The Caverns fall line-up continues to grow with jamgrass bands Greensky Bluegrass on Wednesday, September 25 and The Infamous Stringdusters on Saturday, October 18. Tickets and overnight packages for both shows go on sale to the general public on Friday, June 7 at 10 a.m. CT.

9/25/19 - Greensky Bluegrass at The Caverns - ticket page.

10/18/19 - The Infamous Stringdusters at The Caverns - ticket page.

The Caverns is home to Emmy-winning, PBS series Bluegrass Underground, and both bands have appeared on the show. These concert dates mark a return to the underground for Greensky Bluegrass and The Infamous Stringdusters.

Hailing from Kalamazoo, MI, Greensky Bluegrass recently released their seventh full-length album, All For Money, in 2019.

"Greensky are hardly strictly bluegrass and, yet, they're representing the genre for a whole new generation." ~Rolling Stone

Also touring behind new music, The Infamous Stringdusters released their ninth studio album, Rise Sun, in April.

"With a nod to the past and a firm foot down on the gas toward the future, the 'Dusters... don't leave bluegrass behind; they're stretching it from within." ~ New York Times

The PBS string sensation, Annie Moses Band, re-imagines the Christmas season with stunning arrangements of beloved carols. Classical finesse and fast-paced fiddling fuse in a concert that bridges the gap between the halls of Juilliard and the American heartland. Beautiful original songs (“When The Christmas Baby Cries”) join eternal melodies (“O Holy Night," “Carol of the Bells”) in an Christmas experience that is virtuosic, deeply reverent, and unforgettable. 

Christmas with the Annie Moses Band will be at The Caverns on November 30. That's the Saturday after Thanksgiving. Plan your holiday retreat to Southeast Tennessee and join us for a special evening of Christmas music with the Annie Moses Band.

Tickets go on sale on this Friday, June 21 at 11a CT.

Two of the best voices in bluegrass music today will be down in The Caverns this weekend. On Saturday, June 29, we proudly host International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA) award winners Danny Paisley and Becky Buller. It's an early show that starts at 1p CT, so bring the whole family for an afternoon of bluegrass underground.

Danny Paisley and The Southern Grass are deeply rooted in tradition. What's more, the band is a family tradition. Southern Grass was founded by Danny's father Bob Paisley. Today Danny leads the band and his son Ryan is featured on the mandolin. Danny's lead vocals will captivate your senses, so much so that many prominent musicians, including Alison Krauss, consider Danny as one of their favorite singers.

As for Becky Buller, she has the distinction of making bluegrass music history by becoming the first artist ever to win in both the instrumental and vocal categories at the IBMA awards. With the Becky Buller Band, Becky is introducing the world to a catalog of powerful, original bluegrass music.

Join us this weekend at The Caverns on Saturday at 1p CT.

Get your bluegrass underground!

Get tickets!

The Caverns, a live music venue inside a Tennessee cave, announced five new shows for 2020 with songwriting troubadours, bluegrass legends and hard rock bands. The five shows include:  

March 7 - Arlo Guthrie 

March 21 - Ricky Skaggs & Kentucky Thunder

April 4 - Drivin' N Cryin' with The Silks

June 6 - Rhonda Vincent & The Rage

June 20 - Todd Snider

These dates join two previously announced shows on The Caverns calendar, specifically Umphrey’s McGee on February 13 (sold out) and Railroad Earth on February 29 (on sale now).

“In 2020, The Caverns will host a diverse array of musical genres united by quality artistry and passionate fans,” says Todd Mayo, The Caverns owner.

2020 will mark The Caverns’ 3rd year as a music venue. Located in beautiful Grundy County, Tennessee, the breathtaking venue frequently has sold out shows as music fans travel from all over the country, even the world, to experience the venue’s pristine acoustics and the thrill of seeing a concert in a cave.

Tickets and overnight packages for the five new shows announced today go on sale on Friday, November 8 at 11a CT at www.thecaverns.com.  

Acclaimed live music venue inside a cave, The Caverns, and emerging dynamic rock powerhouse band, Papadosio, have partnered to present an intimate 1,000 capacity 2-night event deep underground called Subterranea featuring food, onsite camping, art, yoga & sound healing, cave tours and of course, music!

Subterranea will feature multiple stages with 4 sets of Papadosio plus performances by artists hand-selected by Papadosio to create an immersive experience in beautiful rural Tennessee. What's more, be prepared for the unexpected like workshops, live art, immersive cave experiences, guided tours into deeper sections of The Caverns, late-night performances, and more.

This event will also be one of the first-ever at The Caverns to feature onsite camping options in addition to the traditional hotel packages offered by The Caverns.

SUBTERRANEA: A SONIC JOURNEY INTO THE EARTH

Sets by:

PAPADOSIO X4

DOPAPOD 

CHON

CONSIDER THE SOURCE 

LESPECIAL 

EARTHCRY 

BRETHER 

LITZ 

JAW GEMS

BLOSSOMN 

ANDO SAN

The Caverns announced today that acclaimed artist and humanitarian Michael Franti and “Say Hey (I Love You)” singer is bringing his 2020 Work Hard & Be Nice Tour underground for a special concert in a cave on Friday, June 26.

Michael Franti radiates positivity on stage and off; AXS notes, “Michael Franti & Spearhead are on a mission: to make the world a more positive place, one note at a time.” With that mission in mind, Franti takes to main stages in 90-cities with support acts Bombargo and Satsang, as well as joining Kenny Chesney, Florida Georgia Line and Old Dominion on Chesney’s Chillaxification Tour in 2020.

USA Today proclaims Franti is “an artist who’s clearly interested in making deep connections with listeners, speaking powerfully through his music and living by his mantra that ‘there is no one in the world that you wouldn’t love if you knew their story.’”

“I’m super excited about touring this year because now more than ever, we all need music that helps us get through challenging times and brings people together,” says Franti. “I love playing music, whether it’s in my living room, on a street corner or the amphitheaters and stadiums we’re going to be in this year. Regardless of the scale, music is the sound of feelings and the energy that we create with the audience, which makes us all believe that regardless of what we carried into the gig, we can walk out of the experience feeling ready to take on whatever the world has to throw at us next.”

Franti, a San Francisco native for the last 36 years, who is revered for his thoughtful lyrics and high-energy shows, says he is energized to hit the road with Bombargo, a Canadian rock band from Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, known for their distinctive “vintage-pop” sound laced with soul and Satsang, a power trio offering a unique blend of soul, folk rock and hip hop. “Both of the bands we have opening for us this year share our musical mission of optimism, high energy and taking the time to connect with the fans wherever we are. I’m sure there’s going to be some great collaborations that happen between all of us!”

Of the tour’s moniker, Franti explains, “On last year’s tour, I made a tee shirt that said, ‘Work Hard & Be Nice To People.’ I feel in this world, we are constantly trying to divide the human family into groups that we can refer to as ‘other.’ It’s important to stand up for the values of embracing our differences, being our authentic selves and accepting others for being themselves as well. Sometimes that’s hard work. Somewhere along the way, our society seems to have forgotten that working hard and being kind to other people, regardless of what their story or beliefs are, is still important. Actually, it’s more important than ever."

Also joining Chesney on his 2020 Chillaxification Tour, Michael Franti & Spearhead will act as the exclusive opening act on Chesney’s amphitheater dates and will join Florida Georgia Line and Old Dominion for 23 stadium dates. 

“Few artists provide the kind of energy, good vibes and awesome music that Michael and Spearhead do,” says the high energy songwriter from East Tennessee. “To be able to share his songs with No Shoes Nation makes me really happy, because I know they're going to love his show and his music as much as I do.”

Michael Franti & Spearhead’s latest album, Stay Human, Vol. II, debuted in January 2019. Relix opines Franti “writes songs with the aim of uplifting his audience.” A remix of Vol. II was released late last year and is available on iTunes, Apple Music, Spotify, Amazon Music and Pandora. It features four songs from the original album, including “This World Is So F*cked Up (But I Ain’t Ever Giving Up on It),” a surprisingly uplifting take on life today, where, Franti says, “there are more good things happening than bad things by a billion times over.” 

As reported today by Bluegrass Today, The Caverns is proud to announce Bluegrass Underground 4th of July Weekend Festival. The inaugural festival is a 2-day music event celebrating Independence Day with world class music in one of the country’s most beautiful venues. The weekend will feature a cavalcade of hard-drivin’ bands including Michael Cleveland & Flamekeeper, The Grascals, Russell Moore & IIIrd Tyme Out, Larry Sparks & The Lonesome Ramblers, The Cleverlys, Sister Sadie, Iron Horse and The Volunteer String Band.

The Bluegrass Underground 4th of July Weekend Festival will be held underground July 4-5 in The Caverns, a subterranean music venue in Pelham, TN where the Emmy Award-winning Bluegrass Underground TV show tapes its live shows for PBS.

All performances will take place underground on The Caverns stage. Above ground, guests will enjoy cookouts each day, an all hours pickin’ tent, evening fireworks, and—for the first time ever at The Caverns—onsite camping! “Stay and Cave” packages are also available for guests who want the comforts of nearby lodging with transportation to and from the venue each day, plus commemorative merchandise and more.

“The Caverns has grown so much since we first opened in 2018. We’re excited to open our campgrounds and welcome music fans for a full weekend of nothing but Bluegrass music,” said Todd Mayo, Bluegrass Underground creator/co-producer and The Caverns owner.

Enjoy nature’s air-conditioning! In Pelham, TN, with an average high temperature of 92° in July, the cool cave temperature of 59° inside The Caverns will come as a relief for music fans looking to escape the hot summer heat of July 4th weekend.

Bluegrass Underground 4th of July Weekend Festival line-up:

Saturday, July 4

Larry Sparks & The Lonesome Ramblers - Larry Sparks, IBMA Hall of Fame member, began his career in the mid-60s as a guitarist for the Stanley Brothers and, over 50 years later, he’s among the most widely known and respected touring musicians in bluegrass and gospel music today.

