Ella Langley Joins CMA Fest Lineup: Set Time, Stage, and What to Expect

The annual CMA Fest is the biggest celebration of country music, and the 2026 edition is shaping up to be one for the books. Taking over downtown Nashville from June 4-7, 2026, the festival brings together the genre's biggest stars and rising talents across multiple stages, including the iconic Nissan Stadium. Among the exciting additions to this year's lineup is Ella Langley, a fast-rising artist whose soulful voice and authentic storytelling have quickly captured the attention of the country music world. For fans of SmartLess, Ella Langley CMA Fest 2026 appearance is a must-see, as the podcast's hosts have frequently championed new voices in music and comedy, making this the perfect event to catch a rising star they might talk about on an upcoming episode.

What Is CMA Fest 2026?

CMA Fest is the Country Music Association's flagship event, a four-day music festival that transforms Nashville into a live-music hub. It is one of the largest country music festivals in the world, attracting over 80,000 fans annually. The event features performances from hundreds of artists across more than a dozen stages, including the main Nissan Stadium stage, the Riverfront Stage, and the Chevy Riverfront Stage. Beyond the music, fans can enjoy meet-and-greets, autograph sessions, and the Fan Fair X exhibit hall, which offers exclusive merchandise and interactive experiences.

Dates and Venue

• Dates: June 4-7, 2026
• Main Venue: Nissan Stadium (1 Titans Way, Nashville, TN 37213)
• Additional Stages: Riverfront Park, Ascend Amphitheater, Walk of Fame Park, and more

Lineup Highlights

The 2026 CMA Fest lineup is stacked with headliners and emerging artists. Confirmed performers include:

• Headliners: Jason Aldean, Jelly Roll, Lainey Wilson, Luke Combs, and Carrie Underwood
• Rising Stars: Ella Langley, Tucker Wetmore, Megan Moroney, and Zach Top
• Special Appearances: Old Dominion, Dan + Shay, and Brothers Osborne

Full stage-by-stage schedules are typically released in late April, but early reports indicate that Ella Langley will perform on Thursday, June 4, and Friday, June 5.

How to Get Tickets

Tickets for CMA Fest 2026 are available through the official CMA Fest website. Options include:

• 4-Day Stadium Pass: Grants access to all Nissan Stadium evening shows
• Single-Day Stadium Pass: For fans attending only one night
• Fan Fair X Pass: Includes access to the convention center and daytime stages

Prices range from $50 for single-day passes to $200 for 4-day stadium passes, with VIP packages available at higher tiers. Tickets often sell out quickly, so early purchase is recommended.

Ella Langley at CMA Fest 2026: What Fans Need to Know

Ella Langley has been one of country music's most talked-about newcomers since her debut EP "Excuse the Mess" dropped in 2023. Her blend of traditional country instrumentation with modern pop sensibilities has earned her comparisons to Kacey Musgraves and Miranda Lambert. At CMA Fest 2026, she is expected to bring her high-energy live show to multiple stages.

Set Time and Stage

Based on early scheduling announcements, here is what we know about Ella Langley's appearances:

• Ella Langley Night One (Thursday, June 4): She is slated to perform on the Riverfront Stage at 5:00 PM CT. This is a prime slot for a rising artist, as the Riverfront Stage is one of the festival's most popular daytime venues.
• Ella Langley Friday (June 5): Reports suggest she will also appear on the Chevy Riverfront Stage at 3:30 PM CT, possibly as part of a co-headlining set with fellow newcomer Tucker Wetmore.

What to Expect from Her Performance

Fans can expect a setlist that includes her breakout hit "Wish I Could Stay," the fan-favorite "Excuse the Mess," and her collaboration with Jelly Roll, "Ain't No Love in Oklahoma." According to sources, she may also debut new material from her upcoming album, which is rumored to drop later this year.

