DAVE MATTHEWS BAND, TWENTY ONE PILOTS, AND MUMFORD & SONS TO HEADLINE OCEANS CALLING 2026

TL;DR: Alternative and rock titans Dave Matthews Band, Twenty One Pilots, and Mumford & Sons have been announced as headliners for Oceans Calling 2026. Returning to the Ocean City, Maryland Boardwalk from September 25-27, the festival features over 40 artists, boardwalk amusement access, and celebrity culinary demos. Presale tickets go on sale Thursday, March 5 at 10 AM ET.

OCEAN CITY, MD, March 3, 2026 - Dave Matthews Band, Twenty One Pilots, and Mumford & Sons will headline the 2026 edition of Oceans Calling Festival on September 25-27 at the Ocean City, Maryland Boardwalk. The festival returns to Ocean City Inlet Beach with more than 40 artists performing across three stages. Beyond the massive musical lineup, the weekend highlights the best of East Coast flavor with Boardwalk staples and live culinary demos hosted by Jason Biggs. Produced by C3 Presents, the festival offers a unique seaside experience where admission includes access to the iconic Jolly Roger at the Pier amusement park.

Festival Quick Facts and Ticket Info

• Event Name: Oceans Calling 2026

• Dates: September 25-27, 2026

• Location: Ocean City Inlet Beach and Boardwalk, MD

• Headliners: Dave Matthews Band, Twenty One Pilots, Mumford & Sons

• Presale Date: Thursday, March 5 at 10:00 AM ET (1-hour guaranteed lowest price)

• Public On Sale: Thursday, March 5 at 11:00 AM ET

• Official Website: oceanscallingfestival.com

The Backspin HQ Perspective

The Oceans Calling 2026 lineup is a masterclass in demographic-spanning curation. By locking in Dave Matthews Band and Mumford & Sons, organizers are appealing to the core folk-rock and jam-band enthusiasts who value musicianship, while Twenty One Pilots injects a necessary high-energy, modern alternative edge. The festival’s integration with the actual Ocean City Boardwalk and its amusement park is its "secret sauce," transforming a standard festival grounds into a nostalgic, immersive weekend. This isn't just a concert, it is a full-scale takeover of the Maryland coast that has quickly become a premier autumn destination for music fans.

Oceans Calling 2026 Daily Performance Schedule

• Friday, September 25: Ocean City Inlet Beach

  • Featuring: Twenty One Pilots, Ludacris, O.A.R., Yellowcard, Shaggy, Liz Phair, and more.

• Saturday, September 26: Ocean City Inlet Beach

  • Featuring: Dave Matthews Band, Goo Goo Dolls, Third Eye Blind, All Time Low, 311, Dashboard Confessional, Violent Femmes, and more.

• Sunday, September 27: Ocean City Inlet Beach

  • Featuring: Mumford & Sons, Caamp, My Morning Jacket, The Head and The Heart, Hanson, OK Go, Susan Hoffs, Jet, and more.

FAQ: Oceans Calling 2026 Guide

When do tickets for Oceans Calling 2026 go on sale?

Presale tickets will be available this Thursday, March 5, from 10 AM to 11 AM ET. This window offers the guaranteed lowest priced GA and 1-Day tickets for one hour only. The general public on sale begins immediately following the presale at 11 AM ET at the official festival website.

What is the new Bungalow Package at Oceans Calling 2026?

New for this year, the 3-Day Bungalow Package offers a private experience for up to 12 guests. It includes a dedicated shaded bungalow with views of the Sea Bright Stage, private bars with complimentary beverages, all-day snacks, air-conditioned restrooms, and a merchandise concierge service, alongside full access to all VIP and GA amenities.

Are amusement park rides included with my festival ticket?

Yes, all Oceans Calling 2026 festival goers will have access to the Ocean City Boardwalk businesses and the iconic Jolly Roger at the Pier amusement park. Admission to these attractions is included with the purchase of any festival ticket type.