12 Summer Music Events

Music plays here 24/7/365 so we can't list every concert or music event, but here are a few of the major music events occurring this season in Nashville. And if you need more, check out our upcoming concerts.

CMA Fest Riverfront Stage
Sundays
Nashville Sunday Night

Lightning 100 showcases critically acclaimed national, regional, and local artists at the legendary 3rd and Lindsley during Nashville Sunday Night. This legendary evening has become a staple in Nashville's vibrant music scene, attracting audiences eager to discover new talent and enjoy live music in one of the city's most beloved settings.

Saturday & Sunday, April-October
Music in the Vines
Arrington Vineyard

Enjoy live jazz music in the vineyard courtyard at Arrington Vineyards. It's a beautiful setting for a summer night or afternoon. Listen to some jazz, take part in a complimentary wine tasting, have a picnic, and enjoy the scenery.

April 20
Record Store Day

Record Store Day in Nashville is an unparalleled celebration of vinyl and music culture, marking its 16th annual event on April 22. Iconic venues across Music City, such as Grimey's New and Preloved Music and Acme Feed & Seed, become hubs of excitement, offering exclusive releases, RSD first titles, and limited-run vinyl batches. The day is not just about the records but also about the community, featuring an all-day party with live music performances and special surprises, making it a must-attend event for music lovers and vinyl collectors alike.

May 11
Water Lantern Festival
Water Lantern Festival

The Water Lantern Festival at Centennial Park, near the iconic Parthenon, offers a mesmerizing experience that brings the community together. It's a beautiful evening where friends, families, and neighbors gather to share the tradition of creating and releasing lanterns on the water. Complemented by music, a variety of food trucks, and the unique experience of designing your own lantern, this is the perfect occasion to enjoy the outdoors.

May 17-June 15
Musicians Corner

Musicians Corner takes place each year on the South West lawn at Centennial Park and is free and open to the public. Musicians Corner offers a great chance to enjoy local live music in a beautiful outdoor setting with Kidsville, food trucks, vendors, local artisans, and more!

May 18-October 19
Bluebird on the Mountain

Every summer, The Bluebird Cafe travels to one of the tallest hilltops in Nashville to offer a night of live music under the stars. Hit songwriters play their best and your favorite songs at the entrance of the Dyer Observatory. Following the Bluebird on the Mountain Concert Series, the telescope is opened for visitors to get a closer look at the stars in the night sky.

May 31-September 13
Full Moon Pickin' Party

Under the light of the full moon, headlining acts play the main stage while bluegrass and roots pickers jam in circles under the trees and around the grounds of the Percy Warner Park Equestrian Center. This family-friendly Full Moon Pickin' Party invites anyone to join in the music, and all funds raised will go to protect Warner Parks.

June 6-9
CMA Fest
CMA Festival Luke Bryan

Every summer, thousands of country music fans from all over the world come to Nashville to experience the CMA Festival - four days of music from hundreds of artists, including live concerts, meet & greets, autograph signings, celebrity sporting events, and more. Multiple stages throughout Downtown Nashville will host FREE live music during the festival. Purchase the 2024 CMA Fest Package or the 2024 CMA Fest Ticket Bundle.

June 13-16
Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival

Join the 80,000 fans who flock to Manchester, TN, just down the road from Nashville, for the Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival. Four days of festivities that will blow your mind—over 150 musical performances, along with comedy, cinema, sustainability workshops, and more.

June 13-July 25
Bluegrass Nights at the Ryman

Each year, the best of bluegrass music plays in the Ryman Auditorium's summertime concert series Bluegrass Nights at The Ryman, presented by Springer Mountain Farms. Don't miss performances from The Del McCoury Band, Daily & Vincent, Ricky Skaggs & Kentucky Thunder, and more. Before the show, everyone is welcome to participate in the FREE Pickin' on the Plaza concert, which will take place in the venue's plaza.

June 22-23
Nashville Pride Festival & Parade

The Nashville Pride Festival is a vibrant and colorful event that brings the community together to celebrate love, diversity, and acceptance. Each year, the festival features an array of activities suitable for all ages, including thrilling live performances, interactive art projects, and engaging carnival games. The Kids & Family Zone is a highlight, offering a safe and fun environment for families to enjoy face painting, arts and crafts, and various prizes. Notable performers, such as Salt N Pepa, Andreas Moss, and Mike Maimone, have previously graced the stage, showcasing the event's commitment to delivering top-tier entertainment. The festival serves as a platform for celebration and fosters a sense of unity and support within the LGBTQ+ community and its allies.

July 4
Let Freedom Sing! Music City July 4th
July 4, 2019 Fireworks over Broadway

What better way to celebrate our country's independence than with FREE live music in the heart of the city built on music? Add a full day of family fun and the largest fireworks show in the country, and you've got Let Freedom Sing! Music City July 4th.