Thursday July 11th

43rd Annual Country Concert Festival: Night 1 Recap

The 43rd annual Country Concert Festival in Ft. Loramie, OH, kicked off with an unforgettable first night, setting the tone for an epic three-day celebration of country music. The festival grounds were packed with enthusiastic fans and campers, creating a vibrant and energetic party atmosphere under the beautiful sky.

Main Stage Highlights

Jo Dee Messina opened the main stage with a dynamic performance that had the crowd singing along to her classic hits like "Heads Carolina, Tails California" and "I'm Alright." Her energy and charisma set the perfect tone for the evening, getting everyone in the festival spirit.

Trace Adkins followed with his deep baritone and commanding presence, delivering a set filled with his iconic songs such as "Honky Tonk Badonkadonk" and "You're Gonna Miss This." Adkins' performance was a nostalgic trip for long-time fans and a powerful showcase of his enduring talent.

Riley Green brought a contemporary edge to the stage, blending traditional country sounds with a modern twist. His hits like "There Was This Girl" and "I Wish Grandpas Never Died" resonated deeply with the audience, showcasing his knack for storytelling and connection with fans.

Cody Johnson, the headliner for the night, delivered an electrifying performance that left the crowd wanting more. His set was a mix of high-energy anthems and heartfelt ballads, including "On My Way to You" and "Dear Rodeo." Johnson's authenticity and passion for country music were evident, making him a standout performer of the night.

C4 Energy Saloon Stage Highlights

Drake Milligan opened the C4 Energy Saloon Stage, setting the bar high with his fresh sound and engaging performance. His blend of traditional and contemporary country music made for an exciting start to the evening.

Ian Munsick followed, bringing his unique Western-influenced style to the stage. Songs like "Long Haul" and "Horses Are Faster" showcased his distinctive sound and storytelling ability, earning him new fans among the crowd.

Conner Smith kept the energy high with his youthful enthusiasm and catchy songs. Tracks like "Learn From It" and "Tennessee" had the audience dancing and singing along, highlighting his potential as a rising star in the country music scene.

Wyatt McCubbin, an Ohio native, headlined the C4 Energy Saloon Stage. His deep connection to the local audience was palpable as he performed songs that celebrated his roots and experiences. McCubbin's heartfelt performance and genuine connection with the crowd made his set a memorable highlight of the night.

The festival grounds were buzzing with excitement, with fans enjoying the perfect weather and the lively party atmosphere. Campers and festival-goers alike were in high spirits, making the most of the vibrant scene. K99.1 FM, the country radio sponsor, kept the energy up throughout the night, ensuring that the party never stopped.

Night 1 of the 43rd annual Country Concert Festival was a resounding success, with stellar performances on both the main stage and the C4 Energy Saloon Stage. The combination of legendary acts, rising stars, and an enthusiastic crowd created an unforgettable experience, setting the stage for the next two nights of country music bliss.