ROCK! AWAY! is what happens when the city's underground music scene takes the A train to the end of the line: a free, community-run festival converting Rockaway Beach into a creative playground since 2017. This installment lands on Beach 116th and the boardwalk, so the festival collides with the ordinary beach day around it. Stay past the last set and follow the crowd to The Rose Den afterparty.
What to expect
Expect a loose, sand-and-boardwalk footprint rather than a fenced festival ground, with sets running through the afternoon and people drifting between the music and the water. The crowd is a mix of Rockaway locals, surfers and the city underground scene that follows Max Power's programming. Food and drink come from the Beach 116th concessions strip rather than dedicated festival vendors.
Good to know
- The A train to Rockaway Park-Beach 116th puts you at the festival footprint
- The ferry from Wall Street or Sunset Park is slower but far more scenic
- Bring a towel and swim gear - the ocean is the other half of the day
- Boardwalk sun is relentless; a hat and reef-safe sunscreen are worth packing
- Cash helps at the boardwalk concession stands
- The afterparty at The Rose Den is a separate, indoor, adult-leaning scene
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Common questions
Is the festival free?
Yes, the beach programming is free and open to all. The afterparty at The Rose Den may have its own door policy.
Can I get there without a car?
Yes - the A train runs to Beach 116th, and NYC Ferry serves the Rockaways in summer.
Can I swim?
Rockaway Beach is a lifeguarded city beach in season, so yes, within the flagged swimming areas.
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