IBMA Unveils Lineup for 2026 IBMA Bluegrass Live! in Chattanooga

NASHVILLE, TENN. – The International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA) has unveiled the lineup for IBMA Bluegrass Live!®, presented by Chattanooga Tourism Co., taking place October 23–24, 2026, in downtown Chattanooga, Tennessee.

This year’s festival will feature performances from Sierra Ferrell, Leftover Salmon, Larry Sparks, Michael Cleveland & Friends, Lindsay Lou presents Bluegrass Women, Lonesome River Band, Della Mae, Jason Carter Band, Special Consensus, Randy Steele & High Cold Wind, and Barefoot Nellie & Co.

IBMA Bluegrass Live!® takes on a new shape in 2026, offering fans two unique ways to experience the festival: the ticketed IBMA Bluegrass Live!® experience and the free outdoor celebration, Pickin’ in the Park.

IBMA Bluegrass Live!® 2026 will feature can’t-miss performances from the artists listed above across The Signal, the Chattanooga Convention Center, and Barrelhouse Ballroom. The new format brings fans closer to artists and creates a more consistent experience, rain or shine.

With more intimate venues and a more focused festival experience, tickets will be limited. Fans are encouraged to secure their spot early when tickets go on sale to experience this special weekend of bluegrass music.

This year, attendees can choose between a GA Weekend Pass and a new VIP Weekend Pass designed for fans who want an elevated festival experience. The VIP Weekend Pass includes premium seating at the Chattanooga Convention Center, mezzanine seating at The Signal, access to a dedicated front-section standing area at The Signal, and a dedicated VIP entrance to bypass the line at The Signal, along with pre-sale access for Late Night at Barrelhouse and limited, first come, first served seating.

VIP ticket holders will also receive access to two exclusive Happy Hour receptions held ahead of the evening performances at The Signal, featuring live music, complimentary wine, beer, and whiskey tastings, and light snacks. These VIP-only events will include performances by Randy Steele & High Cold Wind on Friday, October 23, at Stratus Rooftop at Caption and Barefoot Nellie & Co. on Saturday, October 24, at 50/50 Wine + Martini Bar.

The festival will also feature Late Night at Barrelhouse performances at Barrelhouse Ballroom, with appearances from Lonesome River Band and Jason Carter Band. VIP and GA Weekend Pass holders who wish to attend Late Night at Barrelhouse will need to purchase a separate ticket, which will be available soon.

The 2026 festival will also introduce Pickin’ in the Park, in partnership with River City Company, a free outdoor community celebration formerly known as Streetfest. Located in the heart of downtown Chattanooga at Miller Park and Miller Plaza, Pickin’ in the Park will offer two days of live bluegrass music featuring college bands, Kids on Bluegrass participants, and local Chattanooga talent.

The free event will take place October 23-24 and will also include arts and crafts vendors, food, and plenty of space for fans and community members to gather, relax, and enjoy the music. No tickets are required for Pickin’ in the Park, making it an open celebration for bluegrass fans and the Chattanooga community. The Pickin’ in the Park lineup will be announced later this summer.

IBMA Bluegrass Live!®, presented by Chattanooga Tourism Co., is just one part of IBMA World of Bluegrass®, which runs October 20-24, 2026. The week, the most important in bluegrass, encompasses four events: the IBMA Business Conference, presented by Riverview Foundation, Oct. 20-22 at the Chattanooga Convention Center; the IBMA Bluegrass Ramble presented by Coca-Cola Bottling Company UNITED-CHATTANOOGA, Oct. 20-21 in downtown Chattanooga venues; the 37th Annual IBMA Bluegrass Music Awards, presented by Get It Played, Oct. 22 at the Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Auditorium; and IBMA Bluegrass Live!®, presented by Chattanooga Tourism Co. Oct. 23-24, a two-day festival of live performances and fan experiences.

The IBMA would also like to thank their major local Chattanooga partners who have provided grants and donations to make IBMA World of Bluegrass® possible: Benwood Foundation, Robert F. Stone Foundation, McKenzie Foundation, and Fletcher Bright Realty.

For more information, including ticket options and pricing, visit worldofbluegrass.org.