Thousands of country music fans packed Cal Expo on Friday as KNCI’s Country in the Park returned to Sacramento for its sold-out opening night despite warm temperatures.

The two-day festival, now in its 26th year, brought Dixon native Jon Pardi back to the Sacramento stage as warm temperatures settled into the region after cooler, rainy weather earlier in the week.

Some attendees said the heat was not enough to keep them away.

“I rather have this weather than rain,” Sacramento local Michelle Fontana said.

Others were simply excited to be back at the festival.

“Jon Pardi is the great person ever. I wish I could see Miranda Lambert,” one attendee said while standing with a group of friends.

Organizers called the conditions “perfect weather” while also reminding concertgoers to stay safe in the heat.

“You are allowed to have two water bottles with you and there are plenty of drinks here on hand. Stay hydrated,” Joe Maumee and Big Mic with KNCI’s Country in the Park said. “Definitely get some sunscreen on you before you come out. The sun is out and it’s beautiful.”

Festival organizers said nearly 50,000 people are expected over the two-day event.

“There’s things for the adults, there’s things for the kids,” Jared Marshall with KNCI’s Country in the Park said. “Not only do we have the food truck, we obviously have the music and the vendors, we have a mechanical bull, and we have line dancing. There is so much to do.”

Even as temperatures climbed Friday evening, attendees said they still planned to enjoy the festival.

“We were coming regardless,” attendees Kayla Klines and Chloe Cumberlege said. “We were coming for the vibes. Trying to have a good time.”

For some fans, the event was also a chance to meet new people.

“Make sure you find your mustache man,” Karalyna Arana from Roseville said. “I have not found mine, so if there is anyone wants to hit me up, it’s Karalyna Arana.”

Country in the Park continues Saturday at Cal Expo with performances from Miranda Lambert and Chris Young.

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