Cape May and Ocean City Launch Robust Summer Concert Series to Energize Tourism

Cape May, NJ — The summer concert schedules at Cape May Convention Hall and Ocean City Music Pier provide a vital cultural boost to their coastal communities, blending nostalgic and diverse music acts to attract both residents and tourists. Cape May Convention Hall, under the leadership of Kacie Rattigan—director of civic affairs and tourism since 2021—features a lineup ranging from the 1950s vocal group The Drifters to Southern rock legends the Marshall Tucker Band. After COVID-19 halted the 2020 season, Rattigan rebuilt the program, emphasizing genres like soul, country, and rock aimed at an older demographic. The 800-seat venue complements the city’s family activities, including beach movies, ensuring broad appeal. Rattigan’s experience in hospitality and events, from Atlantic City’s Claridge Hotel to California’s Queen Mary, informs her strategic booking and marketing approach. Her team, though small, coordinates a smooth production and marketing schedule finalized by March each year.
At Ocean City’s 880-seat Music Pier, promoter Bob Rose, with 32 years of experience, curates Monday and Tuesday concerts featuring top acts such as The Beach Boys and gospel star Mavis Staples. Rose’s long history includes memorable moments with artists like Dickey Betts and Alison Krauss, underscoring the venue’s reputation for quality acoustics and intimate performer-audience connections. Together, these venues leverage music as a cornerstone of their tourism strategy, fostering economic vitality while delivering rich cultural experiences in well-established, historic settings.