August 29, 2026
MYRTLE BEACH, SC — Plans for a major three‑day rock festival in Myrtle Beach were shut down almost as quickly as they appeared, after the city denied the permit for the proposed RockFest 2027. The event, pitched for May 7–9 at the site of the former Myrtle Beach Mall, was expected to feature a high‑profile lineup and draw large crowds during one of the busiest stretches of the year.
Southern Entertainment, the group behind the Carolina Country Music Fest, submitted the proposal for RockFest. The concept included three days of performances and a potential lineup featuring nationally known acts such as Metallica, The Rolling Stones, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Bon Jovi and Limp Bizkit. The timing placed the festival directly in the middle of Myrtle Beach’s packed late‑spring season, which includes two bike weeks, CCMF, spring break and other large‑scale gatherings that historically bring heavy traffic and significant revenue to the area.
City officials said the schedule simply could not support another major festival. One council member noted that hosting several large events back‑to‑back can place a strain on the city’s workforce, especially during periods when emergency‑service demand is already elevated.
On August 27, the city released an official statement explaining the decision.
“The City of Myrtle Beach understands the disappointment surrounding RockFest not happening in Myrtle Beach, particularly among members of our business community and residents who were looking forward to enjoying a rock music festival in the city.
Another major music festival this time of year would place significant strain on city staff, particularly our police officers and firefighters. Our first responders would have little to no time off from the spring break season through July Fourth. Protecting the mental health and well-being of our public safety personnel who work every day to keep our community safe is a top priority of the City of Myrtle Beach.
The city remains committed to bringing events and activities to Myrtle Beach that support our businesses, appeal to our residents, attract visitors and enhance our community. While our late spring schedule cannot accommodate another large-scale event, we welcome large-scale events in the fall when staffing demands are more manageable.”
Public reaction to the denial has been strong, with many residents expressing disappointment over the loss of a new entertainment option and questioning why the city could not support an additional festival during a season known for high visitor turnout.
Editor’s Note: Public comments included in this article reflect the views of the individuals quoted and do not represent the opinions of CoastalCarolinaNews.com
S. Reynolds commented on social media: “They’re afraid it will bring bike week back up to Myrtle Beach instead of down in Murrells Inlet. Tourists have not been coming here as much as they used to, local business owners need this kind of thing.”
S. Hickman stated on social media: “Im sorry, NOT sorry. There was no strain for country fest, no strain for bike weeks, no strain for jeep jam… yet its a strain for rockfest… mmmm the math ain’t mathin here.”
RockFest organizers have not announced whether they plan to revise the proposal, explore alternative dates or consider a different location.
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