A vibrant music festival scene unfurls around Evansville each summer, beckoning listeners with relaxed atmospheres, diverse lineups of talent, and engaging activities. From bluegrass celebrations like ROMP and Jerusalem Ridge to community favorites like WNINโs Jazz Fest and a trio of front porch fests, music enthusiasts will find something to enjoy.
Front Porch Fests
Enjoy tunes for free on the lawns of more than 70 area homes.
Haynieโs Corner Arts District Front Porch Fest
Sept. 7, 2024, Haynieโs Corner Arts District
Find diverse local talent like Kelsey Ellen, Atlas of The Dogs, and The Old Goat Show. Order snacks and drinks to go from area food trucks.
Love Lamasco Porch Fest
Sept. 15, 2024, Wabash Avenue of the Flags
This second annual event features live sets on front lawns, food trucks, a kidsโ zone, and more.
Lincolnshire Porchfest
Oct. 6, 2024, Lincolnshire Historic District
Enjoy tunes from the likes of Dr. Doctor, Dixielanders, and Honey Roy and food trucks on the streets of this Tudor-lined neighborhood.
Henderson, Kentucky, Porch Fest
Early June, South Main Street
This yearโs event on June 1 hosted the E.J. Simmons Blues Band, Soul N The Pocket, Kings Highway, and more.
Songwriter Festivals
Hear from music makers themselves at this trio of regional workshops.
Sandy Lee Watkins Songwriters Festival
July 24-27, 2024, Henderson, Kentucky
Restaurants and bars host Nashville, Tennessee, songwriters, who share the inspiration behind their biggest hits. Tickets start at $20.
For the Sake of the Song
Aug. 31, 2024, Wesselman Woodsโ Odonata Pond Amphitheater
Nature and music mix at this free homegrown festival, which includes workshops, childrenโs activities, and a beer garden.
Cosmic Songwriter Festival
Mid-May, Bloomington, Indiana
Multiple venues host musicians for Nashville-style listening room performances. Tickets range from $14 to $38.
Jazz and Blues
Get your groove on at events celebrating these collaborative, free-form music styles.
WNIN Jazz Fest
July 20, 2024, WNIN
Bring your lawn chairs for this free all-ages evening of music by regional favorites like Monte Skelton, Bokeh Big Band, and The Sidemen Trio.
W.C. Handy Blues & Barbecue Festival
Mid-June, Henderson, Kentucky
This signature event is free and offers live blues, food trucks, craft vendors, and more.
Bluegrass
Get to the root of this regional specialty at three annual gatherings.
Bluegrass in the Park
Aug. 9-10, 2024, Henderson, Kentucky
This family-oriented free festival leans traditional but welcomes many bluegrass styles, plus artisans, hobbyists, and crafters.
Jerusalem Ridge Bluegrass Celebration
Sept. 12-15, 2024, Rosine, Kentucky
Pay homage to the Father of Bluegress, Bill Monroe. This yearโs lineup includes Larry Sparks, Blue Highway, and Fast Track. Tickets average $22 for a single-day pass.
ROMP
Late June, Owensboro, Kentucky
The โRoots and Branches Festivalโ hosts bluegrass music and complementary genres. Single-day tickets start at $45. Read a review of the 2024 festival here.
Regional Festivals & Concert Series
Set your calendar for these special concerts within two hours of Evansville.
Spencer County Country Music Fest
July 19-20, 2024, Grandview, Indiana
Confederate Railroad, Kentucky Shine, and more perform at this inaugural festival. Tickets start at $25.
Friday After 5
May-August 2024, Owensboro, Kentucky
Bounce between stages offering free entertainment on the Ohio River.
Garden Gate Wine, Jazz & Craft Beer Festival
Late April, Huntingburg, Indiana
This festivalโs food and drink offerings rival the block partyโs live music. Tickets start at $20.
