Music City Maryland Festival 2025 Returns: Catonsville Gears Up for Major Summer Music Event at The Vortex

Catonsville, Maryland – August 23, 2025 – The much-anticipated Music City Maryland Festival is set to return this Saturday, August 23rd, 2025, transforming The Vortex at CAA Park into a vibrant hub of live music, local arts, and community celebration. The full-day event, scheduled from 1:00 PM to 10:30 PM, promises an unforgettable experience for attendees, highlighting Catonsville’s rich musical heritage and its designation as “Music City Maryland.” This marks the sixth annual presentation of the popular festival.

A Premier Outdoor Venue Hosts the Festivities

The festival will take place at The Vortex, a unique 12-acre outdoor music and event venue located at 202 Ingleside Avenue in Catonsville. Managed by the Music City Maryland Association (MCMA), The Vortex is designed to foster community engagement through arts, entertainment, and cultural programming. Its spacious, tree-lined grounds and convenient location, just miles from Baltimore City and BWI Airport, make it an ideal setting for large-scale music events, offering attendees a scenic and accessible environment. The venue’s commitment to providing a versatile space for live performances and community gatherings aligns perfectly with the spirit of this annual festival.

Diverse Musical Lineup Across Two Stages

This year’s Music City Maryland Festival boasts an impressive and eclectic lineup of musical talent performing across two stages. Headlining the event are The Nude Party, an acclaimed seven-piece band known for their blend of ’60s frat rock, garage rock revival, and indie rock influences, drawing comparisons to The Rolling Stones and The Velvet Underground. Also featured is Jah Works, a Baltimore-based roots reggae band with over two decades of performing experience, celebrated for their authentic Jamaican sound infused with hip-hop and dancehall elements. Rounding out the headliners is Empire Strikes Brass, a dynamic Brass Funk Rock band from Asheville, North Carolina, renowned for their energetic performances and rich horn arrangements that fuse funk, rock, and jam influences.

Attendees can also look forward to performances from The Dive Bombs, Mallow Hill, The Players Band, Shake the Room, Experience, Ghost Town Radio, and South Rolling, ensuring a broad spectrum of musical genres and styles to entertain the crowd throughout the day.

More Than Just Music: A Full Festival Experience

Beyond the extensive musical performances, the Music City Maryland Festival offers a comprehensive experience for all ages. A variety of food trucks will be on-site, providing diverse culinary options, complemented by a selection of beverages, including adult options. Art vendors will showcase and sell their creations, offering festival-goers a chance to discover unique local crafts and artwork. For families, a dedicated kids’ zone will provide entertainment and activities, ensuring a fun-filled day for everyone.

Ticket Information and VIP Access

General admission tickets for the Music City Maryland Festival are affordably priced at $10 when purchased in advance, with tickets available at the door for $20. Children aged 12 and under are admitted free of charge, making the festival accessible for families. For those seeking an enhanced experience, VIP tickets are available, offering perks such as complimentary drinks, exclusive access to a dedicated VIP section with private bar service, and prime viewing areas. Advanced general admission tickets are available until midnight on August 22nd.

Catonsville’s Deep Musical Roots

Catonsville’s recognition as “Music City Maryland” dates back to 2002 when it was officially proclaimed by the Maryland General Assembly, acknowledging its deep-rooted history and ongoing contribution to music culture. This designation is supported by numerous music businesses, performance venues, and educational institutions within the community. The Music City Maryland Festival serves as a key event in celebrating and perpetuating this vibrant local identity, bringing together artists and the community in the spirit of musical discovery and enjoyment.

The event is presented by Sun Rider 9 Productions and the Music City Maryland Association, organizations dedicated to enriching the cultural landscape of Catonsville through impactful arts and entertainment programming. This latest news about the festival promises another successful year, solidifying its place as a cornerstone of the region’s summer event calendar.