Thousands attend Rock the Country in Anderson Co.

ANDERSON COUNTY, S.C. (WSPA) — Thousands of people attended the first day of the Rock the Country music festival.

The two-day festival is being held at the Anderson Sports & Entertainment Center. It features performances from several artists, including Brantley Gilbert, Miranda Lambert and Jason Aldean. Many people were excited to see Kid Rock perform Friday.

“I want to meet Kid Rock,” Tina Burns, who traveled from Georgia, said. “That’s all I want to do is meet Kid Rock before I die.”

“I’m a huge Kid Rock fan, and I love country music,” Cindy Berends said.

Berends traveled from California for the festival. She said it was her 15th time seeing Kid Rock perform.

“I’ve been a Kid Rock fan club member since it started,” Berends said.

Anderson County leaders estimate that 25,000 people will attend the festival over the weekend. Rock the Country is expected to generate more than $19 million for the county, according to county officials.

For those who attended the festival, it was a time to gather with loved ones and enjoy music.

“Just to celebrate America and be around people like us,” Michelle Miller said.

“We’ve always been best friends so this is something for us to get together and hang out for a night or two,” Madison Motes said.

Rock the Country continues Saturday. Doors open at 3 p.m. The first performance will begin at 4 p.m.

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