Before the ACM Awards show, country music fans found plenty of stars and plenty of action with several Academy-branded events. Kicking off the fun this year was ACM Weekend on Fremont Street, which featured the New Artist winners, Divas Downtown and special guests!

On Friday, April 3rd, Top New Female Vocalist Julianne Hough and Top New Male Vocalist Jake Owen joined headliner Jason Aldean and opening act Matt Stillwell on the Fremont Street stages. On Saturday, April 4th, Top New Vocal Duo/Group winners Zac Brown Band jammed on a bill that included up-and-comers Gloriana and “Divas Downtown” Kellie Pickler and LeAnn Rimes.

The Academy’s Fremont Street shows have become the biggest event of the year for the Fremont Street Experience, now surpassing even the New Year’s Eve celebration. ACM Weekend on Fremont Street was sponsored by Dr. Pepper and Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority.