The Roots & Boots Tour, featuring country music mega-hitmakers Sammy Kershaw, Aaron Tippin and Collin Raye, will bring a night of classic country hits to Castle Ridge on Friday, June 19, 2026. Special guest Deana Carter will open the show. Gates will open at 5:30 pm and the show will begin at 7:00 pm CT.
The concert is expected to draw visitors from across Southern Illinois, the St. Louis metro region and surrounding states, reinforcing Castle Ridge’s growing reputation as a summer entertainment destination.
Presale tickets will be available Wednesday, Feb. 18, at 9 a.m. through Thursday, Feb. 19, at 11:59 p.m. CT. Fans can sign up at CastleRidgeConcerts.com to receive the pre-sale password. Tickets go on sale to the public on Friday, Feb. 20, at 9 a.m.
The Roots & Boots Tour brings three of country music’s most recognizable voices together on one stage, performing with one band and sharing stories behind their songs. Together, the artists have earned more than 50 Top 20 hits on the Billboard country charts.
Aaron Tippin built his career on patriotic pride and blue-collar values, delivering enduring anthems such as “You’ve Got to Stand for Something,” “Where the Stars and Stripes and the Eagle Fly,” and “Kiss This.” His high-energy performances and strong connection with American servicemen and women have made him a fan favorite for decades.
Sammy Kershaw rose to prominence in the 1990s with a traditional country sound rooted in Louisiana influences. With hits like “She Don’t Know She’s Beautiful,” “Queen of My Double Wide Trailer,” and “Third Rate Romance,” Kershaw’s voice and storytelling style helped define the era’s mainstream country sound.
Collin Raye is celebrated for his emotionally resonant ballads and socially conscious themes. Songs such as “Love, Me,” “In This Life,” and “My Kind of Girl” showcase his powerful vocals and heartfelt delivery, earning him a reputation as one of country music’s most compelling interpreters of meaningful lyrics.
Joining them is Deana Carter, the Nashville native behind the multi-platinum debut album Did I Shave My Legs for This?, featuring her signature No. 1 hit “Strawberry Wine.” Carter’s blend of country, folk and retro-rock, along with hits like “We Danced Anyway,” helped shape the sound of late-1990s country and continues to resonate with audiences today.
The CEO of the Eric Group Heath Eric says they are proud to bring the Roots & Boots Tour to Castle Ridge for a lakeside concert that celebrates great American music and brings visitors to the region.
“Events like this create a full destination experience, from dining and lodging to lakeside recreation, and help showcase Centralia, Illinois, as a welcoming place to visit, stay and explore.”
Eric notes Castle Ridge has quickly emerged as one of Southern Illinois’ premier outdoor concert destinations, combining scenic surroundings with nationally recognized artists and a hospitality-focused fan experience. The venue’s lakeside setting and national touring lineup continue to attract concertgoers seeking a relaxed summer getaway.
