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Rising Tides Festival in Ocean City, Maryland: A Place to Use the Words Phat, Sup, Tight, As If, and Buggin' and Still Be Cool
By Katie RuskeyNovember 17, 20252 min read
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Nostalgic Vibes Meet Coastal Energy
This isn't just your average beach concert — it’s so tubular. There’s a silent disco, an indoor roller skating rink, brand activations, chill zones, and more. Whether you want to kick it old school with skates or dance to your own beat via wireless headphones, the festival’s got something for every ‘90s kid at heart.The Lineup Will Blow Your Mind
The main event is the Forever Young Tour, hosted by none other than Chris Kirkpatrick of *NSYNC, bringing major Y2K energy. Expect chart-toppers and feel-good throwbacks from Vanilla Ice, O-Town, LFO, Rob Base, Color Me Badd, Treach of Naughty by Nature, and Young MC. It’s a serious nostalgia overload — think mixtapes and Tamagotchis, but in real life. And if you’re down for some classic soul, the 70’s Soul Jam kicks off earlier in the day (2–4 PM) with The Spinners, The Legendary Blue Notes, and William Hart’s Delfonics, hosted by J.J. Walker.Why This Festival is Da Bomb
- Milestone Celebration: This isn't just another gig — it’s part of Ocean City’s 150th Anniversary.
- Full Experience: Beyond the music, you can glide around on the rollerskating rink or turn up at the silent disco.
- Coastal Nostalgia: It’s not just tunes — it’s beachside vibes, brand activations, and vintage-style swag to take home.
- Unique Venue: Holding this at the Convention Center gives a cozy yet energetic feel, unlike big outdoor festivals.
Get in the Mix
If you’re planning to hit this weekend, here’s the playbook:- Snag your tickets — They’re on sale now via the official festival site.
- Dress for a throwback party — Think neon windbreakers, baggy jeans, butterfly clips, or even retro skating gear.
- Bring your crew or roll solo — Whether you were all about *NSYNC or Vanilla Ice growing up, this is a memory-making moment.
- Plan to stay — Ocean City’s got hotel deals tied to the festival if you’re making it a weekend getaway.
About Katie Ruskey
Katie Ruskey is a local author, splitting her time between Baltimore and Ocean City. Her debut fiction novel, Marlin Week, was released in August 2022 based on three captains that fish in the infamous White Marlin Open. Her first children's book, The A B Seas of Ocean City, Maryland takes young readers on a tour of OC. For more information on how to purchase her books, visit her website www.kruskeyauthor.com or follow her on IG/FB at Katherine Ruskey Author.
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