The Pilgrimage Music & Cultural Festival has long been known as the site of some of the year’s most unforgettable music performances and food experiences. Yet for many, the event’s long list of artisans that come from all over the country to share their wares adds to the experience that Forbes raves has “set itself apart…based upon a series of immersive fan experiences that celebrate not just music but culture, cuisine and art as well,” and its fifth year will be no exception come September 21-22.
From the exquisite fiber-based home goods and accessories of Black Sheep Goods, to the purpose-driven line of apparel from Project 615, and the heartwarming and cozy wares of The Nashville Blanket Project, this year’s festival will have something for the whole family.
Located in the Vanderbilt Health Lil Pilgrims Village, the Mare Barn Theater is just one of the many family-friendly activations that will take place upon the grounds of the festival, offering music fans of all ages the ultimate entertainment via performers such as magicians Michael Dardant and Cousin Cajun Mike, as well as the exciting DrumINSync drum circle. The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum will be on hand to conduct a story time session along with a songwriting workshop, and School of Rock will host a musical petting zoo.
Festival-goers of all ages will have the opportunity to learn more about the South’s rich musical history with the help of American Pickers and Antique Archaeology at the Americana Music Triangle Experience. The partners have cultivated an atmosphere of American Music culture with church pews, farm tables and a historic photo wall to serve as a backdrop while stories from other historic Southern music cities are shared.
In addition to the music, artisans, food and activities, there are the drinks. The Bell’s Brewery Craft Beer Hall returns for a third year, with 15+ beers on draft and LED screens featuring NCAA and NFL programming all weekend long. The expanded Millville Wine Lounge will feature a collection of wines, including selections from ViNO and JaM Cellars. The festival’s mixology experience continues to be refined with the support of Pilgrimage’s spirits’ partners, including Blue Chair Bay, George Dickel Tennessee Whisky, Hendrick’s Gin, Milagro Tequila and Tito’s Handmade Vodka. New for 2019, the event welcomes Miller Lite, Henry’s Hard Sparkling Water, Red Bull and Topo Chico Sparkling Mineral Water.
There is also an incredible list of sponsors that will be on site, eager to share their goods and their story with attendees. Stand-out sponsors this year include Solo Cup, Franklin Synergy Bank, The Frye Company, Twice Daily Thrive and Yeti.
The Pilgrimage Music & Cultural Festival takes place Sept. 21-22, 10 a.m.-8:30 p.m., at The Park at Harlinsdale in historic downtown Franklin, Tennessee and will include performances from ground-breaking artists the Foo Fighters, Keith Urban, The Killers and many more.
