Oak Harbor Music Festival and Sounds of Summer Concert Series 2024 in Seattle

The Oak Harbor Music Festival 2024 promises to be a vibrant celebration of music, community, and culture over Labor Day weekend. Set against the backdrop of downtown Oak Harbor, Washington, this three-day event offers a diverse lineup of performances, accessible location, and free admission. Whether you are a local resident or a visitor to Whidbey Island, this festival offers an inspiring and enjoyable experience for all.

Highlights and Schedule

The Oak Harbor Music Festival is a hub of musical talent and community engagement. Attendees can expect a diverse lineup of performances across various genres, with concerts running from August 30 to September 1. The festival kicks off on Friday evening from 5 pm to 10:30 pm and continues through the weekend, with performances on Saturday from 10 am to 10:30 pm and on Sunday from 10 am to 7 pm.

Lineup

The Oak Harbor Music Festival 2024 presents a stellar lineup featuring headliners Max Frost and Diggin Dirt. Other notable performers include Madeline Hawthorne, Ben Goldsmith, John Primer & the Real Deal Blues Band, and LeRoy Bell and His Only Friends. Attendees can also enjoy the soulful sounds of Object Heavy, Cody Beebe and The Crooks, and Lady A's Gospel Hour. The festival promises a diverse range of musical styles with acts like Too Slim & the Taildraggers, Locarno, Duende Libre, Hard Maybe, Nathaniel Talbot, and Friends for the Ghost. Additional performers include Miles Ebony & Deep Cuts, Brittany Collins, Andre Feriante, Whidbey Island String Trio, Cory Vincent and the Electric Band, Lonesome Town Painters, Second Line, and Asterhouse. Showcasing local talent, the festival also features a Teen Talent Showcase, offering a platform for young musicians to shine.

Sounds of Summer Concert Series (Wednesdays, July 31—August 21)

In addition to the main stage performances, the festival features live music events at the Windjammer Park Pavilion on Wednesday evenings leading up to the festival. These free concerts, starting at 6 pm, provide a sneak peek into the musical talent that will be on display during the festival, including Stephanie Anne Johnson on July 31, The West Coast Feed on August 7, Eden on August 14, and Santa Poco on August 21.

RV, Camping and Parking

One of the most appealing aspects of the Oak Harbor Music Festival is its accessibility, with free admission ensuring everyone can enjoy the musical offerings. For those seeking convenient parking and accommodations, the festival provides several options. RV parking and camping are available for a donation to the festival, with spots located within viewing distance of the East Stage. Amenities include outhouses and public water sources, though no power or water hookups are provided. Camping options range from $125 to $200, depending on the size of the RV or trailer. Additionally, VIP reservations are available for $250, allowing VIPs to secure the best parking spots and move in a day early, staying from August 29 to September 2.

Location and Infrastructure

The Oak Harbor Music Festival takes place in the heart of downtown Oak Harbor on SE Pioneer Way. This location is easily accessible and well-equipped to handle the influx of festival-goers. Oak Harbor itself is a charming town on Whidbey Island, known for its scenic beauty and welcoming community. Guests can explore local shops, restaurants, and natural attractions, making it a well-rounded destination for a weekend getaway. Additionally, visitors can find comfortable lodgings within the town, ensuring a pleasant stay while enjoying the festival and the surrounding area.

Festival History

The Oak Harbor Music Festival was established to provide a world-class musical experience while supporting the local community. The festival has a strong focus on supporting young musicians, with several scholarships awarded to deserving students. The Ed Bridges Memorial Music Scholarship, named after the former Oak Harbor High School music director, honors his legacy by supporting aspiring musicians. Similarly, the Bruce Lantz Music Scholarship was established in 2016 to honor the long-time music teacher’s contribution to the local music scene. In 2024, the festival introduced the David Glynn Willis Music Scholarship to support musical education in the community further.