OWENSBORO, KY (Sept. 5, 2025) – Owensboro’s downtown will soon be alive with the sounds of banjos, fiddles, and mandolins as Bluegrass in the Boro kicks off this Sunday. The new series, funded through the Bluegrass Music Initiative, will bring free live bluegrass music four nights a week from September 7 through November 16.
Performances will take place on Sundays at 4 p.m. at Brasher’s Lil’ Nashville, Mondays at 6 p.m. at Lure Seafood & Grille, Tuesdays with the Kentucky Fried Pickin’ Hotel Jam featuring various artists at the Holiday Inn Riverfront, and Wednesdays at 6 p.m. at Mellow Mushroom. Each week will feature a rotating lineup of local and regional musicians, offering both residents and visitors a chance to experience authentic bluegrass in the heart of Owensboro.
The series opens with Coltt Winter Lepley at Brasher’s Lil’ Nashville on Sunday, September 7, followed by The Rosine Sound at Lure on Monday, September 8, and Chris Abell at Mellow Mushroom on Wednesday, September 10. Week two will bring Rack ’em Leon, the Blue Bridge Boys, and Randall Howard & David Morris to the stage. Additional acts, including the Tuesday hotel jam sessions, will be announced weekly throughout the season.
Organizers say the initiative is about more than just live music; it’s also about strengthening community connections. “Owensboro is the Bluegrass Music Capital of the World, and we’re thrilled to see live bluegrass music woven right into the weekly rhythm of downtown,” said Amy Gilmore, Chair of Downtown Owensboro Inc. “This initiative brings together local businesses, artists, and residents in a way that highlights both our heritage and our thriving downtown.”
Tamarra Brasher, owner of Brasher’s Lil’ Nashville, echoed that excitement. “As a live music venue, we’re passionate about bringing people together through performance. Hosting part of this series is a natural fit for us, and we can’t wait to welcome both longtime bluegrass fans and new audiences to experience these shows.”
For the Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation, the effort represents an investment in the community’s future as much as its culture. “Bluegrass in the Boro reflects what makes Owensboro great: our creativity, collaboration, and culture,” said Summer Aldridge, GOEDC’s Director of Marketing & Special Projects. “By investing in live music, we’re investing in our local economy, our downtown businesses, and the vibrant community experience that makes Owensboro stand out.”
Bluegrass in the Boro is made possible through the Bluegrass Music Initiative, with support from Downtown Owensboro Inc., Brasher’s Lil’ Nashville, Lure Seafood & Grille, Mellow Mushroom, Pub on Second, Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation, Holiday Inn Riverfront, Hampton Inn Owensboro Riverfront, and the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame & Museum.
All shows are free and open to the public. For weekly lineups and updates, follow Downtown Owensboro Inc. and the Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation on social media.
About the Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation
The Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation (GOEDC) is committed to fostering economic growth by supporting entrepreneurship, business expansion, and workforce development.
About Downtown Owensboro Inc.
Downtown Owensboro Inc. is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting and promoting the growth, vitality, and visibility of downtown Owensboro. Through events, partnerships, and strategic initiatives, the organization works to cultivate a thriving business community and vibrant destination for residents and visitors alike.
GOEDC Media Contact: Summer Aldridge at saldridge@owensboro.com | 270-926-4339