The three-day UK festival bringing country, Americana, and roots to Leicester

Country music is the fastest-growing genre in Britain. Meet The Long Road, the festival bringing US vibes to Leicester.

Last updated: 25th May 2023

Originally published: 18th May 2023

The UK festival scene isn’t short of its pop, indie, rock, house, techno, and drum and bass festivals. But country music festival, with the genre having been born in, and heavily associated with America, is less common. 

According to recent research published in The Guardian from the Country Music Association, country music is the fastest-growing genre in Britain, with streaming figures shooting up almost 50% over 2021 and 2022. Perhaps Lil Nas X’s Old Town Road sparked the boom? 

So more and more festivals and events showcasing the genre and those like it are popping up across the UK, offering fans a place to enjoy their favourite music. And one of those festivals is Leicester’s The Long Road.

Going down at Stanford Hall on Friday 25th - Sunday 27th August (bank holiday), the fest is set to welcome Blackberry Smoke, Jon Pardi, Caylee Hammack, Breland, Eli Young Band, Josh Abbot Band, Margo Price, Nickel Creek, and loads more across the country, Americana and roots spectrum. 

Now in its third year, the fest continues to grow. Alongside five stages of music, there’s a classic car show, dance classes, artisan crafts, a kid's area, wellbeing workshops, tractor racing, and more, melding the country culture with modern activities, ensuring everyone has something they’ll be interested in checking out. There’s US-inspired street food (including hot wings), hard liquor, and craft beers.

Curious to check out the genre that’s booming all over the UK? Click or tap here for more info on The Long Road.

Check out our What's On Guide to discover more rowdy raves and sweaty gigs taking place over the coming weeks and months. For festivals, lifestyle events and more, head on over to our Things To Do page or be inspired by the event selections on our Inspire Me page.

Header image credit: The Long Road / Facebook.com