Musicians performing onstage

Poppy Mountain Music Festival

What began as a dream passed down from father to son has blossomed into the largest bluegrass festival in the world—the Poppy Mountain Bluegrass Festival. Every September, over 100 bands converge on the rolling hills of Poppy Mountain, bringing with them the heart and soul of bluegrass music. For one magical week, the hills echo with the sounds of banjos, fiddles, and harmonies, creating an immersive experience for fans from across the globe.

As you travel east along the Tom T. Hall Highway, Poppy Mountain rises into view, welcoming you to 1,400 acres of pure Kentucky beauty. The spirit of bluegrass is palpable the moment you arrive, as campers, music lovers, and musicians alike gather to share their love of the music that calls this place home.

With an annual attendance swelling to over 20,000, the Poppy Mountain Bluegrass Festival is big enough to draw major acts while still retaining that down-home, family-friendly atmosphere. It’s a place where generations come together, where the stage is always alive with exciting lineups, and where the sense of community is as strong as the music itself.

A key stop on the Kentucky Music Trail, Poppy Mountain offers a festival experience like no other, blending the deep roots of bluegrass tradition with a welcoming, laid-back vibe. Whether you’re an old-time bluegrass fan or discovering the music for the first time, this festival is a must-visit for anyone exploring Kentucky’s musical landscape.

Events

Upcoming Events

From national headliners to impromptu jam sessions, there’s always live music in the air in Kentucky. See what’s on stage during your exploration of the Kentucky Music Trail.

Rosemary Clooney House

Rosemary Clooney House

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Muhlenberg County Music Museum in Central City

Muhlenberg County Music Museum in Central City

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Bradley Kincaid Home – Kentucky Mountain Boy – Historic Marker

Bradley Kincaid Home – Kentucky Mountain Boy – Historic Marker

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Keith Whitley Memorial Statue

Keith Whitley Memorial Statue

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Everly Brothers Monument

Everly Brothers Monument

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Norton Center for the Arts in Danville

Norton Center for the Arts in Danville

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Johnny Cash-Carter Wedding Historic Marker

Johnny Cash-Carter Wedding Historic Marker

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Loretta Lynn’s Homeplace Butcher Holler

Loretta Lynn’s Homeplace Butcher Holler

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Mountain Arts Center

Mountain Arts Center

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Manchester Music Hall

Manchester Music Hall

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Digital Passport

Rewarding YourLove of Music

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.