‘This is the backbone of America;’ Thousands come out for ‘Country Concert’ in Shelby Co.

Crowds came out in droves Friday afternoon to see some of their favorite country music stars at Country Concert 22 in Fort Loramie.

For some, it’s their favorite time of year.

“I think Country Concert is a special couple of days that we mark on the calendar year after year,” Thomas Moody of Findlay said.

For others, it’s a nice break.

“It’s my vacation, so I’m going to drink some beer. Zero responsibilities this week,” Leslie Hackman of Miamisburg said.

>> Country Concert tickets sell out for the first time

Tickets were sold out for the concert — some said they had to buy them as early as November.

“Now everyone’s kinda free, no restrictions or anything, everyone wants to go out, have fun and listen to country music,” Andrew Stewart of Cleveland said.

With record attendance expected, keeping people safe is on the top of many authorities’ minds.

Shelby County’s sheriff said more than 100 deputies from several departments including his own will patrol the grounds over the course of the festival.

“Last year they had a record turnout. This year it’s even greater but we’re ready, we’re ready for it,” Shelby County Sheriff James Frye said.

>> Country Concert expecting record crowd after tickets sell out for first time

Frye mentioned recent mass shootings like the one in Uvalde, Texas are on his mind.

“We’re prepared for that and we’re looking forward to making sure that it doesn’t happen,” he said.

All the work is worth people being able to get out and have a good time.

“This is the backbone of America and I love coming here and celebrating,” Nick Moody of Findlay said.

The festival runs from July 7-9 and includes artists like Carrie Underwood, Morgan Wallan and Brooks & Dunn.