May 23, 2024
·Kristen Humphries
CMA Fest is Nashville’s must-attend country music festival held every June. This guide will help you secure tickets, find top venues, and enjoy performances from your favorite artists. Learn how to plan your visit and make the most of CMA Fest.
Key Takeaways
Get ready for CMA Fest 2024 with a variety of ticket options and convenient accommodations in Nashville, plus essential tips like downloading the CMA Connect App and adhering to the clear bag policy.
CMA Fest has a rich history from its origins as Fan Fair, featuring unforgettable moments like performances by Carrie Underwood with Joan Jett and innovative collaborations such as Billy Ray Cyrus, Lil Nas X, and Keith Urban’s ‘Old Town Road’.
Enjoy diverse musical experiences across multiple stages, including the iconic Nissan Stadium.
How to Attend CMA Fest
The countdown to CMA Fest 2024 is on, and with the festivities spanning from June 6-9, you’ll want to be front and center for every encore. To ensure your spot at this musical extravaganza, dive into the range of pass and ticket options. From the all-encompassing four-night pass to single-day tickets, all conveniently mobile, you’re set for a hassle-free experience.
Accommodations? Nashville, Tennessee rolls out the red carpet with options like the Hampton Inn Downtown package, which includes a five-night stay, breakfast, and that ever-precious discounted valet parking, placing you in the heart of the action. And for those looking for that extra twang of convenience and luxury, some packages come with perks like rooftop pools and exclusive access to autograph sessions.
We recommend downloading the SeatGeek app for faster day-of entry. While you're at it, download the CMA Connect App, your personal festival assistant that keeps you updated on stage schedules, lineups, and those must-have festival maps. With over two square miles of music and festivities, walking is your best bet to navigate the grounds, although complimentary shuttles are also at your service. Remember, CMA Fest has embraced the digital age, so make sure your pockets are filled with cards or set up for mobile payments.
Little country fans are welcome too, with children 2 and under attending for free, making CMA Fest a family affair.
History of CMA Fest
Delve into the annals of CMA Fest, where its humble beginnings as Fan Fair blossomed into the star-studded event we know today, supported by the CMA Foundation. It was in 2001 that the festival found its home in downtown Nashville, unfolding over a long weekend and setting the stage for what would become a country music institution.
The rebranding to Country Music Association (CMA) Music Festival in 2004, and later to CMA Fest in 2018, was more than a name change—it was a declaration of the festival’s evolution and its commitment to celebrating country music’s past, present, and future.
Memorable Moments from Past Festivals
CMA Fest has had its share of electrifying moments that have echoed through the corridors of country music history. Take for instance, the 2019 stage that lit up with the dynamic duo of Carrie Underwood and Joan Jett, merging country with rock in a medley that left fans breathless. Or rewind to 2013, when Jason Aldean and Lenny Kravitz brought down the house with a rendition of ‘American Woman’ that bridged genres and generations. And who could forget the unforgettable performance by Cody Johnson, leaving a lasting impression on the audience? Not to mention the soulful tunes of Colbie Caillat that have also graced the CMA Fest stage.
The festival has also witnessed collaborations that defy expectations, like the unforgettable blend of Billy Ray Cyrus, Lil Nas X, and Keith Urban for a ‘Old Town Road’ performance that had the crowd roaring. These magical moments are what CMA Fest is all about—creating memories that last a lifetime, like Garth Brooks’ marathon autograph session in 1996, a testament to the deep connection between artists and fans.
Multiple Stages and Performances
CMA Fest is a symphony of sounds that resonate from multiple stages, each offering a unique auditory adventure. From the free-spirited Chevy Riverfront Stage to the Chevy Vibes Stage, right by Nashville’s Walk of Fame, these platforms are home to throwback tunes and up-and-comers alike, with no ticket required. Ascend to new musical heights at the Dr Pepper Amp Stage or mingle with rising stars at the Good Molecules Reverb Stage, nestled among Nashville’s bustling Broadway eateries. And for those who crave a restless road of diverse musical experiences, CMA Fest has it all.
