Music Festivals

2016 was a fantastic year for music lovers in Tennessee, with a diverse lineup of festivals catering to every taste.

Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival rocked Manchester in June, featuring headliners like Pearl Jam, LCD Soundsystem, and Dead & Company. The festival lived up to its reputation for eclectic lineups, spanning genres from EDM to indie rock.

Country music fans flocked to Nashville in June for the CMA Music Festival. This four-day extravaganza showcased country music's biggest stars, with performers like Carrie Underwood, Keith Urban, and Blake Shelton gracing the stages.

For a more intimate festival experience, the Pilgrimage Music & Cultural Festival in Franklin offered a blend of rock, alternative, and Americana music. Headliners included Beck, Daryl Hall & John Oates, and Kacey Musgraves.

Electronic music enthusiasts danced the night away at the Breakaway Music Festival in Nashville. This two-day event featured top DJs and producers, including Chance the Rapper, Zedd, and Dillon Francis.

These are just a few of the incredible music festivals that graced Tennessee in 2016. From massive gatherings like Bonnaroo to smaller, more intimate events, there was something for everyone.

Food and Drink Festivals

Tennessee in 2016 was a haven for foodies, with a calendar brimming with delicious festivals. The World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest in Memphis saw pitmasters from around the globe vying for the title, filling the air with the smoky aroma of slow-cooked meats. Music City, Nashville, wasn't just about tunes; it celebrated all things culinary with the Music City Food + Wine Festival. Attendees indulged in gourmet bites from renowned chefs, sipped on craft cocktails, and grooved to live music.

For those with a penchant for Southern comfort food, the International Biscuit Festival in Knoxville was a must-visit. Biscuit enthusiasts savored innovative and classic biscuit creations, while the aroma of freshly baked bread wafted through the air. Wine lovers raised a toast at the Tennessee Wine and Food Festival in Chattanooga, sampling the state's finest vintages alongside delectable food pairings. From barbecue bliss to biscuit heaven, Tennessee's 2016 food and drink festivals offered a delicious taste of Southern hospitality and culinary creativity.

Art and Craft Festivals

Tennessee in 2016 was a haven for art and craft enthusiasts, with a vibrant calendar of festivals showcasing the state's rich creative spirit. From pottery to painting, woodworking to weaving, there was something to captivate every artistic sensibility.

The Gatlinburg Craftsmen's Fair, a beloved annual event, returned to the Great Smoky Mountains, bringing together hundreds of talented artisans from across the country. Visitors could browse unique, handcrafted creations, from intricate jewelry and blown glass to leather goods and pottery.

Meanwhile, the RC-MoonPie Festival in Bell Buckle celebrated the iconic Southern snack with a quirky twist. Alongside the moon pie eating contests and parades, the festival featured a juried arts and crafts fair, where visitors could discover one-of-a-kind creations inspired by the beloved treat.

In Nashville, the heart of Tennessee's music scene, the Cheekwood Botanical Garden and Museum of Art hosted its annual Harvest Festival. This family-friendly event featured a craft fair with demonstrations and hands-on activities, allowing visitors to try their hand at traditional crafts like pumpkin painting and scarecrow making.

These are just a few examples of the many art and craft festivals that graced Tennessee in 2016. Each event offered a unique opportunity to experience the state's vibrant arts scene, connect with talented artisans, and find treasures to cherish for years to come.

History and Heritage Festivals

Tennessee, a state steeped in history and heritage, celebrated its rich cultural tapestry with numerous festivals in 2016. These events offered a glimpse into the state's past, showcasing its diverse traditions, music, and crafts.

The Dollywood's Festival of Nations in Pigeon Forge, though not solely focused on Tennessee history, offered a global experience with music, dance, food, and crafts from around the world. This festival ran from mid-March to early April 2016.

The Raccoon Mountain Bluegrass Festival in Chattanooga, held in late April and early May 2016, celebrated the state's deep connection to bluegrass music.

The Memphis in May International Festival, held throughout May 2016, is a month-long celebration of a different country's culture each year. While not specifically a history festival, it often incorporates historical elements of the featured country.

These are just a few examples of the many festivals that took place in Tennessee in 2016. Each event provided a unique opportunity to learn about the state's past and experience its vibrant culture.

Film and Theater Festivals

2016 was a fantastic year for film and theater enthusiasts in Tennessee, with a diverse array of festivals showcasing local and international talent.

The Nashville Film Festival, a long-standing tradition since 1969, once again captivated audiences with its selection of independent films, documentaries, and shorts. The festival, held in April, featured screenings, workshops, and industry panels, attracting filmmakers and cinephiles from across the globe.

