Tennessee is a state that is rich in music history and is known for the Tennessee music festival. It’s also home to four of the best music festivals in the world. If you are a fan of music, a trip to Tennessee ensures a fun and exciting time. Here are the best music festivals in Tennessee. The following are among some of the most iconic, vibrant, and illustrious music festivals taking place in Tennessee.
Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival – Manchester, TN
Since 2002, Bonnaroo has been one of the premier music festivals in the country. Its two Tennessee locations in 2002, 2003, and 2004 led to a long-term stay in Manchester beginning in 2005.
The festival prides itself on being a non-profit event where revenue is donated to local, national, and international charities through its Bonnaroo Works Fund. The Bonnaroo festival is all about music and camping. Not only is the lineup of bands always stellar, but it’s surrounded by activities such as yoga, workshops, and comedy shows.
CMA Fest – Nashville, TN
The Country Music Association’s mission is to support the efforts of country music artists worldwide. They achieve this by hosting an annual four-day festival in downtown Nashville. The event features top musical acts showcasing both up-and-coming and legendary musicians. So if you are a fan of music, then this music festival is for you. Country music fans from all around the country converge on Nashville with their lawn chairs and picnic baskets, ready to enjoy four days of non-stop fun.
Pilgrimage Music Festival – Franklin, TN
This relatively new addition to the Tennessee music scene is a two-day festival that takes place in historic Franklin. The event includes live and recorded music, as well as food and other entertainment for those interested.
Beale Street Music Festival – Memphis, TN
Founded in 1977, this four-day event has attracted hundreds of thousands of music lovers. The festival takes place on the banks of Beale Street in downtown Memphis. Admission is free for all events aside from an opening concert which includes a ticketed performance by the Avett Brothers.
Appalachian Heritage Tennessee music festival – Gatlinburg, TN
This three-day event is meant to celebrate the rich music history of the state. It features folk artists from across Tennessee that are influenced by traditional bluegrass and old-time mountain music.
While Tennessee has a strong tradition in country music, they’ve also become home to many other genres. The festivals listed above provide a great deal of diversity in the music scene, allowing individuals to experience everything from folk to rock and soul music.
