Rock by the Sea, the beachfront music festival that has raised more than $1 million for children’s charities and cancer research, returns to Okaloosa Island this spring for its 20th anniversary celebration.
- The five-day event runs April 29 through May 3 at The Boardwalk, marking the festival’s second year at the venue.
In 2025, The Boardwalk donated more than $10,500 to Rock by the Sea, representing 20 percent of gross sales from both Floyd’s and Al’s Beach Club locations during the four-day event.
“Anytime there’s a change in venue, it’s stressful; however it exceeded all expectations,” Beth Gosnell, president and founder of Rock by the Sea, said of last year’s move to The Boardwalk. “You can’t go wrong with the recipe that we had — music, beach, community and love. It was perfect.”
This year’s lineup features Sister Hazel as headliners alongside 23 other acts including Emerson Hart, Welshly Arms, The Alternate Routes, Drew Angus, The Currys and Brian Fechino & The Risky Beavers.
The organization operates without any paid employees, relying entirely on volunteers and a dedicated community of supporters. Beyond the main stage performances, the event includes a private brunch with Brian Fechino and Friends, bourbon and wine tastings, painting sessions, beach cornhole tournaments, a silent auction and raffle. Each activity is led by one or more of the performing artists.
“I like to say it’s the best music you’ve ever heard because a lot of performers are up-and-coming,” Gosnell said.
Proceeds support a range of charitable organizations, including those focused on pediatric cancer research, ALS, mental health and addiction awareness. Beneficiaries include UF Health’s Pediatric Brain Tumor Immunotherapy Program, Lyrics for Life (Sister Hazel’s nonprofit), Camp Sunshine, Children’s Hospital of Atlanta, Children’s Hospital of Colorado, Fighting Demons and the Alzheimer’s Association.
- The organization also supports Hop on a Cure, an ALS charity founded by John Hopkins from the Zac Brown Band.
“We’re a not-for-profit that hosts music events for charitable organizations that deliver direct services,” Gosnell said. “We tend to focus more on smaller charities because there is a little more bang for the buck.”
Rock by the Sea recently launched its Legacy Fund, called Rock Into the Future, designed to ensure the long-term sustainability of its charitable mission.
“Rock Into the Future will enable us to build a foundation for the future, beyond my leadership,” Gosnell said. “It will ensure that the positive change we bring today will resonate in the future.”
Clint Rogers, director of operations for Saltwater Restaurant Group, said the partnership aligns with the company’s community values.
- “We want to continue to be involved in the community, and we want to give back where we can to organizations that support local charities,” Rogers said.
Sponsorship opportunities range from $1,500 to $50,000, with benefits including event advertising, web presence, sponsor boards, weekend access passes and event gifts. Lodging sponsorships that pair sponsors with artists are also available. A portion of food and beverage sales during the event is also donated to Rock by the Sea.
For tickets, sponsorship information or to make a donation, visit hereor contact Gosnell at 850-443-3663.
