The event takes place on September 17th
The World Famous Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge, Music City’s legendary honky-tonk, will celebrate its birthday in downtown Nashville on Sunday, September 17th. As part of the celebration, Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge will feature entertainment on the outdoor Broadway stage throughout the day starting at 11 am.
The free star-studded concert is open to the public and features Oliver Anthony, Randy Houser, Lee Brice, Montgomery Gentry, Jamey Johnson and Colt Ford. The annual Broadway street party features performances from country music’s finest, and you never know who will show up. Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge Annual Birthday Bash attracts some of the biggest stars in music, including surprise appearances.
The event is rain or shine with music running through midnight.
Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge has operated across the alley from the Ryman almost continuously since 1960. Its proprietor from 1960 to 1978, Hattie Louise “Tootsie” Bess, bought the lounge called “Mom’s” and named it for herself. According to tradition, a painter mistakenly painted the exterior orchid purple. The color was never changed and became Tootsie’s signature color. Over the years, she served such famous customers as Kris Kristofferson, Faron Young, and Willie Nelson when they were still up-and-coming artists, and Tootsie was well-known for her generosity toward struggling musicians. The photo and memorabilia-lined walls are called “Tootsie’s Wall of Fame.”
Today, Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge is a must-see Music City destination for tourists and is frequented by locals, including some of the biggest names in country music, who often drop in and surprise patrons with impromptu performances. Kenny Chesney with classic rock icon Steve Miller, Keith Urban, Kix Brooks, Montgomery Gentry, Kid Rock, Steven Tyler, Jamey Johnson, Dierks Bentley, and Hank Williams, Jr. are among the artists who have recently performed there.