Meanwhile, Memphis, known for its rich musical heritage, hosted the Indie Memphis Film Festival in November. This festival celebrated independent filmmaking, with a focus on emerging voices and experimental works. Attendees enjoyed screenings, filmmaker Q&As, and special events throughout the city.

For theater lovers, the Tennessee Williams/New Orleans Literary Festival, held annually in March, offered a unique blend of literary and theatrical experiences. While based in New Orleans, the festival has strong ties to Tennessee, honoring the legacy of the renowned playwright Tennessee Williams, who was born in Mississippi but spent part of his life in Memphis. The festival featured stage productions, readings, workshops, and discussions celebrating Southern literature and theater.

These are just a few of the many film and theater festivals that graced Tennessee in 2016. From Nashville to Memphis and beyond, the state solidified its reputation as a vibrant hub for arts and culture, offering something for everyone.

Literary Festivals

Tennessee's literary scene was vibrant in 2016, with festivals across the state celebrating the written word. The Southern Festival of Books in Nashville, a beloved annual tradition, drew large crowds eager to engage with renowned authors, attend panel discussions, and discover new books. This festival, a flagship event for book lovers, showcased the South's rich literary heritage.

East Tennessee also boasted its share of literary gatherings. The Knoxville Writers' Guild Festival, a more intimate affair, offered workshops, readings, and networking opportunities for writers at all stages of their careers. Meanwhile, the Appalachian Festival of Plays and Playwrights in Johnson City celebrated the region's storytelling tradition through theatrical performances and workshops.

These festivals, each with its unique character, provided platforms for established and emerging voices, fostering a love of literature and strengthening Tennessee's vibrant literary community.

Outdoor and Adventure Festivals

2016 was a year full of adventure and outdoor fun in Tennessee. Music lovers flocked to Manchester for the Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival, a four-day extravaganza featuring top musical acts, art installations, and a vibrant community atmosphere. For those seeking a more rustic experience, the Tennessee River A to Z Festival in Knoxville offered paddling adventures, live music, and camping along the scenic Tennessee River.

History buffs were not left out, as the Siege and Battle of Chattanooga Commemoration brought the Civil War to life with reenactments, living history demonstrations, and educational programs. Meanwhile, the Smoky Mountains Storytelling Festival in Pigeon Forge celebrated the art of storytelling with performances, workshops, and a chance to enjoy the beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains.

No matter your interest, Tennessee's 2016 festival lineup offered something for everyone to enjoy.

Cultural Festivals

2016 was a year full of vibrant cultural celebrations in Tennessee. Music lovers flocked to Manchester for the Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival, a four-day extravaganza featuring renowned artists across various genres. The lineup included headliners like Pearl Jam, LCD Soundsystem, and J. Cole, drawing massive crowds.

In Nashville, the CMA Music Festival took center stage, celebrating the best of country music. Fans enjoyed performances by country music icons, up-and-coming artists, and surprise collaborations. The city pulsated with energy as music lovers from around the world gathered to celebrate the genre.

Memphis, the birthplace of rock and roll, hosted the Memphis in May International Festival, a month-long celebration of the city's heritage and culture. The festival featured a World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest, attracting pitmasters and barbecue enthusiasts from across the globe. The Beale Street Music Festival, part of Memphis in May, showcased a diverse lineup of musical acts, adding to the city's vibrant atmosphere.

These are just a few of the many cultural festivals that took place in Tennessee in 2016. From music to food to heritage, these events showcased the state's rich culture and attracted visitors from far and wide.

Religious Festivals

While Tennessee is known for its vibrant music scene, the state also boasts a rich tapestry of religious festivals throughout the year. In 2016, communities across Tennessee came alive with celebrations that honored diverse faiths and traditions.

One notable event was the Southern Baptist Convention Annual Meeting, held in St. Louis, Missouri, which drew thousands of Baptists from across the South, including a significant contingent from Tennessee. This gathering featured renowned speakers, gospel music performances, and workshops focused on faith and ministry.

Though not a festival in the traditional sense, Easter, a significant Christian holiday, was observed widely across Tennessee in 2016. Churches of various denominations held sunrise services, special masses, and community egg hunts, marking the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Similarly, Christmas, commemorating the birth of Jesus, was celebrated with festive cheer in Tennessee. From elaborate church services and nativity scenes to community caroling events and festive decorations, the spirit of Christmas was palpable throughout the state.

These religious festivals, along with numerous others observed by different faiths, highlight the cultural and spiritual diversity of Tennessee. They offer a glimpse into the deeply held beliefs and traditions that continue to shape the state's identity.

Family-Friendly Festivals

Tennessee in 2016 was bursting with family-friendly festivals. Music lovers flocked to Manchester for Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival, a four-day extravaganza featuring big-name artists and unique experiences. For a more historical experience, the Renaissance Festival in Harriman transported attendees back in time with jousting, crafts, and period food.

