Country music fans are gearing up for one of Tampa Bay’s most anticipated events of the year as Country Thunder Florida prepares to transform Raymond James Stadium into a three-day celebration of top-tier musical talent from May 2-4, 2025.
The festival, now in its fifth year at this venue, has quickly become a staple of Tampa’s spring entertainment calendar, drawing more than 25,000 attendees daily during last year’s event.
“We’ve assembled our strongest lineup yet,” says Country Thunder CEO Brian Andrews. “From established headliners to emerging talent, this year’s festival truly offers something for every country music enthusiast.”
Friday’s opening night will feature Grammy-winning artist Taylor McBride, known for her chart-topping hits “Southern Sunrise” and “Broken Highways.” She’ll be joined by rising stars The Frontier Boys and Tampa’s own Cassidy Rivers, who got her start performing at Ybor City venues.
Saturday’s performances will be headlined by veteran performer Jackson Hayes, whose three-decade career has produced eighteen number-one singles. The day’s lineup also includes fan favorites The Mason Brothers, Emily Calloway, and Nashville’s newest sensation, Riverroad Junction.
Sunday’s closing performances will feature the highly anticipated reunion tour of legendary group Copper Creek, performing together for the first time in seven years. Their appearance marks the only Florida stop on their limited tour schedule.
Beyond the main stage performances, the festival includes a Songwriter’s Tent where fans can enjoy intimate acoustic sets and hear the stories behind their favorite songs. The Thunder Alley marketplace will feature over 40 vendors selling everything from custom boots to handcrafted jewelry and festival merchandise.
For those seeking respite from the music, the Savannah Tourism Board has created a special Southern hospitality experience showcasing Georgia’s coastal charm. “We’re bringing a taste of Southern charm to Tampa Bay,” explains marketing director Eliza Hampton. “Visitors can enjoy authentic Savannah cuisine and learn about our rich cultural heritage.”
Festival organizers have worked closely with the Tampa Police Department and transportation officials to manage the expected traffic and ensure smooth entry and exit experiences. Dedicated rideshare zones have been established, and additional HART bus routes will service the stadium throughout the weekend.
For attendees driving to the event, parking passes can be purchased in advance through the Country Thunder website, with premium lots available closer to the stadium entrance. Officials recommend arriving at least two hours before desired performances to navigate security and find seating.
Single-day passes begin at $95, with three-day passes available for $245. VIP packages offering reserved seating, dedicated entrance lanes, and exclusive dining options start at $425 for the weekend.
For the complete performance schedule and to purchase tickets, visit CountryThunder.com/Florida.