Sister Sadie - The GRAMMY-nominated group Sister Sadie is made up of world-renowned musicians Dale Ann Bradley, Tina Adair, Gena Britt & Deanie Richardson, who originally formed after playing a sold-out 2013 show at the legendary Station Inn in Nashville. They’ve been turning heads ever since.  

The Cleverlys - The Cleverlys are a one-of-a-kind comedy/music blend coming from the remote part of the Ozark Mountains, near Cane Spur, Arkansas. The New York Times wrote, "If Earl Scruggs, Dolly Parton, and Spinal Tap spawned a litter of puppies, it would be the Cleverlys.”

Iron Horse - Well known for their exceptional musicianship, skill and ability to transpose Metal to Bluegrass while maintaining the identity of the originals, when Iron Horse takes the stage, get ready for mind-blowing Bluegrass renditions of Metallica, Ozzy Osbourne, Led Zeppelin, Van Halen and many more hard rock bands.

Sunday, July 5

Michael Cleveland & Flamekeeper - A 2020 GRAMMY winner, Michael Cleveland, is a former child prodigy who picked up the fiddle at age 4. At 9, Cleveland sat in with none other than Bill Monroe. Before turning 14, he brought his virtuosic style to the Grand Ole Opry as a guest of Alison Krauss. “He plays fearless,” says Vince Gill. 

The Grascals - With a career spanning over 15 years, The Grascals have 3 GRAMMY nominations and 2 International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA) Entertainer of the Year awards. They’ve made late-nite TV appearances and frequent guest appearances on the Grand Ole Opry. 

Russell Moore & IIIrd Tyme Out - IBMA’s most awarded male vocalist (6 times), Russell Moore is “one of the finest singers you’ll ever hear,” Jon Weisberger, Nashville Scene. 

The Volunteer String Band - Fronted by vocalist Travis Stinson, The Volunteer String Band has been a staple of the Nashville music scene for over 15 years with its high-powered bluegrass and penchant for covering songs from genres well beyond bluegrass. 

Tickets for Bluegrass Underground 4th of July Weekend Festival go on sale Friday, February 14 at 10a CT at www.thecaverns.com. Single day reserved seating starts at $60. With a 2-day reserved seating and 2-day packages, guests will have the same great seat for each day of the festival. 

Get your bluegrass underground! 

Shooter Jennings and Watkins Family Hour join The Milk Carton Kids and Sam Lewis for the Saturday, March 28 PBS TV Taping of Bluegrass Underground. Tickets available now!

This event is a rare opportunity to see brother sister duo, Sean and Sara Watkins, as Watkins Family Hour, a project they started in 2002 in Los Angeles to try out some original songs and a few covers that wouldn’t work in Nickel Creek.

And for nearly two decades, Shooter Jennings has defied expectation while constantly expanding the parameters of country, rock ‘n’ roll, and beyond. The scion of American music royalty, he has affirmed his own place in histories still to come.

Make your plans to join us for the PBS TV Taping of Bluegrass Underground!

GET A 3-DAY PACKAGE

Live music returns to Grundy County, Tennessee with The Caverns Above Ground Concert Series featuring the 4x time Grammy Award-winning Jason Isbell and The 400 Unit on October 9-11, 2020. The concerts will take place outdoors and in pods on a hillside above The Caverns cave music venue and overlooking the beautiful Payne Cove. 

“Whether above ground or below ground, the natural beauty at The Caverns is astounding,” says Todd Mayo, The Caverns owner. “We’re grateful our above-ground land gives us the opportunity to be among the first venues in the country to bring people together in a responsible manner for socially-distanced concerts.”

Guests will arrive at staggered times, be asked COVID-19 screening questions, receive a temperature check, and enjoy the show from 2-person, 4-person and 6-person socially-distanced pods. Pods are spaced with a minimum of 6’ distance between each other with 13’ foot paths between pods to maintain social distancing. The seated concerts are "bring your own chair."

Masks will be mandatory, except when guests are in their pods. All concessions and merchandise will be ordered through an app and delivered contactless to pods eliminating lines and limiting the need for guests to leave pods.

While the music plays on above ground, restrooms will be used inside The Caverns to give guests an opportunity to duck below the surface to see the world-famous, subterranean music venue.

The highest priority of The Caverns is the safety of guests, crew and artists. As such, the venue is following guidance provided by the CDC and the State of Tennessee’s Tennessee Pledge for reopening.

Tickets go on sale on Friday, September 18 at 10a CT. $1 from all ticket sales will be donated to the National Independent Venue Association (NIVA). For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.thecaverns.com/above-ground

From October 8th to the 11th, The Caverns Above Ground Concert Series featuring the 4x time Grammy Award-winning Jason Isbell and The 400 Unit marked the return of live music at The Caverns in Pelham, TN. The 4-night run took place at the brand-new, COVID-ready The Caverns Amphitheater.

“I know it took a lot of planning to pull this off, but it was worth it,” Jason Isbell exclusively told Forbes. “I think it all comes down to what type of audience you draw. Our audience really seemed to appreciate experiencing live music again, and they played by the rules and stayed safe. I couldn’t ask for more than that.”

Guests arrived at staggered times, passed COVID-19 screening questions, received temperature checks, and enjoyed the show from 2-person, 4-person and 6-person socially-distanced pods with a minimum of 6’ distance between each other. Masks were worn at all times except when guests were in their pods. Concessions and merchandise were ordered via an app and delivered contactless to purchasers in their pods.

“Of course Jason Isbell and The 400 Unit were amazing, and a large part of the success goes to his fans who followed the protocols perfectly,” said Todd Mayo, The Caverns owner. “We had a lot of feedback from folks who said this needed to be ‘the new normal.’ Plenty of space and every ticket was a VIP ticket. Proving this model gives us hope for the future and we look forward to presenting many more artists at The Caverns Amphitheater.”

$1 from all ticket sales is being donated to the National Independent Venue Association (NIVA). Learn more about NIVA at SaveOurStages.com.

Following the announcement of the Harmony on the Horizon Early Vote Concert Series, BriteHeart, a nonpartisan civic engagement organization focused on registering and motivating people to vote since 2017, is today presenting the official schedule for its Early Vote Concert Series, taking place Oct. 14-29. BriteHeart has partnered with music incubator nonprofit This Is Noteworthy, Voting Is Vital, and The Caverns concert venue in an effort to inspire civic engagement and increase voter participation.

Filmed without an audience at The Caverns, the artists matched their incredible voices with heartfelt reflections on topics ranging from supporting our local communities to the power of sharing one’s story. The series begins on Oct. 14 with a show-stopping performance by Kyshona Armstrong. Along the way, experience the magic of Devon Gilfillian (Oct. 19), Lilly Hiatt (Oct. 20), Langhorne Slim (Oct.29) and many more as their voices and stories reverberate outward from the cave walls to inspire early voting.

The series culminates with a Nov. 2 pre-election show featuring Louis York, the Grammy nominated duo of Claude Kelly and Chuck Harmony, who have written and produced songs for superstar acts ranging from Miley Cyrus to Whitney Houston.

“I am so excited about the first of its kind Early Vote Concert Series. I had the pleasure of being at The Caverns for the filming of several of the artists who were all amazing. Their generosity, talent and belief in the power of the vote are truly inspiring,” said Chase Cole, founder and chairman of BriteHeart. “I am also very proud of the creative efforts of our producer, Becca Finley, who conceived of and coordinated the project.”

The concerts featuring all original material will air nightly at 9 p.m. ET/8 p.m. CT on BriteHeart YouTube Live. The show on Oct. 22 will air at 7 p.m. ET/6 p.m. CT to avoid conflict with the presidential debate. The concerts are free to view and there will be a link where viewers can donate directly to the artists, with a portion of the proceeds also benefiting The Caverns and This Is Noteworthy’s artist grants program.

For the full lineup and air dates for the Harmony on the Horizon Early Vote Concert Series, visit www.votingisvital.com/harmony-on-the-horizon.

Live music returns to Grundy County, Tennessee at The Caverns Above Ground Amphitheater with St. Paul and The Broken Bones on April 23-24, 2021. Presented by Lightning 100, the concerts will take place outdoors and in pods on a hillside above The Caverns cave music venue and overlooking the beautiful Payne Cove.

“It has been a long winter for all of us. We are so excited to get back to playing safe shows again,” says Paul Janeway, the band’s lead singer. “We remember when we got to play inside The Caverns not too long ago. What a fun and unique show! We can’t wait to see y’all outside The Caverns this time.”

Guests will arrive at staggered times, be asked COVID-19 screening questions, receive a temperature check, and enjoy the show from 2-person, 4-person and 6-person socially-distanced pods. Pods are spaced with a minimum of 6’ distance between each other with 13’ foot paths between pods to maintain social distancing. The concerts are "bring your own chair."

Masks will be mandatory, except when guests are in their pods. All concessions and merchandise will be ordered through an app and delivered contactless to pods eliminating lines and limiting the need for guests to leave pods.

While the music plays on above ground, restrooms will be used inside The Caverns to give guests an opportunity to duck below the surface to see the world-famous, subterranean music venue.

The highest priority of The Caverns is the safety of guests, crew and artists. As such, the venue is following guidance provided by the CDC and the State of Tennessee’s Tennessee Pledge for reopening.

Tickets go on sale on Friday, January 22 at 10a CT. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.thecaverns.com/above-ground/st-paul-and-the-broken-bones

The Caverns is proud to bring back live music in a responsible way with a new, socially distanced venue—The Caverns Above Ground Amphitheater. On Friday, April 2nd and Saturday, April 3rd, we present the pioneers of “trancefusion,” The Disco Biscuits, as a special 2-night event titled Above The Caves.

To learn even more about how we're bringing back live music responsibly, visit this webpage.

Our new outdoor venue is on a hillside overlooking the beautiful Payne's Cove. For this VIP experience, you'll order refreshments and merch on your phone for contactless delivery right to your pod.

Make your plans for an epic Tennessee weekend! While you're in Southeast Tennessee, add some more adventure to your trip with The Caverns cave tour, chase 9 waterfalls within 30 miles of The Caverns, or challenge yourself by rock climbing.

2-person, 4-person, and 6-person pods go on sale to the general public tomorrow (Tuesday) at 11a CT.

