Country Thunder Arizona: A Memorable Weekend of Music and Fun

FLORENCE, Ariz. — Country Thunder Arizona brought an exhilarating start to its 2025 festival on Thursday, April 10, at Canyon Moon Ranch, as Riley Green kicked off the event with a hit-laden performance. The singer-songwriter, currently on his Damn Country Music Tour, is promoting his album “Don’t Mind If I Do,” which peaked at No. 8 on the Billboard country album chart last year.

Green’s setlist featured five songs from his new album, including the platinum hit “Worst Way,” alongside crowd favorites like “There Was This Girl” and “I Wish Grandpas Never Died.” His performance captivated the audience, showcasing his smooth vocals and engaging stage presence.

Drew Green opened the festival at 6:30 p.m., immediately drawing attention with his high-energy hick-hop style. Dressed in all black, he captivated the crowd with songs that echoed the country lifestyle – a theme consistent throughout his set. His breakout track “Colorado,” co-written with Hardy, resonated well, providing a glimpse of what the audience could expect.

“Country Thunder is the place where memories are made,” said festival-goer Delorianna Sandoval, referencing her excitement to experience the festival atmosphere, especially considering rising temperatures that reached 98 degrees.

As the sun set, Keith Urban hit the main stage on Friday night, capturing the crowd with hits like “Somebody Like You” and “Blue Ain’t Your Color.” Urban’s effortless energy matched the electric ambiance of the festival, and his moment of gifting an acoustic guitar to a fan created an even deeper connection with the audience.

“Wow, what an awesome crowd! It’s great to be back in Arizona,” Urban exclaimed, amplifying the festival’s spirit of camaraderie and joy.

Following Urban, Justin Moore took his turn on the main stage, introducing his set with “Bait a Hook” and thrilling fans with classic tunes like “You Look Like I Need A Drink.” For many fans, the chance to see Moore perform live was a highlight, adding to the festival’s extensive lineup.

Attendees were treated to the Kimes Ranch Songwriters Showcase, where new talent was highlighted alongside established artists. Hosting the showcase, Lauren McLamb shared insightful stories about her songwriting journey, excitedly recounting how she wrote “Good Gets Around” with Dylan Marlow over Zoom.

With an average daily attendance of 25,000 in 2023 and predictions of even more this year, Country Thunder Arizona fosters not just a musical experience but a sense of community through shared interests. “Everyone is so nice here,” Sandoval remarked about the camaraderie amongst festival attendees.

Troy Vollhoffer, CEO of Country Thunder Music Festivals, stated that the assembly of artists is a calculated effort to meet audience expectations. “You have to attract all demos to a festival to have a successful one,” he said, signifying the importance of diverse lineups that appeal to true country music fans.

“It’s truly thrilling to see attendance numbers that surpass even our own expectations,” Vollhoffer added as excitement builds for upcoming headliners Bailey Zimmerman and Hardy.

The festival caters to various needs of its attendees, from camping accommodations to designated areas for cooler shade where festival-goers can escape the oppressive heat. Guidelines clearly state that no overnight car camping is allowed, emphasizing regulation for safety and community standards.

As the weekend unfolds, attendees are encouraged to stay hydrated and prepared for the expected traffic surges, especially during peak arrival times. Digital media specialist Megan Benoit advised, “It’s crucial to pack your patience,” highlighting the reality of large gatherings.

With headliners like Keith Urban and Hardy slated to perform, along with daily activities and a variety of dining options, Country Thunder Arizona remains a top destination for country music enthusiasts to gather, enjoy, and create lasting memories.