The Dixie To Host Tennessee Songwriters Week Qualifying Round

Huntingdon, Tenn.–The Dixie Carter Performing Arts Center will host a Tennessee Songwriters Week qualifying round on Saturday, February 7, 2026, at 7:30 p.m., inviting songwriters of all genres to share their original music as part of the eighth annual statewide celebration of songwriting.

Songwriters across Tennessee are encouraged to sign up for Tennessee Songwriters Week, an annual program that showcases original music and supports the venues and communities that keep the state’s musical heritage thriving. Helmed by the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development since 2019, Tennessee Songwriters Week is designed to support local music venues, provide live performance opportunities for songwriters, drive visitation, and inspire travelers to experience Tennessee’s rich musical stories, history, and culture.

Qualifying rounds begin in late January at more than 60 participating venues across the state—ranging from cafés and listening rooms to historic theatres, breweries, museums, and bookshops. These venues spotlight the songwriters who give music its soul, and The Dixie Carter PAC is honored to be among them.

From qualifying rounds, select songwriters will advance to one of seven regional showcases during Tennessee Songwriters Week:

• Monday, February 23, 2026 – Hard Rock Cafe, Pigeon Forge

• Monday, February 23, 2026 – The Reserve, Kingsport

• Wednesday, February 25, 2026 – Lafayette’s Music Room, Memphis

• Wednesday, February 25, 2026 – Barrelhouse Ballroom, Chattanooga

• Thursday, February 26, 2026 – Franklin Theatre, Franklin

• Friday, February 27, 2026 – Temple Theatre, Portland

• Saturday, February 28, 2026 – The Bijou Theatre, Knoxville

One finalist from each showcase will be selected to perform at Nashville’s iconic Bluebird Cafe during a private event in March. Finalists will also receive additional prizes, including a one-year membership to the Nashville Songwriters Association International (NSAI).

Songs are judged on quality of songwriting (original lyrics, melody, and narrative clarity) and performance (lyrical clarity and audience connection). Official rules can be found at tnsongwritersweek.com.

Songwriters may sign up to compete by visiting DixiePAC.net. Participants may only register for one qualifying round.

To follow the journey and join the celebration, follow @tnvacation, #tnsongwritersweek, #tnsoundsperfect, and #DixiePAC on social media.