The Heart of Country Music Festival is Northern Kentucky’s newest and fastest-growing country celebration, and it’s happening right here in Independence, KY. With two stages and seven standout artists, from national headliners to rising stars and hometown favorites this festival is sure to be an all-day party that showcases the heart of the NKY community at its core.
In the midst of live music, guests can also explore a variety of activities, curated brand experiences, and some of NKY’s best food and drinks through our partnership with One Holland. You can also browse our vendor market brimming with over 20 vendors including everything from boutiques, vintage tees, and band merch to art and unique treasures.
ABOUT THE FESTIVAL
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Two stages and seven standout artists, from national headliners to rising stars and hometown favorites this festival is sure to be an all-day party featuring: Randy Houser, Jake Worthington, Lauren Watkins, Ashland Craft, Maurice the Music, Derek Alan and John Morgen.
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Browse our vendor market brimming with over 20 vendors including everything from boutiques, vintage tees, and band merch to art and unique treasures.
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Getting hungry? Dine at one of our 5 selections of NKY’s favorite eats through our partnership with One Holland.
Sweet tooth? We will also have 3 dessert vendors ready to fill any cravings and 2 specialty soda, lemonade and tea vendors!
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Expect plenty to do between sets from family-friendly fun to bigger-kid thrills (hint: a mechanical bull to oversized yard games) and scattered sponsor booths and branded pop-ups packed with demos, giveaways, and photo ops.
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If you’re thirsty, we’ve got you covered—mini bars will be tucked all around the grounds, plus a pop-up sports bar from Barleycorn’s Brewhouse pouring fresh craft beer and streaming the game (yes, the Cats kick off that day—GO UK!).
Heart of Country Music Festival was created to do more than just entertain—it was built to bring people together.
More than just a concert, Heart of Country is a full-day celebration of community. From a hand-picked local vendor market and some of the region’s best food trucks to games, activities, and front-porch vibes, every element is designed to spark joy, connection, and good old-fashioned fun. Whether you're two-stepping with friends or discovering a new favorite artist, this festival is where Kentucky comes together—because we are the heart of country music.
With a carefully curated lineup of national acts, breakout artists, and homegrown talent, our goal is to celebrate the voices and stories that echo through our hills, hollers, and hometowns. This festival is a tribute to the people who show up, sing loud, and live with heart—because in Kentucky, country music isn’t just a genre. It’s a way of life.
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Once your ticket has been scanned, re-entry to the festival grounds is not permitted — so come ready to stay a while! We've got everything you need to enjoy the full day. For security purposes, all attendees and their belongings are subject to search.
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Heart of Country Music Festival will be held at:
Kenton County Fair Grounds
2836 Harris Pike, Independence, KY 41051
A full festival map will be available on our website soon! -
Chairs and blankets are NOT permitted inside the festival grounds.
There will be limited seating available in the food truck area, plus scattered benches and rest zones.
VIP ticket holders will have access to first-come, first-serve seating. ADA seating will also be provided in designated areas.
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Sure thing! Heart of Country Music Festival is safe for the whole family. Kids 12 and under are FREE when accompanied by an adult ticket holder. Although we are happy to have kiddos, please note that this event may not be appropriate for small children under the age of 7.
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YES, we allow strollers and wagons for children during our daytime event (12-5pm), however strollers are NOT permitted in the Main Stage area (5-11pm).
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To ensure the safety of all attendees, all bags will be subject to search upon entry. Please review the guidelines below before arriving at the festival:
Small bags and purses (no larger than 12” x 6” x 12”) are permitted.
Clear bags are encouraged to speed up the entry process.
Hydration packs (empty upon arrival) are allowed but must have no more than two compartments.
Fanny packs and small clutches (no larger than 6.5” x 4.5”) are allowed.
Backpacks, large bags, and luggage are not permitted.
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No. All outside food and beverage is prohibited. Exceptions may be made for small children under the age of 7). We have a number of amazing food vendors, including kid-friendly options! Water bottles can be purchased and reusable cups can be found and filled at our free water refilling stations throughout the venue.
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PROHIBITED ITEMS INCLUDE (BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO):
Weapons or firearms of any kind (regardless of permit)
Outside food and beverages
Illegal substances or drug paraphernalia
Glass containers
Drones or professional camera equipment without a media pass
Bicycles, scooters, or skateboards
Pets (service animals permitted)
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Heart of Country Music Festival encourages a smoke-free environment and asks that you respect the health of your fellow fest-goers and refrain from smoking or vaping in areas where it may affect someone else. Smoking is prohibited under all tents and inside buildings. Please find an isolated area if you must smoke, and dispose of your butts properly.
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Applications coming soon! Shoot us an email at info@heartofcountryfest.com