Buckeye Country Superfest kicks off Saturday: Plan for traffic jams, scarce parking (2024)

While football helmets might be the most common headgear worn at Ohio Stadium, cowboy hats might be more apropos this weekend.

The venue is expected to host tens of thousands of music fans turning out to kick up their heels at Buckeye Country Superfest on Saturday and Sunday.

A crowd that size is bound to cause traffic snarls, so motorists should plan for travel delays and increased parking demand on and around the Ohio State campus from about 8 a.m. Saturday to 1 p.m. Sunday.

During that time frame, the Olentangy Trail reroute around Ohio Stadium will be moved east to Tuttle Park Place. The adjustment will be in place as preparations take place adjacent to Ohio Stadium for Buckeye Country Superfest.

Originally scheduled as a one-day event, the musical marathon was extended to a second day to accommodate ticket demands.

This year's headliner, Zach Bryan, is no stranger to performing in "The Shoe", since he was an opening act at 2022's Superfest. The Grammy and ACM Award winner plays both nights.

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Those who have attended Buckeye Country Superfest before can tell you: It's more than just a concert. It's a party — one that comes with "appetizers," that is, related events leading up to the main course. We'll tell you all about them below, plus a few things to know if you plan to go.

What time does Buckeye Country Superfest start?

Stadium gates open at 2 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday, with the concert beginning at 3 p.m.

Are there any tickets left?

As of press time, Saturday was sold out and tickets for Sunday were limited. Check ticketmaster.com for availability.

Who's opening for Zach Bryan?

Saturday's supporting lineup includes Billy Strings, Turnpike Troubadours, Charley Crockett, Levi Turner and Charles Wesley Godwin. On Sunday, Strings, Turnpike Troubadours, Crockett and Turner return as openers, along with 49 Winchester.

What's the scoop on the tailgate party?

The Buckeye Country Superfest 2024 Official Fan Fest Tailgate is to be held just outside of the stadium before the main event on Saturday and Sunday. The tailgate area opens at 10 a.m. both days.

Fan Fest headliners are Alana Springsteen, Dustin Kensrue, Eddie Flint and Clayton Mullen on Saturday; and Kaitlin Butts, Kashus Culpepper, Ole 60 and Laci Kaye Booth on Sunday.

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Will there be a preparty?

Not just one, but two preparties feature rising country artist Wyatt Flores. On Friday, Flores shares a bill with Bo Staloch, another Nashville up-and-comer, then on Saturday, he'll be joined by Alex Lambert, who was a semifinalist on the ninth season of "American Idol."

Both parties are scheduled for 7 p.m. at Newport Music Hall, 1722 N. High St. Ticket prices range from $32.50-$65. To buy tickets for Friday, visit bit.ly/4bXtVlk. To purchase tickets for Saturday, go to bit.ly/4cjoUmU.

VIP packages purchased for Buckeye Country Superfest on Saturday include free admission to Friday's preparty. Packages bought for Sunday include free entry to Saturday's preparty.

Will alcohol be available at Superfest?

Beer and other alcoholic beverages are to be sold both at the tailgate party and at Superfest.

I don't drink. Can I bring a water bottle?

Guests are urged to bring bottles that are clear, plastic and empty into the venue to fill at free water stations at 16A, 17A, 6C, 7C and on the floor. Also, register for the designated-driver program at Guest Services and get a coupon for a free soft drink.

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Can I purchase parking passes in advance?

If you do not purchase a parking pass in advance, day-of-show parking is to be available on a first-come, first-served basis with only credit/debit cards or mobile payments accepted.

Parking lots open at 8 a.m. both days. Those with RV permits must vacate the lots no later than 5 a.m. Sunday and 10 a.m. Monday.

Parking passes ($60) and RV spaces ($200) for Saturday can be purchased while supplies remain at bit.ly/45kfK7p. Prices are the same for Sunday parking passes and RV spaces, if available, at bit.ly/3KI0O9A.

Can I bring my camera?

Point-and-click cameras are acceptable, but professional cameras or zoom lenses are not permitted. Also: No selfie sticks, GoPros, iPads, laptops, video or audio-recording devices.

What's the bag policy at Ohio Stadium?

Bags or purses larger than 5 x 8 x 1 are not allowed inside. Wallets and wristlets measuring 5 x 8 x 1 or smaller are permitted. All items and individuals are subject to inspection.

Concertgoers with medical or childcare needs must enter through the Steinbrenner Band Center entrance (between Gates 10 and 12) or at the press entrance (between the Huntington Club and Gate 23) and may carry one bag per person, no larger than 14 x 14 x 14.

Anyone found with prohibited items can either return the items to their car or surrender them to security with no return. For a list of prohibited items, go to bit.ly/45lSAxf.

For more information about Buckeye Country Superfest, visit buckeyecountrysuperfest.com.

bpaschal@dispatch.com