SUMMER IS a season of warmth, joy, and fun. It is a time when people get together to enjoy the outdoors, dance to great music, and make unforgettable memories. Summer music festivals are a perfect way to experience all these things and more.
Whether you’re a music lover or just looking for a fun way to spend a weekend, there’s nothing quite like the experience of attending a festival in the heart of Tennessee.
The state is known for its rich musical heritage and diverse music scene, making it the perfect destination for music lovers of all tastes. It’s no surprise that the state is home to some of the best summer music events in the country. These events celebrate the diverse musical traditions of Tennessee and bring together music lovers from all over the world.
One of the most popular festivals in the state is Bonnaroo, which takes place in Manchester each year. The four-day festival draws thousands of music fans worldwide, with headliners like Kendrick Lamar and Elton Jon lighting up the stage. But Bonnaroo isn’t just about the music — it’s an all-encompassing experience featuring art installations, interactive experiences, and a vibrant food and drink scene.
Rebecca French, a volunteer with Bonnaroo, said, “Music is a universal language. And even if you speak a second language, are nonverbal, or can’t hear, you can still feel the music.”
In Tennessee, artists showcase their genre-defying music worldwide, with performances taking place outdoors, in churches, theaters, and other unique venues throughout the state.
John Kilkenny, Sewanee Summer Music Festival (SSMF) executive and artistic director at Sewanee Music Center, spoke of the value the SSMF brings to its audience.
Kilkenny said, “I want the program not to just feel like a four-week event that happens in the summer but a part of the year-round cultural life of the domain [and] also of the region.”
He added, “I think it’s one of the things that makes living in Sewanee or in the area so special,” he said. “To be able to have this access to this incredible program, great artists, and special students is really something that not many places have. But [for] places that do have it, it is really a landmark for them as an organization or region.”
No matter which festival you choose, there’s something truly magical about attending a summer music festival in Tennessee. The state’s natural beauty and welcoming Southern hospitality create the perfect backdrop for unforgettable experiences, whether camping in the countryside or exploring the city’s thriving music scene.
People from all over Tennessee can bask in the summer sun, eat tasty treats from local restaurants and food trucks, and enjoy the beautiful sound of music.
No matter your music genre, there is sure to be a summer music event that suits your style. So pack your bags, grab your friends, and prepare for an unforgettable experience. You won’t want to miss these community-wide festivals. GN
