Thomas Rhett and Kelsea Ballerini will once again co-host CMA Fest, which will air 8/4 on ABC, while Bobby Bones will serve as special guest host of the three-hour prime-time concert special.

North of 30 performances (you’ll excuse the expression) will be filmed this Thursday through Sunday at Nashville’s Nissan Stadium for the 16th edition of the show. Last year’s broadcast topped ABC’s summertime non-sports ratings.

“This year’s CMA Fest offers something for every music fan,” CMA chief Sarah Trahern enthused. “From surprise collaborations to some of country music’s most exciting emerging and legendary talent, we’re excited to bring the festival to millions of fans around the world later this summer.”

A portion of ticket proceeds will benefit music-education initiatives across the country through the CMA Foundation.

Thomas Rhett and Kelsea Ballerini will once again co-host CMA Fest, which will air 8/4 on ABC, while Bobby Bones will serve as special guest host of the three-hour prime-time concert special.

North of 30 performances (you’ll excuse the expression) will be filmed this Thursday through Sunday at Nashville’s Nissan Stadium for the 16th edition of the show. Last year’s broadcast topped ABC’s summertime non-sports ratings.

“This year’s CMA Fest offers something for every music fan,” CMA chief Sarah Trahern enthused. “From surprise collaborations to some of country music’s most exciting emerging and legendary talent, we’re excited to bring the festival to millions of fans around the world later this summer.”

A portion of ticket proceeds will benefit music-education initiatives across the country through the CMA Foundation.