Railbird Festival - Kentucky festival blends music, bourbon, and horse racing culture.

Railbird Music Festival is a lively two-day celebration in Lexington, Kentucky, blending top-tier music, bourbon, and horse racing culture. Held on June 1-2, 2024, at The Infield at Red Mile, this festival offers an unbeatable mix of world-class performances and unique Kentucky experiences.

Music and Artists

Railbird is all about variety. It’s known for bringing a range of genres, with:

Folk
Americana
Country
Alt-Rock
Bluegrass

The 2024 lineup includes some massive names, like:

Chris Stapleton
Noah Kahan
Hozier
Turnpike Troubadours
Counting Crows
Wynonna Judd
Lord Huron

Stages are set up to capture intimate moments as well as large, energetic performances. With three stages spread across the race track, you'll catch everything from quiet, acoustic sets to full-blown rock anthems.

Location

The Infield at Red Mile is a charming venue with historical roots in horse racing, right in the heart of Lexington. This space transforms into a music haven, featuring three stages and plenty of room to move. You'll feel the energy of Kentucky’s equine culture, which is reflected in both the layout and the festival’s theme.

Art Installations

While the focus here is music, the festival also features art installations inspired by Kentucky’s culture. Interactive exhibits and local artwork are integrated into the festival grounds, creating a vibe that’s as much about soaking in creativity as it is about the music.

Festival Experience

Multiple Stages

Railbird’s three stages offer diverse atmospheres:

Main Stage: Big crowds and the headliners.
Smaller Stages: More intimate settings where you can discover new artists or catch stripped-down versions of bigger acts.

Food and Drinks

Kentucky’s finest come together at Railbird’s Bourbon Hideout, featuring curated bourbon selections. Food vendors offer everything from local Southern BBQ to vegetarian delights, so there’s something for everyone to munch on between sets.

Fashion and Culture

Railbird attendees embrace relaxed, country-inspired festival fashion—think cowboy boots, denim, and casual summer vibes. It’s a place where festival-goers express themselves freely but with a definite nod to Southern style.

Workshops and Activities

In addition to the music, you can dive into activities like:

Bourbon tastings
Equine-themed experiences
Local arts and crafts

Camping

Railbird doesn’t offer camping on-site, but there are plenty of nearby spots to stay for a true festival weekend experience.

Accommodation

While camping isn’t available, there are lots of nearby hotels and Airbnb options in Lexington. The festival is centrally located, making it easy to find a place to crash within a short drive or ride.

Tickets and Attendance

Expect thousands to gather at Railbird, with ticket options for every type of attendee:

General Admission: Basic entry to all stages and activities.
GA+: Access to shaded lounges, air-conditioned restrooms, and more.
VIP: Dedicated viewing areas, premium restrooms, and access to exclusive bars.
Platinum: All VIP perks, plus complimentary dining and bar service.
Superfecta: The ultimate experience with on-stage viewing and private tours.

Tickets go on sale months in advance, with GA+ and VIP options selling out quickly.

History

First launched in 2019, Railbird has grown into one of the most anticipated festivals in Kentucky. After a brief hiatus in 2022, it returned with even more momentum in 2023 and continues to expand. It has become known for its mix of music, bourbon, and horse-racing culture, offering a uniquely Kentucky experience.

Sustainability Efforts

Railbird is committed to eco-friendly practices, promoting recycling and reducing single-use plastics on-site. The festival partners with local sustainability organizations to ensure it leaves a minimal environmental footprint.

If you're planning to hit Railbird 2024, be ready for a weekend of music, bourbon, and Kentucky charm. See you there!

Railbird Festival, Holler, American Songwriter

Frequently Asked Questions

When and where is Railbird Music Festival 2024?

The festival will take place on June 1-2, 2024, at The Infield at Red Mile in Lexington, Kentucky.

What kind of music can I expect at Railbird?

Railbird features a mix of genres including folk, Americana, country, alt-rock, and bluegrass, with headliners like Chris Stapleton, Noah Kahan, Hozier, and Turnpike Troubadours.

What are the different ticket options?

You can choose from General Admission, GA+, VIP, Platinum, and Superfecta tickets. Each comes with perks like access to lounges, air-conditioned restrooms, and even on-stage viewing for the Superfecta tier.

Can I camp at the festival?

Railbird does not offer on-site camping, but there are plenty of nearby accommodation options in Lexington including hotels and Airbnbs.

Is the festival kid-friendly?

Yes, children 8 and under can enter for free when accompanied by a ticketed adult.

Will there be food and drinks at the festival?

Yes! The festival offers a wide range of food, including local favorites like Southern BBQ, vegetarian options, and a curated bourbon experience at The Bourbon Hideout.

How do I get to the festival?

The festival is held at Red Mile, which is centrally located in Lexington. You can drive or take public transport, but parking is limited, so consider rideshare options.

What should I wear to Railbird?

Expect a mix of casual and country-inspired fashion. Think cowboy boots, denim, and summer festival attire. Be comfortable, as you'll be outdoors most of the time.

Are there sustainability efforts at the festival?

Yes, Railbird promotes recycling, minimizes single-use plastics, and works with local organizations to reduce its environmental impact.

What happens if it rains during the festival?

Railbird is a rain-or-shine event, so come prepared with appropriate gear like rain jackets and ponchos.

When do tickets go on sale?

Presale tickets will be available starting December 7, 2023. Make sure to sign up for notifications to secure the best prices.