Ashley McBryde and Cody Johnson Join Forces to Present a Star-Studded ‘CMA Fest’ Television Special
By Website Content Manager
The program is scheduled to broadcast on ABC Thursday, June 26 at 8/7c.
With CMA Fest 2025 just around the corner, the Country Music Association and ABC have revealed that “CMA Fest presented by SoFi” will air on ABC Thursday, June 26 at 8/7c, with the event available for streaming on Hulu the following day.
The live, three-hour broadcast will be recorded in downtown Nashville during the 52nd annual CMA Fest, taking place from June 5 to 8. This year’s festival promises star-studded excitement, with Cody Johnson and Ashley McBryde named as co-hosts.
While this marks McBryde’s second time hosting the special, it will be Johnson’s debut as a host. Together, they’ll lead viewers through an action-packed evening featuring standout performances, exciting artist collaborations, and memorable highlights from the four-day event.
The full lineup of performers for the special is expected to be announced soon. Fans can anticipate an energetic showcase filled with top country stars, unique pairings, and plenty of surprises.
Produced by the Country Music Association, the special will once again feature longtime executive producer and writer Robert Deaton, alongside director Alan Carter. “CMA Fest presented by SoFi” continues CMA’s tradition, marking the 22nd consecutive year of producing a summer concert TV special.
Originally launched in 1972 as Fan Fair®, CMA Fest has evolved into the world’s largest country music festival, attracting around 90,000 attendees daily and showcasing performances across Nashville’s most iconic stages. For over 50 years, CMA Fest has brought together every part of the country music world—from fans and artists to industry insiders—for four unforgettable days in the heart of Music City.
But CMA Fest is about more than just concerts. Many artists use their appearances to give back, with proceeds supporting music education through the CMA Foundation.
Whether you’re experiencing the festival live or watching from home, the 2025 CMA Fest TV special promises to be an essential celebration of the biggest week in country music.