What's new at Country Fest? Lainey Wilson, bigger video screens and better cell service

LAWRENCE TWP. ? Country music stars, tailgate parties, cold beer and good times.

The Country Fest is back this week at Clay's Resort Jellystone Park.

Thousands of country music fans will flock to the event for what's become a summertime ritual.

Headlining the four days are Chris Janson on Wednesday; Lainey Wilson, Thursday; Cody Johnson, Friday; and Thomas Rhett, Saturday. Multiple other country music artists also will fill the lineups each day, including Chase Matthew, Dylan Scott, Justin Moore, Riley Green, Priscilla Block and Rhett Atkins.

For veteran Country Fest attendees, they know the drill. Show up early to beat the traffic, have your digital tickets ready to go on your phone, and enjoy both the music and festive atmosphere.

The Canton Repository talked with Country Fest co-founder and co-owner Aaron Green for the scoop on this year's Country Fest, along with a few tips so concertgoers can maximize their experience. So here's what you need to know:

Summer headliner: Country music superstar Carrie Underwood to headline the 2024 Concert for Legends

What's the Country Fest 2024 lineup?

"It's always a challenge trying to pick almost 18 artists in advance," said Green, who heads Country Fest with co-founder Joel Beichler. "I think we did a really good job."

"Lainey (Wilson) has a lot of buzz right now," he added. "She (recently) won ACM Entertainer of the Year. Cody Johnson has a lot of buzz. He's done really well around the country (and has won awards)."

How much do tickets cost?

Tickets are still available for either individual shows or an inclusive package.

Single day passes cost $129. Multi-day commuter tickets start at $179. Pit passes cost an additional $129 per day. The pit gives ticket holders exclusive access to the front section of the crowd. The area is standing room only; blankets and chairs are not permitted. The pit has its own entrance, mobile bar and portable toilet.

For more details and to purchase tickets, go to https://www.thecountryfest.com/. Festival camping tickets also can be purchased.

What time are the shows?

Wednesday's concert schedule is Chase Matthews at 7 p.m. and Chris Janson at 9 p.m. Thursday begins with Thomas Mac at 4 p.m. and Wilson performs at 10 p.m.

Friday starts with Dillon Carmichael at 4 p.m. and Cody Johnson performs at 10 p.m. Saturday begins with Rhett Atkins at 4 p.m. and Thomas Rhett takes the stage at 10 p.m.

What's new at Country Fest this year?

Country Fest made a few additions with the fans in mind.

"The only major change we did is we got rid of our video wall that's behind the front of house, and we increased our stage video walls by about 50%," Green said. "We're kind of staying on trend with other festivals trying to do what they're doing around the country, and trying to give everyone a good experience."

Cellphone service should be improved

Country Fest fans know that cellphone service can be challenging and a bit sketchy at times.

"When you pack that many people into (one) place, it's hard to get service out," Green said. "It also affects the community, which we were worried about."

So the festival will have two mobile cellular towers this year, compared to one previously. AT&T and Verizon each will bring a tower on site.

"That's something we're continually trying to improve is cell service and communications for everyone," Green said. "The fans and people at the show and the local community."

Travel tips

Commuters and campers can enter off state Route 93 at either parking lot entrance, which is marked by signs. Use the address: 5050 Manchester Ave. NW, North Lawrence, Ohio 44666.

Visitors should follow arrow signs for parking, as well as to get to the entry gate for concertgoers, Green said.

"At the end of the day, everything is designed for speed and the ease of the consumers," he said.

Reach Ed at [email protected].

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This article originally appeared on The Repository: Country Fest 2024 in Ohio features Lainey Wilson, Cody Johnson