Best Summer Music Festivals in Kentucky

There's nothing better than a warm summer night, live music, and great food. Thanks to the many Kentucky music festivals that happen each year, visitors are able to enjoy just that. Whether you're in one of Kentucky's big cities such as Louisville and Lexington, or out in the countryside, you'll find great music festivals happening throughout the summer. Here are some of our favorites:

Romp Fest: Owensboro, KY (Sept. 15-18, 2021)

Hosted by the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame & Museum, this unique Kentucky music festival brings together fun, friends, family, food, and of course, music. This year marks the 17th Romp Fest to happen in Owensboro, and it grows every year.

This festival isn't just about listening to music, it's about making it and enjoying the artistic process. Instrument workshops led by the artists playing the festival will take place throughout the day; these ROMP artists will interact with festival goers of all ages and experience levels. Other workshops and forums include songwriting, clogging and flat-foot dancing, yoga and beginners' bluegrass.

There is a large list of vendors that set up at the festival each year, including those serving farm-to-table food and vendors selling handmade Kentucky Proud products. There's dancing, opportunities to play music, and even a kids' play place for those who are bringing their children.

Don't miss out on this amazing opportunity to experience the Kentucky music scene!

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Railbird Festival: Lexington, KY (Aug. 20-21, 2021)

This festival features world-class artists performing on stage, and world-class bourbon being sampled in the Rickhouse. The historic grounds of Keeneland will have 3 different stages with famous artists performing music.

That same weekend, visitors can enjoy Savor and Sip, a culinary experience where gourmet food prepared by famous chefs is sampled alongside hand-selected barrels of Kentucky's finest bourbon chosen by the celebrated distillers of Justins' House of Bourbon.

It wouldn't be Railbird without a little horse racing. Visitors can relax in style at the Lucky Day Plaza and place wagers on various races happening coast to coast. If the music isn't enough to get your blood pumping, the betting sure will be!

For those looking for a truly indulgent experience, consider the VIP package. VIP guests have special access to exclusive lounges, drinks and food. They also get great views of the main stage and first access to the best bottles of Bourbon Kentucky has to offer for sale!

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Louder Than Life: Louisville, KY (Sept. 23-26, 2021)

This music festival is one of the largest rock and roll and whiskey festivals in the world! You'll want to leave the kids at home for this one.This festival is known for its selections of craft beer and spirits, it's gourmet food, and the supercharged atmosphere created when metalheads unite.

Though the festival has only been around since 2014, it's attendance has grown to over 100,000 people each year. It's one of the largest events in Louisville and features unique exhibitions. Past festivals have even included WWE wrestling matches. If you love rock and roll and have a taste for fine whiskey and spirits, come to Louisville this September!

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Great American Brass Band Festival: Danville, KY (June 11-12, 2021)

This festival celebrates the beauty and history of brass music. What makes this festival unique is that it is completely free. Thanks to local sponsors and community donations, the Great American Brass Band welcomes families and lovers of brass music to downtown Danville, Kentucky at no cost.

Visitors will also find local vendors selling food and handmade crafts. This festival is a great opportunity to support the community and buy from local businesses, volunteer your time, and support the continuation of a great part of American musical history. Don't Miss out!

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