Country Thunder Florida Relocates to Clearwater for 2026 Festival
The new location is set less than 20 miles from the original site.
Photos Courtesy of Country Thunder Florida
Country Thunder Florida has announced that its 2026 festival is moving to a brand-new location. The event was originally set to take place at the TradeWinds Resort on St. Pete Beach, FL, however a recent update reveals it will be relocating Coachman Park in Clearwater.
Fans who were gearing up for a beachfront festival will still get to experience stunning views of the water on May 8–10 as it is located less than 20 miles from the original site. Fox 13 News reports that the reason for the change was due to various environmental concerns.
“While we are disappointed that Country Thunder Florida will no longer take place on St. Pete Beach, it has been a privilege to work alongside the Country Thunder team throughout this process,” said Travis Johnson, Hotel Manager of TradeWinds Resort. “Ultimately, this decision reflects what is best for the overall logistics and long-term success of the event.”
The first-ever takeover of the 19-acre waterfront venue will include performances from Zach Top, Gavin Adcock, Kane Brown, and more. Alongside the headliners, the festival will also feature Randy Houser, Max McNown, Shaboozey, Dasha, and many more.
“This is about putting on the festival we came here to deliver,” says Country Thunder Executive Director Kim Blevins. “As we moved forward with planning for the festival, it became clear that Clearwater offered the infrastructure and community partnership needed to bring this event to life the right way. Coachman Park gives us the ability to execute our full vision and create an unforgettable experience for fans.”
Organizers say that fans can expect to see Coachman Park transform into a bucket-list festival experience as country music lovers from all over the U.S. come together for three days of nonstop music, and coastal ambiance.
In addition to the music, fans will have the chance to browse cowboy hats and apparel, enjoy a wide range of food offerings, and catch performances on a secondary stage dedicated to rising Sunshine State talent. There will also be a Songwriter Showcase onsite, putting the spotlight on the creatives behind the Main Stage’s biggest hits. Sponsor activations keep the energy going across the grounds and will even offer opportunities for surprise artist meet-and-greets.
“We are excited to introduce Country music fans to beautiful waterfront Coachman Park and to be the new location for Country Thunder,” shares City Manager Jennifer Poirrier. “I’m excited to put on my boots and watch the sunset while listening to some great Country music.”
In lieu of the recent venue change, Country Thunder ticket holders interested in a refund can do so at the original point of purchase.
For more information and future announcements on Country Thunder Florida, visit countrythunder.com/fl.
Madeleine O’Connell graduated from North Central College with a bachelors degree in Journalism and Broadcast Communications before deciding to pursue her studies further at DePaul University. There, she earned her masters degree in Digital Communication & Media Arts. O’Connell served as a freelance writer for over two years while also interning with the Academy of Country Music, SiriusXM and Circle Media and assisting with Amazon Music’s Country Heat Weekly podcast. In addition to Country Now, she has been published in American Songwriter, Music Mayhem, and Holler.Country. Madeleine O’Connell is a member of the Country Music Association and the Academy of Country Music.
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