CMA Fest is almost here, and whether you’re going or not, it will likely impact you in some way — so here’s how to navigate the weekend. Let’s start with a few fast facts, followed by transit options, fan experiences, and more.
Fast facts
- Festival dates: Thursday, June 5-Sunday, June 8
- Nine stages, including five free stages.
- All tickets and passes (including parking) will be mobile.
- Watch this video for what to pack + what leave at home.
- View all the festival maps in one place.
Tackling transit
There will be no need to panic at the parking lot this year. Get to the festival grounds by bus, train, or car using the options below.
- Nissan Stadium | Unfortunately, most parking passes are all sold out — but we spotted some Sunday passes still for sale.
- SpotHero | Book nearby parking in advance.
- WeGo Star’s CMA Fest Express | Travel roundtrip Saturday from six transit stations for $17. The return train will depart from Riverfront Station one hour after the event ends.
- Shuttles | CMA Fest shuttles run from 9 a.m. to 1 a.m.
Use this interactive map to view all downtown lots and garages and this schedule for all WeGo bus routes.
Road closures
Some road closures are already in effect. Take a look at the schedule.
Grab a bite
CMA Fest will offer a variety of concessions across all stages and venues + Food Truck Row next to Music City Center. If you’re in the mood for some local eats and seats nearby (plus air conditioning), check out these spots:
- Drug Store Coffee, 200 4th Ave. N. | Fuel up on pastries and an Urban Juicer drink before a day at the festival.
- Deacon’s New South, 401 Union St. | Only going to the night shows? Make a dinner reservation and check out the new cocktail menu inspired by country artists before walking across the pedestrian bridge.
- Frothy Monkey, 235 Rep. John Lewis Way N. | Just north of the festival grounds you’ll find local coffee, sandwiches, and brunch fare waiting for you.
Pro tip: Look out for water stations on Broadway, near festival stages, and throughout Nissan Stadium.
Fan events
CMA Fest is all about the fans, that much was clear after its big half-century celebration in 2023. In fact, the festival even got its start as “Fan Fair.” Bookmark the Fan Fair X schedule so you don’t miss Parker McCollum, Trisha Yearwood, Rascal Flatts, and Dasha on the CMA Close Up Stage, along with artist meet-and-greets and performances. A four-day pass is $28.