See you in Grundy County, Tennessee for an epic night of music with The Disco Biscuits!

On Friday, April 16th and Saturday, April 17th, we present we present Dark Star Orchestra, a band with 20+ years of critical acclaim for masterfully continuing the Grateful Dead concert experience, at our new outdoor and socially distanced venue, The Caverns Above Ground Amphitheater.

Visit this webpage to learn more about how we're bringing live music back responsibly, from staggered arrival times with temperature checks to socially distanced pod seating.

Our new outdoor venue is on a hillside above the caves and overlooking the beautiful Payne's Cove. For this VIP experience, you'll order refreshments and merch on your phone for contactless delivery right to your pod.

Make your plans for an epic Tennessee weekend! While you're in Southeast Tennessee, add some more adventure to your trip with The Caverns cave tour, chase 9 waterfalls within 30 miles of The Caverns, or challenge yourself by rock climbing.

2-person, 4-person, and 6-person pods go on sale to the general public tomorrow (Friday) at 11a CT.

See you in Grundy County, Tennessee for an epic night of music with Dark Star Orchestra!

Live entertainment returns to Grundy County, Tennessee at The Caverns Above Ground Amphitheater with beloved Texas singer-songwriter Robert Earl Keen (April 9), Americana stalwarts Drew Holcomb and The Neighbors (May 2), and a unique night of dark comedy with Last Podcast on The Left (May 15). The events will take place outdoors and in pods on a hillside above The Caverns cave music venue and overlooking the beautiful Payne's Cove.

Friday, April 9 — Robert Earl Keen — A bonafide hero of the Americana music scene, Keen is ready to get back to the stage, “I'm excited to be bringing the STARLIGHT TOUR to The Caverns Above Ground Amphitheater and to return to live music safely for our fans. It's going to be a lively night under the stars!"

Sunday, May 2 — Drew Holcomb and The Neighbors — With his new album, Dragons, Drew’s songwriting exhibits a careful sense of craft with his ability to take the joys, struggles, and specific moments of his own life to create vivid portraits stretched across a wide sonic canvas. 

Saturday, May 15 — Last Podcast On The Left — This show will be The Caverns first ever live podcast event. This epic evening is a live show of the popular Last Podcast On The Left heard nationwide on Spotify. Hosts Ben Kissel, Marcus Parks and Henry Zebrowski cover dark subjects like cults, killers, or cryptid encounters while inviting you to laugh into the abyss that is the dark side of humanity. 

For all shows, guests will arrive at staggered times, be asked COVID-19 screening questions, receive a temperature check, and enjoy the show from 2-person, 4-person and 6-person socially-distanced pods. Pods are spaced with a minimum of 6’ distance between each other to maintain social distancing. The events are "bring your own chair."

Masks will be mandatory, except when guests are in their pods. All concessions and merchandise will be ordered through an app and delivered contactless to pods eliminating lines and limiting the need for guests to leave pods and miss the show.

While the entertainment is above ground, restrooms will be used inside The Caverns to give guests an opportunity to duck below the surface to see the world-famous, subterranean music venue.

The highest priority of The Caverns is the safety of guests, crew and artists. As such, the venue is following guidance provided by the CDC and the State of Tennessee’s Tennessee Pledge for reopening.

Tickets go on sale on Friday, February 26 at 10a CT. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.thecaverns.com

The Caverns and Twiddle announced today that the band will be the first one to officially perform in the venue’s subterranean concert hall since the COVID-19 pandemic forced The Caverns to close the doors of its underground venue to live audiences in March of 2020.

Underground and under the stars, Sunday, June 20th promises to be an epic night for fans of the Vermont-based jam band titans. At 6p CT, Twiddle will perform a special acoustic set inside the cave followed by a full show in The Caverns Above Ground Amphitheater at 7p CT.

Guests have pod and general admission ticket options. 2-person, 4-person or 6-person pods offer the best views of the outdoor stage and include concession and merchandise delivery via the sEATz app. A general admission section behind the pods provides ample room for dancing and access to a walk-up bar. The subterranean set will be standing room only and all general admission. Following CDC guidance, any unvaccinated attendees should wear a mask and follow CDC prevention measures while not in a pod or personal vehicle.

As the old saying goes, “never miss a Sunday show,” especially one that starts in a cave and ends on a hillside overlooking a beautiful cove in Grundy County, TN.

All pods and tickets for this special evening with Twiddle—below and above ground—are on sale now at TheCaverns.com.

Direct ticket link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/149219604855

The Caverns and The Flaming Lips announce the venerable, pysch-rock band will return to the world-famous, underground concert hall for two nights of shows to ring in the new year on December 30th and 31st presented by Lightning 100.

The Flaming Lips first played The Caverns during the subterranean venue’s inaugural year on New Year’s Eve 2018. Guests who attended the sold out show and those who heard about the exuberant spectacle have long anticipated the band’s return to the cave—the wait is over!

On Tuesday, July 13th at 11a CT, The Caverns will release 2-day VIP overnight packages including lodging, safe transportation from area hotels to the venue and back, access to a pit up close to the stage for the best views of the show, commemorative merchandise, and more. These VIP overnight packages make trip planning easy, especially since rideshare companies don’t service the beautiful, rural area surrounding The Caverns. An additional VIP package without lodging and 2-night general admission tickets will also be released on July 13th.

“To celebrate 2019, hundreds of helium balloons filled with confetti were released and floated up to the stalactites whereupon they met their demise—the cave rained confetti for hours! It was a night of unbridled joy, whimsy and spirit that only The Flaming Lips could deliver,” says The Caverns owner Todd Mayo. “We cannot wait to see what’s in store this year!”

Wayne Coyne, The Flaming Lips lead singer, musing on preparations for 2018’s underground show, added with tongue-in-cheek, "We were a little worried that the low low sub bass frequencies would maybe crack the giant hollow rocks and cause the cavern to collapse in on us while we were playing. But the promoters told us that the aliens, who carved out the cave (10 million years ago), did shows there for 500 years without any problems, we thought, ‘oh cool!’ Let’s party!”

After being postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic which disrupted the live music industry in 2020 and 2021, Bluegrass Underground announced today new dates in 2022 for the TV taping of its next season, Season XI, on PBS. From March 18 through March 20, the Bluegrass Underground PBS TV taping in The Caverns will treat music fans to performances by the finest in roots and Americana music. This 3-day event features bonafide western-swing legends Asleep At The Wheel, bluegrass phenoms Molly Tuttle & Golden Highway, two-time GRAMMY-winning producer and country rock trailblazer Shooter Jennings, alternative rockers Moon Taxi, blues innovator Buffalo Nichols, breakout confessional songwriter Katie Pruitt, Southern gothic songwriter Adia Victoria, emerging Americana sensation Brit Taylor, Mardi Gras Indian funk band Cha Wa, bluegrass meets hip hop mash-up Gangstagrass, bluegrass collaborative Watkins Family Hour and three-time GRAMMY-nominated indie folk duo The Milk Carton Kids.

Jam-packed into one epic weekend of underground concerts, the performances will be captured for the 11th season of the multiple Emmy Award-winning Bluegrass Underground series on PBS. To be at the 3-day live taping event is a music lover’s ultimate experience, especially for fans who revel in discovering new artists before they break into the mainstream. Season XI of Bluegrass Underground will premiere in the Fall of 2022 on PBS stations nationwide.

“At last, Bluegrass Underground is getting back to what we do best: capturing magical performances in a magical subterranean setting,” says Todd Mayo, Bluegrass Underground creator and co-producer. “As the second-longest music series on American Television, we’re grateful for our longtime partnership with PBS and WCTE. Together we’re able to bring television viewers a diversity of roots music from one of the most iconic music destinations in the world, The Caverns in Grundy County, Tennessee."

3-Day and Single Day Tickets are on sale now for the Bluegrass Underground PBS TV Tapings at TheCaverns.com. Tickets for the originally scheduled dates are good for the new 2022 dates.
 
Direct ticket page links
3-Day Packages
Friday, March 18, 2022
Saturday, March 19, 2022
Sunday, March 20, 2022
 
The Bluegrass Underground PBS TV taping presents an early springtime opportunity to see a festival-worthy line-up. Tucked below the rolling hills of Tennessee inside The Caverns with a unique, world-renowned combination of established and buzzworthy artists, award-winning sound and lighting production, and breathtaking natural beauty, the Bluegrass Underground PBS TV Taping is a 3-day fete like no other.The Bluegrass Underground PBS TV tapings in The Caverns feature a clean-and-comfortable, fan-friendly environment, complete with high-quality concessions and beverage offerings, including craft beers, seltzers and cocktails in cans.
 
Stay & Cave hotel packages make for a perfect and easy weekend getaway. Packages include the best seats to all tapings, lodging accommodations for two, transportation to and from the venue, food and commemorative merchandise. There is no better way to experience the Bluegrass Underground PBS TV tapings than a Stay-and-Cave package.
 
Most importantly, as it’s been since Bluegrass Underground began in 2008, music remains the main course. Here’s the lineup for Bluegrass Underground Season XI PBS TV Taping in The Caverns:
 
FRIDAY, MARCH 18

    Molly Tuttle & Golden Highway - Molly Tuttle is an artist on the leading edge of bluegrass music, steeped in tradition while driving the genre forward in today’s musical landscape.
    Cha Wa - Emerging from the deep-rooted New Orleans cultural phenomenon of Mardi Gras Indian music, Cha Wa is a Grammy-nominated funk band, reverent of tradition, and inspired by today’s social environment. On stage, they’re pure joy.  
    Gangstagrass - Blending bluegrass and hip-hop may seem like an unlikely recipe for success, but don’t tell that to Gangstagrass, an Emmy-nominated bluegrass/hip hop outfit.
    Brit Taylor - Capturing life and pain with poetic ease and plain honesty is what this emerging Americana sensation does best with her empathetic and empowering songs.

