As the Bluegrass Music Capital of the World, Owensboro continues to weave the sound of bluegrass into the heart of its community, and the Great American Bluegrass Jam is a shining example. This annual event, first held in 2023, celebrates the town’s deep bluegrass roots while drawing fans from far and wide to experience a weekend filled with music, history, and the vibrant culture of Kentucky.
Taking place throughout downtown Owensboro, the festival brings together a diverse lineup of events and performances. From the lively Kentucky Fried Pickin’ Hotel Jam at the Holiday Inn Riverfront to the prestigious Kentucky State Fiddle Championship at the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame & Museum, this weekend is a bluegrass lover’s dream. Add in exclusive concerts, like the Earls of Leicester at Woodward Theater, and special shuttle excursions to iconic sites like the Green River Distilling Co. and the Bill Monroe Homeplace in nearby Rosine, and you’ve got a jam-packed weekend of unforgettable experiences.
The Great American Bluegrass Jam is more than an event—it’s a gathering place for musicians and fans alike, where the legacy of bluegrass music comes to life. As part of the Kentucky Music Trail, this festival is a must for anyone looking to connect with the genre’s storied past and exciting future.
Track your travels along the Kentucky Music Trail with the free passport app. Simply visit participating sites to collect “check-ins”—the more milestones you reach, the more giveaways you could qualify for including concert tickets and VIP merch.