Nashville’s streets will echo with the sounds of Americana as the 26th annual AmericanaFest sets a new benchmark for the genre. From September 15 to 19, the city will host more than 50 venues, nearly 300 scheduled events, and over 200 musicians and bands, turning the capital of country music into a sprawling roots‑music festival.

The full program was unveiled in the festival’s 2026 mobile app. Audiences can expect nightly showcases, intimate venue‑specific performances, and a robust conference agenda. The conference will feature 50+ panels on topics ranging from the impact of artificial intelligence on songwriting to continuing legal education for music professionals, as well as behind‑the‑scenes looks at the business of music.

A highlight of the conference is a keynote conversation with legendary songwriter Bernie Taupin and Grammy‑winning artist Brandi Carlile. Their discussion will explore the creative partnership that has shaped pop and country history and how those dynamics translate to today’s evolving music landscape.

The festival’s partnership with the Nashville Symphony adds a classical dimension to the roots‑music lineup. On Tuesday, September 15, Renée Fleming and Béla Fleck will perform with the orchestra at the Schermerhorn Symphony Center. The 7:30 p.m. concert is separately ticketed, and a portion of the proceeds will benefit the Americana Music Foundation.

Tulsa, Oklahoma, has been selected as the 2026 AmericanaFest Spotlight City. The city’s showcase on Thursday, September 17 will spotlight local talent, including Kalyn Fay, Ramsey Thornton, Casii Stephan, Ken Pomeroy, and Johnny Mullenax.

Songwriters will take center stage at the Bluebird Cafe, where a series of songwriter‑in‑the‑round sessions will unfold over three nights. Brandy Clark will present “The Bird” on Thursday, September 17. Friday’s lineup features Madeline Edwards, Meg McRee, Micah Edwards, and Lamont Landers. Saturday’s show, in partnership with SESAC, will include Miss Tess, Mary Bragg, and Ana Cristina Cash. Reservations are required for all three nights.

Relix returns to AmericanaFest with official showcases at Brooklyn Bowl on Thursday, September 17. The lineup includes Denitia, Hunter Metts, Mike Campbell & the Dirty Knobs, Jay Buchanan, and Duane Betts.

Outdoor fans will find the Musicians Corner in Centennial Park on Friday, September 18. The event will feature Obed Padilla, INK, She Returns From War, and Jake Bugg, alongside artisan vendors, food trucks, and a kids’ area.

The 30A Songwriters Festival will take place in South Walton, Florida, on Friday, September 18. Hosted at Analog at Hutton Hotel, the event will showcase Michaela Anne, Benmont Tench, Abigail Rose, and Nicole Atkins.

Dualtone Records will celebrate its 25th anniversary on Thursday, September 17, with a curated lineup at The Basement East. Performers will include Aubory Bugg, Abraham Alexander, Langhorne Slim, Futurebirds, Shakey Graves, The Brook & The Bluff, and Houndmouth.

The Americana Honors & Awards ceremony will open the festival week on Wednesday, September 16 at the Ryman Auditorium. The event will honor Americana luminaries and introduce emerging artists.

Ticketing information: Festival wristbands are priced at $150. Silver wristbands are available for $385 to Americana Music Association members and $505 to non‑members. The Silver wristband grants early access to RSVP events.

The festival’s schedule reflects the Association’s mission to promote American roots music and support its community of artists, producers, and industry professionals. With a blend of performances, panels, and special events, AmericanaFest 2026 aims to showcase the breadth of the Americana genre while fostering dialogue about its future.

The event concludes on September 19 after five days of music, discussion, and celebration in Nashville.