5 things to know about Charlotte’s biggest music festival

Over the course of three days, a variety of the genre’s chart-topping icons and up-and-coming prodigies will convene in Charlotte’s backyard for a thrilling soirée guaranteed to give you goose bumps.

From mouth-watering food to tent camping to roaring rock-and-roll, here’s what you need to know about Carolina Rebellion.

(1) Expect the biggest weekend yet in Carolina Rebellion history

Since Carolina Rebellion’s inaugural weekend in 2011, the festival has grown consistently each year and recently solidified itself as the biggest rock festival in the Mid-Atlantic region.

Last year, more than 105,000 attendees raced through the turnstiles.

The population of Concord essentially doubles this weekend and another record breaking tally is expected this year. Festival producers discussed making minor adjustments to the festival layout this year to create more room for people to rock out.

(2) There will be over 60 bands.

Carolina Rebellion will feature over 60 bands performing on four stages.

The extensive lineup features the likes of Alice In Chains, Shinedown, Incubus, Godsmack, Stone Sour, Queens of the Stone Age and Five Finger Death Punch.

But what sets Carolina Rebellion apart from every other North American music festival this year is the inclusion of Muse, who will make a rare North American festival appearance in front of the Carolina crowd.

(3) There’ll be tasty food

It wouldn’t be a Carolina music festival without outstanding barbecue offerings in the Pig Out Village.

While music is at the forefront, Carolina Rebellion offers a diverse selection of delicious food options all weekend long, including both vegetarian and gluten free alternatives.

Highlights include BBQ ribs, turkey legs, wood-fired pizza and savory glazed donuts.

(4) Festivities kick off before noon

Official set times are yet to be released, but don’t arrive late.

If your favorite band isn’t performing until mid-afternoon, there’s plenty to do in the meantime. Visit with and learn more about a few of the nonprofit organizations that partner with Carolina Rebellion or carve out a spot in line at the F.Y.E. tent to meet your favorite artist.

Or take ride on festival’s Ferris wheel and see Carolina Rebellion from unrivaled heights.

(5) Camp out and purchase tickets ahead of time.

General admission tickets rise in price as the festival approaches, therefore it’s recommended to secure single day or weekend passes as soon as possible.

While parking is free, festival goers have the option to camp just outside the festival site and experience the weekend like no other. Pitch a tent and sleep under the stars or spend the weekend in an RV with the family. There’s four different camping options for purchase with weekend passes only.

Enjoy the music and the party!