For those craving a more intimate setting, Fan Fair X is your haven within Music City Center, where meet & greets with artists like Ashley McBryde make for personal memories. And when the sun sets, the Hard Rock Stage comes alive with performances that turn the night into a celebration of country music. Whether you’re captivated by the storytelling of Carly Pearce, swaying to the tunes of Bailey Zimmerman, or rocking out with Brothers Osborne, CMA Fest’s lineup is a showcase of diversity and talent.
Nissan Stadium, the festival’s crown jewel, hosts four nights of star-studded concerts, with highlights broadcasted for the world to see on ABC’s CMA Fest special. Ascend Amphitheater, too, beckons with its lineup of legends and fresh faces, creating a mosaic of music that’s as enchanting as the Nashville skyline. On the CMA Close Up Stage, get up close and personal with artists during Q&As and acoustic sets that strip back layers to reveal the heart of country music.
2024 Concerts at Nissan Stadium
When it comes to venues, some are so iconic they become synonymous with the festival itself. Nissan Stadium is one such place, with its grand stage drawing in the masses for unforgettable evenings under the Nashville sky. Here's a list of other tours that are hitting Nashville's beloved Nissan Stadium this summer:
Zach Bryan's Quittin Time Tour
Zach Bryan will head to Nissan Stadium on June 29 alongside Levi Turner and Turnpike Troubadours, starting at 7:00pm. Currently, the lowest priced ticket sits around $200, while GA Field tickets cost just over $400. Grab tickets to his Nashville show here.
Def Leppard & Journey's The Summer Stadium Tour
Looking for something a little different than country? These classic rock icons are playing Nissan Stadium on July 20, alongside Steve Miller Band. The concert kicks off at 6:00pm and tickets start around $45 for upper 300-level seating. You can find tickets for $250 in the 100 level-seating area. Check out all the pricing options here.
Kenny Chesney's When The Sun Goes Down Tour
Kenny Chesney, joined by Uncle Kracker, Zac Brown Band and Megan Moroney, will head to Nissan Stadium on August 3. The show starts at 5:00pm, so make sure you head out early enough to catch the opening sets! You can find reasonable tickets, starting around $65, in the upper 300-level stands. Floor tickets will cost more, but offer a better view of the action.
Grab your Kenny Chesney tickets here.
Other Nashville Venues
The music doesn’t end with Nissan Stadium; the historic Ryman Auditorium opens its sacred doors for a special Grand Ole Opry matinee performance that’s nothing short of legendary.
Ascend Amphitheater, with its AT&T Skyview Stage, promises an experience that’s as visually stunning as it is audibly delightful. It’s a modern marvel that has quickly become a staple of the CMA Music Festival, offering fans a high-quality concert experience that captures the essence of the event. Each venue, with its own story and atmosphere, contributes to the rich tapestry that is CMA Fest.
As the final guitar strum fades and the echoes of applause settle, CMA Fest leaves a lasting imprint on the soul. It’s an event that transcends a mere lineup of concerts—it’s a celebration of country music’s vibrant culture, its passionate fans, and the city of Nashville itself. From the practicalities of attendance to the thrill of live performances, CMA Fest is an experience that harmonizes the heartstrings of all who partake. So pack your bags, grab your tickets, and let the spirit of CMA Fest guide you to a journey filled with music, joy, and unforgettable memories.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the dates for CMA Fest 2024?
Get ready to mark your calendars for CMA Fest 2024 happening from June 6-9 for four days of incredible country music fun!
Can I attend CMA Fest with children?
Yes, you can definitely attend CMA Fest with children! It's a family-friendly event and kids aged 2 and under get in for free. So, bring the whole family for a fun time!
Are there any free stages at CMA Fest?
Absolutely! You can enjoy live music for free at stages like the Chevy Riverfront Stage and the Dr Pepper Amp Stage during CMA Fest. No ticket required!
What should I pack for CMA Fest?
Pack essentials like a phone charger, sunglasses, sunscreen, comfortable shoes, rain gear, and a clear bag that follows the festival's policy - you're all set for CMA Fest!
What if I want to explore more of Nashville's music scene beyond CMA Fest?
You'll be thrilled to know that Nashville offers a vibrant music scene beyond CMA Fest, including legendary venues like the Ryman Auditorium and Ascend Amphitheater, as well as a variety of concerts and events happening throughout the city. Let's go explore together!