Full Breakdown
Sea. Hear. Now Festival 2026: Lineup and Highlights
3/25/2026, 7:01:21 AM
Festival Overview
The Sea. Hear. Now music festival is set to return to Asbury Park, New Jersey, on September 19 and 20, 2026. This year marks the festival's eighth iteration, featuring an eclectic lineup of over 25 bands across three stages—two located on the beach and one in the adjacent Bradley Park. The festival is known for its unique combination of music, art, and ocean sustainability, alongside a professional surfing competition.
Headliners and Performers
Mumford & Sons will headline the festival on Saturday, September 19, with a lineup that includes The Offspring, Chaka Khan, The War on Drugs, The All-American Rejects, Shaggy, Men at Work, Susanna Hoffs, and Fitz and the Tantrums. The following day, Sunday, September 20, will see The Strokes take the stage as the headliner, joined by notable acts such as the Goo Goo Dolls, Fontaines D.C., Moby, Pixies, Ziggy Marley, Kim Gordon, and Ben Howard.
Surfing Competition and Art Installations
In addition to the musical performances, the festival will host a surfing competition featuring East Coast pro surfers, including Sam Hammer, Cassidy McClain, and Cam Richards. The event also emphasizes local art, with installations from Asbury Park artists such as Pork Chop and Brad Hoffer. Proceeds from artwork sales will benefit local charities.
Ticket Information
Presale tickets for the festival will be available starting March 26, 2026, at 10 a.m. ET, with general sales following at 11 a.m. ET. Ticket options include two-day and one-day general admission, as well as VIP and Platinum tiers.
Criticism & Opposition
While the festival has garnered significant attention and popularity, some critics have raised concerns about the environmental impact of large-scale events like Sea. Hear. Now, particularly regarding waste management and the carbon footprint associated with increased tourism.
Official Statements & Responses
Organizers have emphasized their commitment to sustainability, stating that the festival aims to promote ocean conservation and support local communities through charitable initiatives. They have also highlighted the festival's role in showcasing diverse musical talent and fostering a vibrant cultural scene in Asbury Park.
What's Next
As the festival approaches, further details regarding additional performers and specific event logistics are expected to be announced. The festival continues to evolve, aiming to enhance the experience for attendees while maintaining its focus on music and environmental awareness.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Now celebrates beachfront culture with a professional surf competition, featuring champions like Sam Hammer, Balaram Stack, Cam Richards and Cassidy McClain.” — Festival Organizer
The Sea. Hear. Now Festival promises to be a significant event for music lovers and environmental advocates alike, blending entertainment with a commitment to sustainability.
