THE 10 BIGGEST COUNTRY MUSIC FESTIVALS IN THE WORLD: THE ULTIMATE GUIDE FOR COUNTRY FANS
Country music is a genre that has deeply rooted traditions, yet it continually evolves, offering something for everyone. If you’re a fan of country music, attending a festival dedicated to this genre can be a life-altering experience. From foot-tapping tunes to soulful ballads, country festivals showcase it all. Below, we’ve compiled a list of the 10 biggest country music festivals in the world that you should consider adding to your bucket list.
CMA Music Festival – Nashville, Tennessee, USA
Overview
Dubbed the “home of country music,” Nashville’s CMA Music Festival is a must-visit. With hundreds of artists, including the biggest names in the industry, performing on multiple stages, this is a pilgrimage for true country fans.
Unique Features
- Autograph sessions
- Fan-photo opportunities
- Family-friendly activities
Stagecoach – Indio, California, USA
Overview
Stagecoach is another massive event that calls the USA home. Taking place in the California desert, this festival offers more than just music; it’s an all-encompassing experience.
Unique Features
- Stagecoach BBQ competition
- Vintage market
- Dance workshops
Boots and Hearts – Oro-Medonte, Ontario, Canada
Overview
Canada’s largest country music festival, Boots and Hearts is a multi-day event featuring over 40 artists every year. The festival boasts world-class stages and the biggest names in the genre.
Unique Features
- Emerging artist showcase
- Camping options
- Late-night dance parties
Tamworth Country Music Festival – Tamworth, Australia
Overview
This Australian festival has a unique outback charm. The 10-day event takes over the city of Tamworth, featuring over 700 artists in hundreds of venues.
Unique Features
- Talent quests
- Buskers competition
- Hands-on workshops
Country Thunder – Various Locations, USA and Canada
Overview
Country Thunder is a series of festivals spread across North America. Each location offers a distinct flavor, but all maintain the high standards of music and atmosphere.
Unique Features
- Multi-genre stages
- VIP experiences
- On-site camping
T in the Park – Perthshire, Scotland
Overview
Though not exclusively a country festival, T in the Park has hosted many iconic country acts. Set in the scenic countryside of Scotland, this festival offers a European perspective on the genre.
Unique Features
- Diverse music genres
- European food and drink
- Art installations
Country to Country (C2C) – London, UK
Overview
This multi-city festival takes place in London, Glasgow, and Dublin. It’s Europe’s largest annual country music festival, often featuring American stars.
Unique Features
- Indoor venues
- International acts
- Marketplace and retail area
Craven Country Jamboree – Saskatchewan, Canada
Overview
Known as the “World’s Greatest Country Music Festival,” Craven takes place in the Qu’Appelle Valley and has been a staple in the community for decades.
Unique Features
- Beer gardens
- Songwriting competitions
- Family-oriented activities
Faster Horses – Brooklyn, Michigan, USA
Overview
Faster Horses is often called the “party of the summer.” The festival prides itself on offering a fun atmosphere alongside a top-tier lineup.
Unique Features
- Carnival rides
- Water slide
- Food trucks
Big Valley Jamboree – Camrose, Alberta, Canada
Overview
This Canadian festival is renowned for its camping experience. Set in a prairie landscape, the festival offers a genuinely rustic country experience.
Unique Features
- Songwriting workshops
- Craft beer gardens
- Variety of food options
Country music festivals offer much more than just music; they offer an experience that embodies the spirit and culture of country life. Whether you’re in the USA, Canada, Australia, or Europe, there’s a festival near you waiting to give you the time of your life. So put on those cowboy boots and get ready to have a foot-stomping good time!