Kentucky Music Festivals

Live Music In Kentucky

Music is a part of Kentucky's culture from the Appalachian Mountains to the Ohio River. The rich history of Bill Monroe, Loretta Lynn, and Everly Brothers are part of our heritage. Live music can be found in large and small venues year round. Or get your groove on at any of Kentucky’s incredible music festivals. Below is just a sampler of the many festivals that take place throughout the state.

Great American Brass Band Festival, June 25-27, Danville

The Great American Brass Band Festival is a Festival that celebrates brass music. The Festival is a free, family-friendly three-day event. Bands come from all over the United States and Europe. Many fine soloists are also featured each year at the Great American Brass Band Festival.

Railbird, June 6-7, Lexington

Traditionally, a Railbird is a horse racing enthusiast known for sticking close to the action, hanging on the rail as each contender comes barreling down the track.

For one special weekend in June the term takes on an added meaning during the Annual Railbird Festival. 2 days. 3 stages. World class artists.

WC Handy Blues & Barbecue Festival, June 17-20, Henderson

The W.C. Handy Blues & Barbecue Festival has become one of the largest free music festivals in the nation, drawing attendees from just about every state and many countries. The festival is a celebration of the life and legacy of Henderson resident and “Father of the Blues,” William Christopher Handy.

ROMP, June 24-27, Owensboro

Throughout the history of ROMP Festival, many legends of bluegrass have graced the stage including Doc Watson, Earl Scruggs, Del McCoury, Ricky Skaggs, Sam Bush, Alison Krauss, and Jesse McReynolds. ROMP also embraces the roots and progressive branches of the genre by featuring John Prine, Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, Rhiannon Giddens, Old Crow Medicine Show, Trampled by Turtles, Leftover Salmon, Yonder Mountain String Band, Billy Strings, and so many more.

Master Musicians Festival, July 17-18, Somerset

This festival is a two-day event in the heart of Lake Cumberland. Here you will find an eclectic mix of bluegrass, rock, jazz and newgrass. Headliners have included: Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit, Nickel Creek, The Avett Brothers, and Old Crowe Medicine Show.

40 Days of Christian Music, July 28-September 5

Don't miss the world's largest Christian music festival at the Ark Encounter and Creation Museum! You can enjoy multiple daily concerts from favorite Christian artists. Genres represented include Contemporary, Praise & Worship, Southern Gospel, Bluegrass, and Faith Country.

Highlands Farm Country Fest, August 29-30, Elizabethtown

Highland Farms Country Fest brings top acts like Brantley Gilbert, Sam Hunt and Tyler Hubbard to name a few to Kentucky for a Labor Day party weekend of amazing tunes and delicious food.

Bourbon and Beyond, September 24-27, Louisville

Bourbon and Beyond 2024 will host more than 100 bands across five stages over four days. In addition to world-famous acts like Dave Matthews Band, Tyler Childers, and Neil Young, this festival spotlights some of the finest bourbon and food Kentucky has to offer.

Poppy Mountain Bluegrass Festival, September 11-19, Morehead

Over 100 bands travel here the third week of September each year to share their love of music. A diverse array of transportation options will allow you to explore an entire world of bluegrass. Immerse yourself in the 1400 acres of beautiful Kentucky hills.

Louder Than Life, September 17-20, Louisville

One of the country's largest rock festivals has featured artists like Rob Zombie, Guns 'N' Roses, Ice Cube, Slipknot, and Staind. This three-day concert is located at KY Expo Center in Louisville. This year's features Iron Maiden, Limp Bizkit, Tool, My Chemical Romance, and so many more.