Foodies found their paradise at the International Biscuit Festival in Knoxville, celebrating everyone's favorite fluffy bread. Meanwhile, the RC & MoonPie Festival in Bell Buckle honored a classic Southern pairing with games, entertainment, and of course, plenty of MoonPies.

Families looking for adventure loved the National Storytelling Festival in Jonesborough, where tales came to life through captivating performances. No matter your interest, Tennessee in 2016 offered a festival experience for everyone.

Seasonal Festivals

Tennessee in 2016 was a whirlwind of festivals celebrating music, food, and culture. The year kicked off with the warming aromas of the Memphis in May International Festival, a month-long extravaganza featuring a World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest that drew barbecue enthusiasts from across the globe.

Festival Name	Location	Dates	Type of Festival
Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival	Manchester, TN	June 9-12, 2016	Music and Arts
CMA Music Festival	Nashville, TN	June 9-12, 2016	Music (Country)

Music lovers flocked to Manchester in June for the Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival. This four-day camping festival boasted an eclectic lineup spanning rock, pop, and electronic music, with headliners like Pearl Jam, LCD Soundsystem, and Dead & Company.

September ushered in the International Biscuit Festival in Knoxville, a celebration of all things biscuit. Attendees indulged in biscuit-themed delights, from classic buttermilk biscuits to innovative creations. The festival also featured live music, biscuit-making demonstrations, and a Biscuit Bazaar.

Rounding out the year was the Dollywood's Smoky Mountain Christmas, a cherished tradition in Pigeon Forge. The park transformed into a winter wonderland with dazzling light displays, festive shows, and the warmth of Southern hospitality.

Local Community Festivals

Tennessee in 2016 was a whirlwind of festivals celebrating the state's rich culture, music, and heritage. From east to west, communities came alive with the sounds of banjos, the aroma of barbecue, and the vibrant colors of arts and crafts. One of the standout events was the RC-MoonPie Marathon, a quirky and challenging race that attracted runners from all over the world. The streets of Chattanooga were filled with participants eager to conquer the course and indulge in the iconic MoonPie treats. Music lovers flocked to Manchester for Bonnaroo, the renowned four-day music and arts festival. The Farm came alive with performances by legendary artists like Pearl Jam, LCD Soundsystem, and Ellie Goulding, creating an unforgettable experience for festival-goers. Meanwhile, Nashville, the heart of Tennessee music, hosted the CMA Music Festival, a celebration of country music's finest. Fans from all walks of life gathered to witness performances by country music superstars, enjoy fan club parties, and experience the vibrant atmosphere of Music City. These are just a glimpse of the many festivals that painted Tennessee's calendar in 2016. From small-town celebrations to large-scale events, each festival offered a unique opportunity to experience the warmth, hospitality, and cultural richness that make Tennessee so special.

Festivals by City

Festivals by Month

January brings the annual Elvis Birthday Celebration in Memphis, a multi-day extravaganza honoring the King of Rock and Roll. Expect concerts, look-alike contests, and a whole lot of peanut butter and banana sandwiches.

February in Nashville means the Antiques & Garden Show at the Music City Center. Over 150 antique dealers and landscape designers come together to create a feast for the eyes.

March ushers in the Tin Pan Alley Songwriters Festival in Knoxville. Enjoy intimate performances by award-winning songwriters and discover the stories behind your favorite country tunes.

April sees the blooming of the Dogwood Arts Festival in Knoxville, with art exhibits, live music, and a parade celebrating the beauty of springtime.

May brings the Memphis in May International Festival, a month-long celebration of world cultures, featuring a barbecue cooking contest, a concert series, and more.

June is for music lovers, with both CMA Fest in Nashville and Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival in Manchester offering incredible lineups of country, rock, and pop acts.

July heats up with the RC-MoonPie Festival in Bell Buckle, a quirky celebration of the iconic Southern snack, complete with a MoonPie eating contest and a parade.

August brings the Tennessee Valley Fair in Knoxville, a classic state fair experience with carnival rides, livestock shows, and deep-fried everything.

September welcomes the Pilgrimage Music & Cultural Festival in Franklin, featuring a diverse lineup of musical acts and a focus on local food and artisans.

October is for the Jack Daniel's World Championship Invitational Barbecue in Lynchburg, where pitmasters from around the globe compete for the title of world champion.

November kicks off the holiday season with the Nashville Christmas Parade, a beloved tradition featuring festive floats, marching bands, and an appearance from Santa himself.

December is aglow with holiday cheer, with events like the Smoky Mountain Christmas Festival in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, offering dazzling light displays, festive shows, and plenty of holiday shopping.