North of Nashville

What if I told you there was a problem with live music returning? You’d call me crazy, right? Well, the issue is that there are too many great shows and not enough time. So this month I’m gonna hand things over to my friend Kenny Beckman, who shares our love of live music. He had the chance to attend the Pilgrimage Festival, had a great time (I’m jealous) and he wanted to give his review.

-by Greg Almond

About the Author: Greg Almond is an on-air personality for Goober 95.1.

Pilgrimage Festival 2021 – Sights + Sounds 
Why You Should Be There Next Year

Let’s be honest… the return of live music festivals is a wonderful thing. People coming out in massive numbers to see their favorite band or an artist they have wanted to see for years, finally getting that chance is what it’s all about. 

I had an opportunity to Make the Pilgrimage down to Franklin, Tennessee for the 2021 Pilgrimage Music and Cultural Fest. Although it was my first experience checking out the fest, it’s been going on since 2015 and was founded by Better than Ezra frontman Kevin Griffin. Now that you know that, it should come as no surprise that the lineup each year is really diverse. 

If you’re looking for variety, perhaps a little taste of all kinds of musical acts, unique vendors and local brews and eats, then this is the fest for you. Dominating the musical lineup this year was Dave Matthews Band, The Black Keys, Maren Morris, and Bowling Green’s own… Cage The Elephant. With multiple stages going on at the same time, scheduling is a priority when it comes to who you absolutely want to see while you’re there. Spread out over 200 acres at the Park at Harlinsdale Farm, there’s no shortage of space to prop up a chair, lay out a sleeping bag, or just roam freely and check out the many tents and stages. 

The numerous amounts of live music paired well with local BBQ and endless craft brews, making the fest atmosphere that much better, providing the scents during what was an absolutely beautiful weather weekend. If the music lineup doesn’t sell you… go for the memories, the experience and the friends you’re guaranteed to make in the pit singing every word to your favorite song. The fest usually falls in late September, and has yet to disappoint on the top-notch entertainment. 

It’s never too early to start thinking about next year. I know I’m ready to Make the Pilgrimage, how about you? 

Twitter and Instagram: @kny_beckman

-by Kenny Beckman