Festival of Music
Festival of Music
2027 Festival of Music Registration will open August 18th!
Please read through the director's guide linked below for important Festival of Music policy and registration updates before registration opens. If you do not already have an account, we advise creating an account before registration opens so you will be ready to go on the 18th.
Turn up the volume on creativity and performance at the Carowinds Festival of Music, where passion, talent, and inspiration take center stage! Set against the thrilling backdrop of Carowinds amusement park, this unforgettable event brings student musicians together for a day filled with electrifying performances and meaningful growth.
Much like the spirit of leadership and development, participants will collaborate, perform, and refine their craft while building confidence, teamwork, and stage presence. Guided by expert adjudicators and surrounded by the energy of the park, students gain valuable feedback and real-world performance experience that helps them shine both on and off the stage. It’s more than a festival—it’s a powerful celebration of music, creativity, and the next generation of performers ready to make their mark!
2027 Festival of Music Dates:
Instrumental
March 13, 19, 20, 31
April 1, 2, 3, 9, 10, 16, 17, 23, 24, *29, *30
May 1, 7, 8, *13, 14, 15, 21, 22
Choral
March 19, 20, 31
April 1, 2, 9, 10, 17, 23, 24, *29, *30
May 1, 7, 8, *13, 14, 15
Show Choir/Musical Theatre
April 16
2027 Pricing:
Performer Admission $56.50
Observer Admission $40.50
Season Passholder Admission $15
1 complimentary ticket for every 15 tickets purchased. Season Passholders do not count toward the comp policy.
Registration fee per ensemble $125
*April 29th and May 13th are School Only Thursdays and the park will be closed to the public. Park hours are 9:00am-5:00pm and this day, a buffet is required along with the ticket purchase. Restaurant openings will be limited.
*April 30th park hours are 10:00am-5:00pm. The park is closing early for Grad Nite that evening.
Registration Instructions
Carowinds' Festival of Music is one of the most anticipated and celebrated student performance events in the Carolinas. Middle and high school instrumental, choral, and musical theatre ensembles are invited to showcase their skills in one of our unique on-site venues.
In addition to a desirable performance opportunity, the Festival of Music is also a valuable chance to learn from the masters. Nationally known adjudicators will evaluate and critique your ensemble's performance. All groups will receive a certificate of participation.
PLEASE NOTE: Once registration is available, you will select and register for a performance time. Warm-up times will begin before the selected time, with 30 minutes for instrumental groups, 15 minutes for choral groups, and 15 minutes for show choir/musical theatre groups.
How the Festival Works
Register Your Ensembles
In 2027, Festival of Music will host instrumental, choral, and show choir/musical theatre ensembles!
Once available, complete the online registration with a registration fee per performing group to reserve your 2027 Carowinds Festival of Music performance time.
The registration fee is non-refundable, non-transferable, and must be received prior to finalization of your scheduled performance time. The registration fee is for registration purposes only and does not apply to your ticket purchase. If paying by check, a copy of the invoice must be mailed with payment to ensure proper credit to the correct ensemble.
Order Your Tickets
Each person entering Carowinds will need to present an admission ticket or a season pass to gain access to the Festival of Music and the park. This includes students, directors, accompanists, chaperones, group members, family, and friends.
Ticket information coming soon.
Perform and Have Fun at the Park
All selections of music will be adjudicated (three selections for instrumental and two selections for choral).
Scores and packets will be available 15 minutes after your performance at the festival check-in table outside the assigned theater. All groups will receive a certificate of participation.
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