9 Annual Music Festivals in Middle Tennessee

by
people at music festival with a Nashville skyline

Nestled in the heart of the American South, Middle Tennessee is a region that reverberates with the melodies of its illustrious musical heritage. From the soulful strains of blues to the heartfelt narratives of country, Tennessee has played a pivotal role in shaping the soundscape of American music. Nashville, fondly known as “Music City,” stands testament to this legacy with its iconic venues and historic landmarks.

One of the crowning jewels of Middle Tennessee’s music scene is the Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival in Manchester. Drawing tens of thousands of attendees each year, it’s a testament to the region’s enduring love for music. As we explore the vibrant festivals of this region, we’re reminded of the rich tapestry of sounds and stories that make Middle Tennessee a musical mecca.

Music Festivals in Middle Tennessee

Festival Name Location Approximate Dates Duration Website
Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival Manchester, TN June (specific dates vary each year) 4 days Bonnaroo Official Website
CMA Music Festival (CMA Fest) Nashville, TN June (specific dates vary each year) 4 days CMA Fest Official Website
Americana Music Festival & Conference Nashville, TN September (specific dates vary each year) 4 days Americana Music Festival Official Website
Pilgrimage Music & Cultural Festival Franklin, TN September (specific dates vary each year) 2 days Pilgrimage Festival Official Website
Muddy Roots Music Festival Cookeville, TN Usually Labor Day Weekend 3 days Muddy Roots Official Website
Music City Jazz Festival Nashville, TN May (specific dates vary each year) 2-3 days Music City Jazz Festival Official Website
Exit 56 Blues Fest Brownsville, TN May (specific dates vary each year) 2 days Exit 56 Blues Fest Official Website
Jammin’ at Hippie Jack’s Americana Roots Music Festival Overton County, TN May (specific dates vary each year) 3 days Jammin’ at Hippie Jack’s Official Website
Main Street JazzFest Murfreesboro, TN May (specific dates vary each year) 2 days Main Street JazzFest Official Website

Annual music festivals in Middle Tennessee

For many residents of Cookeville, these musical festivities aren’t just events; they’re a way of life. Strategically located, Cookeville serves as an ideal home base for music enthusiasts. Its position allows residents and visitors alike the opportunity to easily venture out to any of these festivals, making it a prime spot for those who want to immerse themselves in Middle Tennessee’s rich musical offerings.

Living in Cookeville sort of means being at the epicenter of music festival culture in the Southeast, where rhythms, melodies, and harmonies are just a short drive away. Here are some of the most popular music festivals that take place right here in Middle Tennessee.

1. Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival

  • Location: Manchester, TN
  • Approximate Dates: June (specific dates vary each year)
  • Website: Bonnaroo Official Website
  • Genre: Diverse – Rock, Pop, Hip-hop, EDM, and more.

Nestled in the heart of Middle Tennessee, the Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival is more than just an event—it’s a cultural phenomenon. Since its inception in 2002, Bonnaroo has grown exponentially, transforming from a modest music gathering into one of the nation’s premier music festivals. Year after year, it attracts a diverse array of top artists from varying genres, ensuring that there’s something for everyone, from rock and pop aficionados to EDM and hip-hop enthusiasts.

What sets Bonnaroo apart is its immersive experience. Many attendees choose to camp out on the festival grounds, creating a vibrant community of music lovers. For several days, festival-goers are enveloped in a world where they can disconnect from the outside and connect with the rhythm of the music and the collective energy of thousands of like-minded individuals. Camping at Bonnaroo is not just about pitching a tent; it’s about joining mini-communities within the festival, sharing stories, food, and dance moves with neighbors.

In terms of scale, Bonnaroo is impressive. The festival spans over 700 acres and boasts multiple stages, ensuring a continuous flow of performances. Beyond music, there’s comedy, cinema, and a myriad of art installations, making it a comprehensive sensory experience. As for tickets, prices vary based on the type of experience one is seeking. General Admission tickets start at around $279, with VIP and Platinum options available for those seeking a more luxurious festival experience. With its eclectic mix of sounds, sights, and vibes, Bonnaroo is more than just a festival; it’s a celebration of music, art, and community.

2. CMA Music Festival (CMA Fest)

  • Location: Nashville, TN
  • Approximate Dates: June (specific dates vary each year)
  • Website: CMA Fest Official Website
  • Genre: Country

In the heart of “Music City”, Nashville, the CMA Music Festival stands as a beacon of country music’s illustrious heritage and its promising future. Established in 1972 as “Fan Fair”, the festival has grown into an annual pilgrimage for country music enthusiasts from around the world, eager to experience the genre in its purest form.

