Emily Garbutt
Updated on: October 11, 2024 7:01 am GMT
Asbury Park is gearing up for an exciting weekend with the return of the Sea Hear Now music, art, and surfing festival on September 14 and 15. This year’s lineup is headlined by Vermont’s rising star Noah Kahan and the legendary Bruce Springsteen, promising a mix of new and classic sounds on the shores of the Jersey coast. With significant road closures and parking restrictions in effect, organizers are urging attendees to plan their travel and parking options in advance.
Festival Details and Lineup
The Sea Hear Now festival began in 2018, co-founded by local music photographer Danny Clinch and event promoter Tim Donnelly. Over the years, it has grown in prominence, drawing crowds to the North Beach and Bradley Park in Asbury Park. This year, the festival features an impressive lineup that includes not only Kahan and Springsteen but also notable acts like The Gaslight Anthem, the Trey Anastasio Band, Norah Jones, 311, the Black Crowes, Kool & The Gang, and the Hives, among others.
The festival is structured across three stages, providing ample opportunities for attendees to enjoy diverse musical performances throughout the weekend. Tickets are still available, with prices ranging from approximately $160 to nearly $10,000 for an ultimate two-day pass.
Parking and Transportation Options
Attending the festival involves navigating various parking and transportation options, especially with the city enacting street closures and metered parking policies.
Parking Regulations
Asbury Park has implemented parking meters in areas surrounding the event. Attendees are encouraged to visit ParkingApp.com and enter zone 33300 to access parking applications that facilitate easy payment. Meters will be in effect, so it is essential for festival-goers to be aware of these regulations to avoid fines.
In addition to metered parking, the city recommends utilizing its electric scooter share program for those seeking free parking options further from the festival site. More information about this program can be found at cityofasburypark.com.
Other Transportation Alternatives
For those opting not to drive, NJ Transit is providing additional train services to Asbury Park for the festival. This option allows attendees to bypass traffic and parking challenges, enhancing the overall festival experience. Information on train schedules and services can be found on the NJ Transit website.
Bike parking is also available at designated areas near the festival entrance, specifically at Seventh Avenue and Ocean Avenue, as well as at the Third Avenue parking lot across from the Stone Pony. Cyclists are reminded to bring their own locks, as bike security is the responsibility of the rider.
Additionally, a dedicated ride-sharing pick-up and drop-off area will be set up on the 100 block of Fourth Avenue. Rideshare drivers should display a placard for access to this zone.
Traffic Impact and Road Closures
Local traffic will maintain access to the Berkeley Hotel and 1501 Ocean Avenue until 6 p.m. on September 16. However, attendees should note that more extensive road closures will go into effect starting at 9 a.m. on Friday, September 13, and will last through 6 a.m. on Monday, September 16. Festival-goers are advised to plan their routes accordingly and allow for extra travel time due to potential road congestion.
Community Engagement
In conjunction with the festival, the local community has organized various events and promotions encouraging attendees to “Shop Here Now.” Local businesses will offer discounts and participate in special events during the festival, helping to enhance the overall experience for both visitors and residents.
Kahan, who has experienced a significant rise in popularity, recently performed on Saturday Night Live and sold out two shows at Boston’s Fenway Park. His performance at Sea Hear Now marks another highlight in a busy year, following the release of his live album, ‘Live from Fenway Park.’ Kahan is also scheduled to conduct a benefit concert in Vermont next week, with proceeds directed towards mental health initiatives through his Busyhead Project.
As the festival gets closer, the city and the organizers are working hard to make sure everyone has a great time. If you’re excited about music, art, and surfing, Asbury Park is the place to be this weekend! The Sea Hear Now festival is full of fun and energy, and there will be something for everyone to enjoy.
