Epicenter Festival
Epicenter Festival of Rockingham, North Carolina is a must-visit on your next RV trip if you're a fan of rock, alternative and hip-hop music.
Event information
Epicenter Festival is a brand new music event that takes place in Rockingham, Richmond County, North Carolina. The sweeping Rockingham Festival Grounds serve as the venue for the festival. It features a huge lineup showcasing incredible musical talent from all over the world.
The festival is produced by promoter Danny Wimmer Presents. The company is also behind other successful music events like Chicago Open Air, Sonic Temple, and Welcome to Rockville. Multiple stages are set up throughout the venue where over 65 musicians perform. Some of the artists who have played at the event include Korn, Foo Fighters, Rob Zombie, Evanescence, The Cult, and Bush.
There are plenty of other festival attractions in addition to world-class music. An impressive range of food, drinks, and merchandise will be sold at Rockingham Village, a large promenade that is open till 2 am every day. In addition to the main stages, there will also be smaller side stages where a number of local acts and cover bands perform. Camping is also offered at the event for patrons who want the fun to last all weekend.
Tickets
You can choose between General Admission and VIP tickets. You can purchase your tickets online or at the Box office on the day of the event. If you buy your pass online, a festival wristband will be mailed to you. You'll need to register it online before heading to the event. Camping passes are also available on the website.
General Admission tickets can be upgraded to VIP passes at the front gate as long as they are still available. Take a look at the official website for more information on tickets and pricing.
Explore Epicenter Festival RV Rentals
Transportation
Driving
The festival takes place at the Rockingham Festival Grounds, just off U.S. Highway 1. Motorists are likely to encounter heavy traffic on this state highway on event days. Plan on reaching the venue early, especially if you're driving an RV. The event's twitter feed and social media pages are the best sources for traffic updates. Information on road and weather alerts is also updated regularly via these options.
Parking areas
Paid day parking is available at the official lot on the Rockingham Festival Grounds. Overnight parking is not permitted here. If you plan on camping at the festival, you can drive your vehicle directly to your designated campground. Festival staff will be available near the entrances to assist you.
Public Transportation
To counteract the traffic situation, paid shuttle services will be available to all festival attendees. There are convenient drop-off and pick-up locations throughout the city. Shuttle passes can be purchased on the website. You can also get to the venue using a taxi service or ride-hailing app.
Where to stay
Onsite
You'll need to purchase a camping pass to camp at the venue, which includes four nights of camping. Each RV campsite comes with one companion parking space. Accessible campsites are offered to patrons with disabilities. Services like portable restrooms, showers, and charging stations will be available to all campers.
Nearby
The nearest campsite is about five miles away, and you'll find plenty of options within a 25-mile radius. You can opt for one that is within city limits for convenience or one that's a bit further away if you feel like getting away from the hustle and bustle. RV parks and campgrounds are well-equipped and come with all the facilities you need for a comfortable stay. Uwharrie National Forest offers RV campground options and is just over an hour away from the venue.
Getting around
Bikes, golf carts, and other personal vehicles are not allowed on the grounds. Most parts of the venue are accessible, and there are special viewing areas for patrons with disabilities. Since the festival is held in an outdoor park, there are lots of natural terrain areas which may get muddy if it rains. ADA guests can use motorized wheelchairs and small scooters.
What to pack
Clothing
In keeping with the rock festival vibe, most guests will be dressed casually in band t-shirts and jeans. You're not likely to see a lot of bright colors, costumes or headdresses. It's a good idea to go prepared for inclement weather by carrying a protective jacket and rain gear. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes since you're likely to be walking quite a bit between stages.
Gear
If you plan on camping at the event, make sure your gear is waterproof. Before starting on your trip, check if the first aid kit in your RV is well stocked. This way, you can be prepared for any emergencies. Ensure that none of your products are packed in glass containers since these will not be allowed into the festival.
Health & Safety
Patrons must be above the age of 21 to purchase alcohol or drink anywhere on site. Ensure that you have some form of government-issued identification with you at all times. Drink plenty of water and eat at regular intervals to keep your energy up. Be respectful of your camping neighbors and keep noise levels low at night.
Where to eat
Cooking
You can carry food and drinks into the camping areas. Open fires of any kind are not allowed in the campground or festival areas. So take food that you can cook on the stove in your RV or using a portable grill. Epicenter Festival does place limits on how much propane or charcoal you are allowed to bring, so be sure to check your stock when planning your trip.
Restaurants
There are plenty of great restaurants, pubs, and cafes in Rockingham, about a 20-minute drive. From fine dining establishments to fast food, you'll find something to suit every budget and taste. In the mood for a different cuisine? Try the excellent Chinese or Indian food. Or grab a quick slice at one of the excellent pizza joints.
Vendors
There will be a wide array of food and drinks available via Rockingham Village that's located directly in front of the venue and orchestrated by Epicenter Festival. Be sure to try the delicious burritos, sliders and funnel cake. Alcoholic beverages will be sold at the bars and wine gardens. Vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options will be available as well.
Safety
Security
All bags will be checked, and your vehicle will be searched before entry to the camping areas. Security personnel will be patrolling the grounds. Only patrons with a valid camping pass will be allowed into the campgrounds. You can store your valuables securely at the onsite lockers that are available for rent.
Weather
North Carolina weather is often warm and sunny, with temperatures in the high 70s in May. However, it can turn unexpectedly, so go prepared for rain. In the case of severe weather, some performances may get postponed or canceled. Attendees will be informed about any changes via the festival's social media accounts.
Medical
There will be a couple of first aid tents located throughout the grounds. You can head to one of these if you need help. Alternatively, flag down one of the festival staff members and ask for assistance. You may take in medically necessary items after presenting them for inspection at the security gate. Medical and drug store services are as far away as Rockingham about 20 minutes to the west.
