Zach Top is the headliner for the 10th annual Pendleton Whisky Music Fest
By Terry Murry on Friday, December 12th, 2025 in Columbia Basin News More Top Stories
PENDLETON – (News release from Pendleton Whisky Music Fest) The Pendleton Whisky Music Fest is excited to announce Zach Top as the headliner for the 2026 event, returning to the historic Pendleton Round-Up Grounds on Saturday, July 11th as we celebrate the 10th Anniversary.
Fresh off winning the CMA New Artist of the Year Award and receiving three Grammy nominations at the 68th Annual Grammy Awards, Zach Top continues his rapid rise as one of country music’s most talked about new voices. Billboard has called him “the future of country music,” and he has quickly earned a reputation for powerful vocals, an authentic sound, and a high energy live show that keeps fans coming back for more.
Top’s headlining appearance at the Pendleton Whisky Music Fest will be a special homecoming moment. Raised in Sunnyside, Washington just across the border from Pendleton, he has long been embraced by fans across the Northwest. His return as a headliner marks a meaningful full circle milestone for both the artist and the region that helped shape him.
This announcement follows a breakout year for Top. His 2025 album Ain’t In It For My Health (Leo33) delivered standout tracks including “South of Sanity” and “Good Times and Tan Lines,” which the Los Angeles Times named one of the “Best Songs of 2025 so far.” He also earned his first number one at country radio with “I Never Lie,” was named New Male Artist of the Year at the 2025 ACM Awards and was featured in Variety’s Young Hollywood Impact Report.
A dynamic live performer, Top has toured with Dierks Bentley and shared the stage with Dwight Yoakam, Alan Jackson, Billy Strings, Lainey Wilson, and other major artists. His blend of classic country roots with modern energy has helped build one of the most enthusiastic fan bases in the genre today.
“As we hit our 10-year milestone, Zach Top is the perfect fit to lead the celebration,” said Doug Corey, co-manager of the event. “His Northwest roots, incredible momentum, and the way he connects with audiences make him exactly the kind of artist our fans love.”
The full festival lineup and ticket on-sale date will be announced in early 2026, including details for the popular free Friday Night Kick-Off Party in downtown Pendleton that helps make it a full weekend of music and celebration.
For updates, visit www.pendletonwhiskymusicfest.com
Since launching in 2016, the Pendleton Whisky Music Fest has featured an impressive list of superstar performers, including Maroon 5, Blake Shelton, Post Malone, Zac Brown Band, Pitbull, Toby Keith, Eric Church, Thomas Rhett, Macklemore, Kane Brown, Flo Rida, Riley Green, Nelly and Cody Johnson. The festival, held annually at the Pendleton Round-Up Grounds, is made possible through the support of our valued partners, led by title sponsor Pendleton Whisky and presenting sponsor Kelly Lumber Supply.
Photo from Pendleton Whisky Music Fest