The CMA Fest is a celebration that goes beyond music; it’s a bridge between country music artists and their fans. Over the course of four days, attendees are treated to intimate performances by both legendary artists and rising stars. The festival is known for its unique events, such as the “Fan Fair X”, where fans get the rare opportunity to meet their favorite artists, get autographs, and even snap a photo or two. Various stages scattered across downtown Nashville resonate with live music, ensuring that the melodies of country music are omnipresent.

But it’s not just about the music. The festival also offers a glimpse into the culture and community that underpin country music. From the picturesque Riverfront Stage set against the backdrop of the Cumberland River to the grandeur of the Nissan Stadium, where nightly concerts draw massive crowds, the CMA Fest is a spectacle in every sense. Ticket prices vary, with four-day passes providing access to all concerts and events, ensuring fans get the full CMA Fest experience. Whether you’re a lifelong country music lover or a newcomer to the genre, the CMA Music Festival offers an unparalleled journey into the heart and soul of country music.

3. Americana Music Festival & Conference

In the vibrant musical landscape of Nashville, the Americana Music Festival & Conference carves out a unique space, celebrating the raw and rootsy sounds of Americana. A genre that blends folk, country, blues, and rock, Americana is the tapestry of American music heritage, and this festival is its ultimate showcase.

Spanning several days, the Americana Music Festival & Conference is both an auditory and intellectual feast. By day, industry professionals gather for seminars, panels, and networking events, delving deep into the intricacies of the music business and the evolving landscape of Americana. By night, the city of Nashville comes alive with the soulful sounds of the genre. With over 50 venues across the city hosting live performances, attendees can embark on a musical journey, discovering both established legends and emerging artists.

One of the highlights of the festival is the annual Honors & Awards show, which pays tribute to the pioneers of Americana and recognizes the best in the genre. Beyond the music, the festival is a confluence of storytellers, musicians, and fans, all bound by their love for authentic and heartfelt soundscapes. Whether you’re an industry insider looking to gain insights, or a music lover eager to immerse yourself in the rich sounds of Americana, this festival offers a comprehensive and deeply enriching experience.

4. Pilgrimage Music & Cultural Festival

  • Location: Franklin, TN
  • Approximate Dates: September (specific dates vary each year)
  • Website: Pilgrimage Festival Official Website
  • Genre: Diverse – Rock, Country, Folk, Blues, and more.

Set against the picturesque backdrop of Franklin, Tennessee, the Pilgrimage Music & Cultural Festival is a harmonious blend of music, culture, and Southern charm. Inspired by the idea of a modern-day pilgrimage, where people from all walks of life come together to share their love for music, this festival has quickly become a must-attend event on the music calendar.

The heart of Pilgrimage lies in its diverse musical lineup. Spanning multiple genres, from rock and country to folk and blues, the festival ensures a rich auditory experience, appealing to a wide range of musical tastes. The stages, with names like “Gold Record Road” and “Midnight Sun,” are scattered across the Park at Harlinsdale Farm, a historic horse farm that adds to the festival’s unique ambiance.

But Pilgrimage is more than just music. It’s a cultural celebration. Attendees can explore the Art Barn, showcasing works from local artisans, or indulge in Southern culinary delights at the festival’s food stalls. For families, there’s the Lil’ Pilgrims Family Stage, offering kid-friendly activities and performances. The festival also places a strong emphasis on sustainability, with eco-friendly initiatives ensuring a green festival experience.

With its blend of top-tier music, cultural activities, and a commitment to sustainability, the Pilgrimage Music & Cultural Festival offers attendees an immersive and authentic Southern music festival experience.

5. Muddy Roots Music Festival

  • Location: Cookeville, TN
  • Approximate Dates: Usually Labor Day Weekend
  • Website: Muddy Roots Official Website
  • Genre: Roots – Country, Blues, Bluegrass, Punk, and more.

Right here in Cookeville, our hometown gem, the Muddy Roots Music Festival showcases the rich tapestry of American roots music. Celebrating a blend of genres, from the heartfelt narratives of country and the deep emotion of blues to the edgy rhythms of punk, Muddy Roots is a musical experience like no other.

The ethos of Muddy Roots goes beyond just music. It’s about community, authenticity, and a return to the roots of sound. Here, artists and fans converge in a celebration of raw, unfiltered music, away from the commercial gloss, making it a haven for those who seek genuine musical experiences.

Set against the scenic backdrop of the Tennessee countryside, the festival is a multi-day event, with campgrounds that buzz with activity, impromptu jam sessions, and a spirit of camaraderie. For those who call Cookeville home, Muddy Roots holds a special place, not just as a music festival, but as a testament to the rich musical heritage of our region.

6. Music City Jazz Festival

In the vibrant city of Nashville, known predominantly for its country and rock roots, the Music City Jazz Festival emerges as a shimmering ode to the world of jazz. A genre characterized by improvisation, soulful melodies, and intricate rhythms, jazz finds a fitting tribute in this annual festival that draws aficionados from all corners.

