Live on the Green returns to Music City with an electric first night

Public Square Park came alive on Thursday night to celebrate Live on the Green, a free concert series presented by Lightning 100.

With live music, food trucks and vendor booths, Live on the Green has become a Nashville staple. Music City locals and newcomers alike can look forward to performances every Thursday through August 29, which kicks off a 4-day festival through Labor Day weekend.

This year’s festivities began with Lucie Silvas showcasing her songwriting talent as attendees began to file in. Between sets, fans could grab a bite from 30 different food venders including the Grilled Cheeserie, Retro Sno and Smoke Signal BBQ.

Yola’s soulful ballads soundtracked the sunset, while the courthouse columns lit up in the familiar green that marks the end of the summer in Nashville.

The crowds grew quickly after the sun went down, and as the Strumbellas took the stage they moved in a massive wave from the food trucks to the stage.

Before the night’s headliner hit the stage, Mayor Briley made an appearance to welcome the audience to the event and share his appreciation for Live on the Green. As soon as he exited, the crowd began to chant Gary’s name.

Gary Clark Jr.’s guitar-heavy set gave the crowd an incredible performance. They packed toward the front for a better view, but plenty of people on the outskirts danced along to his set.

This marks Lightning 100’s 11th year hosting Live on the Green, and their lineup doesn’t disappoint. In the upcoming weeks, attendees can look forward to performances by Mat Kearney, St. Paul and the Broken Bones, Grace Potter, Lake Street Drive and more.

Article by Katie Knipper. Photos by Colby Crosby and Katie Knipper.