Whether you’re a die-hard country fan or just looking for some new music, there are plenty of great country events to check out this summer. We’ve rounded up the top 10 country music festivals from around the United States, plus tips for attending them!
Several of these fests have established roots in the country music industry, with headliners like Morgan Wallen, Cody Johnson and Tim McGraw leading the pack. Others, such as the upcoming Faster Horses festival in Brooklyn, are spotlighting breakout talent.
1. Country Stampede
Country Stampede is a three-day festival that brings together some of the best country music stars in the world. Taking place every summer in Topeka, Kansas, it features a number of events and activities.
The festival started in 1996 and has grown steadily over the years. This year’s lineup features some of the biggest names in country music.
2. Country 500
Country 500, also called ‘The Great American Music Fest at Daytona’, brings out the biggest country stars for Memorial Day Weekend. This mega-country festival is held on the infield of the world famous Daytona International Speedway.
Fans love this three-day event for its lineup, which features up-and-comers along with superstars like Sugarland and Toby Keith. It also allows fans to camp out in the infield.
3. Stagecoach
Stagecoach is one of the world’s best country music festivals. It’s held in Indio, California, every year and attracts fans from around the world.
Featuring some of country music’s biggest stars, the festival is held on the last weekend in April. This three-day event has something for everyone, including music, food and fun.
4. Carolina Country Music Fest
The Carolina Country Music Fest is a three-day country music festival that takes place in sunny Myrtle Beach. This popular event usually features more than 30 artists and is a great opportunity to catch some of the hottest country music stars in action.
It’s been six years since the CCMF first started, and organizers say it’s grown significantly in that time. This year’s lineup will include breakout star Morgan Wallen and Miranda Lambert along with 90s legend Travis Tritt and southern rock superstars Brooks & Dunn.
5. Pepsi Gulf Coast Jam
If you’re a country music fan, you have to head to Panama City Beach for Pepsi Gulf Coast Jam. This three-day festival brings the best country artists to Frank Brown Park in June.
It’s the perfect way to enjoy the Florida weather and the Emerald Coast! Plus, it’s a fun family event.
6. Rock The South
Founded by 46 Entertainment co-owner Nathan Baugh and Premier Productions CEO Shane Quick, Rock The South has grown to attract thousands of country music fans each year. It’s not an easy feat in a market that’s been plagued by numerous festival cancellations due to low ticket sales.
The Cullman, Alabama-based festival is known for its diverse lineup and its support of local charities. Since 2012, the event has raised more than $1 million for Cullman City Parks and Recreation, Children’s Hospital of Alabama, The Link of Cullman County and Cullman Caring for Kids.
7. FarmBorough
Founders Entertainment, the team behind Governors Ball and Live Nation, have rolled out NYC’s first country music festival. It’s a risk, but it could work.
The lineup for Day One featured Canaan Smith, RaeLynn, Maddie & Tae, Joe Nichols and Kip Moore. Dierks Bentley headlined the nightcap.
Also on the bill were Brooks & Dunn, Kacey Musgraves, Brantley Gilbert, Thomas Rhett, A Thousand Horses, Billy Currington, Lonestar and David Nail.
8. Hunter Mountain Music Festival
The Hunter Mountain Music Festival is one of the best country music festivals in the US. It’s hosted on world-class Hunter Mountain Ski Resort, and features concerts by some of the biggest stars in the industry.
This three-day country event is held every June, and offers a full lineup of established and emerging artists. It’s also surrounded by incredible Catskills attractions, including hiking, skiing and more.
9. Myrtle Beach Country Fest
Every year in June, Myrtle Beach turns into a music festival paradise with Carolina Country Music Fest. This three-day event features over 30 hottest country artists.
This is the biggest outdoor country music festival on the east coast. It’s located at Burroughs and Chapin Pavilion Place right in the heart of Myrtle Beach.