Article Contributed by Mike
Published on February 5, 2026
The Opelika Songwriters Festival has announced the first wave of artists set to perform at its 2026 edition, returning March 26–29 to Historic Downtown Opelika, Alabama.
Known for its intimate rooms, walkable footprint, and deep reverence for the art of songwriting, the Opelika Songwriters Festival has become one of the Southeast’s most quietly beloved gatherings. Each spring, the festival brings together respected national artists, regional favorites, and local voices for an immersive weekend where songs—and the stories behind them—are shared up close and without pretense.
The newly revealed lineup reflects everything the festival has come to represent, blending Americana, folk, roots, soul, and Southern songwriting traditions across multiple downtown venues. Confirmed artists for 2026 include Charlie Starr & Benji Shanks (of Blackberry Smoke), Paul Thorn, The Mammals, Shawn Mullins, Dom Flemons (Carolina Chocolate Drops), Kim Richey, Dan Navarro, Ellis Paul, Jeff Black, Charlie Mars, Tim Easton, Jim White, Michelle Malone & Doug Kees, Gurufish, Pat Byrne, Jessica Willis Fisher, Sarah Clanton, Ione, Larry Mitchell, Pete Muller, Diane Durrett, Lance Cowan, Grace Pettis, Goldpine, Wyatt Espalin, Martha’s Trouble, Jennifer Daniels, Bradley Cole Smith & Nelson Nolen, Katie Martin, Mike Kinnebrew, Dee White, Derick Leduke, and Dixon Darling, with more artists to be announced.
As in years past, the festival will once again feature a mix of add-on events, intimate listening rooms, and the Spotlight Stage, which highlights emerging and local songwriters alongside established voices. Performances will take place across multiple venues throughout downtown Opelika, reinforcing the festival’s uniquely personal and community-driven atmosphere.
Produced by Rob and Jen Slocumb alongside Russell Carter, the Opelika Songwriters Festival continues to stand as a celebration of craft, connection, and the enduring power of a well-written song. We look forward to returning to Opelika this March for another unforgettable weekend of music and storytelling.
