Heart of Country Music Festival takes over the Kenton County Fairgrounds in Independence, Kentucky, Sept. 11–12, 2026, for two days of country music, community spirit, and Kentucky charm.

Northern Kentucky’s newest and fastest-growing country music and community celebration features a packed lineup of national headliners, rising stars, and hometown favorites, including Clint Black, Justin Moore, Carly Pearce, Jo Dee Messina, Little Texas, Shenandoah, John Morgen, Derek Alan, and Cole Goodwin.

In addition to the music, festivalgoers can enjoy local food and drinks, multiple food trucks and vendors, full bar service, a mechanical bull, lawn games, and family-friendly fun all day long. From chart-topping country favorites to NKY hospitality, the Heart of Country Music Festival is an all-day party celebrating the Northern Kentucky community.