Margo Price performs at the 2023 Pilgrimage Music and Cultural Festival
On the weekend of Sept. 23–24, the Park at Harlinsdale Farm in Franklin, Tennessee, welcomed 25,000 festivalgoers for the ninth annual Pilgrimage Music and Cultural Festival. The 2023 turnout and festivities were truly spectacular, boasting a turnout of approximately 8,000 more attendees than the previous year. The vibe was electric, and the magic was undeniable.
The weekend brought awesome music, beautiful weather and delicious food. With an impressive lineup that featured some of the biggest names in popular music, it was no surprise that the Pilgrimage Festival lived up to its reputation as a premier musical event.
Headliners The Lumineers and Zach Bryan both delivered incredible performances that left the crowds going wild. The Lumineers took it a step further, immersing themselves in the crowd during their set, creating an unforgettable connection with their fans. Zach Bryan’s Sunday night closing performance—probably the most anticipated of the entire weekend—featured surprise guest appearances by musical talents like Noah Kahan, The Lumineers, and War & Treaty, adding an extra layer of excitement to an already incredible set.
Zach Bryan; photos by Ashleigh Newnes
Those at the Gold Record stage witnessed an electric performance by Nathaniel Rateliff and The Night Sweats as well as a memorable show by iconic rockers The Black Crowes. The lineup also included Patrick Droney, Englishman James Bay, and Margo Price.
The Midnight Sun stage featured captivating sets by Luke Grimes, the soulful War & Treaty, and the talented Ashley McBryde. Better Than Ezra graced the stage once again, with frontman Kevin Griffin gifting his guitar to a lucky fan in the crowd. In a touching tribute, the band paid homage to the legendary Jimmy Buffett.
With the performances on these two main stages, a diverse lineup, and a range of kid-friendly activities, Pilgrimage Festival ensures that everyone can find their rhythm. Some attendees brought chairs and blankets and created their own cozy, comfortable corners during the sets. But for those who love to be at the front and center of the action, the festival accommodates these concertgoers as well with the capability of getting up close to the performers.
Pilgrimage Festival showcased the heart of the country music community. Several times during the weekend, performers like Ashley McBryde, The Lumineers, and Zach Bryan paused their sets to ensure that fans in need of help received immediate assistance.
“That’s what we do in country music; we look after each other,” as McBryde put it.
Many fans are already buzzing with anticipation for next year’s lineup and the 10th annual Pilgrimage Music and Cultural Festival in 2024.
