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5 Reasons The Full Moon Pickin' Party In Nashville Is The Ultimate Bluegrass Tradition (2025 Guide)

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Every summer in Nashville, Tennessee, a unique and beloved tradition unfolds under the light of the full moon. As of the current date in late 2025, the Full Moon Pickin’ Party is already gearing up for its next season, having cemented its status as one of Middle Tennessee's most authentic and enduring outdoor music events for nearly 30 years. This laid-back, family-friendly gathering is far more than just a concert; it's a vital fundraiser and a true celebration of American roots music, drawing musicians and fans alike to the historic Percy Warner Park.

The 2025 schedule confirms the party's continued commitment to celebrating the region’s rich bluegrass heritage, hosted by the Friends of Warner Parks. Held at the picturesque Equestrian Center, this event offers a perfect blend of high-quality music, community spirit, and philanthropic purpose, making it a must-do for anyone visiting or living in Music City.

Full Moon Pickin' Party 2025: Dates, Location, and Essential Details

The Full Moon Pickin' Party is an annual series of events, typically running monthly from May through September. The 2025 season maintains this tradition, offering five distinct nights of music and moonlight at one of Nashville’s most scenic locations.

Event Schedule and Location:

  • Location: Percy Warner Park Equestrian Center, Nashville, TN.
  • 2025 Dates:
    • May 23
    • June 13
    • July 11
    • August 8
    • September 5
  • Time: Typically runs from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
  • Purpose: A crucial fundraiser for the Friends of Warner Parks.
  • Atmosphere: Laid-back, family-friendly, and dog-friendly (on a leash).

The venue itself, the Percy Warner Park Equestrian Center, adds a layer of historic charm to the event. Percy Warner Park, which opened to the public in 1927, is a cornerstone of the Nashville parks system, known for its extensive network of hiking and equestrian trails, and its role as the site of the annual Iroquois Steeplechase. Attending the Pickin' Party not only grants you a night of fantastic bluegrass but also a chance to enjoy the rolling hills and natural beauty of this preserved green space.

Ticket Information:

To ensure a smooth experience and manage capacity, all general admission tickets for the Full Moon Pickin' Party must be purchased online in advance. For the 2025 season, adult tickets are priced around $28.13, with proceeds going directly to the park's preservation efforts. It is highly recommended to purchase tickets early, as these popular events often sell out, especially for the summer dates.

The Authentic Culture of Bluegrass Pickin' Circles

What truly sets the Full Moon Pickin' Party apart from a standard music festival is its embrace of the authentic bluegrass "pickin' circle" culture. While there is a main stage featuring Middle Tennessee's finest bluegrass bands, the real magic happens when musicians gather spontaneously under the trees and around the Equestrian Barn to jam.

These informal gatherings are a core aspect of the event's identity and a powerful display of community music. Anyone with an instrument—and a basic understanding of jam etiquette—is welcome to join. This is where the event's topical authority shines, offering a deep dive into the roots of Appalachian and Southern music traditions.

Bluegrass Jam Etiquette to Know:

The "pickin' circle" operates on an unwritten code of conduct that fosters collaboration and mutual respect. Understanding this etiquette is key to participating or simply observing:

  • The Circle Turn: Song choice and instrumental solos typically rotate around the circle, giving everyone a turn to lead or shine.
  • The Leader: The person who chooses the song is the leader. They announce the tune and count it in, setting the tempo and key.
  • Keep the Beat: Timing is crucial. All rhythm players (often guitar and upright bass) must follow the established beat to keep the song tight.
  • No "Jam Busters": Avoid choosing songs that are overly complex, too obscure, or don't fit the traditional bluegrass style, as this can disrupt the flow for the majority of the musicians.

The instruments on display are a testament to the genre's history. Attendees can expect to see the classic bluegrass quintet: the Mandolin, Fiddle, Banjo, Guitar, and Upright Bass (often called a Bass Fiddle). Other roots instruments like the Dobro, Lap Steel, Dulcimer, and even the Autoharp also make frequent appearances, played in various styles like the Scruggs-style banjo picking or the downward clawhammer motion.

Why the Party is More Than Music: Supporting Warner Parks

The Full Moon Pickin' Party is fundamentally a benefit event, making its mission as crucial as its music. Organized and managed by the Friends of Warner Parks, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, the entire series serves as one of the most significant annual fundraisers for the preservation and protection of Percy and Edwin Warner Parks.

The financial impact of the event is substantial. After just a few parties in a single season, the organization is often able to inject tens of thousands of dollars directly back into the parks. This funding is essential for maintaining the integrity of the sprawling green space, which includes over 3,100 acres managed by the Metro Nashville Parks and Recreation Department.

Key Areas Supported by Full Moon Pickin' Party Funds:

  • Trail Maintenance: Ensuring the extensive network of hiking, running, and equestrian trails remains safe and accessible.
  • Park Preservation: Funding long-term projects to protect the parks' natural ecosystems and historic structures.
  • Educational Programs: Supporting the Warner Park Nature Center and its various community and school outreach initiatives.
  • Community Events: Helping to fund other public events like the Warner Parks Spring Luncheon and volunteer activities.

By purchasing a ticket, attendees become direct contributors to the preservation of Nashville's largest and most cherished municipal parks. This philanthropic element elevates the event from a simple night out to a meaningful community investment.

Planning Your Full Moon Pickin' Party Experience

Attending the Full Moon Pickin' Party requires a small amount of planning to maximize the experience. The event is designed to be a relaxing, outdoor experience, but a few tips can ensure a perfect night under the stars.

What to Bring:

  • Seating: Bring a blanket, lawn chairs, or stadium seats, as seating is general admission on the lawn.
  • Cash/Card: Food trucks and beverage vendors are on-site, offering a variety of local Nashville cuisine and drinks.
  • Your Instrument: If you play a bluegrass instrument (guitar, banjo, mandolin, fiddle, etc.), bring it along! Joining a pickin' circle is the best way to experience the event's unique spirit.
  • Bug Spray: As an outdoor event in Middle Tennessee, a little bug repellent is always a good idea.

The atmosphere is incredibly welcoming. It's a place where seasoned musicians jam alongside novices, where families spread out blankets to enjoy a picnic dinner, and where the community gathers to celebrate music, nature, and the spirit of giving back. Whether you are a lifelong bluegrass enthusiast or simply looking for a unique Nashville experience beyond the neon lights of Broadway, the Full Moon Pickin' Party offers an authentic taste of Tennessee culture and a beautiful night out at the Equestrian Center.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to be part of this beloved Nashville tradition during its 2025 season. Check the Friends of Warner Parks official website for the latest ticket availability and detailed event information.

5 Reasons The Full Moon Pickin' Party in Nashville is the Ultimate Bluegrass Tradition (2025 Guide)
full moon pickin party nashville tn
full moon pickin party nashville tn

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