New Kent, VA – The sounds of Music City resonated through Virginia wine country as the second annual Cannon Country Fest returned to New Kent Winery on Saturday, August 23, 2025. Hosted by Cannon Country 107.9 FM, the “A Nashville to New Kent Experience” festival once again brought a vibrant celebration of country music, local flavors, and community spirit to the heart of Virginia.
A Star-Studded Country Music Lineup
The festival showcased a compelling roster of talent, featuring artists who embody the authenticity and storytelling that define the country music genre. Headlining the evening was Justin Andrews, an Oklahoma-born artist whose performances are characterized by a “whiskey-soaked” blend of roots and truth, reminiscent of classic country storytelling. Andrews, fresh off the release of his single “Gone Again,” delivered a high-energy set with his full band, including fiddle and pedal steel players, captivating the audience with his Oklahoma roots and Nashville country twist.
Also gracing the stage was GRAMMY-nominated songwriter Tim James, renowned for penning hits for country music titans such as Lee Brice, George Strait, and Toby Keith. James performed his own chart-toppers, including the hit “Love Like Crazy,” offering attendees a glimpse into the craft behind some of country music’s most beloved songs. Returning by popular demand, the powerhouse country duo Carvin Walls provided a dynamic writer’s round-style performance, sharing songs that have garnered significant attention on social media and cementing their place within the contemporary country music industry.
An Evening of Wine, Food, and Music
New Kent Winery provided an idyllic backdrop for the festivities, with attendees spreading out on the grounds with lawn chairs and blankets to soak in the atmosphere. The event, which ran from 6:30 PM to 9:30 PM, saw gates open for general admission at 5:30 PM, following early access for VIP ticket holders at 4:30 PM. The winery itself closed to regular visitors at 4 PM to prepare for the evening’s concert, ensuring a seamless experience for festival-goers. A variety of local food trucks were on-site, offering diverse culinary options to complement the winery’s selection of wines and beers, creating a well-rounded sensory experience.
Celebrating Community and Service
Beyond the musical performances, the Cannon Country Fest also took a moment to honor a local military family, recognizing them as the Military Family of the Year. This gesture underscored the festival’s commitment to community engagement and appreciation, adding a layer of heartfelt recognition to the evening’s entertainment. This inclusion highlights how such events can serve as a platform not only for music but also for celebrating those who serve the nation.
Growing Roots in Virginia’s Music Scene
This year marked the second consecutive staging of the Cannon Country Fest, building upon the success and positive reception of its inaugural year. Organized by Cannon Country 107.9 FM, a station owned by Local Daily Media, in partnership with Porchlight Pickers, the festival aims to further establish itself as a significant annual event in the region. The organizers expressed their enthusiasm for bringing stellar artists from Nashville to New Kent, emphasizing the importance of showcasing the songwriters behind many of country music’s biggest hits. Their vision is to create a well-rounded country music experience that resonates with fans and supports the broader music industry.
Virginia itself boasts a rich history in country music, recognized as a significant contributor to the genre’s development, with Bristol famously known as the “Birthplace of Country Music.” Events like the Cannon Country Fest further contribute to this legacy, fostering a vibrant local music scene and providing a platform for both established and emerging country music artists to connect with audiences in the Commonwealth.
