with headliners like Eric Church and Jelly Roll packing the beach. This year’s expansion reflects growing demand, offering more music and access to local eats from Boardwalk vendors and the Jolly Roger at the Pier amusement park within the festival grounds. Gates open at noon daily, with performances stretching into the night.
Tickets go on presale Friday, March 28, at 10 a.m. ET, with the lowest prices available then. General sales start at 11 a.m. ET if any remain. Options include 1-Day and 3-Day passes in General Admission, GA+, VIP, and Platinum tiers, plus layaway plans starting at $25 down. Sign up for presale access at www.countrycallingfestival.com, where festival merch is also available.
Ocean City’s festival scene is booming under Tourism Director Tom Perlozzo’s leadership. Country Calling follows Oceans Calling (September 26-28) and precedes Boardwalk Rock (May 17-18), cementing the town’s status as a music hub. Last year’s Country Calling sold out, and 2025’s lineup—announced just as spring blooms—has locals and visitors buzzing. Wendy Di Buo of Crawl Street Tavern told WBOC she expects a business boost, though she’ll miss the show herself due to work.
The festival’s growth from two to three days responds to the town’s call for fall events to extend the tourist season, a strategy paying off after 2024’s success. With over 25 artists in 2024 and now over 35, Country Calling aims to top its debut. Attendees can expect tight security—clear bags only (12”x6”x12”) and no detachable-lens cameras—ensuring safety amid the revelry.
As Ocean City prepares for another round of country stars, the 2025 lineup’s release on March 26 has set the stage for a boot-stomping October. Whether you’re a local or trekking from afar, this festival promises a coastal country experience like no other.
What time do the concerts start on Friday Oct 3rd?
You can view lineup at : https://www.oceanscallingfestival.com/
The festival schedule probably won’t be released until late july/Early August. Last year the festival opened at 12 pm on Friday with music starting at 1 pm