Bands in the Sand
Bands in the Sand is a beach celebration like no other. Each year, sell-out crowds gather on the beach, dance barefoot in the sand, sing along to live music, enjoy local cuisine, and raise a glass to saving the Bay.
Saturday, June 13, 2026
5:30 p.m.-10:00 p.m.
Philip Merrill Environmental Center
6 Herndon Avenue
Annapolis, Maryland 21403
Bands in the Sand is the party of the year, and you won’t want to miss it! For two decades, Bay savers from across the region gathered on the warm beach, danced to live music, enjoyed all-inclusive food and drink, and raised a drink to a saved Bay.
As we celebrate the 20th anniversary of Bands in the Sand, we are humbled to reflect on the memories made and impact created through this event. Since its inception, Bands in the Sand has raised $5.5 million to help save the Bay. This is thanks to every sponsor, donor, and attendee who has made Bands in the Sand the kick-off to summer. A special thank you to Dick Franyo, who stood on the Philip Merrill Environmental Center beach 20 years ago and had the brilliant idea to host the most fun fundraiser on the Chesapeake.
Ticket Information
Tickets are SOLD OUT! If you are interested in attending, please join our waitlist.
All tickets include:
- Unlimited food and drinks
- Access to the Atlas Restaurant Group Oyster Reef
- Complimentary shuttles from remote parking lots
- A tax-deductible donation that supports CBF’s education and restoration efforts throughout the year.
VIP Tickets
$550 + $5 fee* (Sold Out)
VIP Perks:
- Early entry at 5:00 p.m.
- Access to the HASI VIP Lounge
- Parking pass for onsite parking (one per order)
General Admission Tickets
$220 + $5 fee* (Sold Out)
Committee tickets are no longer sold. Parking passes and additional donations will be optional to add to general admission tickets during purchase.
*Fees help CBF cover expenses related to ticket systems and credit card fees.
Who’s On Stage
Stage and Music Sponsor Morrison Foerster and The Morrison Foerster Foundation are excited to welcome Swamp Donkey, Misspent Youth, and special guest VERTICAL HORIZON to the stage! With newgrass, rock covers, and chart-topping hits, get ready to kick off summer by dancing the night away. Learn more about the lineup >>
All-Inclusive Eats & Drinks
Enjoy an assortment of party perfect dishes from Boatyard Bar & Grill, Caliente Grill, Timber Pizza and The Bell House at this year’s Bay Boardwalk. Join Atlas Restaurant Group at the Oyster Reef for freshly shucked oysters, and top it all off with the ultimate Chesapeake treat: Smith Island Cake. Devils Backbone Brewing Company will be pouring refreshing beverages all night.
Vegan and vegetarian options are available thanks to Plant-Based Food Sponsor HASI! Check out the full menu >>
Sponsorship Information
Sponsorships are sold out for the 2026 event. For more information or to be added to the 2027 list please contact Taryn Dwan at tdwan@cbf.org.
We hope to see you on the beach in June!
2025 Photo Gallery
More About Bands in the Sand 2026
From how to arrive at the party and what to bring to common questions like what's included and how to download your ticket, get your answers here.
This event wouldn't be possible without the support of our sponsors. Join us in thanking them.
Twenty years ago, Dick Franyo saw the potential to turn music, community, and passion into a powerful force to save the Bay. Become a Friend of Franyo and help us meet an audacious goal for 2026.
CBF is proud to partner with local restaurants for Bands in the Sand so you can enjoy the best beach fare in Annapolis!
Get ready to dance the night away to three remarkable performances.
