A New chapter for music in the City of oaks

Raleigh is set to strike a new chord in its musical landscape with the debut of the Raleigh Wide Open Music Festival in 2025. This free festival,a project of the non-profit PineCone and presented by PNC Bank,promises a vibrant celebration of bluegrass,Americana,gospel,and folk music.

What to Expect at Raleigh Wide Open

• Dates: Oct. 3-4, 2025
• Location: City Plaza, Davie Street, and martin Street in downtown Raleigh
• admission: Free
• Music: Six stages featuring bluegrass, Americana, gospel, and folk artists
• other Attractions: Food vendors, art market, family-amiable activities

Anticipation Builds for Lineup Reveal

Music enthusiasts can mark their calendars: the festival lineup is expected to be announced before June.Organizers are promising a diverse array of talent that will appeal to a wide range of musical tastes.

Replacing a raleigh Tradition

The Raleigh Wide Open Music Festival steps into the spotlight following the departure of the IBMA World of Bluegrass Festival, which concluded its decade-long residency in Raleigh last year. The IBMA festival generated an estimated $88 million for Raleigh’s economy over its 10-year run.

The city had already planned for a new “Americana-style” festival, and Raleigh Wide Open fulfills that vision.

A Festival Rooted in Raleigh

Organizers emphasize that the new festival will retain the best aspects of its predecessor while adding a distinct Raleigh flavor. It’s everything you loved about the previous bluegrass festival, plus a few twists that root it firmly in Raleigh, they said.

calling All Vendors

Vendor applications are currently being accepted. interested parties are encouraged to apply soon, as space is limited. A detailed schedule of events will be posted online in the near future.

More Than Just Music

Beyond the music, the Raleigh Wide Open Music Festival promises a extensive cultural experience. The free, family-friendly event will feature food vendors, an art market, and multiple stages spread across City Plaza and along Davie and Martin streets.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Is the festival free? Yes, admission is free.
• When is the festival? oct. 3-4, 2025.
• Where is the festival located? city Plaza, Davie Street, and Martin Street in downtown Raleigh.
• What kind of music will be featured? Bluegrass, Americana, gospel, and folk.
• When will the lineup be announced? Before June.
• Are vendor applications open? Yes, apply here.