Country music is taking over Kenton County this week, as the Heart of Country Music Festival returns to the Kenton County Fairgrounds for a bigger, two-day run on Friday and Saturday. What began last year as a single-day concert has grown into a full weekend event, drawing national headliners and thousands of fans to Northern Kentucky.
The festival's expansion from one day to two marks a significant jump in scale for its second year. As WKRC reports, festival producer Heather Arlinghaus has put together a lineup packed with recognizable country names at the fairgrounds.
Friday's bill includes Clint Black, Jo Dee Messina, Little Texas, and John Morgen. Saturday's bill includes Justin Moore, Shenandoah, Cole Goodwin, Derek Alan, and Carly Pearce, per a schedule detailed by CincyTicket.
A Hometown Headliner Takes the Saturday Stage
Pearce's Saturday appearance adds another recognizable name alongside the national stars sharing the bill.
The festival's growth follows its modest beginnings just a year ago. The inaugural Heart of Country Music Festival took place as a single-day event on September 13, 2025, headlined by Randy Houser and six supporting acts, the chamber notes. This year's leap to two full days and a deeper lineup signals organizers' confidence in the event's regional draw.
Fairgrounds Steeped in Local History
The festival's home at the Kenton County Fairgrounds provides a familiar backdrop for a festival now aiming well beyond its county borders.
The festival is set in Northern Kentucky.
Food, Drinks and Family-Friendly Extras
Attendees won't have to look far for a bite between sets. The Chamber's listing also highlights food and drink options.
Beyond the music, the chamber's event listing for the 2025 festival details additional festival offerings.
Ticket Prices and Special Discounts
General admission passes start at $25, with full-day passes running up to $65 and VIP shaded lounge passes priced at $125, according to the chamber. Kids 12 and under get free admission to daytime stage performances.
Organizers have also set up discounted or designated pass pricing for active-duty military personnel, veterans, and first responders for this year's festival, per CincyTicket. The pricing structure reflects an effort to make the expanded event accessible to a broader swath of the region as it works to establish itself as a fixture on the Northern Kentucky calendar.
