Thousands of country music fans packed Cal Expo on Friday as KNCI\u2019s Country in the Park returned to Sacramento for its sold-out opening night despite warm temperatures.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
Some attendees said the heat was not enough to keep them away.<\/p>\n
\u201cI rather have this weather than rain,\u201d Sacramento local Michelle Fontana said.<\/p>\n
Others were simply excited to be back at the festival.<\/p>\n
\u201cJon Pardi is the great person ever. I wish I could see Miranda Lambert,\u201d one attendee said while standing with a group of friends.<\/p>\n
Organizers called the conditions \u201cperfect weather\u201d while also reminding concertgoers to stay safe in the heat.<\/p>\n
\u201cYou are allowed to have two water bottles with you and there are plenty of drinks here on hand. Stay hydrated,\u201d Joe Maumee and Big Mic with KNCI\u2019s Country in the Park said. \u201cDefinitely get some sunscreen on you before you come out. The sun is out and it\u2019s beautiful.\u201d<\/p>\n
Festival organizers said nearly 50,000 people are expected over the two-day event.<\/p>\n
\u201cThere\u2019s things for the adults, there\u2019s things for the kids,\u201d Jared Marshall with KNCI\u2019s Country in the Park said. \u201cNot 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.\u201d<\/p>\n
Even as temperatures climbed Friday evening, attendees said they still planned to enjoy the festival.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe were coming regardless,\u201d attendees Kayla Klines and Chloe Cumberlege said. \u201cWe were coming for the vibes. Trying to have a good time.\u201d<\/p>\n
For some fans, the event was also a chance to meet new people.<\/p>\n
\u201cMake sure you find your mustache man,\u201d Karalyna Arana from Roseville said. \u201cI have not found mine, so if there is anyone wants to hit me up, it\u2019s Karalyna Arana.\u201d<\/p>\n
Country in the Park continues Saturday at Cal Expo with performances from Miranda Lambert and Chris Young.<\/p>\n