Country music fans, get ready to kick off your boots and dig your toes in the sand! The Northeast’s largest outdoor country music festival is returning to Wildwood’s beautiful beach, and it’s going to be absolutely incredible.
When and Where Is Barefoot Country Music Fest?
Mark your calendars for June 18-21, 2026, when over 40 country artists will take the stage right on Wildwood’s pristine beach at Lincoln Avenue. The festival happens right between the famous Morey’s Piers, making it easy to catch a ride on the roller coasters between sets! With 5 unique stages spread across the sand, you’ll have incredible views of both the ocean and your favorite performers.
Local Tip: The festival location at 3601 Boardwalk is just a short walk from all our Coastal Collection properties. You can literally roll out of bed and be listening to live country music on the beach in minutes!
What to Expect Beyond the Music
While the headlining acts are still being announced, this isn’t just about the main stage performances. Barefoot Country Music Fest brings the full country experience to the Jersey Shore. Between sets, you can try your hand at axe throwing, test your skills on a mechanical bull, or belt out your favorite tunes at the karaoke stage.
The festival atmosphere is relaxed and family-friendly, with plenty of food vendors serving everything from classic boardwalk treats to hearty festival fare. Since you’re literally on the beach, you can cool off in the ocean during the day and dance under the stars at night.
Planning Your Festival Weekend
This 4-day event draws country music lovers from across the Northeast, so booking your accommodation early is crucial. The festival’s beachfront location means you’ll want to stay somewhere within easy walking distance – nobody wants to deal with parking and shuttles when Keith Urban is about to take the stage!
Since Wildwood’s beaches are completely free, you can enjoy the sand and surf before and after each day’s performances. Many festival-goers love starting their morning with a beach walk, then settling in for an afternoon and evening of incredible live music.
Why Stay Local for the Festival
Staying at one of our five locally-owned hotels or private Airbnb rentals puts you right in the heart of the action. Our properties – including Coastal Sands Inn, Paradise Inn, Beachside Resort, Sunset Beach Hotel, and Sunrise Inn – are all within walking distance of both the festival grounds and the famous Wildwood Boardwalk.
After a full day of country music, you can stroll back to your room without the hassle of driving or waiting for rideshares. Plus, you’ll be perfectly positioned to grab breakfast at a local spot and claim your perfect spot on the sand before the music starts each day.
Local Tip: Book your room as soon as tickets go on sale. Festival weekends fill up fast, and staying local means you can enjoy the full Wildwood experience – from morning beach time to late-night boardwalk adventures after the headliners finish.
Getting Ready for an Unforgettable Weekend
Keep an eye out for ticket announcements and the full lineup reveal – with over 40 artists confirmed, this is shaping up to be the biggest Barefoot Country Music Fest yet. Whether you’re a die-hard country fan or just love the idea of live music on a beautiful beach, this festival offers something special that you simply can’t get anywhere else on the East Coast.
Stay Steps from the Action.
Five locally-owned Wildwood hotels plus private cottages — all within walking distance of the boardwalk, beach, and Morey’s Piers.