The air outside has just begun to take on that unmistakable Kentucky chill, but inside, the room is filled with warmth.
Close your eyes and listen. It starts with the hum of an acoustic guitar being tuned—a vibration that settles right in your chest. Then comes the clink of ice against crystal, followed by the aroma of toasted oak, caramel, and vanilla from a pour of local Kentucky bourbon.
This is the sensory magic of Boots and Bourbon, Lawrenceburg’s premier Nashville Songwriters’ Festival, celebrating its landmark 8th annual gathering on October 24, 2026, at the local Woodford Event Room..
For one evening, the boundary between artist and audience completely dissolves. There are no massive stadiums or booming speakers here. Instead, you are sitting mere feet away from the brilliant minds who have penned some of the biggest anthems in country music history.
In the Round: The Heartbeat of Nashville, in Lawrenceburg
The evening’s magic lies in its traditional “in the round” format. Three chairs, three acoustic guitars, and three world-class storytellers sharing a stage. This year, Lawrenceburg welcomes an extraordinary trio of hitmakers.
- Lee Thomas Miller: A Kentucky native and Grammy-nominated, award-winning songwriter, Lee knows how to pull on your heartstrings. Miller was just selected as a member of the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame Class of 2026. When he strums his guitar and sings a raw rendition of Chris Stapleton’s “Whiskey and You” or Trace Adkins’ chart-topping hit “You’re Gonna Miss This,” the room goes so silent you could hear a pin drop.
- Josh Jenkins: Renowned for his melodies and lyrical depth, the Grammy-nominated hitmaker behind massive tracks like Walker Hayes’ “Fancy Like” and Jordan Davis’ “Buy Dirt” brings a passion to the circle, sharing the personal origins of songs that have dominated the airwaves.
- Matt Jenkins: A CMA and ACM award-winning songwriter with an uncanny ability to capture life’s everyday moments in a melody, Matt has penned major hits for country music’s elite, including Dustin Lynch’s “Where It’s At” and Florida Georgia Line’s “Confession.” His backstories behind chart-topping tracks will make you laugh, reminisce, and appreciate the true craftsmanship of a great song.
As they trade songs, they trade memories. You will hear about the exact moment a lyric was scribbled on a napkin, the late-night sessions in Nashville writing rooms, and the trials, triumphs, and heartbreaks that turned simple ideas into timeless country hits.
Savoring the Spirit of the Bluegrass
At its core, the evening is all about the music and the powerful connection between the songwriters and the audience. Every chord struck and story told pulls you deeper into the heart of the performance, creating an atmosphere of shared warmth and passion. Enhancing that cozy setting is the subtle presence of fine Kentucky bourbon. Whether you are a lifelong whiskey enthusiast or simply someone who appreciates a smooth pour, it serves as the perfect companion to an evening of storytelling. To round out the night, guests will enjoy a delicious dinner with dishes from a local Lawrenceburg restaurant capped with sweet treats from local Lawrenceburg favorite, Elly’s Cakes.
It is a night where time slows down. You aren’t just listening to a concert; you are a part of a living room session, sharing laughter, raising toasts, and feeling the goosebumps that only live music can deliver.
Save Your Spot in the Circle
The 8th Annual Boots and Bourbon is more than an event; it’s a celebration of storytelling, community, and the rich traditions of Kentucky.
- When: Saturday, October 24, 2026
- Where: Woodford Event Center, Lawrenceburg, KY
Seats for this showcase are highly coveted and sell out quickly. Slide on your favorite boots, bring your love for great music and fine bourbon, and join us for an evening that will echo in your memory for long after.
For tickets and event details, visit visitlawrenceburgky.com.