Sand in My Boots Ranked Most Expensive Music Festival in the U.S.
CHICAGO — Morgan Wallen’s Sand in My Boots Music Festival has officially been crowned the most expensive music festival in the U.S., according to a recent analysis by Hard Rock Bet. Held in Gulf Shores, Alabama, the three-day event in May drew around 40,000 fans each day and has now topped the charts — not for performances alone, but for price.
Ticket Prices That Shocked Even Festival Veterans
The study compared 47 of the most popular U.S. festivals, including major names like Coachella, Stagecoach, Lollapalooza, and Bonnaroo. When the numbers were tallied, fans attending Sand in My Boots were found to spend an average of:
- $78.75 per hour
- $945 per day
Tickets ranged from around $400 for general admission to thousands of dollars for VIP packages. Hard Rock Bet noted that the pricing reflects the event’s “premium experience” — combining high-level musical acts, curated atmosphere, and solid organization.
“It’s not just a concert — it’s an immersive weekend with a view,” one attendee commented in an online fan group.
Locals Still Support the High-Cost Event
Despite the eye-popping figures, Gulf Shores residents and business owners voiced support for the festival in local surveys. Many say the economic boost and national attention the event brings are worth the temporary crowds and traffic.
The festival is managed by AEG Presents, which also operates the event under its former branding as The Hangout Festival.
How It Compares to Other Top Festivals
For context:
- Coachella came in second at $54.08 per hour
- South Star Festival in Huntsville ranked 22nd with a far more modest average of $9.93 per hour
So what makes Sand in My Boots stand out? According to the study, it’s the combination of exclusive experiences, top-tier artist lineup, and a premium beach setting.
A Trend of Rising Prices
The report also underscores a growing trend in music tourism — where festivals are becoming more than just musical performances and more like destination vacations. With elevated production values, luxury accommodations, and upgraded dining options, the price tags are naturally rising.
Have you attended a high-end music festival like Sand in My Boots or Lollapalooza? Share your experience — was it worth the money? Let us know at ChicagoSuburbanFamily.com.