SATURDAY, MARCH 19

    The Milk Carton Kids - One of Americana’s best live acts, the duo of singer/guitarists Kenneth Pattengale and Joey Ryan combine close harmonies, wonderful original songs and humor.
    Watkins Family Hour - Led by Sean and Sara Watkins, known for their work in Nickel Creek, Watkins Family Hour is a musical outlet for the siblings' own songwriting, arrangements, and experimentation.
    Katie Pruitt - Exploring complex emotional ground, covering topics such as mental illness and the frustration and difficulties of growing up gay in the Christian South, Katie Pruitt’s music is honest, vulnerable and absolutely beautiful.
    Buffalo Nichols - How do you bring the blues of the past into the future? Buffalo Nichols has found a way. He’s the first blues act signed by revered record label Fat Possum in nearly 20 years.

SUNDAY, MARCH 20

    Asleep At The Wheel - Ray Benson has now been leading a Western Swing band longer than Bob Wills, and he brings his iconic group to The Caverns for their 50th Anniversary Tour. Historic.
    Moon Taxi - They’ve sold out The Caverns and they’re a festival favorite across the county, Moon Taxi’s genre-bending musicality is adventurous and exhilarating to see live on stage.   
    Shooter Jennings - The scion of American music royalty, for nearly two decades, Shooter Jennings has defied expectation while constantly expanding the parameters of country, rock ‘n’ roll and beyond.  
    Adia Victoria - Continuing the rich legacy of Black Southern storytelling, Adia Victoria’s lyrics feel weighted by a Southern heaviness that is so often smothering, but the music is also buoyed by rhythm and melody that illuminate the best of what the region has to offer.

The Caverns is proud to announce it’s first, full capacity outdoor show featuring Fleet Foxes on Sunday, July 31st at The Caverns Amphitheater. The venue, originally opened in the fall of 2020 as a socially-distanced venue in response to COVID-19 with limited capacity, will now host full capacity crowds of up to 5,500 guests per show with an estimated 10 shows in 2022, and 30 shows in 2023.

With stunning views of the Cumberland Plateau, the reconfigured amphitheater will have chair seating available close to the stage for almost all shows. Guests in this front section will have access to restrooms and their own bar inside the cave. At the back of the amphitheater, a new concessions building and restrooms have been added as well as food trucks. Pop-up bars will be placed in key locations throughout the amphitheater, too. For the rear sections, guests can bring their own chairs or take advantage of a new chair rental program.

The Caverns Amphitheater will also be utilized for multi-day events in conjunction with The Caverns underground concert hall giving guests a multi-stage festival experience.

What’s more, The Caverns has added a camping option for almost every show. Such an overnight accommodation is typically only found at multi-day festivals, but at The Caverns, you can channel the festival vibe with your single night outing. In years to come, additional campground amenities will be added.

A scenic meandering path from the campground and the surrounding vast new parking lots leads the way to The Caverns amphitheater.

All told, park your car, pitch a tent, see your favorite band in an epic setting, and spend the night under the stars in Grundy County, TN. Stay tuned for a massive new show announcement next week for The Caverns Amphitheater and multiple show announcements to come over the next few weeks.

“The Caverns Amphitheater began as a “pandemic pivot” and way to safely do shows in pods during the toughest times of the last couple of years and now, with the addition of a permanent stage, concessions, parking and camping, we look forward to hosting more artists and patrons outside with the same vibe and experience that makes The Caverns such a singular musical destination.” Todd Mayo

Visit The Caverns in Grundy County, TN. Where the destination begins the journey.

Acclaimed live music destination The Caverns has partnered with prominent dynamic jamtronic band Papadosio to present Subterranea Festival, an intimate 1,200 capacity two-night spectacle in southeast Tennessee. This deep underground event will take place inside one of the venue’s largest caves and feature onsite camping, live art, yoga workshops, sound baths, cave tours, food trucks, and of course, great music across two days and nights.

Subterranea Festival will spotlight four sets of Papadosio, plus performances by artists hand-selected by the band such as Sunsquabi, Doom Flamingo (w/ members of Umphrey's McGee), Lespecial, Cloudchord, Earthcry, Brether, and many more.

In addition to The Caverns traditional hotel and transportation packages, Subterranea will be the first-ever festival at The Caverns to host onsite camping. This new overnight option will make it easy for guests to enjoy all the festival's late night programming. The Caverns is a well known staple in the national music community located in a beautiful rural area of Grundy County, Tennessee, approximately 1.5 hours southeast of Nashville. Daytime workshops and mesmeric cave adventure flow into late night auditory treats for an immersive, first-of-its-kind experience not to be missed.

SUBTERRANEA FESTIVAL LINEUP

Papadosio X4
Sunsquabi
Doom Flamingo
Lespecial
Cloudchord

Alphabetical:
Axel Thesleff
Brether
Dizgo
EarthCry
Electrochemical
Evanoff
Litz
Megan Hamilton
Murkury
Zebbler Encanti Experience

GRAMMY award-winning band Old Crow Medicine Show has announced a special performance called Old Crow Medicine Show’s Hootenanny At The Caverns Amphitheater, taking place on June 25 in Grundy County, TN. This will be the first full capacity show at the venue, which originally opened in the fall of 2020 as a socially-distanced venue in response to COVID-19 with limited capacity. Tickets are on sale to the general public today, Friday, April 1st HERE. Overnight packages with lodging and transportation as well as on-site camping passes are available.

Old Crow Medicine Show are touring this spring/summer in support of their new album Paint This Town, which releases on April 22 via ATO Records. Showcasing the band’s long-standing ability to merge profound introspection with a rapturous string band revival sound, Paint This Town has already garnered coverage from Billboard, Consequence of Sound, Rolling Stone, SPIN and many more. In their March cover story, The East Nashvillian proclaimed, “The band’s playing is at its finest, while Secor’s celebrated voice crackles with a renewed vigor,” while Garden & Gun said, "Paint This Town is an album that explores the rich history of American country and roots music while not shying away from the South’s darker corners. The album is full of stompers and moments of sheer exultation right beside intimate character studies and songs that tackle more topical themes."

Paint This Town was recorded in the band’s own East Nashville-based Hartland Studio and co-produced with Matt Ross-Spang (John Prine, Jason Isbell). The band has shared three singles from the album, including “Honey Chile,” “Bombs Away” and “Paint This Town,” which has been at the top of the Americana Singles Radio Chart for well over a month.

TICKETS

On May 30th, in honor of Dia de los Muertos The Caverns is hosting a special event to be aired on PBS later this year. The celebration of The Day of the Dead has become a globally recognized Latinx holiday, traditionally observed on the first two days of November. Dia de los Muertos sees families and friends of loved ones who have died pay respect with colorful, memorial gatherings often taking the air of a joyful celebration rather than of mourning for the departed.

Featuring the GRAMMY-winning amalgamation of rock and roll, Tex-Mex, zydeco and more Los Lobos, the salsa jazz stylings of Ozomatli, and all-female group Flor De Toloache. Known for mixing old-style Mariachi with a contemporary flair these ladies are also Latin GRAMMY Award-winners. The entire event is being taped especially for PBS to air on October 28th this year!

As a subscriber to this e-newsletter, you have early access to the best tickets during our venue pre-sales, beginning tomorrow, Thursday (4/28) 11a CT with the access code: CAVEDWELLER. Get your tickets before the general on sale the following day, Friday (4/29) beginning at 11a CT.

See you underground soon!

VISIT TICKET PAGE

The entire event is being taped especially for PBS to air on October 28th this year!

Intermixed in the PBS program will be short video vignettes produced by San Francisco filmmaker Jennifer Maytorena Taylor on the meaning of Dia de los Muertos and the iconic images and crafts of the festival through scenes and interviews of Dia de los Muertos artisans. A truly exciting music-cultural celebration, ¡DIA DE LOS MUERTOS! is produced by Todd Jarrell (Bluegrass Underground, Nitty Gritty Dirt Band 50th Anniversary, Havana Time Machine, Songwriting With Soldiers).

Held in highest esteem, gleaning comparisons to Lynyrd Skynyrd, The Allman Brothers Band, The Black Crowes and Collective Soul, The Screamin' Cheetah Wheelies are bringing their unique Southern rock blend underground on Saturday, July 9th!

Members, Mike Farris (vocals), Rick White (guitar), Bob Watkins (guitar), Steve Burgess (bass) and Terry Thomas (drums) released their self-titled debut album in 1994 and the single "Shakin' the Blues" made the album-rock Top Ten. Don't miss this rockin' night in our cave music venue.

The campground is open! So you can bask in the fresh summer country air, and spend the night at our new on-site campground. Just add a car camping pass to your order. Or get bougie with your boo, and go with one of our popular Stay & Cave Packages that include VIP seats, lodging, transportation to and from the venue, merchandise and more.

As a subscriber to this e-newsletter, you have early access to the best tickets during our venue pre-sales, beginning Thursday (5/5) 11a CT with the access code: CAVEDWELLER. Get your tickets before the general on sale the following day, Friday (5/6) beginning at 11a CT.

See you this summer!

Opening day is approaching for Tennessee’s newest outdoor venue: The Caverns Amphitheater! On June 25th, Old Crow Medicine Show’s Hootenanny with Willie Watson, Joshua Hedley and Town Mountain kicks off the first full capacity season. The Caverns, recently named the “Favorite Southern Music Venue” by Garden & Gun, is excited to offer fans an outdoor concert experience with enhanced concessions, food trucks, stunning views, onsite camping and more.

“The Caverns Amphitheater began as a “pandemic pivot” and way to safely host shows in pods during the toughest times of the crisis. Now, with the addition of a permanent stage, concessions, parking and camping, we look forward to hosting more artists and patrons outside with the same vibe and experience that makes The Caverns such a singular musical destination.” says owner Todd Mayo.

With stunning views of the Cumberland Plateau, The Caverns Amphitheater will host crowds of up to 5,500 guests per show with 10 shows announced to date for 2022, and an estimated 30 shows coming in 2023. The amphitheater has reserved chair seating available close to the stage for almost all shows. Guests in this front section have exclusive access to restrooms and their own bar inside the world famous subterranean cave. At the back of the amphitheater, a new concessions building and restrooms have been added as well as spaces for local food trucks to set up. Pop-up bars in key locations throughout the amphitheater will serve guests as well. In the rear sections, guests can bring their own blankets and chairs.

