There’s something magical about the first notes of live local music in a brand‑new year. The air feels fresher, the nights feel brighter, and every stage becomes a place where stories begin again. Here in South Central Kentucky, we’re wasting no time turning up the volume for 2026. Whether you’re a local, a traveler, or a wandering music soul like me, this weekend’s lineup is the perfect way to dive into another year of unforgettable performances.
Below is your guide to who’s playing, where to be, and when to show up. Trust me—you’ll want to mark your calendar so you can enjoy all of the live local music in our area.
Thursday, January 8
Ryan Raikes
Old Talbott Tavern
107 W Stephen Foster Avenue, Bardstown, KY 40004
7:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Friday, January 9
Chris Bradley
Old Talbott Tavern
107 W Stephen Foster Avenue, Bardstown, KY 40004
7:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Trey Washburn
Old Stables Sports Bar at Mammy’s Kitchen
116 W Stephen Foster Avenue, Bardstown, KY 40004
7:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Saturday, January 10
Brian Williamson
Bourbon Brick Oven Grill
966 Chambers Blvd., Bardstown, KY 40004
7:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Chris Bradley
SOBA Lounge
169 W Mulberry Alley, Bardstown, KY 40004
8:30pm – 12:30pm
🎵 Stay Connected & Keep Wandering
This is just the beginning. A whole year of live music is waiting, and I’ll be here to help you find every show worth seeing.
👉 Check out the full MusicWanderlust.com Calendar of Events for updated times, venues, and new artist announcements. 👉 Follow along on Facebook, Instagram, and MusicWanderlust.com for photos, stories, and weekly live‑music highlights.
Let’s make 2026 the year we show up, sing along, support local artists, and remember why everything is better when it’s live.
#livemusic #singersongwriters #kentucky #livemusicblog #betterwhenitslive #kentuckymusic #bourbon #bardstown