The Music City Jazz Festival is more than just a series of performances; it’s a deep dive into the rich tapestry of jazz music. From traditional jazz standards and the smooth tunes of contemporary artists to the experimental sounds of fusion jazz, the festival offers a broad spectrum of the genre, ensuring that both purists and new fans find something to cherish.

Set against the backdrop of Nashville’s iconic skyline, the festival’s stages come alive with the sounds of trumpets, saxophones, pianos, and sultry vocals. Beyond the music, attendees can indulge in gourmet food stalls, artisan crafts, and interactive workshops that delve deeper into the world of jazz. As day turns to night, the festival transforms into a luminous spectacle with evening performances under the stars, encapsulating the enchanting world of jazz in the heart of Tennessee.

7. Exit 56 Blues Fest

In the town of Brownsville, where the echoes of history blend with contemporary rhythms, the Exit 56 Blues Fest stands as a poignant tribute to the enduring legacy of blues music. The raw emotion, powerful storytelling, and soulful melodies inherent to the blues genre are celebrated and magnified at this annual event.

Exit 56 Blues Fest is not merely a music festival—it’s an experience. It’s an invitation to journey through the profound narratives of blues, exploring themes of love, loss, hope, and resilience. As guitar strings wail and harmonicas cry out, attendees are transported to the crossroads of the Mississippi Delta, where the roots of blues music run deep.

The festival showcases a mix of established blues legends and emerging talents, ensuring a diverse auditory experience. But the celebration doesn’t stop at music. Brownsville’s rich history and cultural landmarks, such as the West Tennessee Delta Heritage Center, add depth to the festival experience. Attendees can immerse themselves in workshops, indulge in Southern culinary delights, and even explore a classic car cruise-in, making the festival a comprehensive celebration of blues and the culture that surrounds it.

Nestled just off Interstate 40, hence the name “Exit 56”, this festival serves as a gateway to the rich blues heritage of Tennessee, offering both residents and visitors an authentic blues experience.

8. Jammin’ at Hippie Jack’s Americana Roots Music Festival

Nestled in the serene countryside of Overton County, the Jammin’ at Hippie Jack’s Americana Roots Music Festival offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. On a vast farm, owned by the philanthropic Hippie Jack, music and community converge in a celebration of Americana, folk, and roots music.

The festival is more than just a musical gathering; it’s a reflection of Hippie Jack’s vision of community and giving back. Attendees to his farm are often encouraged to bring canned goods, which are later distributed to those in need, embodying the spirit of love, care, and sharing. This sense of community is palpable throughout the festival, with attendees forming a close-knit family, bound by their love for music and the ethos of the event.

As you wander through the sprawling farm, the air is filled with the soulful sounds of live music, interspersed with the laughter and conversations of attendees. You will likely see vendors and food trucks. The atmosphere is reminiscent of the 60s and 70s, with a modern twist, as “hippies” explore the grounds, dance to the music, and get to know one another.

What sets Jammin’ at Hippie Jack’s apart is its authenticity. It’s a festival that stays true to its roots, offering an unfiltered, genuine experience. Whether you’re lounging on a hammock, dancing barefoot on the grass, or simply soaking in the melodies, the festival is a rejuvenating retreat, a place where music, nature, and community coalesce in perfect harmony.

9. Main Street JazzFest

In the bustling heart of Murfreesboro, the Main Street JazzFest stands as a beacon of musical sophistication and elegance. For over two decades, this annual event has transformed the city’s streets into a jazz haven, where the intricate melodies and rhythms of the genre come to life, captivating audiences of all ages.

The Main Street JazzFest is more than just an assortment of musical performances; it’s a cultural celebration. As the name suggests, the festival takes over the main streets of Murfreesboro, turning them into vibrant stages where local and national jazz artists showcase their talents. From sultry saxophone solos to dynamic drum ensembles, the diverse range of performances ensures that every jazz enthusiast finds their niche.

But the festival’s appeal goes beyond its musical offerings. It’s a community event, where local businesses, artisans, and food vendors come together to celebrate the spirit of Murfreesboro. Families can enjoy interactive workshops, children’s activities, and a myriad of food stalls offering local delicacies.

Over the years, the Main Street JazzFest has become a staple in Middle Tennessee’s cultural calendar, drawing residents and visitors alike. It’s not just a festival; it’s a tradition. A tradition that celebrates the universal language of jazz and the community spirit of Murfreesboro.

About Jeff Martin

Avatar photoJeff was born in Cookeville, TN and has raised three children there. He knows a lot about the area and likes sharing his intimate knowledge of the city here on this blog.

View all posts by Jeff Martin

Leave a Comment