The Hidden Gems Of C2C 2017

In just a few days, London will become Nashville. Thousands of Country fans from far and wide are making the trip to London for the annual phenomenon that is Country 2 Country and, with the likes Brad Paisley, Zac Brown Band and even Reba, it's sure to be an unforgettable weekend. As someone who has been to C2C twice, I've seen first-hand how easy it is to get caught up in the crowds and big names and overlook some of the great opportunities C2C has to offer. Be sure to download the C2C Festival App to stay up to date with what's happening when - this year it's bigger and better than ever.

So without further adieu, here's just a short list of the "hidden gems" to be found at this years weekend.

Signings
Keep your eye out for the opportunity to meet some of Country music's finest. In recent years the town square signing booth has hosted  Ashley Monroe, Charles Esten, Brandy Clark and Kix Brooks to name just a few. Details of this year's signings will be posted on the app but be ready to get there early- there will be a queue.

Holloway Road

At a first glance, this Essex duo may not look the part, trading boots for trainers and cowboy hats for snapbacks but they are certain to be a crowd-pleaser. Their Country/Pop/Rock sound is perfect for fans of Luke Bryan and Florida Georgia Line. They've played for crowds at the 2015 CMA fest in Nashville and toured the UK with John & Jacob. This year they're making their third appearance at C2C. Check them out on the big entrance stage at 15:10 on Saturday. 


Katy Hurt

With influences ranging between Carrie Underwood and Dolly Parton, this British Country songwriter is another artist you don't want to miss out on. She recently spent a month in Nashville working with songwriters and artists and has topped the UK iTunes Country chart with her singles, "Part-Time Girlfriend" and "Love You More". She'll be performing on the big entrance stage at 11:50 on Saturday and then on the Town Square stage at 11:10 on Sunday.


BBC Radio 2 Country Stage

If you're a fan of the CMA Songwriters Series then you'll love the BBC Radio 2 stage at Indigo. See some of the biggest names in Country songwriting, including Cassadee Pope, Charlie Worsham and Ward Thomas alongside many others. 


Atlanta Designs UK

Besides great music, C2C also hosts a fantastic range of stalls, selling all things Country. Make the most out of all of these because they are few and far between in the UK (We're still building our own Nashville). One of my personal favourites of these stalls is Atlanta Designs. They will be in the Town Square, selling all kinds of handmade memorabilia including wall art, mugs, plaques and bunting. Be sure to pay them a visit but be warned - you will want all of it!

Originails 

For the first time ever at C2C, you can treat yourself to a Country themed manicure. Originails will print your designs, maybe the C2C Logo, your favourite band or the classic stars and stripes.Whichever design you choose, you can wear them with pride all weekend.

Speed Dating

Still looking for the Tim to your Faith? What better place to find love than at C2C? For the first time ever, there will be a C2C speed dating event for any single cowboys and cowgirls out there. 

Sign up here!

Five Guys

OK so this one isn't strictly a part of C2C but I always make it a tradition to make it my first stop of the weekend. American fast food at it's finest, it is sure to be the best burger or hotdog you've ever had (I'm not even being paid to say that!).



Yamaha Music Stage

It may be tempting to rush off between arena sets to have another look around the stalls or stand in line for another overpriced drink from the bar but don't miss the sets on the Yamaha Stage. This year it's hosting some great artists, including Cam, Cassadee Pope, Lucie Silvas and many others.

However you choose to spend your weekend, be sure to enjoy every moment. Sing and dance along to all your favourite songs, make some great memories and try not to cry too much when you're leaving on Sunday night - you can start the countdown to C2C 2018!