Festival of Music
Registration Now Open!
Carowinds Festival of Music is returning in the Spring of 2026 for its 50th year! We are excited to offer our fine arts programming to include instrumental, choral, and musical theatre ensembles this year!
Don't miss this chance to be part of the fun and excitement of performing at Carowinds in 2026!
Instrumental:
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March 14, 20, 21, 27, 28
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April 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 17, 18, 24, 25, 30*
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May 1, 2, 8, 9, 14*, 15, 16, 22, 29, 30
Choral:
- March 14, 20, 21, 27, 28
- April 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 18, 24, 25
- May 2, 8, 14*, 15, 22, 29
Musical Theatre:
- April 17
*Private day just for school groups. Special package that includes a meal required.
2026 Pricing: See below!
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: 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, and 15 minutes for show choir/musical theatre.
How the Festival Works
Register Your Ensembles
In 2026, Festival of Music will host instrumental, choral, and musical theatre ensembles!
Once available, complete the online registration with a registration fee per performing group to reserve your 2026 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 Prices
- Performer: $55
- Observer/Chaperone: $39.27
- Season Passholder Performer: $15
Meal Options
Carowinds makes it easy to take care of your group during your visit. The following meal and drink options are available:
- Picnic Buffet: This is an all-you-can-eat buffet that is served between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM each day the Festival of Music occurs.
- Single Meal Deal (NEW – snack included): Includes one entree, side, and a regular drink, plus a snack at participating restaurants throughout the park.
- Premium All-Day Dining: Enjoy an entrée and one side item, or a snack, every 90 minutes at participating restaurants throughout the park, plus a Drink Wristband.
- Drink Wristband: Enjoy refreshing Coca-Cola beverages all day, with only a 15-minute interval between refills.
- Snack Voucher: Enjoy a sweet or savory snack at participating restaurants (eligible items indicated by an ‘S’ on menu boards)
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.