Pearl Jam have been confirmed as headliners for this year’s Ohana Festival in Dana Point, California, marking a significant milestone as their first announced performance since the departure of longtime drummer Matt Cameron last summer. The acclaimed grunge pioneers are set to grace the stage at the festival, scheduled to take place from September 25-27, though the specific time slot for their performance has yet to be revealed. This appearance is particularly noteworthy given Cameron’s exit after a remarkable 27-year tenure, leaving fans eager to witness the band’s evolution with a new, as-yet-unannounced drummer.
The 10th anniversary edition of the Ohana Festival, an event founded by Pearl Jam’s enigmatic frontman Eddie Vedder, promises a star-studded lineup that reflects its decade-long legacy. Alongside Pearl Jam and "Eddie Vedder & Friends," the festival will feature a diverse array of musical talent. Esteemed artists slated to perform include Mexican rock titans Maná, country-folk sensation Tyler Childers, the soulful Alabama Shakes, the post-punk dynamism of Fontaines D.C., the iconic Billy Idol, the legendary Pixies, the indie darlings Rilo Kiley, the genre-bending Jon Batiste, the punk veterans Bad Religion, the acclaimed singer-songwriter Courtney Barnett, and the recently reunited Sugar, among many others. This eclectic mix underscores the festival’s commitment to showcasing a broad spectrum of musical genres and celebrating both established legends and emerging artists.
A Decade of Music and Community: The Genesis of Ohana Festival
The Ohana Festival, conceived and curated by Eddie Vedder, has steadily grown from its inception into a highly anticipated annual event. The festival’s ethos, deeply rooted in community and a love for music, has been central to its enduring appeal. Held against the picturesque backdrop of Doheny State Beach in Dana Point, California, Ohana has consistently drawn a dedicated fanbase eager to experience a carefully crafted lineup in a beautiful setting. Vedder’s personal involvement ensures a unique curation, often reflecting his own musical tastes and collaborations, while also providing a platform for artists he admires and respects.
The festival’s tenth anniversary marks a significant point of reflection and celebration. Over the past decade, Ohana has hosted a plethora of iconic artists, including Vedder himself in various capacities, Bruce Springsteen, Stevie Nicks, Red Hot Chili Peppers, and Florence + The Machine, solidifying its reputation as a premier music destination. The choice of Doheny State Beach as its home provides a serene and accessible location, fostering a sense of intimacy and connection between artists and attendees that distinguishes it from larger, more corporate music festivals.
Pearl Jam’s Evolving Lineup and Anticipated Performance
Pearl Jam’s inclusion in the Ohana Festival lineup carries particular weight due to the recent changes within the band. Matt Cameron’s departure was announced in July of the previous year, bringing an end to his extensive and impactful tenure. Cameron, who also served as the drummer for the legendary Soundgarden, joined Pearl Jam in 1998, contributing to a significant portion of their discography and live performances. His decision to step down was met with understanding and well wishes from his bandmates and the wider music community.
In a heartfelt statement released at the time of his departure, Cameron expressed his profound gratitude for his time with Pearl Jam. He wrote, "After 27 fantastic years, I have taken my final steps down the drum riser for the mighty Pearl Jam. Much love and respect to Jeff [Ament], Ed [Vedder], Mike [McCready] and Stone [Gossard] for inviting me into the band in 1998 and for giving me the opportunity of a lifetime, filled with friendships, artistry, challenges and laughter. I am forever grateful to the crew, staff and fans the world over. It’s been an incredible journey. More to follow. I thank you all from the bottom of my heart." This statement highlighted the deep bonds formed within the band and Cameron’s appreciation for the experiences shared.
Pearl Jam’s upcoming performance at Ohana will be the first opportunity for fans to witness their dynamic live show with a new drummer. While the identity of this new percussionist remains under wraps, the band’s consistent ability to deliver powerful and engaging performances suggests that this transition, though significant, will not detract from their renowned stage presence. Their history of musical innovation and unwavering commitment to their craft suggests that this new chapter will be met with the same dedication and intensity that has defined their career.
A Diverse and Expansive Lineup for the Tenth Anniversary
The 2026 Ohana Festival is poised to be a landmark event, not only for Pearl Jam’s highly anticipated performance but also for the sheer breadth and quality of its assembled talent. With over 30 bands scheduled to perform across three stages, the festival offers a rich tapestry of musical experiences. Beyond the headlining acts, the lineup includes a compelling roster of artists spanning various genres and generations.
Among the notable performers are Midnight Generation, the Japanese noise-punk outfit Otoboke Beaver, the dream-pop collective Men I Trust, the emerging country artist Stephen Wilson Jr., the indie-rock stalwarts The Front Bottoms, the captivating singer-songwriter Alice Phoebe Lou, and the experimental artist Marlon Funaki. The festival will also feature performances from Ellery Harper, the acclaimed duo The Format, the British singer-songwriter Tom Odell, the eclectic Ecca Vandal, the buzzy rock band Horsegirl, and the atmospheric Villanelle, among many others. This comprehensive selection ensures that attendees will have ample opportunities to discover new music and reconnect with established favorites.
Ticket Information and Fan Engagement
For dedicated fans, the opportunity to secure tickets for the Ohana Festival begins with pre-sales. The Ten Club, Pearl Jam’s official fan club, is currently offering pre-sale access. Fans are strongly encouraged to sign up for a presale code to participate in the general presale, which is scheduled to commence on Thursday, May 14th, at 12 p.m. PT. Following the general presale, a public on-sale will commence at the same time, 12 p.m. PT, should any tickets remain available. Interested attendees can visit the official Ohana Festival website at ohanafest.com to register for presale access and stay informed about ticket availability. This multi-tiered approach to ticketing aims to provide dedicated fans with priority access while also ensuring broader availability to the general public.
Broader Implications and Festival’s Enduring Appeal
Pearl Jam’s participation in the Ohana Festival signals a continued commitment to live performance and a willingness to engage with their audience in intimate and impactful settings. Their decision to perform at an event founded by their frontman also underscores the strong creative and personal connections within the band and their extended musical circle. The festival’s consistent ability to attract such high-caliber artists, coupled with its unique atmosphere and community focus, solidifies its position as a highly respected and anticipated event on the music calendar.
The tenth anniversary of Ohana Festival is not just a celebration of music but also a testament to the enduring power of shared experiences and artistic connection. As Pearl Jam embarks on this new phase of their career, their headline slot at Ohana serves as a powerful statement of their continued relevance and their unwavering dedication to delivering exceptional live performances. The festival, in turn, benefits from the draw of such a monumental band, further cementing its status as a must-attend event for music lovers. The anticipation surrounding the festival is palpable, with fans eager to witness both the evolution of Pearl Jam and the continued success of Eddie Vedder’s visionary creation. The diverse lineup and the beautiful setting of Doheny State Beach promise a memorable weekend of music, community, and celebration.
