Live music crowd with Turnpike Troubadours

Lexington, Kentucky

Live Music

A City of Fans

Whether it’s at a laid-back bar show or an epic arena concert, Lexington supports live music with record crowds, raucous energy, and palpable state pride that make for a fan experience few scenes can match. 

Lexington is where superstar Kentucky artists like Tyler Childers, Sturgill Simpson, and Chris Stapleton got their start years ago. And there’s no better place to watch them perform today. 

Upcoming Live Music Events

Find an unforgettable fan experience at these live music events in and around Lexington.

May
15
May 15, 2026 - May 16, 2026

Houndstock

Two days of americana, bluegrass, blues...and the best BBQ in the bluegrass. Before the old country,...

Jun
06
June 6, 2026 - June 7, 2026

Lexington Porch Fest

Initially launched in 2025 as part of the 250Lex celebration, Lexington Porch Fest is a free and...

Jun
06
June 6, 2026 - June 7, 2026

RAILBIRD 2026

Traditionally, a Railbird is a horse racing enthusiast known for sticking close to the action,...

Jun
10
June 10, 2026 - June 13, 2026

Spirit in the Bluegrass Music Fest

The Spirit in the Bluegrass Music Fest is a three day bluegrass festival June 12-14 at the Kentucky...

"Lexington has been real good to me. I've spent many nights playing at Al's Bar and The Green Lantern."

- Tyler Childers

Lexington’s Live Music Venues

Intimate or extravagant, you can find the fan experience you’re looking for at these local venues.

The Burl

375 Thompson Road, Lexington, KY, 40508

Hosting local and national talent of all genres, The Burl is Lexington’s newest entertainment...

Manchester Music Hall

899 Manchester Street, Lexington, KY, 40508
(859) 537-7321

A historic event venue with a modern edge for music lovers in Lexington’s Distillery District,...

Lyric Theatre and Cultural Arts Center

300 East Third Street, Lexington, KY, 40508
(859) 280-2201

Originally opened in 1948, the Lyric Theatre was a thriving cultural centerpiece for Lexington's...

Central Bank Center and Rupp Arena

425 W. High Street, Lexington, KY, 40507
(859) 233-4567

This newly renovated downtown complex features 100,000 square feet of contemporary exhibit space, 16...

Railbird Logo

 

For one weekend each summer, Lexington’s Railbird Festival attracts more than 20,000 fans for a celebration of world-class musicians and Bluegrass culture on the grounds of Red Mile Racetrack.

Bourbon tastings, local food that transcends the usual festival fare, and music of all genres make Railbird a true feast for the senses that can’t be found anywhere else.
 

Travel Guides

Your Lexington live music experience doesn’t have to stop after the encore. Make the most of your time in town with these helpful tips from VisitLEX.

Fairs & Festivals

People enjoying live music and horse races at the Breeders' Cup Festival

Art Galleries

Woman at Art Gallery

Performing Arts

UK Dance