Buckeye Country Superfest returns as organizers and fans deal with extreme heat

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) -- The Buckeye Country Superfest is back at Ohio Stadium this weekend for its ninth year. 

More than 60,000 people will be at the Shoe each day of the festival, which features some of the top country music artists in the world, including Zach Bryan and Billy Strings.

Each year, Ohio Stadium turns into a concert venue, with the turf completely covered and a huge stage built with lights and a sound system. Organizers said it takes almost all year to plan out the popular event.

But with Buckeye Country Superfest held entirely outdoors, organizers are also preparing for the extreme heat with temperatures expected to reach the 80s and 90s throughout the weekend. Organizer Colin Thompson said they are taking the heat very seriously.

"We have misting stations up, fans are allowed to bring in empty, clear plastic water bottles to all of our refill stations. Wear light-colored clothing, loose-fitting clothing and just encouraging everybody to take care of themselves as they come in,” Thompson said.

If you don’t bring in a water bottle, Thompson said they will have complimentary water cups for attendees. Water refills will be completely free at stations throughout the stadium. There will also be six first aid stations inside the Shoe, each manned with Red Cross volunteers and Columbus firefighters.

Organizers said they are encouraging people to bring in their own water bottles and stay hydrated, especially for those planning to drink alcohol.

“Just be responsible. Stay hydrated, wear light, loose-fitting clothing and come in and just pay attention to how your body’s feeling and take advantage of the amenities that we have,” Thompson said.

Buckeye Country Superfest does have its own text alert system and Thompson recommends all attendees sign up by texting BCS24 to 67283. The tailgate starts each morning at 10:00 and gates to Ohio Stadium open at 2pm. There are still a very limited number of tickets left and are available at the event's official website where you can also find answers to frequently asked questions and a full lineup of performers.