The 24th annual Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion, produced by the nonprofit Birthplace of Country Music (BCM), wrapped up another unforgettable weekend, bringing thousands of music lovers to the charming streets of Historic Downtown Bristol, straddling the state line of Tennessee and Virginia.
Over the course of the three-day festival, around 100 acts performed across 12 stages, celebrating Bristol's rich music legacy rooted in the legendary 1927 Bristol Sessions - hailed as the "big bang of country music." Festivalgoers from across the globe gathered to experience a dynamic lineup that honored the past while spotlighting the evolution and future of roots music in real time.
"Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion is a pilgrimage," said Festival Director Richard Oakley, who joined the BCM organization earlier this summer. "It's a place where legends were born and fans come for the history, the atmosphere of Historic Downtown Bristol, and the discovery of new talent. I've worked many major festivals over the last decade. The overall vibe of Bristol and this festival is very special. It was a great weekend overall."
Proving Bristol's branches extend globally, soulful Australian export The Teskey Brothers drew a massive audience Friday night at the Piedmont Stage, with Sam Teskey notably wearing Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion festival merch. On Saturday Shane Smith & The Saints made a bold entrance, leading their fiery set with an instrumental nod to the Dropkick Murphys. Joy Oladokun's hypnotic vocals and evocative storytelling charmed State Street Stage audiences on Saturday, further demonstrating why Rolling Stone refers to her as a "musical revolutionary." Carly Pearce, Ricky Skaggs & Kentucky Thunder, and Steep Canyon Rangers brought a powerful blend of tradition, talent, and energy to the festival to their sets, captivating crowds with unforgettable performances that honored the heart of country, bluegrass, and Americana respectively. Standout closing sets at Cumberland Square Park came from rising bluegrass phenoms Mountain Grass Unit Friday night and indie-funk jam band Pigeons Playing Ping Pong on Saturday. It was The Band Perry's first appearance at the festival and they did not disappoint, they closed out the State Street Stage with a dynamic, high-energy set that had fans up and dancing.
The festival honored Radio Bristol's 10th anniversary with on-air talent emceeing at main stages and a very special Radio Bristol's Farm and Fun Time show at the Paramount on Saturday with special guests Shane Smith & The Saints and Theo Lawrence. The community-supported station broadcasts live from the exhibit space at Birthplace of Country Music Museum 24/7, with Farm and Fun Time shows taped live for broadcast on PBS channels across the country.
Bristol Rhythm introduced several exciting additions and returning favorites that made the festival even more immersive and community focused. Fans were invited to "secret" No Depression Sessions at the Birthplace of Country Music Museum, announced via the festival app, and featured exclusive sets by The Teskey Brothers, Mountain Grass Unit, Denitia, and Pigeons Playing Ping Pong, among others. Performances were recorded for post-festival release by No Depression magazine.
The festival welcomed its very first Artist in Residence, Dave Eggar - a GRAMMY-nominated cellist known for recording or sharing stages with an array of artists including The Rolling Stones, Taylor Swift, Evanescence, Tony Bennett, and Lewis Capaldi. Eggar's appearances throughout the weekend showcased his genre-defying talent and strong ties to the region.
Tennessee Songwriters Showcase highlighted featured regional standouts from Tennessee Songwriters Week, including Claire Childress, Austin Barrett, Camden Benoit, Erin Dalton, and Sarrenna. The event was hosted by celebrated local songwriter Adam Bolt. Hoot & Holler storytelling, late-night "barn dances," and other festival side quests added layers of fun and community spirit throughout the weekend.
The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts Artmobile made a return, offering a chance for festivalgoers and the community to experience world-class art on wheels. Children's Day at Anderson Park was a joyful hub for families off-site. The free celebration featured games, crafts, food and live entertainment. On-site, the Kid's Zone provided a great space for families to retreat with the little ones to play and participate in special programming and activities. Bristol Yoga led Saturday's music marathon with a peaceful yoga session at the Country Music Mural, providing a mindful start to a busy day of stage hopping.
More than $250,000 in cash and huge prizes were given at the 7th annual Bristol Sessions Super Raffle on Sunday afternoon by the museum, with 49 happy winners announced every five minutes.
Next year marks a major milestone for Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion - its 25th anniversary.
"Plans to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the festival next year have already begun," said Oakley. "We urge everyone to take advantage of our Family Reunion Pre-sale pricing and plan their trip now. It will be one for the books!"
Three-day passes to Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion 2026 are on sale now for $140, including taxes and fees. The sale ends Friday, Sept. 26 at midnight. Festival dates for the silver anniversary are Sept. 11-13, 2026. For early bird passes and more information visit BristolRhythm.com.
