Howdy, Festival Fans!

Welcome to the ultimate guide to Americana and Country festivals in the USA for the summer of 2024! Dust off those cowboy boots, find your favorite pair of jeans, and get ready to two-step your way through a season of unforgettable music, mouth-watering BBQ, and more cowboy hats than you can shake a stick at. Whether you’re a die-hard country fan or just looking for some good ol’ American fun, we’ve got the lowdown on the best festivals across the nation. So, saddle up and let’s dive in!

Nashville’s CMA Fest (June 6-9)

Kick off your summer in Music City itself! The CMA Fest in Nashville is the mecca for country music lovers. Picture this: four days of non-stop music, over 300 artists, and enough Southern charm to fill the Grand Ole Opry twice over. Between performances, check out the Fan Fair X to meet your favorite artists, grab exclusive merch, and maybe even get a selfie with the next big thing in country music. And don’t forget to try the hot chicken—your taste buds will thank you, even if your stomach doesn’t!
Info: cmafest.com

Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival (June 13-16)

Okay, so Bonnaroo isn’t exclusively country, but hear us out. This year’s lineup is packed with Americana and country acts that’ll have you singing along all weekend long. Held in Manchester, Tennessee, Bonnaroo offers a unique blend of music, art, and camping. This is your chance to see big names and discover up-and-coming artists across multiple genres. Pro tip: bring a bandana, not just because it looks cool, but to fend off the infamous Bonnaroo dust!
Info: bonnaroo.com

Telluride Bluegrass Festival (June 20-23)

Next, we’re heading to the stunning mountains of Telluride, Colorado. The Telluride Bluegrass Festival is a magical mix of breathtaking scenery and soul-stirring music. Expect a mix of bluegrass, folk, and Americana that’ll make your heart swell like a well-played fiddle. Plus, with workshops, jam sessions, and a family tent, there’s something for everyone. Don’t miss the chance to hike the trails around town—just try to remember you’re here for the music and not to join the local bear population.
Info: telluride.com/event/telluride-bluegrass-festival

Faster Horses Festival (July 19-21)

If you like your country music with a side of horsepower, then the Faster Horses Festival in Brooklyn, Michigan, is your jam. Billed as the “three-day hillbilly sleepover,” this festival is all about big names, big fun, and big trucks. Expect performances from country’s biggest stars, a giant water slide, and campsite parties that’ll make you wish summer lasted forever. Remember, it’s all fun and games until someone loses a flip-flop in the mud pit—so maybe pack an extra pair.
Info: fasterhorsesfestival.com

Newport Folk Festival (July 26-28)

History meets hipsters at the Newport Folk Festival in Rhode Island. This legendary festival has been around since 1959 and has seen everyone from Bob Dylan to Dolly Parton grace its stages. Today, it’s a melting pot of Americana, folk, and country music, set against the scenic backdrop of Fort Adams State Park. Bring a blanket, some sunscreen, and get ready to discover your new favorite artist while enjoying a clam chowder (or two).
Info: newportfolk.org

So there you have it, folks—a summer full of Americana and country festivals that’ll have you hollerin’ yeehaw all the way to Labor Day. Whether you’re planning a road trip or just looking for a local hoedown, these festivals offer the perfect mix of music, food, and fun to make your summer one for the books. Remember to stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and always, always tip your cowboy hat to the band. See you on the dance floor!

Until next time, keep it country and keep it cool.

Happy trails,
Fred

P.S. Don’t forget to share your festival photos with us! Instagram @american_trails_magazine