"Being the first band to christen a new venue is an honor in itself, but it's especially meaningful for us because of the truly one-of-a-kind location. The Cumberland Plateau region, Grundy County, and all of Southeast TN are familiar haunts for Old Crow so we’re proud to invite concert goers to a unique destination concert experience they’re going to want to enjoy again and again." - Ketch Secor, Old Crow Medicine Show

The Caverns Amphitheater is also being utilized for multi-day festivals in conjunction with The Caverns underground concert hall giving guests a multi-stage festival experience like no other. The first of such events is The Caverns own CaveFest on October 8th and 9th with Sam Bush, Leftover Salmon, The Infamous Stringdusters, Yonder Mountain String Band, and many more.

What’s more, The Caverns has added onsite camping options for every show. Such an overnight accommodation is not available at any other venue on a regular basis, but at The Caverns, you can channel the festival vibe with your single night outing. In years to come, additional campground amenities will be added.

To celebrate the grand opening of the new venue The Caverns will host a ribbon cutting on June 25th before the first show. Members of the press are invited to stay for the show and enjoy the amphitheater experience on this special occasion as we christen one of Tennessee’s newest music venues.

A scenic meandering path from the new campground and the surrounding vast new parking lots leads the way to The Caverns Amphitheater.

All told, park your car, pitch a tent, see your favorite band in an epic setting, and spend the night under the stars in Grundy County, TN. Check out this video that captures the spirit of The Caverns.

The Caverns Amphitheater Schedule

● June 25 - Old Crow Medicine Show’s Hootenanny w/ Willie Watson, Joshua Hedley, & Town Mountain

● July 2 - One Nation Under a Groove Tour feat. George Clinton & Parliament Funkadelic w/ The Motet featuring Shira Ellis, Josh Schwartz, Chris Brouwers (formerly of Turkuaz), Dopapod & Pimps of Joytime

● July 23 - Crowder

● July 31 - Fleet Foxes: Shore Tour

● August 19 - Greensky Bluegrass & The Wood Brothers

● August 20-21 - Umphrey’s McGee & Disco Biscuits

● September 3 - UB40 - Biggabaggariddim Tour w/ The Original Wailers featuring Al Anderson, Maxi Priest, & Big Mountain

● September 10 - I Love the 90s w/ Vanilla Ice, Coolio, Rob Base, All 4 One, Tone Loc, & Young MC

● October 8-9 - CaveFest w/ Sam Bush, Leftover Salmon, The Infamous Stringdusters, Yonder Mountain String Band and more!

Visit The Caverns in Grundy County, TN. Where the destination becomes a journey.

After months of planning and preparation, The Caverns Amphitheater celebrated its grand opening on Saturday, June 25th with a ribbon cutting ceremony and Old Crow Medicine Show’s Hootenanny with Willie Watson, Joshua Hedley and Town Mountain. The new outdoor venue is the latest addition to The Caverns, which is world-renown for its cave concerts, and follows recent expansions including daily walking tours and adventure caving expeditions, an on-site campground for post-show guests, and a new Camp Caverns summer camp for kids.

On Saturday evening, opening night guests enjoyed cuisine from local food trucks and beverages from The Caverns Amphitheater’s new concessions building, pop-up concessions stands and even The Caverns subterranean concessions counter. All told, on a beautiful summer night with a stacked line-up performing for guests who filled the hillside in chairs and on blankets, the evening had a festival vibe which culminated with fireworks over the amphitheater during Old Crow Medicine Show’s encore rendition of “Will The Circle Be Unbroken.” As the evening came to an end, approximately 250 guests spent the night under the Grundy County stars in The Caverns new onsite campground.

Throughout the summer and into the fall, The Caverns Amphitheater will host Crowder (July 23), Fleet Foxes (July 31), Greensky Bluegrass with The Wood Brothers (August 19), Umphrey’s McGee & Disco Biscuits (August 20 & 21), I Love the 90s Tour featuring Vanilla Ice with Coolio, Rob Base, All 4 One, Tone Loc, & Young MC (September 10), and The Caverns own Cave Fest with Sam Bush, Leftover Salmon, The Infamous Stringdusters, Yonder Mountain String Band and more!

To see all upcoming shows, both above ground and underground, visit TheCaverns.com/Shows. 

On October 8th and 9th, incredible music and breathtaking caves come together to create the first-ever CaveFest. Featuring headlining acts Sam Bush, Leftover Salmon, The Infamous Stringdusters, and Yonder Mountain String Band the inaugural festival will take full advantage of what The Caverns has to offer above and below ground.

Scheduled for a holiday weekend, headlining performances will take place at The Caverns Amphitheater with breathtaking mountain views and ample space for blankets, chairs and dancing. Other bands performing include: Rising Appalachia, Jim Lauderdale, Kitchen Dwellers, The Lil Smokies, Sierra Hull, Rumpke Mountain Boys, Lindsay Lou, Larry Keel Experience, Volunteer String Band, Pressing Strings, Sicard Hollow, Kendall Street Company, Rock Creek Bluegrass, Airshow and Taylor Scott Band.

The Caverns world-famous underground concert hall will host daily jam sessions, cave yoga, and even a screening of the 1985 classic The Goonies. There will be on-site camping, delicious food trucks as well as local art & craft vendors.

GET TICKETS

Bluegrass Underground, the 2nd longest music series on national television behind Austin City Limits, will debuted on PBS stations September 10th, 2022 as The Caverns Sessions with an episode featuring Nashville-based, festival favorites Moon Taxi.

“As we begin our second decade on PBS, we look forward to The Caverns Sessions continuing to shine a light in the darkness on the full spectrum of music,” says Todd Mayo, The Caverns owner and co-founder of Todd Squared, LLC which produced the Emmy award-winning Bluegrass Underground for 10 years.

Taped live in The Caverns subterranean concert hall, The Caverns Sessions 2022 season includes 12 half-hour episodes featuring western-swing legends Asleep At The Wheel, bluegrass phenoms Molly Tuttle & Golden Highway, two-time GRAMMY-winning producer and country rock trailblazer Shooter Jennings, alternative rockers Moon Taxi, blues innovator Buffalo Nichols, breakout confessional songwriter Katie Pruitt, Southern gothic songwriter Adia Victoria, emerging Americana sensation Brit Taylor, two-time GRAMMY nominated Mardi Gras Indian funk band Cha Wa, bluegrass meets hip hop mash-up Gangstagrass, bluegrass collaborative Watkins Family Hour and three-time GRAMMY-nominated indie folk duo The Milk Carton Kids.

Beginning on Sept 10, 2022, television viewers nationwide can tune-in to The Caverns Sessions when the new season begins airing on PBS stations. Check local listings for specific airdates and times. Each episode will be available for streaming on PBS.org for 30 days after its original airdate. Visit The Caverns Sessions homepage on PBS.org.

The Caverns Sessions is produced by Todd Mayo and Todd Jarrell of Todd Squared LLC, and directed by James Burton Yockey with Andy Kern as Audio Engineer and Allen Branton as Lighting Director. The Caverns Sessions receives underwriting support from the Tennessee Department of Tourism Development, Gibson Gives Foundation, and Grundy County, TN. The 12 episode series is presented to PBS nationally in partnership with WCTE Central TN PBS based in Cookeville, TN, which exclusively aired the first episode of The Caverns Sessions and will present future episodes one week before they’re available nationwide.

“The Caverns Sessions brand now more closely relates to the soul of the underground series,” says Todd Jarrell. “Here is the perfect marriage of two things for which America can be most proud: amazing natural beauty and a deeply profound musical heritage. Through this variety of music, these artists represent the heart of the American experience.”

Looking to the future, The Caverns is investing in permanent lighting and sound, which make the cave capable of capturing episodes one at a time in addition to the typical multiple episode taping weekends.

Though the original name is retired from the television series, Bluegrass Underground will live on as a yearly traditional bluegrass festival held every year at The Caverns. "14 years ago Bluegrass Underground began with The SteelDrivers playing underground in a cave and with a live broadcast on the legendary WSM radio,” says Todd Mayo. “We will continue to honor that name with a tried-and-true bluegrass festival every year.”

Don’t miss The Caverns Sessions this Fall on PBS! Check local PBS listings for specific airdates and times at PBS.org.

Celebrate Halloween like you never have before—underground! Join us Saturday, October 29th for the first ever Captain Cavejam's Underground Halloween Disco with a 70s, 80s & 90s DJ Set from the one and only Captain Cavejam. This under-worldly all ages disco dance party can only be experienced underground in The Caverns! Don't let our caves be the only ones dressed up, enter into our costume contest to be the first winner in The Cavern's history and for the chance to win some exciting prizes.

On the following afternoon, catch a Movie Matinee in The Caverns featuring The Descent, a 2005 horror film where a group of girls decide to go spelunking and make some terrifying discoveries underground. We cannot think of a more spine-tingling place to watch The Descent than inside an actual cave. The Descent is rated R. Anyone under the age of 17 must be accompanied by an adult that is 21 years or older.

To top it off we'll be hosting Spooky Cave Tours for a fun and educational fright. Follow your tour guide by lantern light through our spellbinding caves. Learn of the haunting stories surrounding The Caverns and local caves, and the immortal people the Cherokee encountered underground.

No one is going to jump out in a costume—no, this eerie tour is deeper than that. But we welcome you to wear your costumes and we'll have some candy for all. Spooky Cave Tours will be held from 2-6p CT on October 14th, 15th, and 16th, as well as October 28th, 29th, and 30th. Spooky Cave Tours are only $10 when purchased with a ticket to one of our other Halloween themed events.

Make it a weekend in Grundy County, TN and go with one of our popular Stay & Cave Packages that include lodging, transportation to and from the venue, merchandise and more. Or crash on our scenic campground beside the Cumberland Plateau at the peak of the fall foliage. One camping space is needed per car (or mystery machine), so pack in your friends and come hang.

Tickets are on sale NOW. Join us underground for a Halloween weekend you won't soon forget!

The Caverns hosted its very own festival last weekend, CaveFest, which attracted over 4,000 guests per day from every one of the lower 48 states.

