The AMERICANAFEST annual music showcase and business conference event is spread over many different prestigious music venues across Nashville, including hundreds of electrifying nightly showcases, special events highlighting the culture of Music City, comprehensive music industry panels at its conference headquarters and its hallmark Americana Honors & Awards at the historic Ryman Auditorium.

You don't have to be involved in the industry to attend a panel, and you don't have to be a member of the Americana Music Association to be a part of the community. AMERICANAFEST is a community for artists, fans and industry leaders alike; it's about finding your tribe and calling it home.

Whether you're looking to rock out at a dive bar with a beer in hand or immerse yourself in an intimate singer-songwriter moment over a glass of wine, AMERICANAFEST has something for anyone who's passionate about music.

How to Attend

There are three different ways to attend AMERICANAFEST.

The Silver Pass is for those who want the complete AMERICANAFEST experience, complete with access to panels, showcases and special events.

The Festival Pass is the best-valued festival pass in the nation and will grant you access to all of the nightly showcases as well as select special events.

Lastly, if AMERICANAFEST is not sold out, you can take a chance and buy a door ticket at a small price for shows that are not yet at capacity.

What to expect when...

Getting around town: Utilize your favorite ride-sharing service like Uber to get from venue to venue or check out the official mobile app for walking distances and venues that include parking.

Staying in Music City: The host hotel is typically centrally located to all of the showcasing venues and special events. This year, we are at The Embassy Suites by Hilton Nashville Downtown. If you do not want to stay at a hotel downtown like The Embassy Suites, there are a variety of local hostels and AirBnb options in more residential areas like East Nashville to get the full Nashville experience.

Helpful Tips for the Best AMERICANAFEST Experience

Determine what is important to you. Before stepping foot in Music City, figure out which panels, special events and showcasing artists you may want to see, what venues they're at and tailor your own AMERICANAFEST schedule using the mobile app. This helps to ensure that you are making the most of your time at the festival, and you can hit the ground running.

Don't overschedule. There are countless can't-miss special events and showcasing artists every year. Due to small venues with larger-than-life performances, you may have to choose between a "can't-miss" artist and the rest of your schedule. You’ll have more luck jetting between venues if you’re going for lesser-known acts. Otherwise, arriving early and camping out at a venue is your best bet. Either choice you make, it'll be the right one.

Plan ahead but stay flexible. If AMERICANAFEST knows a show is in extremely high demand, an RSVP will be sent just to Silver Passholders, so be prepared to wait in line. A good way to know which events will be in high demand is by checking out the "What's Hot" section in the mobile app. The "Where" tab in the Schedule section contains venue information including food, parking, etc. 

Take time to network. You will be surrounded by artists and industry professionals at every level. Make the most of your experience and connect with others around you. Make lunch or dinner meetings with people you want to do business with - or with people you just want to get to know!

Stay open: You may discover your next favorite act. AMERICANAFEST prides itself on showcasing raw talent that has yet to reach the masses, once-in-a-lifetime collaborations and surprises you won't see anywhere else. 

Cherish your AMERICANAFEST moments. This is serendipity in music form. If you are able to get into a showcasing venue almost at capacity and witness an artist playing an intimate showcase, you will be lucky enough to know what that moment feels like. And we sure hope you do.