FRANKLIN, Tenn. (WSMV) – Franklin’s largest music festival isn’t happening in 2026.
Pilgrimage Music Festival announced they won’t hold the annual event this September, but will return in 2027 with “new sights, new sounds, new surprises.”
Organizers didn’t give a reason for the hiatus, but said it will allow them to “bring you the best festival experience.”
The festival, which started in 2015, has hosted big names over the years like Willie Nelson, Justin Timberlake and Dave Matthews Band.
Carl Phillips says he’s made the pilgrimage almost every year, and his memories are magical.
“Right up front, listening to Jason Isbell do ‘Cover Me Up,’ and it just sent chills down my spine,” he said. “Seeing The Decembrists play with the sun setting in the fall, and they did a whole set that was around the autumnal equinox. It was just magic.”
The festival brings in an economic boost for local businesses both inside and outside of the festival grounds.
“We will miss Pilgrimage this year, the festival has a great history with the City and the festival is well attended,” said Chief Communications Officer for the city of Franklin Milissa Reierson. “We look forward to working with organizers in 2027 and are excited about what they will bring in the future.”
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