Nashville's CMA Fest is officially history for 2025. The four-day music festival draws thousands of fans all over the globe, united by their deep love of country music. While the event does bring in dozens of artists, from rising stars to legends, there is another, much more altruistic reason for CMA Fest. The non-stop concerts all raise money for the CMA Foundation.
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The CMA Foundation began in 2006, working to bring music education to schools all over the United States. This year's CMA Fest raised a staggering more than $2 million to benefit the CMA Foundation. Even better, that goes to an astonishing more than $30 million the CMA Foundation has raised since its inception.
"What an incredible four days and nights. Even with a few weather interruptions, the energy and spirit of our fans never faded," CMA Chief Executive Officer Sarah Trahern says in a statement. "From legendary acts to artists playing CMA Fest for the very first time, this year was a celebration of discovery, connection and community. And the fact that it all helps fund the CMA Foundation's work in music education makes it even more impactful."
The CMA Fest TV Special
Fortunately, the magic of this year's CMA Fest will live on all summer long. A three-hour CMA Fest TV special will air on June 26 on ABC, streaming the next day on Hulu. Cody Johnson and Ashley McBryde will co-host the show.
"This is not just a festival that there are a certain, select few acts," Johnson tells The Tennessean. "This is pretty much the who's who in country music. So getting to be seen, hosting, and I'm getting to perform too, it's really cool. It's a big honor. And I think every artist you talk to probably says something similar."
Fortunately, he is in good company. McBryde also hosted in 2024, working alongside Jelly Roll instead of Johnson.
"CMA Fest is a big deal," Johnson adds. "But I've got Ashley McBryde by my side, so it makes me feel a little more confident. She's already been here. This is her second time."
More details about the CMA Fest TV special, including performers and songs, will be announced in the near future.
