NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Every summer, hundreds of thousands of music fans descend on Nashville for one of the city’s biggest annual events: CMA Fest. From free concerts and celebrity appearances to meet-and-greets and late-night parties, CMA Fest transforms downtown Nashville into a four-day celebration of country music and Music City culture.
What Is CMA Fest?
CMA Fest is the signature fan festival produced by the Country Music Association, the same organization behind the annual Country Music Association Awards.
Originally launched in 1972 as Fan Fair, the event began as a way for country music fans to meet their favorite artists in person. What started as a small gathering at Nashville’s Municipal Auditorium has grown into one of the largest music festivals in the country, attracting fans from all 50 states and dozens of countries around the world.
While CMA Fest and the CMA Awards are connected through the Country Music Association, they serve different purposes. The CMA Awards, held each fall, recognize the year’s top artists, albums, songs, and performers. CMA Fest, on the other hand, is designed as a fan experience, bringing artists and fans together through concerts, autograph sessions, exhibits, and special events.
Today, CMA Fest generates millions of dollars in economic impact for Nashville while showcasing both established superstars and the next generation of country music talent.
1. CMA Fest at Nissan Stadium
The festival’s signature nighttime concerts feature some of country music’s biggest stars, including Blake Shelton, Keith Urban, Tim McGraw, Jason Aldean, and Shaboozey. MORE INFO
2. See Shaboozey Live
One of the most talked-about artists in music right now, Shaboozey performs Friday night at Nissan Stadium and is also featured during Fan Fair X activities throughout the weekend. MORE INFO
3. Spotify House at Ole Red
The free three-day takeover of Broadway returns with performances from Luke Bryan, Kane Brown, Jelly Roll, Shaboozey, Cody Johnson, Dan + Shay, Keith Urban and more. Expect long lines and celebrity sightings. MORE INFO
4. Fan Fair X at Music City Center
Meet artists, shop merchandise, attend interviews, watch acoustic performances, and enjoy exclusive fan experiences under one roof. MORE INFO
5. Meet Shaboozey at Fan Fair X
Shaboozey is Saturday’s featured “Artist of the Day” and will participate in special Fan Fair X programming. MORE INFO
6. Free Concerts at Riverfront Park
One of the most popular daytime stages, featuring performances throughout the weekend with free admission. MORE INFO
7. Walk of Fame Park Performances
Enjoy free daytime music and discover emerging artists while taking in the festival atmosphere. MORE INFO
8. Bridgestone Plaza Stage
Another free daytime stage featuring artists throughout CMA Fest weekend. MORE INFO
9. Ascend Park Free Shows
Catch performances from up-and-coming country artists and songwriters during the day. MORE INFO
10. Ryman & BMI Block Party
This free outdoor music series returns to downtown Nashville June 4-6 with performances from rising artists and songwriters. MORE INFO
11. SiriusXM Music Row Happy Hour
Broadcasting live from Chief’s on Broadway, this event includes live performances, artist interviews, and fan experiences. MORE INFO
12. Fresh Finds Rooftop at Ole Red
Spotify’s rooftop showcase highlights emerging artists and future stars throughout the weekend. MORE INFO
13. Randy Travis 40th Anniversary Exhibit
Country music legend Randy Travis is being honored with a special exhibit celebrating the 40th anniversary of his groundbreaking debut album. MORE INFO
14. Fan Alley
Located near Nissan Stadium, Fan Alley features food vendors, merchandise, sponsor activations, giveaways, and photo opportunities. MORE INFO
15. Broadway During CMA Fest
Even without a ticket, Lower Broadway becomes one giant party. Many bars feature surprise performances, special guests, and unofficial CMA Fest events all weekend long. MORE INFO
Black Artists & Events to Watch During CMA Fest
Country music’s roots are deeply connected to Black musical traditions, and a growing number of Black artists are helping shape the genre’s future. Here are a few artists and appearances worth watching this weekend:
Shaboozey
Fresh off a historic year, Shaboozey has become one of the biggest names in country music. His performances and fan appearances are expected to draw some of the festival’s largest crowds.
Kane Brown
One of the most successful artists in modern country music, Brown is scheduled to appear during Spotify House programming and remains one of the genre’s biggest crossover stars.
Scoot Teasley
The Georgia native continues to gain national attention and is among the Black artists performing during CMA Fest weekend.
Willie Jones
Known for blending country, hip-hop, and Southern culture, Jones remains one of the most recognizable voices helping expand the boundaries of the genre.
Other Artists to Watch
Fans should also keep an eye out for appearances and showcases featuring Brittney Spencer, Mickey Guyton, Tiera Kennedy, and Reyna Roberts during CMA Week activities around Nashville.
A Nashville Voice Tip
If you’re looking to experience CMA Fest without spending hundreds of dollars on tickets, focus on the free stages, Fan Fair X activities, Spotify House, and the many events happening throughout downtown. You’ll still get a chance to see major artists, discover new talent, and experience one of Nashville’s biggest annual celebrations.
