Most people know CMA Fest for the stadium nights. But this year, some of the most talked-about moments happen before Jason Aldean ever takes the Nissan Stadium stage.
Here's what's actually on the calendar this week in Nashville.
Tuesday, June 2 - Hannah Harper at the Grand Ole Opry
Three weeks after winning American Idol Season 24, Hannah Harper makes her official Grand Ole Opry debut on June 2, sharing the stage with Carrie Underwood - the Opry member who championed Harper throughout the entire competition - and ACM New Female Artist of the Year Avery Anna. Two performances are scheduled at 7:00 PM and 9:30 PM as part of the Opry's "Summer of the Century" celebration marking its 100th anniversary.
For Harper, the timing carries full-circle weight - Underwood was the first to cry during Harper's original audition song "String Cheese," and was again moved to tears by her finale performance.
Wednesday, June 3 - Free American Idol Concert at 6th & Peabody
The 19 Recordings Takeover returns on June 3 starting at 4 PM at 6th & Peabody in Nashville - and it is free. Hannah Harper, runner-up Jordan McCullough, Keyla Richardson, and a full lineup of Season 24 finalists will perform together, running until 8 PM.
For many fans, this will be the first chance to see the newly crowned Idol winner perform live after the finale confetti settled.
Thursday, June 4 - The Stadium Opens
CMA Fest officially kicks off at Nissan Stadium on June 4 with Jason Aldean, Ella Langley, Tucker Wetmore, Deana Carter, and Gretchen Wilson. The festival runs through Sunday, June 7. Free daytime stages are open all weekend across Riverfront Park, Bridgestone Plaza, Walk of Fame Park, and Ascend Park.
Every artist performing donates their time, with proceeds supporting music education through the CMA Foundation. That generosity has been part of this festival from the beginning - and it still shows.
Full lineup and tickets at cmafest.com.
Related Article: CMA Fest 2026 Starts Thursday: Here's the Lineup, Free Stages, and Everything Else You Need
