The Ultimate Guide To Cal Expo Country In The Park 2026: Lineup, Dates, And Why Sacramento Is The New Country Music Capital
The highly anticipated 26th Anniversary of Country in the Park (CITP) is officially confirmed, setting the stage for one of Northern California's largest music events. As of December 2025, the latest and most exciting news centers on the massive lineup and confirmed dates for the next installment of the festival, which promises to be bigger and better than ever. Hosted annually by Sacramento's country music powerhouse, KNCI 105.1, this event is not just a concert; it's a two-day boot-scootin' celebration of country music, community, and summer vibes, drawing tens of thousands of fans to the iconic Cal Expo grounds.
The festival has solidified its reputation as a must-attend event, consistently bringing a mix of genre legends and chart-topping newcomers to the capital city. Whether you're a long-time fan of the Sacramento country music scene or a first-time visitor, securing your spot for the upcoming event is the key to experiencing the best of live country entertainment.
The Confirmed Cal Expo Country in the Park 2026 Lineup and Dates
The biggest announcement for fans of the Country in the Park Music Festival is the official confirmation of the dates and the star-studded roster for the 26th anniversary event. Mark your calendars and prepare for a massive two-day event.
Event Profile: Country in the Park 2026
- Event: Country in the Park Music Festival (CITP)
- Anniversary: 26th Annual Event
- Confirmed Dates: Friday, May 8, and Saturday, May 9, 2026
- Venue: Cal Expo (California Exposition & State Fair), Sacramento, CA
- Host: KNCI 105.1 (New Country 105.1)
- Key Stages/Areas: The Cove, Miller Lite Grandstand, Racetrack Grandstand
The festival’s organizers, in partnership with KNCI 105.1, have unveiled a spectacular lineup that spans multiple generations of country music, ensuring there is a performance for every fan. The two-day schedule is packed with headliners and emerging talent alike.
The Announced 2026 Featured Artists (Entities)
The initial and most prominent lineup announcement for the May 2026 festival includes a powerhouse list of country music entities, known for their chart success and electric live performances:
- Jon Pardi: A California native and one of the biggest names in modern country, known for hits like "Dirt On My Boots."
- Miranda Lambert: A country music icon and multi-award winner, bringing her signature blend of rock and traditional country.
- Chris Young: A deep-voiced powerhouse with a string of number-one hits and a reputation for engaging live shows.
- Turnpike Troubadours: Bringing a refreshing blend of Red Dirt and Americana to the main stage.
- Dylan Scott: A rising star known for his romantic ballads and high-energy stage presence.
- Kameron Marlowe: An emerging favorite whose traditional sound has quickly gained traction.
- Mackenzie Carpenter: A promising new voice in the genre.
- Locash: The dynamic duo known for their catchy, feel-good country anthems.
- Mitchell Tenpenny: Bringing his unique blend of country, rock, and R&B influences.
- Jordan Davis: The platinum-selling artist known for his smooth vocals and relatable songwriting.
This comprehensive list of artists ensures the 26th-anniversary celebration will deliver on its promise of "two unforgettable days of live music" and the "best vibes in Northern California."
How to Get Tickets and Navigate the Cal Expo Venue
Securing your tickets is the first step to enjoying the Country in the Park experience. Given the caliber of the 2026 lineup, tickets are expected to sell quickly, especially the premium and VIP packages. Fans are strongly encouraged to sign up for news and updates directly through the official festival website or the KNCI 105.1 New Country Family to get early access to sales.
Ticket Tiers and Purchasing
Historically, the festival offers several ticket options to cater to different budgets and experiences:
- General Admission (GA): Provides standard access to the main performance area at Cal Expo.
- Pit/Standing Room: Often available for those who want to be right up against the stage.
- VIP Packages: These typically include premium viewing areas, dedicated bar access, private restrooms, and sometimes complimentary food and drinks.
The event is held at the Cal Expo Racetrack Grandstand, and the festival grounds, including The Cove, are transformed into a massive outdoor music venue.
The CITP 101: Festival Activities and Amenities
Country in the Park is more than just the music; it's a full festival experience. The event’s popularity stems from its extensive offerings that keep the energy high between sets. Key activities and amenities include:
- Food Trucks: A massive selection of local Sacramento food trucks offering diverse culinary options.
- Pop-Up Stores: Vendors selling official merchandise, country apparel, and unique festival gear.
- Games and Interactive Experiences: Festival grounds are filled with various games and sponsor activations to engage the crowd.
- Parking and Logistics: Cal Expo offers ample parking, but attendees should plan for heavy traffic and consider ride-sharing or public transport for the best experience. The official FAQ’s section on the festival website provides crucial details on parking and entry.
The History and Topical Authority of the Cal Expo Event
Cal Expo's Country in the Park has been a cornerstone of the Northern California music calendar for over two decades, solidifying its place as "Sacramento's favorite country music festival." The festival's enduring success is largely due to its commitment to booking top-tier talent and its partnership with local radio station KNCI 105.1, which has been the driving force behind the event since its inception.
Recent Headliners and Milestones
To understand the magnitude of the 2026 lineup, it is helpful to look back at the recent past. The festival consistently attracts the biggest names in the genre. For instance, the 2024 event, which celebrated the festival's 25th anniversary, featured major headliners like Bailey Zimmerman and Billy Currington, alongside other celebrated artists such as Nate Smith, Ernest, and Koe Wetzel. Other past performers have included Brantley Gilbert, Dustin Lynch, and Walker Hayes, showcasing the festival's ability to pull in diverse, chart-topping acts.
The festival's location at the California Exposition & State Fairgrounds provides a massive, open-air environment perfect for a large-scale country music event. The use of the Racetrack Grandstand and surrounding areas allows for multiple stages and a vast space for festival-goers to enjoy the music, food, and activities under the Sacramento sky.
The Importance of KNCI 105.1
KNCI 105.1 is more than just a host; they are the heart of the festival. Their deep connection to the country music industry and the local Sacramento community ensures that the lineup is always current and that the festival atmosphere remains authentic. The radio station's involvement is what makes CITP a true local institution and a premier destination for country music fans across the region.
As the May 2026 dates approach, fans should remain vigilant for the official release of the daily schedule, final artist additions, and specific ticket sale dates. The Country in the Park Music Festival at Cal Expo is set to deliver another unforgettable weekend, cementing Sacramento's reputation as a major player in the national country music landscape.
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