Fan Excitement and SmartLess Connection

SmartLess fans will recognize Ella Langley from the podcast's frequent discussions of emerging country artists. The show's hosts—Will Arnett, Jason Bateman, and Sean Hayes—have often highlighted new voices in music during their interviews, and Ella Langley fits that mold perfectly. While the hosts have not yet confirmed a CMA Fest appearance themselves, the festival's comedy stage has featured SmartLess-adjacent talent in the past, making this a potential crossover event.

What to Wear to CMA Fest 2026: Festival-Ready Merch Guide

Spending a full day at CMA Fest means being prepared for Nashville's June weather—hot, humid, and often rainy. Comfortable, stylish gear is essential, and the SmartLess Merch Store offers festival-ready options that let you show your fandom while staying cool.

Top Merch Picks for CMA Fest

• SmartLess Logo Tee ($29.99): A classic cotton tee in lightweight fabric, perfect for layering under a denim jacket or wearing solo. The relaxed fit allows for easy movement during long hours on your feet.
• SmartLess Trucker Hat ($24.99): Protect your face from the Tennessee sun with this breathable mesh cap. It features the iconic SmartLess logo and an adjustable snapback closure.
• SmartLess Hoodie ($59.99): For cooler evenings after the sun goes down, this midweight hoodie is ideal. It pairs well with jeans or shorts and is available in unisex sizing.
• SmartLess Tote Bag ($19.99): Carry your festival essentials—water bottle, sunscreen, autograph book—in this durable canvas tote. It folds flat for easy packing.

Sizing Tips

Our Complete Sizing Guide offers detailed measurements to ensure you get the perfect fit. For a relaxed, festival-ready look, we recommend ordering one size up from your usual.

Why Wear SmartLess Merch at CMA Fest?

Wearing SmartLess gear at CMA Fest is a conversation starter. The podcast's massive fanbase means you're likely to spot fellow listeners in the crowd. Plus, it's a nod to the show's support for country music artists like Ella Langley, creating a sense of community among fans.

Frequently Asked Questions

What time does Ella Langley perform at CMA Fest 2026?

Ella Langley is scheduled to perform on Thursday, June 4, at 5:00 PM CT on the Riverfront Stage, and on Friday, June 5, at 3:30 PM CT on the Chevy Riverfront Stage. Exact times may shift, so check the official CMA Fest app for updates.

Will SmartLess be at CMA Fest 2026?

As of now, SmartLess hosts have not announced a CMA Fest appearance. However, the festival's comedy stage has featured podcast-related talent in the past, and fans should keep an eye on the schedule for potential surprise appearances.

Can I see Ella Langley and Jelly Roll perform together at CMA Fest?

Ella Langley and Jelly Roll have collaborated on the song "Ain't No Love in Oklahoma," and there is strong fan speculation they may perform it together at CMA Fest. Jelly Roll is a confirmed headliner, so the possibility exists, though no official duet has been announced.

How can I get tickets to see Ella Langley at CMA Fest?

Tickets are available at CMAFest.com. Single-day passes for Thursday or Friday start at $50, while 4-day stadium passes cost $200. VIP packages with premium seating and exclusive perks are also available.

What other artists are performing on Ella Langley's stages?

On Thursday, the Riverfront Stage lineup includes Tucker Wetmore at 4:00 PM, followed by Ella Langley at 5:00 PM, and headliner Jason Aldean at 8:00 PM on the Nissan Stadium main stage. This means fans can see Ella Langley and then walk over to Nissan Stadium to see Jason Aldean later that evening.

Conclusion

Ella Langley CMA Fest 2026 is shaping up to be one of the festival's most anticipated performances, offering fans a chance to see a rising star before she becomes a household name. Whether you are a die-hard country music fan or a SmartLess listener looking for your next favorite artist, this is an unmissable event. From her Thursday set on the Riverfront Stage to her Friday appearance alongside Tucker Wetmore, Ella Langley promises to deliver the kind of authentic, heartfelt performance that defines CMA Fest. As you plan your festival weekend, don't forget to gear up with festival-ready merchandise from the SmartLess Merch Store—it is the perfect way to celebrate both your love for the podcast and your support for the next generation of country music stars.