Dubai Media City Amphitheatre hosts a weekend of country music, barbecue and bootscootin’ fun this month
If travelling isn’t top of the agenda right now, we get it. With the general unpredictability of the world, the idea of hopping on a long-haul flight can feel less appealing than usual. But if there’s one thing the UAE does well, it’s carrying on regardless – enjoying life, gathering with friends, and finding ways to bring the world to our doorstep.
Which is exactly the spirit behind Summer in Nashville, the country music festival that’s returning this month to the Dubai Media City Amphitheatre.
For one lively weekend, the grassy amphitheatre will transform into a slice of Tennessee, complete with twanging guitars, smoky barbecue, cowboy hats and line dancing.
Because if flannel belongs to Seattle and po’ boys belong to New Orleans, then music belongs to Nashville. Known universally as “Music City”, Nashville has long been the beating heart of country music. And while Dubai may be a long way from Tennessee, the city has never been shy about embracing other cultures, particularly when they come with a great soundtrack.
Here’s what to expect when Summer in Nashville rolls into town…
Country music aplenty
At the centre of the festival is, unsurprisingly, the music.
Headlining the live performances is Country Bound, widely regarded as the UK’s top country covers band. Expect a setlist stacked with country hits. Alongside them are tribute shows celebrating some of the genre’s biggest modern stars, including Zach Bryan, Lainey Wilson and Luke Combs. Their storytelling style (heartfelt lyrics wrapped in big, arena-ready hooks) has helped push country music firmly into the global mainstream.
Also on the lineup are regional and touring performers such as Robbie McMinn, Aaron Reilly, Lauren Claire Townley, and the lively The Rooftop Riffs.
Country-oke
For those who’ve always fancied themselves a bit of a country star, the festival’s Countryoke sessions might be the highlight. It’s karaoke, but with a twist: instead of a backing track, you’ll be singing alongside a live band. Whether you attempt a heartfelt ballad or a boot-stomping anthem, the idea is simple, just grab the mic, channel your inner Swiftie and enjoy the applause.
Even if you’re not brave enough to take the stage, it’s usually one of the most entertaining parts of the day.
Line-dancing
Country music and line dancing are practically inseparable, and the festival makes sure there’s plenty of opportunity to join in. The Bootscott line dancing crew will be running sessions throughout the day, guiding beginners through the basics while seasoned dancers spin, stomp and shuffle with impressive ease. Don’t be surprised if you arrive intending to watch and leave knowing a routine or two.
A taste of the American South
Of course, no Nashville-inspired gathering would be complete without food. Expect plenty of American-style barbecue such as smoky brisket, pulled meats, grilled corn and all the comfort-food sides that make Southern cooking so beloved. Alongside the barbecue stands will be a mix of street food vendors serving festival favourites.
Rodeo rides and games
Music may be the backbone of the event, but Summer in Nashville leans into the playful side of festival culture, too. There’s a mechanical rodeo bull for anyone feeling brave, axe throwing lanes for those who want to test their aim, and a nostalgic Tin Can Alley game zone where old-school carnival challenges come into play. Add to that a country fancy-dress atmosphere, and the entire event takes on the feeling of a laid-back southern fairground. And if you arrive early enough, you might even score one of the 500 free cowboy hats being handed out across the weekend.
You may not be strolling down Broadway in Tennessee, but sitting on the grass at Dubai Media City Amphitheatre, listening to guitars twang as the sun dips behind the skyline, isn’t a bad substitute.
Details:
Where: Summer in Nashville Festival, Media City Amphitheatre, Dubai,
When: April 18
Cost: Dhs175 general admission, Dhs75 for under 21s, Dhs25 under-fives.
summerinnashville.com/dubai
Images: Supplied
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