Best Music Festivals in Nashville

Are you a music lover? Do you enjoy the thrill of live concerts? Then you must visit Nashville, the Music City, and witness some of the best music festivals in the world. From country to rock, blues to jazz, Nashville has it all. Here are the top music festivals that you cannot afford to miss in Nashville.

The CMA Music Festival 🎶

The Country Music Association (CMA) Music Festival is one of the biggest events in Nashville. Every summer, thousands of country music fans from all over the world flock to the city to attend this four-day festival. The festival features performances by the biggest names in country music, including Luke Bryan, Miranda Lambert, and Blake Shelton. If you’re a country music fan, this festival is a must-visit.

Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival 🎨

Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival is one of the most diverse music festivals in Nashville. This four-day festival features over 150 performances across multiple stages. It showcases various genres of music, from rock to pop, hip-hop to EDM, and everything in between. The festival also has a large camping area, which provides a unique experience for its attendees.

Music City Jazz Festival 🎵

The Music City Jazz Festival is a two-day festival that celebrates the smooth sounds of jazz. The festival features performances by some of the biggest names in the jazz world, including Boney James, David Sanborn, and Kirk Whalum. The festival also has a vendor village, where you can buy food, drinks, and souvenir items.

Americana Music Festival 🎸

The Americana Music Festival is a five-day event that celebrates the roots of American music. The festival features performances by a variety of artists, including country, folk, rock, and blues. The festival also has a conference, where music industry professionals come together to discuss the current state and future of Americana music.

Tin Pan South Songwriters Festival 🎤

The Tin Pan South Songwriters Festival is a five-day festival that celebrates the art of songwriting. The festival features performances by some of the best songwriters in the world, including hitmakers like Luke Laird, Hillary Lindsey, and Shane McAnally. The festival also has songwriting workshops, where attendees can learn about the craft of songwriting from the best in the business.

Full Moon Pickin’ Parties 🌕

The Full Moon Pickin’ Parties are monthly events that take place during the full moon. These parties feature live bluegrass music, food, drinks, and a bonfire. The parties also have a jam session, where attendees can bring their instruments and join in on the fun. These parties take place in Percy Warner Park, which provides a beautiful backdrop for the event.

Live on the Green 🍃

Live on the Green is a free outdoor music festival that takes place in downtown Nashville. The festival features performances by local and national artists, including The Head and the Heart, Alabama Shakes, and Ben Harper. The festival also has a kids’ zone, where children can enjoy various activities while their parents enjoy the music.

Southern Ground Music and Food Festival 🍔

The Southern Ground Music and Food Festival is a two-day festival that celebrates music and food. The festival features performances by some of the biggest names in country and rock music, including Zac Brown Band and Eric Church. The festival also has a gourmet food village, where attendees can enjoy delicious food from top chefs.

Nashville Elvis Festival 🎙️

The Nashville Elvis Festival is a three-day festival that celebrates the music and legacy of Elvis Presley. The festival features performances by some of the best Elvis tribute artists in the world, including Cody Ray Slaughter and Jay Dupuis. The festival also has a panel discussion, where experts discuss the life and career of Elvis.

Music City Hot Chicken Festival 🐔

The Music City Hot Chicken Festival is a one-day festival that celebrates Nashville’s famous hot chicken. The festival features live music and a hot chicken eating contest. The festival also has a parade, where attendees can see various floats and performers.

Franklin Jazz Festival 🎷

The Franklin Jazz Festival is a two-day festival that celebrates the smooth sounds of jazz. The festival features performances by some of the best jazz artists in the world, including Ramsey Lewis and Kirk Whalum. The festival also has a VIP area, where attendees can enjoy exclusive amenities.

Music City Roots 🌳

Music City Roots is a weekly live radio show that celebrates the diverse sounds of Nashville. The show features performances by local and national artists, including bluegrass, folk, and rock musicians. The show is broadcasted live and is open to the public.

Bluegrass Nights at the Ryman 🎻

Bluegrass Nights at the Ryman is a weekly concert series that takes place in the historic Ryman Auditorium. The series features performances by some of the best bluegrass artists in the world, including Del McCoury Band and Ricky Skaggs. The series takes place during the summer months and is a must-visit for any bluegrass fan.

Music City Drum Corps International 🥁

The Music City Drum Corps International is an annual event that features performances by some of the best drum corps in the world. The event takes place in Nissan Stadium and showcases the precision and skill of these talented musicians. If you’re a fan of marching bands, this event is a must-see.

What is the best time to visit Nashville for music festivals?

The best time to visit Nashville for music festivals is during the summer months, from June to August. This is when most of the major festivals take place, including the CMA Music Festival, Bonnaroo, and Music City Jazz Festival. However, Nashville has music events throughout the year, so you can always find something to enjoy.

Where can I buy tickets for the music festivals in Nashville?

You can buy tickets for the music festivals in Nashville from the festival’s official website or from ticketing websites like Ticketmaster and StubHub. Some festivals also offer VIP packages and early bird discounts, so make sure to check their websites for more information.

Do I need to book accommodation in advance for music festivals in Nashville?

Yes, it’s recommended that you book your accommodation in advance for music festivals in Nashville, especially if you’re attending a large event like the CMA Music Festival or Bonnaroo. Nashville has many hotels, motels, and Airbnb rentals, so you can find something that fits your budget and preferences.

Are food and drinks available at the music festivals?

Yes, most music festivals in Nashville have food and drink vendors on-site. The festivals also have various options, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. However, some festivals do not allow outside food or drinks, so make sure to check their policies before bringing your own.

Is parking available at the music festivals?

Most music festivals in Nashville have parking available, but it can be limited. It’s recommended that you use public transportation or ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft to avoid parking hassles. Some festivals also offer shuttle services from designated pick-up points.

Are children allowed at the music festivals?

Yes, children are allowed at most music festivals in Nashville, but some festivals have age restrictions for certain areas or performances. It’s recommended that you check the festival’s policies before bringing your children. Some festivals also have designated kids’ zones and activities.

Can I bring my own chairs or blankets to the music festivals?

Most music festivals in Nashville allow attendees to bring their own chairs or blankets, but some festivals have restrictions on the types and sizes of chairs or blankets. It’s recommended that you check the festival’s policies before bringing your own. Some festivals also have designated seating areas.

What should I wear to the music festivals in Nashville?

It’s recommended that you wear comfortable and breathable clothing to the music festivals in Nashville, as most of them take place outdoors during the summer months. You should also wear sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun. Some festivals also have dress codes, so make sure to check their policies before dressing up.

What should I bring to the music festivals in Nashville?

You should bring a small backpack or bag to the music festivals in Nashville to carry your essentials, including your phone, camera, sunscreen, water bottle, and snacks. Some festivals also allow you to bring chairs or blankets, so check their policies before packing.

How can I stay updated on upcoming music festivals in Nashville?

You can stay updated on upcoming music festivals in Nashville by checking the festival’s official websites or social media pages. You can also subscribe to their newsletters or follow their event pages on Ticketmaster or StubHub. Nashville also has many local publications, including The Tennessean and Nashville Scene, that cover music events and festivals.

How can I make the most out of my music festival experience in Nashville?

You can make the most out of