Country music fans know there’s nothing quite like the energy of a live festival. Between the guitar riffs, the singalong choruses, and the sense of community, these events are more than just concerts—they’re experiences. Across the U.S., you’ll find festivals that mix legendary names with up-and-coming talent, all set against backdrops ranging from rolling farmlands to beachfront stages.
Here is a list of 17 country music festivals across the U.S. that are worth the trip.
CMA Fest – Nashville, Tennessee
Held every June, CMA Fest transforms Nashville into a non-stop celebration of country music. The lineup blends superstar headliners with fresh talent performing on multiple stages across the city. Beyond the music, fans can enjoy meet-and-greets, autograph signings, and interactive exhibits that bring them closer to their favorite artists.
The event’s location in the heart of country music makes it a bucket-list festival for any fan.
Stagecoach Festival – Indio, California
Known as the ‘Coachella of country,’ the Stagecoach Festival draws massive crowds to the California desert each April. The lineup is packed with top-charting stars, legendary acts, and genre-crossing performers who bring a unique twist to the festival.
Food vendors, craft beer gardens, and western-themed attractions keep the atmosphere lively all weekend. The wide-open desert setting adds to the festival’s big-stage energy.
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Tortuga Music Festival – Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Tortuga combines country music with ocean views, taking place right on Fort Lauderdale Beach. The festival raises awareness for ocean conservation while featuring a lineup that mixes country, rock, and roots music.
Sand between your toes and waves in the background make for a relaxed yet electric vibe. It’s an ideal choice for fans who want their festival experience paired with beach life.
Faster Horses Festival – Brooklyn, Michigan
Dubbed ‘three days of camping and country music,’ Faster Horses is a summer tradition for many Midwestern fans. The festival is held at Michigan International Speedway, with a mix of high-energy performances and laid-back campsite gatherings.
Festival-goers often decorate their campsites and enjoy tailgate-style parties between shows. The mix of music and community spirit gives it a hometown feel despite its large scale.
Country Thunder Arizona – Florence, Arizona
Country Thunder Arizona is part of a larger festival series that travels across North America. The Arizona edition draws big-name artists and thousands of fans to a massive outdoor venue each April.
Campgrounds turn into mini neighborhoods where friendships form over shared barbecues and jam sessions. The desert sunsets provide a stunning backdrop to the music.
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Watershed Festival – George, Washington
Watershed takes place at the Gorge Amphitheatre, known for its breathtaking views of the Columbia River Gorge. The natural setting adds an unforgettable touch to a lineup that includes some of the biggest names in country music.
Festival-goers can camp on-site, making it easy to soak in both the music and the scenery. The combination of world-class performances and jaw-dropping landscapes makes it unique.
Barefoot Country Music Fest – Wildwood, New Jersey
Set on the Wildwood beach, Barefoot Country Music Fest brings a summer vacation vibe to the East Coast. Multiple stages feature a mix of well-known stars and rising artists, all just steps from the Atlantic Ocean.
Fans can enjoy rides on the nearby boardwalk between sets. The casual beach setting makes it a relaxed yet lively experience.
Country Jam USA – Eau Claire, Wisconsin
This long-running festival in Wisconsin blends a welcoming atmosphere with a stacked lineup of country favorites. The event draws dedicated fans who return year after year for the music and camaraderie.
On-site camping keeps the community close, with late-night campfire sing-alongs adding to the charm. The festival’s consistency has made it a Midwest favorite.
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Carolina Country Music Fest – Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Carolina Country Music Fest combines oceanfront views with high-energy performances from top-tier artists. The beachfront location lets fans enjoy both the stage and the shoreline without missing a beat.
Food stalls, drink tents, and local vendors add to the festive atmosphere. The blend of southern hospitality and big-name acts keeps the crowds coming back.
Country Thunder Wisconsin – Twin Lakes, Wisconsin
Another stop in the Country Thunder series, the Wisconsin edition is known for its strong community feel. Fans often arrive days early to set up elaborate campsites.
The lineup covers everything from chart-topping stars to breakout performers, keeping the energy high from start to finish. The mix of music and Midwestern friendliness sets it apart.
Gulf Coast Jam – Panama City Beach, Florida
Held over Labor Day weekend, Gulf Coast Jam pairs country music with Florida’s white-sand beaches. Fans can enjoy performances during the day and relax by the water in the evening.
The festival also features local food vendors, adding a taste of the Gulf Coast to the experience. The late-summer timing makes it a great send-off to the season.
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Country Thunder Florida – Kissimmee, Florida
Set in central Florida, this festival offers the signature Country Thunder experience with a southern twist. Big-name artists headline the main stage while local talent fills the supporting slots.
Camping and tailgating are part of the culture, giving the event a friendly, laid-back atmosphere. Its location makes it accessible for fans from across the Southeast.
Windy City Smokeout – Chicago, Illinois
While barbecue is a big draw at Windy City Smokeout, the country music lineup is equally impressive. The festival blends live performances with award-winning pitmasters serving up regional specialties.
Located along the Chicago River, it offers a unique city-meets-country vibe. The mix of food, music, and urban scenery creates a standout summer weekend.
Country Fan Fest – Tooele, Utah
Country Fan Fest has grown into Utah’s biggest country music event, attracting fans from across the region. The festival blends camping, music, and local food vendors into one big celebration.
The scenic mountain backdrop makes for a striking setting during evening performances. It’s a mix of small-town charm and big-stage talent.
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Rock the South – Cullman, Alabama
Rock the South started as a relief benefit and has grown into a major festival attracting tens of thousands. The lineup balances modern country stars with traditional favorites.
Fans can expect a warm, friendly atmosphere alongside energetic performances. Its roots in community support still influence the festival’s welcoming vibe.
Buckeye Country Superfest – Columbus, Ohio
Held at Ohio Stadium, Buckeye Country Superfest brings together some of the biggest names in the genre. The massive venue offers a stadium-level experience, complete with state-of-the-art sound and production.
Fans pack the stands for all-day performances that deliver both energy and spectacle. The setting in a major sports arena gives it a larger-than-life feel.
Country Fest – Cadott, Wisconsin
Country Fest in Cadott is one of the Midwest’s longest-running festivals, celebrating decades of country music tradition. The lineup consistently features a mix of legends and newcomers, keeping fans engaged year after year.
On-site camping and organized fan events add to the festival’s community-driven atmosphere. Its long history makes it a must-visit for dedicated country fans.
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A Tradition That Keeps Growing
Country music festivals have evolved from small gatherings into massive multi-day events, yet they’ve kept their focus on connection and shared passion. Whether set against a city skyline, a quiet beach, or an open field, these fests prove that the music thrives in every corner of the U.S.
Fans come for the performances, but it’s the friendships, traditions, and memories that bring them back. The spirit of these festivals shows that country music is as much about community as it is about the songs.
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