Uncertainty Surrounds Asbury Park’s Popular Sea Hear Now Festival

ASBURY PARK, N.J. — Fans of the Sea Hear Now music festival are eagerly awaiting news about the event, which has yet to be announced for 2025. This popular festival typically takes place in September, drawing around 35,000 attendees who enjoy two days of rock, folk, and punk music.

The festival, which debuted in 2018, successfully returned in 2024 with a lineup headlined by Bruce Springsteen and The E Street Band, announced on March 5. However, this year, the event’s organizers have not provided updates regarding the 2025 festival.

During a recent Asbury Park City Council meeting, Mayor John Moor addressed concerns regarding the festival’s future. “We’re in the final stages of negotiating a new contract,” Moor stated. However, he did not disclose specific event dates or the expected lineup.

Efforts to reach the Asbury Park Mayor’s Office for further clarification went unanswered on Monday. C3 Presents, the promotional company behind Sea Hear Now and other major festivals like Lollapalooza, also did not respond to requests for comments about the festival’s status.

The delay in announcing the festival’s lineup has led to widespread speculation among fans, with discussions heating up in various online forums like Reddit and Facebook. Historically, ticket sales for the festival launch prior to the lineup announcement, adding to the anxiety surrounding the event’s future.

Previous headliners at Sea Hear Now have included notable acts such as Pearl Jam, Green Day, Stevie Nicks, and Foo Fighters, solidifying its reputation as a must-attend event for music lovers.

Rabid anticipation paired with uncertainty continues to build within the community. “It’s nerve-wracking not knowing what’s going to happen,” said local resident Lisa Mendes, a long-time festivalgoer. “I really hope they can pull it off. It’s become a staple of our summer.”

Asbury Park is known for its vibrant music scene and laid-back beach atmosphere, making it a fitting backdrop for the festival. The city and local businesses have benefited significantly from the festival, which contributes to the local economy each year.

Until official announcements are made, fans are left to wonder about the fate of Sea Hear Now and its impact on the local community. The hope is that this beloved festival will continue to thrive amidst uncertainty.