Opry Events Abound at CMA Music Festival

Guitar autographed by Carrie Underwood that will be auctioned off.

The Grand Ole Opry will have a large presence at next week’s CMA Music Festival. Here’s a look at some of the events:

Thursday, June 6— Fifth Annual Guitars of the Stars Benefit Auction, 5:00 p.m. at the CMA Music Fest Buckle Stage at 4th Ave. and Broadway. Acclaimed Nashville visual artists have contributed one-of-a-kind guitars both inspired and autographed by country favorites including Alabama, Lauren Alaina, Alan Jackson, Little Big Town, Brad Paisley, Kellie Pickler, Blake Shelton, Carrie Underwood, and members of the cast of Nashville. Guitar great Steve Wariner and Jonathan Jackson from Nashville are set to perform, with radio and TV personality Bill Cody hosting. The event is open to the public, and all proceeds from the auction will benefit the Opry Trust Fund, which assists members of the country music community in need.

Saturday, June 8—City of Hope 24th Annual Celebrity Softball Challenge, 9:00 a.m., Greer Stadium. The Grand Ole Opry team will go up against “After Midnite with Blair Garner” for a friendly-rival challenge.

Opry at the Ryman Matinee at 3 p.m. featuring Oak Ridge Boys, Joey + Rory, and Mark Wills.

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Among the artists scheduled for Opry performances at the Grand Ole Opry House during CMA Fest week are Lauren Alaina, Roy Clark, Kree Harrison, Scotty McCreery, Kellie Pickler, Charley Pride, Rascal Flatts, Mel Tillis, Josh Turner, Keith Urban and Carrie Underwood.

Opry Originals at 3rd Ave. and Broadway is set to host country favorites for artist signings, photo opps and giveaways beginning Wed., June 5. Among artists scheduled to appear are Mark Chesnutt, Easton Corbin, Casey James, Craig Morgan, Oak Ridge Boys, Mel Tillis and Mark Wills.

Details at http://www.opry.com/cmafest.