"CaveFest was an enchanting weekend of music and food, and family and friends," says Todd Mayo, The Caverns owner. "It was epic and looking forward to doing it again (and again)."

The festival utilized every aspect of The Caverns experience showing off Grundy County’s natural beauty above and below the Earth’s surface, from the scenic outdoor amphitheater and subterranean concert hall, to guided cave tours and adventure caving expeditions, to the campground.

The Caverns looks forward to building on this year’s success to solidify CaveFest as a premiere destination music festival for years to come.  

Save the dates: CaveFest will return next year on October 6-8, 2023.

Sparks will fly Fourth of July weekend at The Caverns when a new bluegrass festival emerges from Payne’s Cove featuring a cavalcade of award-winning bluegrass artists. On July 1 & 2, 2023, The Caverns presents the inaugural Big Mouth Bluegrass Festival. In addition to all the explosive pickin’ on stage, the 2-day camping festival includes open cave jam sessions that any guest can participate in, All-American cookout cuisine from multiple food trucks, a special Sunday gospel brunch set, guided cave tours into the cool of The Caverns cave system, massive fireworks when the sun goes down, campground pickin’, and more.

Big Mouth Bluegrass Festival line-up features Dan Tyminski Band, Larry Sparks & The Lonesome Ramblers, Michael Cleveland & Flamekeeper, Russell Moore & IIIrd Tyme Out, Lonesome River Band, Appalachian Road Show, Frank Solivan & Dirty Kitchen, The Grascals, Sister Sadie, The Cleverlys, Joe Mullins & The Radio Ramblers, Iron Horse, Missy Raines & Allegheny, Volunteer String Band, a Sunday gospel brunch set, and Blake Williams, the festival’s emcee. Becky Buller, an IBMA award-winner and local favorite, is the festival’s artist-in-residence and will collaborate onstage with artists to create special musical surprises throughout the weekend. All headlining sets take place in The Caverns’ scenic outdoor amphitheater surrounded by the rolling foothills of the Cumberland Plateau with more festival activities taking place in The Caverns world-famous cave venue.

“Big Mouth Bluegrass Festival is a return to the roots of The Caverns, and the festival’s name is a tribute to the historical name of the cave we call home today,” says Todd Mayo, The Caverns owner. “We cannot think of a better way to celebrate Fourth of July weekend than with a festival celebrating some of the greatest things about our country—bluegrass music, hot dogs and apple pie, fireworks, camping, pickin’ circles, and family and friends, new and old.”

With the recent addition of onsite camping, a new outdoor amphitheater stage, onsite food trucks and a permanent concessions building to complement the underground venue, The Caverns has become a destination festival site offering world class festival experiences. Conveniently located south of Nashville and north of Chattanooga in the foothills of Southeast Tennessee, the festival site makes an ideal location for a bluegrass festival.

“All music sounds naturally great inside the cave, but there is something extra special about hearing the ancient tones of fiddles and banjos underground,” says Joe Lurgio, The Caverns general manager. “And when those same instruments ring out and fill the cove above ground, it’s not lost on us, the artists and the fans that this little corner of Grundy County is a magical place to play and listen to this special music.”

Big Mouth Bluegrass Festival will also feature craft & food vendors. Interested vendors can reach out to Amanda Pelham, amanda@thecaverns.com, for application information.

All patrons are encouraged to bring their instruments and join pickin’ circles in the campgrounds and inside the cave for pickin’ experiences like no other.

2-day tickets for Big Mouth Bluegrass Festival, which include free camping, start at only $79.50 making this festival an extraordinary value for bluegrass fans. Kids under 5 are free and kids 5-12 are eligible for a 2-day Young Grasser ticket for $40. RV guests can add a $25 daily pass for an RV campsite (hook-ups not available).

The festival will also offer a variety of VIP packages for those looking to upgrade their experience on any budget. VIP experiences start as low as $399 with perks like a premium campsite location, access to a VIP viewing area, access to a VIP lounge tent with delicious local catering, all day complimentary refreshments and snacks, open bar service in the evenings, and much more. For guests looking for a more luxurious experience, The Caverns offers onsite accommodations in its new climate-controlled Yurt Village with the Big Mouth VIP Yurt Package for two for $2,600 which includes access to VIP viewing and the VIP lounge tent, and more. Lastly, guests can opt for the comforts of a local lodge with The Caverns popular Stay & Cave packages for two for $1,080 which provide lodging in nearby Monteagle, shuttle transportation to and from the venue, VIP lounge tent access, merch and more.   

All tickets and packages go on sale on Friday, February 3rd at 12p CT at TheCaverns.com.

Caves have long been a part of Irish folklore and mythology since ancient times, so what better place to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day on Friday, March 17th than inside a magical cave in Southeast, Tennesse? The Caverns is hosting an epic St. Patrick’s Day Celebration with traditional Irish music from The Nashville Celts, The Caverns Irish Dancers, delicious Irish food and refreshments, and more. This festive underground event is bound to please locals and travelers alike while turning those who miss it green with envy.

Guests will think they’ve found a four leaf clover when they experience a headlining set by The Nashville Celts whose musical hybrid combines traditional Irish instrumentation with original songcraft. The ensemble, who have packed venues like Ryman Auditorium and Lincoln Center, is comprised of singer and fiddler Maggie Lander; Ric Blair on vocals, guitar, piano, bodhran; Fiachra O'Regan from Connemara, Ireland on uilleann pipes, whistle, and tenor banjo; and, Matt Menefee on 5 string banjo, mandolin, dobro and vocals.

What’s more, this underground St. Patrick’s Day celebration includes a high energy, high stepping performance by The Caverns Irish Dancers, as well as musical performances by special guests as the evening progresses.

Throughout the night, guests will have the opportunity to purchase and enjoy traditional Irish dishes cooked right on the spot. And of course, what would St. Patrick’s Day be without Irish beer? The Caverns Tavern bar will be stocked with Guinness, the world’s best selling Irish beer.

The most festive attendees will have a chance to compete in a Best Irish Flair competition in which three lucky winners who impress The Caverns judges will take home these prizes: 1) Tickets to an upcoming show with lodging, transportation to and from venue, and more; 2) Gift certificate from Mountain Goat Market in nearby Monteagle; or, 3) Merch pack from The Caverns.

Reserved seats are $55. On-site camping near the venue is available with the purchase of a camping pass. RVs, pull-behind campers and oversized vans are welcome too. Also available, The Caverns popular Stay & Cave package which provides guests with premium seating, lodging, safe transportation to and from the venue, meal vouchers, merch and more for $770 per couple.

St. Patrick’s Day in The Caverns on Friday, March 17th is all ages, family-friendly event. So bust out your best green, and don’t miss this epic underground Irish celebration! Tickets and packages are on sale now at TheCaverns.com.

The Caverns is proud to present the second annual CaveFest, featuring a curated line-up of music over three days. Headliners include Sam Bush, Leftover Salmon, The Infamous Stringdusters, Peter Rowan, and The Travelin’ McCourys, plus artists-in-residence Lindsay Lou, on-site camping, open underground jam sessions, cave tours, delicious food trucks, local vendors, and more.

“CaveFest was a dream come true last year, an ideal festival featuring favorite bands in the best autumn weather in the perfect place. Glad this dream is recurring and we’re excited to see the event grow to three days in 2023!” says The Caverns owner Todd Mayo.

In its first year, CaveFest sold out with guests in attendance from every one of the lower 48 states. The festival will take full advantage of what The Caverns has to offer above and below ground. The Caverns Amphitheater, with its spacious area for chairs and dancing, will host the headlining performances while providing breathtaking views of the majestic Cumberland Plateau. The Caverns world-famous underground concert hall will function as a 2nd stage hosting additional performances, daily open jam sessions, and cave yoga.
 
Naturally, CaveFest will also feature cave tours and subterranean adventures, providing guests with the opportunity to delve deep and discover what lies beneath the Earth's surface. The Caverns will present hour-long walking tours through the otherworldly Big Room Cave, where the enthralling history of the region, cave geology and mythology intertwine. Those seeking an adrenaline rush can opt for an Adventure Cave Tour that will take them beyond "Tombstone Pass" to witness an underground river, soda straw formations, and other fascinating sights.

The line-up for CaveFest includes: Sam Bush, Leftover Salmon, The Infamous Stringdusters, Peter Rowan, The Travelin’ McCourys, Jim Lauderdale, Town Mountain, The Lil Smokies, Sam Grisman Project: Plays Garcia/Grisman’s Shady Grove Album, Jon Stickley Trio, Rob Ickes & Trey Hensley, Larry Keel Experience, Lindsay Lou, The HillBenders: Play WhoGrass, Sicard Hollow, Big Richard, Fireside Collective, Airshow, Two Runner, Pert Near Sandstone, Pixie & The Partygrass Boys, Volunteer String Band, Off The Wagon, Three Tall Pines, Johnny Campbell Band, Hudost, and Wyatt Ellis & Friends.

Lindsay Lou, dubbed by fans the “Queen of CaveFest” in the festival’s inaugural year, will return as one of CaveFest artist-in-residence. As artist-in-residence, in addition to a dedicated performance slot, Lindsay Lou will be found sitting in with others all weekend long creating memorable collaborations and magical CaveFest moments.

Starting at $129, early bird 3-day tickets for CaveFest, which include camping, go on sale on Wednesday, March 15th at 12p CT at TheCaverns.com. Kids 12 and under are free. RV guests can add a $99 pass for an RV campsite (hook-ups not available).

CaveFest also offers a variety of VIP packages for those looking to upgrade their experience on any budget. VIP experiences start as low as $549 with perks like a premium campsite location, access to a VIP viewing area, access to a VIP lounge tent with delicious local catering, all day complimentary refreshments and snacks, open bar service in the evenings, and much more. For guests looking for a more luxurious experience, The Caverns offers onsite accommodations in its new climate-controlled Yurt Village with a VIP Yurt Package for two, which start at $1,972 and include access to VIP viewing and the VIP lounge tent, and more. Lastly, guests can opt for the comforts of a local lodge with The Caverns popular Stay & Cave packages for two for $1,910 which provide lodging in nearby Monteagle, shuttle transportation to and from the venue, VIP lounge tent access, merch and more.   

