You don't necessarily need to buy a ticket to enjoy CMA Fest, and if the 2025 edition proved anything, it's that the event is abound with talent gracing the five of its nine stages that are open to the general public,

Mitchell Tenpenny, Ashley Cooke, Drew Baldridge and more of Country's hitmakers gave fans an unforgettable start to 2025's CMA Fest in Nashville.

"Long live CMA Fest," Sarah Trahern, CEO of the Country Music Association, bellowed to the June 5 crowd. More than 300 artists signed up to sing, strum and jam. For 80 acts, this was the first time playing at the event in front of tourists from all 50 states and 33 countries.

In Nashville, CMA Fest returned with a country music star-studded lineup and a ton of fun fan experiences for attendees.

Each year, the festival donates a portion of ticket sales to the nonprofit organization. With and estimated 95,000 guests coming through the gates this year over the course of four days, CMA Fest is able to present a check for more than $2 million to the CMA Foundation to further its music education efforts.

A 77-year-old woman was struck and killed Sunday evening by country singer and CMA Fest performer Conner Smith.

Shaboozey, Rita Wilson and Tom Hanks attend 2025 CMA Fest in Nashville, plus Niecy Nash-Betts, Lucy Liu and more. From New York to Los Angeles and everywhere in between, see what your favorite stars are up to.

For those who find themselves at the intersections of country music, LGBTQ+ allyship and queer pride, here are some LGBTQ+ artists to support this Pride Month at CMA Fest.

Country hitmaker Zach Top's rising stardom will include the release of a new album, "Ain’t In It For My Health," out Aug, 29, 2025.