Everything You Need to Know About CMA Fest 2025: Dates, Tickets, and More

Each year, thousands of country music fans from all over the world flock to Nashville, Tennessee, for CMA Fest, a celebration of country artists from rising stars to chart-topping superstars. The festival spans multiple stages throughout Music City, welcoming over 300 performers to the home of country music. 

In 2024, CMA Fest drew attendees from all 50 states and 46 countries who were eager to experience the magic of live country music, and it’s set to return in 2025 with another star-packed event. 

Here’s what you need to know about CMA Fest 2025. 

When Is CMA Fest 2025? 

CMA Fest will return to Nashville, Tennessee June 5 through June 8, 2025. 

Who Is Performing at CMA Fest 2025? 

The Country Music Association has yet to unveil the lineup for CMA Fest 2025. Typically, the performers are revealed in early March. 

How Can I Buy CMA Fest Tickets? 

CMA Fest passes are available for purchase now. Currently only four-night stadium passes are on sale. In previous years, single-night stadium tickets and tickets to Fan Fair X went on sale closer to the event.

Are There Free Events At CMA Fest? 

Fans who aren’t looking to purchase tickets or passes to CMA Fest can still enjoy an array of free events and stages. In the past, the free stages included the Chevy Riverfront Stage, the Dr Pepper Amp Stage, the Chevy Vibes Stage, the Reverb Stage, and the Hard Rock Stage. 

Additionally, several other unofficial CMA Fest events take place during the week in and around downtown Nashville.   

Where Is CMA Fest? 

CMA Fest takes place all over downtown Nashville, specifically near the famous Lower Broadway. The daily concerts take place at the Chevy Riverfront Stage at Riverfront Park, the Dr Pepper Amp Stage at Ascend Park, the Chevy Vibes Stage at Walk of Fame Park, the Reverb Stage, which sits at the corner of 5th Avenue and Broadway at Bridgestone Plaza, and the Hard Rock Stage outside of Nashville’s Hard Rock Cafe. Additional daytime concerts take place inside Music City Center at Fan Fair X. 

The nighttime concerts take place each evening at Nissan Stadium, offering highly sought-after performances by the biggest stars in country music throughout the festival.

Where Should You Stay For CMA Fest? 

For the best CMA Fest experience, stay close to downtown where all the excitement happens. This way, you’ll be within walking distance of nearly every event, saving money on parking and transportation. Some nearby hotels include: JW Marriott Nashville, The Westin Nashville, Margaritaville Hotel Nashville, and Hilton Downtown Nashville. 

How Can I Access Fan Club Parties at CMA Fest?

Some artists hold annual fan club parties exclusively for their fan club members. To attend these events, you’ll need to join the artist’s fan club. Keep in mind, however, that not all artists offer fan club events, so be sure to check before signing up.

How Can I Meet Artists at CMA Fest?

Artists make appearances inside Fan Fair X at the Music City Center to meet with fans. These schedules are typically announced in the days leading up to CMA Fest and can be accessed by downloading the official CMA Fest app.

Do Country Artists Get Paid To Perform At CMA Fest?

Since 2006, a portion of the proceeds from CMA Fest has been allocated to supporting music education programs for K-12 students across the United States, through the CMA Foundation. As a result, artists generously donate their time to perform at the festival.