The vibrancy of one of Raleigh’s most iconic cultural events will return this fall with the new 2025 Raleigh Wide Open Music Festival, Oct. 3-4. The free two-day festival builds on the city’s success as a destination for bluegrass, bringing a vibrant mix of bluegrass, Americana, gospel and folk music to the heart of downtown.
A family-friendly celebration of music, art, food and community, the festival continues a 13-year tradition of showcasing world-class talent while spotlighting the best of Raleigh’s creative economy. Festival goers can look forward to multiple free outdoor stages, bustling craft and maker markets, beer gardens, food trucks and art vendors – all set against the backdrop of Raleigh’s thriving downtown.
“Each year, this event brings together thousands of people across generations and backgrounds,” says David Brower, executive director of festival producer PineCone. “It’s a celebration of what makes Raleigh special: great music, community spirit, and a deep appreciation for tradition and progress.”
This year’s festival also includes separately ticketed evening shows at Red Hat Amphitheater, produced by Live Nation, offering fans even more opportunities to experience their favorite artists in a dynamic setting. The full artist lineup will be announced soon, with a mix of returning favorites and exciting newcomers.
Presented by PNC Bank and produced by PineCone, the festival is rooted in the same committed leadership that has helped establish bluegrass as a cornerstone of Raleigh’s cultural calendar. The revived “Raleigh Wide Open” name is a nod to the city’s past while embracing its future, signaling an era of growth, creativity and connection.
“PNC is proud to demonstrate not just our presence, but also our commitment to downtown Raleigh through our support of the Raleigh Wide Open Music Festival, an event designed to enrich the region and generate economic impact for local businesses by bringing visitors from all over to experience all that Raleigh has to offer,” says Jim Hansen, PNC Regional President for Eastern Carolinas.
With an economic impact that strengthens downtown businesses and amplifies Raleigh as a cultural tourism destination, the festival is expected to continue attracting families, fans and first-time visitors alike.
“The return of Raleigh Wide Open is a welcome reminder of what makes this city shine,” says Raleigh Mayor Janet Cowell. “It’s more than a music festival. It’s a statement about Raleigh’s growth, creativity, and the strong partnerships that fuel our cultural identity.”
Whether you’re a longtime bluegrass devotee or a curious newcomer, there’s something for everyone at the 2025 Raleigh Wide Open Music Festival.
“Wake County believes in the power of place, said Wake County Commissioner Vickie Adamson. “Events like this one enhance our community’s culture and elevate our quality of life, which are key factors in the explosive population growth we’re seeing across Wake County.”
To learn more and get involved as a sponsor, vendor or volunteer, visit raleighwideopen.com.