Carolina Beach Music Festival celebrates 40 years with kickoff concert

CAROLINA BEACH, N.C. (WWAY) — The Carolina Beach Music Festival kicked off its 40th anniversary celebration Friday night, bringing music lovers to the beach for an evening of classic rock, dancing and community.

The festivities began with a performance by Hair Trigger, an 80s rock tribute band that energized the crowd with hits from the decade. Festivalgoers filled beach chairs near the stage while others danced along in 80s-inspired outfits.

“We’re rocking out to the 1980s, baby,” said band member Johnny Roe.

Rock out they did, as one concertgoer praised the performance, saying, “The band is really good. They played great music tonight.”

Friday night’s concert served as a preview for the festival’s main event on Saturday, which features performances by The Band of Oz, The Tams and Jim Quick and Coastline.

The event, organized by the Pleasure Island Chamber of Commerce, marks four decades of music and tradition on the Carolina coast.

“We have families that have been attending since day one,” said Jacqueline Wikander, marketing director for the Pleasure Island Chamber of Commerce. “It’s all about everything you love about Carolina Beach. It is the longest-running festival that takes place on the actual sand.”

Beyond the music, organizers say the festival helps kick off the busy summer tourism season and showcases everything Carolina Beach has to offer.

Carolina Beach Mayor Lynn Barbee said events like the music festival are important to the local economy and help distinguish the town from other coastal destinations.

“Carolina Beach, we’ve always been a tourist-driven town. That continues today,” Barbee said. “Events like this, we want our tourists to have a fun time with events and festivals to enjoy our island. I think that sets us apart from other coastal towns.”

Barbee also encouraged first-time visitors to experience the festival for themselves.

“If you haven’t experienced a Carolina Beach Music Festival, first, you’re on the beach. Is there ever a bad time on the beach?” Barbee said. “It’s a great atmosphere to talk to your neighbors. There’s such a communal aspect to it, and people are just having a good time.”

The festival continues tomorrow with gates opening at 10 a.m.

Tickets are required for entry.