There's nothing quite like a country music festival.
They offer an unforgettable experience that blends the magic of music, camaraderie, and a deep-rooted cultural connection. These festivals encapsulate the heart and soul of country living, uniting diverse people under the common banner of twangy melodies and heartfelt lyrics.
The allure of country music festivals lies in their ability to transport attendees to a world where time slows down, and worries dissipate amidst the rustic charm of open fields and warm summer nights. The genre's storytelling nature resonates deeply, as artists share tales of love, loss, and life's simple pleasures. This emotional journey creates a unique bond between performers and the audience, forging connections that can last a lifetime.
Beyond the music, these festivals embrace a sense of community, promoting the values of togetherness and celebration. From line dancing with strangers to sharing a campfire meal, the experience fosters connections that bridge differences and bring people closer. The festive atmosphere is a melting pot of cultures, ages, and backgrounds, all united by the universal language of music.
The summer may be winding to a close, but there's still plenty of life left in the country music festival scene for 2023, especially in the parts of the nation with warmer climes. Scroll through to find a can't-miss music festival in your neck of the woods.
Georgia Country Music Fest — Marietta, Georgia
Ashley McBryde (photo by Getty Images)
September 1-3
Acts Include: Koe Wetzel, Jamey Johnson, Cody Jinks, Ashley McBryde, Turnpike Troubadours
This camping and country music experience is nestled against the backdrop of Kennesaw Mountain's storied foothills, a mere 15 miles from Downtown Atlanta. Overflowing with historical and cultural riches, Marietta's blend of modernity and traditional Southern allure promises both visitors and residents a delightful experience immersed in the city's charm and heritage.
Born & Raised Music Festival — Pryor, Oklahoma
Turnpike Troubadours (photo by Getty Images)
September 13-16
Acts include: Turnpike Troubadours, Whiskey Myers, Gary Allen, Ryan Bingham, William Clark Green
The festival site is located on Pryor Creek Festival Grounds, a scenic 45-minute drive from Tulsa. The website recommends leaving the kids at home for this outdoor camping event that promises to unleash the "outlaw in all of us." Expect a wilder and more party-oriented experience at this no holds barred country scrabble.
Coastal Country Jam — Long Beach, California
Blake Shelton (photo by Getty Images)
September 16 + 17
Acts include: Blake Shelton, Brooks & Dunn, Tim McGraw, Maren Morris, Scotty McCreery
or West Coast country music enthusiasts, this annual event spans two days and boasts top-tier performers. The festivities include an extended line dancing zone, handpicked local artisanal cuisine, an array of thirst-quenching drinks, engaging art displays, a car exhibition, a towering ferris wheel, competitive cornhole matches, and a host of additional attractions.
Americanafest — Nashville, Tennessee
Amythyst Kiah (photo by Getty Images)
September 19-23
Acts include: Amythyst Kiah, Bahamas, Bobby Rush, Buddy Miller, Dale Watson
Called "the coolest music scene today" by The New York Times, the 23rd annual Americanafest celebrates uniquely American-born genres including roots, folk, country, blues, and soul. There's also a conference portion that gives attendees an educational look into the music industry of Nashville.
Suwanee River Jam — Live Oak, Florida
Trace Adkins (photo by Getty Images)
September 20-23
Acts include: Trace Adkins, Brothers Osborne, LOCASH, Michael Ray, The Frontmen
For 28 years, the Suwannee River Jam has stood as one of the South's premier country music and camping festivals. Families and friends convene annually to relish in the harmony of country tunes, delectable cuisine, joyful moments, and heartwarming reunions.
Pilgrimage Music & Cultural Festival — Franklin, Tennessee
Luke Grimes (photo by Getty Images)
September 23 + 24
Acts include: Zach Bryan, Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats, Luke Grimes, Ashley McBryde
Kevin Griffin, a resident of Franklin, TN, envisioned a festival at The Park at Harlinsdale, a scenic horse farm he frequented. Joined by friends W. Brandt Wood and Michael Whelan, the trio aimed to capture the community spirit of New Orleans Jazz Fest, adapting it to the historic charm of Franklin. Pilgrimage, now in its eighth year, features diverse music genres on six stages, complemented by local artisans and eateries. The family-friendly atmosphere encourages all ages to revel in the festivities, while new yearly additions keep the festival evolving.
Country Thunder Bristol — Bristol, Tennessee
Jelly Roll (photo by Getty Images)
October 6+7
Acts Include: Jelly Roll, Eric Church, Brooks & Dunn, Lauren Watkins, Randy Houser
The reigning American Country Music Festival of the Year, Country Thunder is taking over the Bristol Motor Speedway to bring you some of the hottest acts in the county music scene. Promises a great booze lineup, too.
Riverfront Festival — Charleston, South Carolina
Darius Rucker (photo by Getty Images)
October 7 + 8
Acts include: Darius Rucker, Turnpike Troubadours, Lainey Wilson, Band of Horses, Greensky Bluegrass
Curated by Darius Rucker, Riverfront Revival is poised to become an affectionate ode to both country music and the enchanting Lowcountry of South Carolina. Across two days, the festival will offer an abundance of indelible live performances, immersive cultural experiences, and delectable flavors that draw inspiration from the region's distinct culinary heritage.
Golden Sky Music Fest — Sacramento, California
Lainey Wilson (photo by Getty Images)
October 14+15
Acts Include: Eric Church, Jon Pardi, Maren Morris, Lainey Wilson, Wynona Judd
Situated at the confluence of the American River and Sacramento River, Discovery Park sprawls across 302 acres of breathtaking beauty. Aside from music, experiences include a beer festival, dance hall, sports bar, a collection of Sacramento's best farm-to-fork bites, markets, wineries, and the Loud Lounge, an artistic gathering place to celebrate the cannabis community.
Greenville Country Music Fest — Greenville, South Carolina
Bailey Zimmerman (photo by Getty Images)
October 20-22
Acts Include: Cody Johnson, Brooks & Dunn, Midland, Travis Tritt
Jump into the pickup and make your way to Greenville, because they've curated an outstanding lineup to ignite the CCNB Amphitheatre at Heritage Park. Get ready for line dancing, multiple stages, a feast of delectable festival food, an abundance of enjoyable activities, and a dose of fantastic music from beloved country artists.
Country Thunder Florida — Kissimmee, Florida
Keith Urban (photo by Getty Images)
October 20-22
Acts Include: Cody Johnson, Hardy, Keith Urban, Parker McCollum, Carly Pearce
Florida is the last stop in the line for the Country Thunder country music festival series — but certainly not the least. A great lineup of artists is poised to take over the city, located along the scenic Lake Tohopekaliga and just a stone's throw away from Disney World.
Country Bay Music Festival — Miami, Florida
Thomas Rhett (photo by Getty Images)
November 11 + 12
Acts include: Thomas Rhett, Sam Hunt, Chris Young, Lee Brice, Lainey Wilson
The distinctive setting of Miami Marine Stadium sets this event apart, offering an unparalleled experience. Attendees can relish the gentle breeze, the salty ocean scent, and the radiant sun while being serenaded by the finest country acts globally. Country Bay goes beyond music, featuring an array of carnival games, activities, and photo opportunities. There are also a variety of ice-cold beverages, an array of eateries, comfort food specialties, and refreshing frozen drinks.
