Great South Bay Music Festival returns for 2025 with four days of genre-spanning vibes and community spirit

The Great South Bay Music Festival, presented by Voodoo Ranger, is gearing up for its highly anticipated 17th edition this summer, returning to the scenic shoreline of Shorefront Park in Patchogue Village from Thursday, July 24 through Sunday, July 27, 2025. With over 55 performers across three stages, this year’s festival promises four days of high-energy sets, nostalgic throwbacks, family fun, and community spirit—all with a backdrop of Long Island’s most picturesque waterfront.

Promotional poster for the Great South Bay Music Festival 2024, showcasing the lineup of performers and event details.

Known as “Long Island’s Music Fest,” the Great South Bay Music Festival has built a reputation for curating a unique blend of classic rock, indie, reggae, ska, pop punk, jam, funk, Americana, and more, with each day tailored to a different musical flavor. The 2025 edition will celebrate both rising stars and legendary acts, all while championing local artistry and philanthropy.

The festival launches with a blast of early 2000s alt-rock nostalgia, featuring Taking Back Sunday, Say Anything, Gym Class Heroes, and Head Automatica. With eight performers across two stages, this opening night will be an emotional, energetic trip through a generation’s favorite anthems.

Friday brings sun-soaked grooves and laid-back vibes with the annual Rock-Reggae Beach Party. Reggae legends Damian “Jr. Gong” Marley and Stephen Marley headline, alongside the feel-good energy of J Boog, The Elovaters, and local favortes Oogee Wawa. Expect a perfect blend of rock, ska, and Caribbean rhythm across 12 acts on three stages.

“Jam Day” on Saturday delivers some of the most dynamic and improvisational sets of the weeke.d Jam band staples like moe., Umphrey’s McGee, Pigeons Playing Ping Pong, and Eggy will anchor a full day of genre-fusing music. With 17 performers lined up, fans can expect nonstop musical journeys and groove-filled exploration.

Close out the weekend in smooth style with Sunday’s ’80s Beach Party, hosted by legendary DJ Larry “The Duck” Dunn. Acts like Men at Work, Naked Eyes, Ambrosia, and Yacht Rock Review promise a day of soft rock bliss, sing-along hits, and retro flair. Also joining are Strangelove: The Depeche Mode Experience, offering a synth-filled finale to the festival.

In true GSB fashion, the festival continues its tradition of spotlighting emerging Long Island talent, with 27 original artists set to perform. Standouts include Rob Eberle, Chris Ruben Band, Gamblers, Nonstop to Cairo, and many more. The festival’s commitment to original music remains a vital part of its mission.

On Saturday and Sunday, younger festival-goers can enjoy the KidZone Stage, featuring educational and entertaining performances from Getting Zen with Erin, Funky Town Playground Band, Kiddle Karoo, Rock’ Ron the Friendly Pirate, and returning favorites like Cheryl the Stiltwalker.

More than just a music festival, Great South Bay remains committed to giving back. A portion of every ticket sold benefits the GSB-Stony Brook Cancer Center Fund, with over $250,000 raised to date. The festival’s Storyville Tent also offers free space to organizations focused on social issues like homelessness, women’s support, pet rescue, and voter registration.

While VIP and weekend passes are going fast, single-day and two-day passes are still available at
www.greatsouthbaymusicfestival.com.

Whether you’re coming for the music, the community, or the beachside setting, the Great South Bay Music Festival 2025 is shaping up to be the ultimate Long Island summer celebration

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