$1 from every CaveFest ticket will go to the Sewanee Mountain Grotto to support cave conservation efforts.

Progressive rock band Papadosio is headed back to The Caverns in Grundy County, Tennessee on September 22 & 23, 2023 to present their highly anticipated, serene fall festival Subterranea. This year's 2-day event will build on the foundation of last year's inaugural festival with captivating underground performances, immersive cave tours and subterranean “sound baths,” engaging workshops, unique food & craft vendors, on-site camping, and more!

Today, The Caverns and Papadosio announced the full festival line-up. In addition to 4 sets of Papadosio, who just released a new album To Live A Making on June 16th, Subterranea Festival will feature sets in the cave by Big Something, The Motet, Mark Farina Presents Mushroom Jazz, Random Rab, Kendall Street Company, Toubab Krewe, Consider The Source, Yam Yam, Jimkata, EarthCry Live with Matt Healy, Beekeepers, Mind At Large, and Solar Circuit.

All 2-day tickets include camping and are on sale now at TheCaverns.com.

Subterranea Festival attendees have many options to level up their overnight stay. With the Subterranea Yurt Package, guests can stay in a well-equipped, climate-controlled yurt in The Caverns’ new, on-site yurt village. The Monteagle Stay & Cave Package provides lodging at the nearby Smoke House Lodge in Monteagle with transportation to and from the venue. A VIP Camping package provides guests early access to the campground and a campsite closest to the venue. All three packages include perks like access to a VIP Lounge, commemorative merchandise, cave tours, and more.

Subterranea Festival is limited to 1,200 guests, so live music fans are encouraged to get their tickets and packages early.  

The Caverns has announced dates for the taping of the next season of The Caverns Sessions on PBS, which will be Season XIII of the long-running subterranean musical series formerly known as Bluegrass Underground. From March 22nd through March 24th, The Caverns Sessions PBS taping will treat music fans to performances by the finest in roots and Americana music today.

This 3-day event features Elizabeth Cook, Yola, Dan Tyminski Band, 49 Winchester, Lindsay Lou, Ozomatli, Shane Smith & The Saints, Big Richard, Alvin Youngblood Hart’s Muscle Theory, The Texas Gentlemen, Evan Honer, and Clay Street Unit

With 12 artists jam-packed into one epic weekend of underground concerts, The Caverns Sessions performances will be captured for the 13th season of the multiple Emmy Award-winning subterranean series, which debuted on PBS as Bluegrass Underground in 2011. The new season of The Caverns Sessions will premiere in the Fall of 2024 on PBS stations nationwide and via the PBS streaming app.

“Season XIII presents a dozen amazing artists who we can’t wait to shine a light on inside the darkness of The Caverns,” says Todd Mayo, The Caverns owner. “It’s an honor and pure joy to reconvene our outstanding team to capture singular musical moments for PBS.”

To be at the 3-day live taping event is a music lover’s ultimate experience, especially for fans who revel in discovering new artists on the verge of worldwide acclaim.

3-Day and Single Day Tickets go on sale Friday, November 10th at 10a CT for The Caverns Sessions PBS TV Taping at TheCaverns.com. Direct Ticket Link.

The Caverns Sessions PBS TV Taping presents an early springtime opportunity to see a festival-worthy line-up. Tucked below the rolling hills of Tennessee inside The Caverns with a unique, world-renowned combination of established and buzzworthy artists, award-winning sound and lighting production, and breathtaking natural beauty, The Caverns Sessions PBS Taping is a 3-day fete like no other.

The Caverns Sessions PBS TV Taping in The Caverns feature a clean-and-comfortable, fan-friendly environment, complete with high-quality concessions and beverage offerings, including craft beers, seltzers and canned cocktails.

On-site Yurt and off-site Stay & Cave hotel packages make for a perfect and easy weekend getaway. Packages include the best seats to all tapings, lodging accommodations for two, food and commemorative merchandise. Hotel packages also include transportation to and from the venue. There is no better way to experience The Caverns Sessions PBS TV taping than a Yurt or Stay & Cave package. On-site camping is also an option for guests who prefer to bring their own RVs or tents. Stay only a quarter mile walk from the shows and take in 360 views of the scenic Cumberland Plateau.

Learn more about the artist line-up for The Caverns Sessions PBS TV Taping in The Caverns:

FRIDAY, MARCH 22

Elizabeth Cook - Nashville singer-songwriter originally from Wildwood, Florida, Elizabeth Cook is a lauded country artist with a sharp, surprising style. She’s also a SiriusXM Outlaw Country DJ, David Letterman favorite, a Grand Ole Opry regular, and plays the beloved role of Tammy on Adult Swim’s Squidbillies.

Yola - A six-time GRAMMY nominee, Yola is a critically acclaimed artist and actor. NPR hailed her latest album, Stand for Myself, as the "best soul record of the past 20 years,” her acting debut as Sister Rosetta Tharpe in "ELVIS" earned her an NAACP Image Award nomination, and in 2024 she will release highly anticipated new music.

The Texas Gentlemen - Based in Dallas and Austin, The Texas Gentlemen are a versatile musical collective known for genre-blending skills, from pop-soul to country funk. They’ve served as a backing band for multiple A-List artists and released two albums which highlight their instrumental prowess and adaptability.

Evan Honer - Originally from Surprise, Arizona, songwriter Evan Honer is influenced by esteemed artists like Jason Isbell, Tyler Childers, and Colter Wall and has masterfully crafted a captivating blend of modern outlaw country, indie folk, and pop sensibilities.

SATURDAY, MARCH 23

Dan Tyminski Band - With a 30+ year career, Dan Tyminski is known for his iconic bluegrass voice, popularized in the movie O Brother, Where Art Thou? He's won 14 Grammys and contributed to projects by Dolly Parton, Willie Nelson, and Rob Thomas, to name a few.

49 Winchester - Hailing from Castlewood, Virginia, 49 Winchester formed when its members were teenagers. Hundreds of shows and thousands of miles later, the rapidly-rising band’s latest album, Fortune Favors the Bold, reflects their hard-earned ethos.

Lindsay Lou - Celebrated singer-songwriter Lindsay Lou masterfully combines progressive Americana and folk with bluegrass roots. Her journey, marked by personal revelations and profound loss, is showcased on her latest solo album, Queen of Time, where she explores self-discovery and resilience.

Clay Street Unit - Formed in 2021 in Denver, Colorado, Clay Street Unit infuses southern country, folk, and Appalachian bluegrass into their high-energy, fresh take on Americana traditions. Their debut EP A Mighty Fine Evening showcases their evolving, unique sound.

SUNDAY, MARCH 24

Ozomatli - With an eclectic blend of urban-Latino and global influences, Ozomatli’s musical artistry mirrors the cultural tapestry of Los Angeles. Over 27 years, they've earned two Grammy Awards, a Latin Grammy, and the title of U.S. Cultural Ambassadors.

Shane Smith & The Saints - Shane Smith's music journey began in Austin, where he formed The Saints, a group known for their four-part harmonies. The songs on the band's upcoming album, Norther, are filled with all the electricity and eclecticism of their high-energy live shows.

Big Richard - Colorado's neo-acoustic supergroup, Big Richard, formed in 2021, is impressive with virtuosity, harmonies, and eclectic repertoire. By reinventing traditional tunes and their own original storytelling, they're poised to make waves in Americana music.

Alvin Youngblood Hart’s Muscle Theory - Hailed as a "musician's musician," Hart’s artistry has drawn praise from legends like Bob Dylan, as well as guitar virtuosos like Gary Moore and Mick Taylor. Born in 1963, his nomadic upbringing influenced his eclectic musical journey.

The String Cheese Incident will headline CaveJam, a new 3-day, multi-stage camping festival at The Caverns in 2024 over Memorial Day Weekend, May 24-26. During the festival, The String Cheese Incident will play two nights with three sets above ground and one special set inside The Caverns world-renowned subterranean venue. All told, the festival will see 20 artists and bands on its stages above and below ground.

“CaveJam is a new signature festival at The Caverns and builds on everything we’ve learned from two successful years producing many festivals here,” says Joe Lurgio, The Caverns General Manager. “CaveJam gives festival enthusiasts a new reason—and a new season—to visit us in Tennessee.”

CaveJam will offer a variety of VIP glamping options in addition to everything else that makes The Caverns such a unique destination venue, from otherworldly cave tours and a spacious campground with a vibrant vendor alley to the stunning views surrounding the venue’s outdoor amphitheater where guests can spread out, dance, savor food truck fare, and enjoy the music. And of course, the crown jewel of The Caverns experience remains seeing live music inside a beautiful cave.

Admission to The String Cheese Incident’s special late night cave set is included and guaranteed with a VIP package purchase. Given the underground venue’s limited capacity, a limited number of 3-day passes are available that include access to this epic underground set Sunday evening.

In addition to The String Cheese Incident, the full CaveJam line-up includes Devon Gilfillian, Dopapod, Dumpstaphunk, Karina Rykman, Keller Williams, LP Giobbi: Dead House Set, Mo Lowda & The Humble, Neighbor, Pimps of Joytime, Pink Talking Fish, Space Bacon, Spafford, Susto, The Vegabonds, Barefuzz, BERTHA: Grateful Drag, Easy Honey, LadyCouch, and Love Rat.

CaveJam tickets start as low as $99. What’s more, with as little as $25 down, guests can start a payment plan for their festival tickets. Sign-ups are now underway for a venue pre-sale that begins on Wednesday, December 6th at Noon CT - sign up here. The general public on sale begins Friday, December 8th at Noon CT, visit ticket page.

CaveJam attendees can choose from an array of on-site accommodations designed to cater to various preferences. At the top end, there’s The Caverns secluded yurt village with 20 climate-controlled yurts, each appointed with a king size bed, private bathroom, kitchenette, and private deck. For the first time at The Caverns, a new glamping option has been added: Stay in a luxury, canvas bell tent equipped with a queen or two twin beds, bedding, bistro table and chairs, and more. For those looking for the VIP experience on a smaller budget, pre-pitched VIP tents with cots, canopies and lights will also be offered. And of course, RV and car camping passes will be available.  

