Eddie Vedder’s annual Ohana Festival transformed Doheny State Beach in Dana Point, CA, into a celebration of music, community, and coastal nostalgia from September 27 to 29, 2024. The festival, named after the Hawaiian word for “family,” carries deep personal significance for Eddie Vedder, who shared with the crowd on Sunday night that this was the very beach where he caught his first wave at the age of 12. Despite some unexpected lineup changes, the event delivered a weekend full of memorable performances and heartfelt moments.
Originally slated to feature Garbage and Neil Young & Crazy Horse, the festival lineup shifted as both acts canceled their appearances. Garbage’s absence was filled by the iconic Devo, who delivered an electrifying performance led by drummer Jeff Friedl. Meanwhile, Sting stepped up as the Saturday night headliner in place of Neil Young, delighting the audience with a dynamic set that showcased the timeless energy of his music. Accompanied by drummer Chris Maas, Sting seamlessly stepped into the lineup, proving once again why he remains a beloved performer across generations.
One of the weekend’s standout moments was the return of Pearl Jam, playing their final U.S. shows for the year after concluding their Dark Matter Tour just two weeks earlier. Their Friday night performance, led by drummer Matt Cameron, was nothing short of spectacular. Fans were treated to an unexpected finale when the band invited Crowded House to join them onstage for a rousing rendition of “Rockin’ in the Free World.” Another surprise guest was Zach Irons, son of former Pearl Jam and original Red Hot Chili Peppers drummer Jack Irons, who joined the band for a stirring performance of “Whale Song.”
The festival’s lineup brought together an eclectic mix of talent that kept the crowd energized throughout the weekend. Performers included Maren Morris, Crowded House, Turnpike Troubadours, Black Pumas, Idles, and The Breeders. Each act contributed a unique sound and style, offering something for everyone against the picturesque backdrop of the Pacific Ocean.
As the festival progressed, its sense of community and connection became even more apparent. Sunday night’s closing set was a heartfelt affair, with Eddie Vedder inviting his daughter Harper, his mother Karen, and other family members to join him on stage. The evening ended with a powerful performance of “Rockin’ in the Free World,” featuring Andrew Watt, Glen Hansard, and Jane’s Addiction drummer Stephen Perkins, among others. The shared energy and joy of the finale captured the spirit of Ohana Festival, creating a moment that resonated deeply with both performers and fans.
Ohana Festival is more than just a music event—it’s a gathering that celebrates the ties that bind us, from the familial warmth on stage to the camaraderie in the crowd. Rooted in Southern California’s surf culture and Eddie Vedder’s passion for music and community, the festival continues to embody a unique blend of intimacy and grandeur. As the final notes echoed across Doheny State Beach and the sun dipped below the horizon, it was clear that Ohana is not just an annual tradition but a testament to the enduring power of music to bring people together.