Smith
Alpharetta, GA – The City of Alpharetta will welcome music fans back to downtown for the 13th annual Wire & Wood Songwriters Festival on Friday, October 9 and Saturday, October 10, 2026. The free, two-day event is expected to attract more than 20,000 attendees and transform the city center into a lively outdoor music destination.
Festivalgoers can enjoy more than 30 live performances across six outdoor stages, plus have the opportunity to purchase tickets to an intimate indoor listening session at Roaring Social that highlights the art and craft of songwriting. The festival celebrates the stories behind the songs, featuring a diverse mix of Americana, folk, country, rock and roots-inspired music, while offering fans an up-close look at the creative process.
This year’s headliners are nationally recognized acts with Southern roots. Friday night will feature acclaimed country singer-songwriter Corey Smith, and platinum-certified rock band Sister Hazel will close out the festival Saturday night.
“We’re really excited to welcome this year’s headliners,” said Morgan Rodgers, Director of Recreation, Parks & Cultural Services. “Corey Smith and Sister Hazel are just natural storytellers who know how to connect with a crowd. If there’s good music and good people, you’ve got everything you need. Wire & Wood is the kind of experience that sticks with you long after the final song.”
Corey Smith (Friday Night): Beloved for his honest lyrics and grassroots success story, Corey Smith has built one of the most enduring independent careers in modern country music. A former high school teacher, Smith launched his career on his own terms, cultivating a devoted fan base through relentless touring and self-released albums. His 2003 debut album, Undertones, introduced audiences to his authentic Southern storytelling and working-class themes. Follow-up releases, including In the Mood, The Good Life and Hard-Headed Fool, further cemented his reputation as a respected songwriter and producer.
In 2011, The Broken Record reached No. 17 on the Billboard Country Albums chart. He later released While the Gettin' Is Good, produced by Keith Stegall, and most recently released Suburban Drawl, recorded at Sound Emporium and produced by Erik Dylan. With fan favorites like “If I Could Do It Again,” “Twenty-One” and “Drinkin' Again,” Smith continues to tour extensively, delivering powerful live performances rooted in authenticity and connection.
Sister Hazel
Sister Hazel (Saturday Night): Hailing from Gainesville, Florida, Sister Hazel has captivated audiences for nearly three decades with their signature blend of Southern rock, alternative, and country influences. The band rose to national prominence with their 1997 smash hit “All for You,” which topped the adult alternative charts and helped propel their album to platinum status.
Over the years, Sister Hazel has earned multiple entries on the Billboard Top Country Albums Chart while cultivating one of the most loyal fan communities in music. They were pioneers in destination music events with the launch of “The Rock Boat” and continue to host immersive fan experiences like “Hazelnut Hang” and “Camp Hazelnut.”
Beyond the stage, the band is deeply committed to philanthropy through Lyrics For Life, the nonprofit founded by lead singer Ken Block, which has raised more than $5 million for cancer research and patient care through concerts and auctions nationwide.
More than 50 Alpharetta restaurants within the festival footprint will offer to-go bites throughout the weekend, giving music fans plenty of options for picnicking near the stages. In addition to the culinary offerings, festivalgoers can explore the Live Art Lounge, where artists and fans create original works, and visit the Music Makers Market, featuring vendors with music-inspired art, handcrafted goods and specialty items that capture the spirit of the festival.
Additional performers for the 2026 Wire & Wood Songwriters Festival will be announced soon. For event updates and additional information, visit wireandwoodalpharetta.com or follow @wireandwoodfest on Facebook and Instagram.
Wire & Wood Songwriters Festival is produced by the City of Alpharetta in partnership with the Alpharetta Convention and Visitors Bureau.
For event sponsorship inquiries, please email Steph Mold at steph@premiereventslive.com.
Wire & Wood Songwriters Festival
- WHEN: Friday, October 9 & Saturday, October 10, 2026
- TIMES: Friday 6:00 PM – 11:00 PM | Saturday 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- WHERE: Downtown Alpharetta, GA 30009
- WEBSITE: wireandwoodalpharetta.com
- SOCIAL: @wireandwoodfest