Country Calling Festival Draws 55,000 Fans to Ocean City, Boosting Local Economy

Ocean City, Maryland, is hosting the second annual Country Calling music festival from October 3 to 5, following the recent Oceans Calling event, with a lineup featuring top country artists such as Carrie Underwood, Brooks & Dunn, Luke Bryan, and Luke Combs. The festival draws tens of thousands of attendees, including international visitors, who enjoy the unique beachside setting and close proximity to performers. Local businesses are benefiting significantly from the influx of festival-goers, with hotels charging premium rates and restaurants experiencing increased patronage, although staffing remains a challenge. The event is expected to generate around $150 million for Ocean City and has helped raise the town's profile as a music festival destination. Alongside Country Calling, Ocean City is preparing for its 150th Anniversary Gala in December, and the shoulder season continues with various music-oriented events across the area. The festivals and related events are providing a significant boost to the local economy and community engagement during the fall season.