All VIP packages include access to all three festival days events, guaranteed access to The String Cheese Incident’s late night cave set, multiple VIP viewing areas, catered brunches and dinners, VIP restroom trailers and showers in a VIP Village, exclusive VIP restroom trailer in amphitheater, private cash bar with daily discounted Happy Hours, access to charging stations, free chair massages, free early access to campgrounds, and VIP concierges onsite to ensure the experience is unforgettable.

For the best access to VIP packages and The String Cheese Incident’s late night cave set, guests are encouraged to get their tickets and accommodations early for CaveJam at The Caverns in Grundy County, Tennessee.

On October 11-13, The Caverns presents the third annual CaveFest, featuring a curated line-up of music over three days with headliners Railroad Earth, The Travelin’ McCourys, Yonder Mountain String Band, Bela Fleck & Abigail Washburn, and The Grateful Ball featuring The Travelin’ McCourys plus special guests, joined by artists-in-residence Lindsay Lou and John Mailander. Attendees can enjoy on-site camping, glamping packages, open underground jam sessions, cave tours, delicious food trucks, local craft vendors, surprise performances, and more.

“Now in our 3rd year, CaveFest is a signature festival at The Caverns,” says The Caverns owner Todd Mayo, “The community of bands and fans, the idyllic setting—both above and below ground— and Tennessee’s beautiful autumn weather, it’s all a recipe for a magical weekend in Grundy County.”

During its first two years, CaveFest attracted guests from every one of the lower 48 states. The festival takes full advantage of what The Caverns has to offer both above and below the Earth’s surface. The Caverns Amphitheater, with its spacious area for chairs and dancing, will host the headlining performances while providing breathtaking views of the majestic Cumberland Plateau. The Caverns world-famous underground concert hall will offer a 2nd stage for additional performances, late night shows hosted by Airshow with special guests, daily open jam sessions, a sound bath, and cave yoga.

Full CaveFest 2024 line-up: Railroad Earth, The Travelin’ McCourys, Yonder Mountain String Band, Bela Fleck & Abigail Washburn, The Grateful Ball featuring The Travelin’ McCoury and special guests, Jim Lauderdale & The Game Changers, Lindsay Lou, The Larry Keel Experience, Sicard Hollow, Big Richard, Lillie Mae, Arkansauce, John Mailander’s Forecast, Clay Street Unit, Pixie & The Partygrass Boys, The Sweet Lillies, La Terza Classe, Colby T. Helms & The Virginia Creepers, Slay, Uncle John’s Banjo, and Three Tall Pines, plus 3 Late Night Shows hosted by Airshow with Special Guests, artists-in-residence Lindsay Lou and John Mailander, and emcee Larry Nager.

Known as the “Queen of CaveFest” among the festival’s loyal attendees, Lindsay Lou will return for her third year as CaveFest artist-in-residence. She will be joined by a 2nd artist-in-residence, John Mailander. In this role, Lindsay Lou and John Mailander will not only deliver dedicated full-set performances but will also be found collaborating with others throughout the weekend, creating surprise collaborations and memorable moments at CaveFest.

Naturally, CaveFest will also feature cave tours and subterranean adventures, providing guests with the opportunity to delve deep and explore The Caverns cave system. Guided walking tours will be offered through The Caverns otherworldly Big Room Cave, where the enthralling history of the region, cave geology and mythology intertwine. Those seeking an adrenaline rush can opt for an Adventure Cave Tour that will take them beyond "Tombstone Pass" to witness an underground river, soda straw formations, and other fascinating sights.

All CaveFest tickets include camping. For early access to tickets and VIP packages, fans can sign-up for a pre-sale for guaranteed access to $129 festival tickets beginning on Thursday, February 15th at 12p CT. The general on sale will begin on Friday, February 16th at 12p CT at CaveFest.com with 3-day general admission tickets prices increasing to $149. Kids 12 and under are free. RV guests can add a $99 pass for an RV campsite (hook-ups not available).

CaveFest also offers a variety of VIP packages for those looking to upgrade their experience on any budget. VIP experiences start as low as $769 with perks like a premium campsite location, access to VIP viewing areas, delicious local catering for brunch and dinner, all day complimentary refreshments and snacks in a VIP Lounge Tent, and much more. For guests looking for a more luxurious experience, a VIP Yurt Package is available with accommodations in well-appointed, climate-controlled yurt for two for $3,299 with all the aforementioned perks. VIP packages with luxury canvas bell tent accommodations with a queen bed or cots for four are additional glamping options for CaveFest guests.

$1 from every CaveFest ticket will go to the Sewanee Mountain Grotto to support cave conservation efforts.

Mark your calendars for August 17th and 18th as the highly anticipated Big Mouth Bluegrass Festival returns to The Caverns, offering a refreshing sheltered escape from the summer heat. Set within the venue's world-famous underground concert hall, this unique festival showcases a lineup of award-winning bluegrass artists. Building on the success of its inaugural year, this two-day camping festival promises an immersive experience for bluegrass lovers, featuring open jam sessions, artist-led instructional workshops, craft vendors, food trucks, cave tours, yurt glamping options, and more.

Big Mouth Bluegrass Festival line-up features John McEuen & The Circle Band, Blue Highway, The Po’ Ramblin’ Boys, Michael Cleveland & Flamekeeper, Danny Paisley & The Southern Grass, Junior Sisk, Darin & Brooke Aldridge, Wyatt Ellis, The Price Sisters, Barefoot Nellie & Co., Off The Wagon, Cutter & Cash and The Kentucky Grass, as well as Blake Williams who returns as the festival’s emcee.  

"The cave’s natural acoustics embrace every music genre yet there's an unparalleled charm in experiencing the timeless, ancient tones of fiddles and banjos beneath the Earth's surface," says Joe Lurgio, The Caverns general manager.

2-day general admission tickets for Big Mouth Bluegrass Festival start at only $79. 2-day reserved seating tickets start at $99. Kids 12 & under are free. All tickets include free camping, and guests with RVs or oversized vehicles can add a $99 pass for an RV campsite (hook-ups not available).

The Big Mouth Bluegrass Festival also offers VIP packages for those looking to upgrade their experience with perks like reserved seating close to the stage, access to a VIP lounge for pop-up artist performances, local catering and complimentary snacks and drinks, shuttle transportation between the campground and cave, expedited security screening, commemorative merch, and much more. With the VIP Yurt Package, glamping guests also have accommodations in one of The Caverns well-appointed, climate-controlled yurts.

All patrons are encouraged to bring their instruments. Organized open jam sessions will be hosted in a pickin’ tent on the festival grounds, and workshops led by Big Mouth Bluegrass Festival artists will give guests a chance to meet and learn from the pros.

A pre-sale sign-up is currently underway with tickets and packages going on sale Wednesday, March 13th at 10a CT. Get registered here. The general on sale begins on Friday, March 15th at TheCaverns.com. Direct ticket link.

The Caverns Sessions returns with a new season of subterranean performances on PBS stations and the PBS app beginning September 4th with an episode featuring three-time GRAMMY award winners Ozomatli.   

"We invite viewers to dive into the heart of The Caverns, where the artistry of musical performances reverberates deeply—set against the awe-inspiring backdrop of underground wonder," says Todd Mayo, owner of The Caverns and co-founder of Todd Squared, LLC, the creative company behind this 16-time Emmy Award-winning series for the past 13 years.

This new 2024 season of The Caverns Sessions—formerly Bluegrass Underground, the second longest-running music series on national television behind Austin City Limits—features an eclectic lineup of roots artists: high-energy country rockers Shane Smith & The Saints; acclaimed Nashville artist, SiriusXM DJ, and Grand Ole Opry regular Elizabeth Cook; progressive Americana artist Lindsay Lou; 14-time GRAMMY winner Dan Tyminski fronting his Dan Tyminski Band; Southern-punk roots rockers American Aquarium; vibrant Americana band Clay Street Unit; rising Appalachian country soul band 49 Winchester; genre-blending collective The Texas Gentlemen; neo-acoustic supergroup Big Richard; GRAMMY-winning urban-Latino fusion band Ozomatli; versatile blues and roots artist Alvin Youngblood Hart’s Muscle Theory; and prolific songwriter Evan Honer.

Beginning on September 4th, television viewers nationwide can tune-in to The Caverns Sessions when the new season begins airing on PBS stations. Check local listings for specific airdates and times. Each episode will be available for streaming on PBS.org and the PBS app for 30 days after its original airdate.

"The Caverns Sessions endures because it showcases extraordinary musical talent across genres within an unparalleled underground setting," says Todd Jarrell, producer of the series. "This show merges America's breathtaking natural beauty with its rich musical heritage, delivering performances that resonate deeply with the essence of the American experience.”

Season XIII of The Caverns Sessions is produced by Todd Mayo and Todd Jarrell of Todd Squared LLC, directed by Jim Yockey, with Andy Kern as Audio Engineer and Allen Branton as Lighting Designer. The series is supported by underwriting from the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development and Tennessee’s South Cumberland Tourism Partnership. The 12-episode series is presented to PBS nationally in partnership with WCTE Central TN PBS based in Cookeville, TN.

Don’t miss The Caverns Sessions new season this Fall on PBS! Check local PBS listings for specific airdates and times. Full schedule of when each episode of The Caverns Sessions will be available to stream via the PBS app or PBS.org:

    Sep 4, 2024 - Ozomatli
    Sep 11, 2024 - Shane Smith & The Saints
    Sep 18, 2024 - Lindsay Lou
    Sep 25, 2024 - Evan Honer
    Oct 2, 2024 - Dan Tyminski Band
    Oct 9, 2024 - Alvin Youngblood Hart's Muscle Theory
    Oct 16, 2024 - American Aquarium
    Oct 23, 2024 - Clay Street Unit
    Oct 30, 2024 - Elizabeth Cook
    Nov 6, 2024 - 49 Winchester
    Nov 16, 2024 - The Texas Gentlemen
    Nov 20, 2024 - Big Richard