 Illustrative AI bluegrass band performance. Photo: Henderson Shoutouts |
Henderson has a free day of live bluegrass music coming to Water Street Plaza on Saturday, October 17.
The third annual Henderson Bluegrass Festival returns to Water Street Plaza on Saturday, October 17, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., bringing six bluegrass acts to downtown Henderson for a full day of live music.
Admission is free, families are welcome, and visitors can bring blankets or portable chairs. According to the City of Henderson's festival announcement, this year's performers include Sister Sadie, Authentic Unlimited, East Nash Grass, Tray Wellington Band, The Cody Sisters, and Kristy Cox & Grasstime.
Six bluegrass acts, one full day of music
The official performance schedule lists Kristy Cox & Grasstime at 11:15 a.m., The Cody Sisters at 12:10 p.m., and Tray Wellington Band at 1:10 p.m.
East Nash Grass follows at 2:15 p.m., Authentic Unlimited at 3:45 p.m., and Sister Sadie at 5:15 p.m. The schedule lets visitors sample several acts or plan an outing around one favorite. Performance times may change, so check the organizer's updates before heading out.
Bluegrass brings together acoustic instruments, expressive musicianship, and close vocal harmonies. Banjo, fiddle, guitar, mandolin, and upright bass often take turns in the spotlight. A festival is an inviting place to discover the genre because you can hear different performers and musical approaches in one afternoon. |
 Illustrative bluegrass band performance in Tennessee. Photo: Tatiana Bidon / Pexels |
Food, seating, and family-friendly fun
Local food and beverage vendors are expected, but the complete 2026 vendor roster was not confirmed in the official details reviewed for this article. Food purchases may cost extra even though admission is free.
The festival lasts eight hours, so prepare for an outdoor afternoon. Bring portable chairs or blankets, comfortable shoes, water, and sun protection, subject to the event's current rules. Parents can plan a shorter visit if young children are not ready for a full day of concerts.
For the latest event policies and updates, consult Henderson Parks and Recreation's special events calendar.
Where to park at Water Street Plaza
The festival takes place in downtown Henderson's Water Street District, near local restaurants and public parking facilities. One option is the Water Street Parking Garage at 235 S. Water Street.
The city identifies free public parking in the district, but spaces may fill during busy events. Allow extra time to park and walk to the plaza, and follow any temporary traffic directions. If accessibility arrangements matter to your group, check with the organizer in advance.
Visitors unfamiliar with downtown can review the official festival information before leaving home.
Henderson Bluegrass 2026: Quick facts
Date: Saturday, October 17, 2026. Time: 11 a.m.–7 p.m. Location: Water Street Plaza, Henderson. Admission: Free. Music: Six scheduled acts. Seating: Chairs and blankets welcome. Food: Vendors expected; purchases extra.
Before you go: venue rules and arrival tips
The city's festival guidance lists restrictions on coolers, umbrellas and pets. Review the official event rules before packing, including any exceptions or updates. If you are coming with children, choose a few sets to attend rather than assuming everyone will want to stay all eight hours.
Public parking is available in the Water Street District, including the garage at 235 S. Water Street. The city also identifies another public garage in the district; check the organizer's parking directions for its current entrance and availability. No event shuttle is advertised, so plan to walk from your parking spot to the plaza. Arriving ahead of your preferred performance will leave time to find a seat and visit food vendors.
Downtown restaurants can make the outing a longer afternoon, but verify individual opening hours before planning a meal. Keep pathways clear when setting up chairs, and agree on a meeting point if your group separates.
With six scheduled acts and free general admission, Henderson Bluegrass is an easy way to explore live acoustic music close to home. Check the city's latest festival information for any last-minute changes before heading to Water Street Plaza. |
18 Comments
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The 11:15 start for Kristy Cox & Grasstime is handy for anyone who prefers an early outing. Will the music go on if it rains?
Tray Wellington Band is the one I’m curious about. It’s nice to have a chance to hear different bluegrass styles for free.
Ben H.Same here, I’m curious to hear his banjo playing live. I might stay for East Nash Grass too.
Free music is great, though I hope the city shares parking details before October 17. Downtown can be tricky when there's a big event.
I like that chairs and blankets are allowed. A little shade at Water Street Plaza would make the afternoon sets more comfortable.
Being able to bring a chair or blanket should make it easier to settle in for the afternoon sets. Thanks for the shade suggestion, it’s worth keeping in mind when planning a visit.
Six acts sounds great, but 11 to 7 is a long stretch with kids. Will people be able to come and go?
I like that the Tray Wellington Band has an afternoon slot. It gives people a chance to hear something new without staying all day.
Eleven to seven is a long day. Will there be food vendors at Water Street Plaza, or should people plan to eat nearby?
Glad they allow portable chairs. My dad loves bluegrass but would need somewhere to sit between sets.
kim_87Same with my mom. Being able to bring a chair means we can stay for a few sets instead of heading home early.
We’re glad portable chairs are welcome, too, it should make the day more comfortable for your dad. Hope you both enjoy the music!
Sister Sadie at 5:15 is the set I’d plan around. Is there a good place to park if you’re coming later in the day?
Dave ThompsonI’ve usually found parking around Water Street, but I’d leave some extra time if you’re coming just for that set.
Free admission and a full day of music make this an easy family outing. Will there be food vendors at Water Street Plaza?
Sister Sadie at 5:15 is the set I would plan around. I wonder if the plaza gets crowded by then.
Dave ThompsonI’d get there a little before 5 if you want a good spot. Sister Sadie is the set I’m most excited for too.
Free admission and six bands sounds like a nice Saturday downtown. Are there shaded spots at Water Street Plaza for families staying all afternoon?