UNION — The idea began small.

“It started out being a birthday party. Then got bigger and bigger,” said Amanda Hampton.

That small party is now the inaugural Eastern Oregon Country Music Festival, set for Friday, Aug. 20, at the Eastern Oregon Livestock Show Grounds in Union.

“I now have four bands,” she said.

Tickets are $35 general admission, $125 VIP, or $55 for a campsite and admission. About 250 sites are available for both RVs and tents.

A booth will be open for food and beverages for the general admission ticketholders. A VIP ticket includes dinner and drinks catered by Bud Jackson’s.

Tickets can be purchased in advance at www.eocountrymusicfest.com or at the gate on the day of the show.

The music starts at 5 p.m. with Cale Moon of Enterprise. Wade Aylett, from Irrigon, takes the stage at 6:15 p.m.

Two Nashville artists will close out the festival. Johno Clayton goes on at 7:30 p.m., followed by Randy Woody and the Southbound Band at 9:15 p.m.

“I just wanted to bring in some entertainment,” Hampton said. “I go to concerts all the time and run into the same people. Why not bring an event to us?”

The festival will support Veterans Back 40, an organization that provides support for veterans, including outdoor adventures such as hunting, fishing, boating and camping.

“We’re making this event really patriotic,” Hampton said.

Updates are posted on the website as well as the events Facebook page.

5 p.m. Friday, Aug. 20

Union

Eastern Oregon Country Music Festival 2024