Must-see music festivals in Tennessee for all types of music lovers.
A young festival, Bonnaroo has enjoyed great success and fame since its beginning in 2002. Held on a farm just outside Nashville in Manchester, Tennessee this festival has been home to bands like Dave Matthews, Bob Dylan, and Widespread Panic. The four day festival brings crowds nearing 100,000 and has been covered in music publication such as Spin, Rolling Stone, and Billboard. This is a must see festival for music lovers of all kinds with its emphasis on grassroots rock. It's been called "the American rock festival to end all festivals". Check out this year's dates and lineup and don't miss Bonnaroo this summer.
Sewanee Summer Music Festival
Sewaner Summer Music Festival is a festival for musicians and music-lovers alike. The five-week even features music workshops, classes, and big names in the industry joining together on this beautiful college campus. Look for the festival in July.
Beale Street Zydeco Festival
Held on Beale Street in Memphis this festival is a must for Cajun lovers. The primarily accordion music has a distinctly spicy sound and the cost of this festival is very reasonable. Held in February, it's a great way to beat the winter blues.
Country Music Marathon
Running and country music join together at this Nashville festival held each spring. Live country music from well-known bands provide a backdrop to the races which include a marathon, half marathon, and kids run. The day ends with a huge concert at the Coliseum.
Fan Fair
Another Nashville favorite, Fan Fair is home to beloved country music stars and their fans. Held in June, this event attracts thousands seeking photos, photographs, or just a little live music. The four day party is proceeded by the Country Music Awards (CMA).
Tin Pan South
Tin Pan South is a festival that celebrates songwriters and their songs. Named after New York's Tin Pan Alley, the festival features over 70 shows at venues around Nashville during a week long event each spring. Songwriters workshops and lectures are also part of the fun. See you favorite musicians at clubs like 12th & Porter, Loews Vanderbilt Hotel, Bluebird Café, and many more.
Legacy Bluegrass Spring Fest
Held in late April, early May this festival features the best of Appalachian bluegrass. Beautiful Crossville, Tennessee is home tot he festival which also showcases gospel and bluegrass jams.
Bluegrass in the Smokies
As the name implies, the Bluegrass in the Smokies Festival is held in the heart of the Smoky Mountains in beautiful Sevier County, also home to Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, and Dolly Parton. See major bluegrass artists perform to an audience nearing 3,000. Held every fall against the backdrop of autumn colors.
Dumplin Valley Bluegrass Festival
You won't want to miss this bluegrass celebration held on a farm outside Kodak, Tennessee. With over 4,000 in attendance, down home bluegrass takes over the September weekend event.
Rhythm & Roots Reunion
Held in Bristol, Tennessee near the border of Virginia, the downtown festival features hundreds of musicians, crafters, artists, and food vendors. Estimated attendance is 40,000
Raccoon Valley Bluegrass Festival
Held in Powell, Tennessee this festival celebrates live music and Appalachian culture.
Americana Folk Festival
Held every October in Dickson, Tennessee the Americana Folk Festival is an up & coming event celebrating folk music, art, and down home roots.
