Nashville’s CMA Fest 2025

For over a decade, Maxim Crane has been the trusted partner behind the scenes at Nashville’s iconic CMA Fest. For the 2025 event, held from June 5-8, which draws an estimated 95,000 fans, Maxim was once again tasked with providing the critical lift solutions for the construction and dismantling of four main stages. Our team’s precision, expertise, and commitment to safety were instrumental in ensuring the festival’s infrastructure was ready for a flawless four-day event.

The Challenge: A High-Stakes Performance on a Tight Timeline

Executing a project of this scale in the heart of a bustling downtown area presents a unique set of challenges. The CMA Fest build required a partner who could navigate:

• An Immovable Deadline: With the festival dates locked in, all four stages had to be constructed and certified ready within a narrow window. There was zero room for delays or errors.
• Complex Urban Logistics: The stages were located in high-traffic areas, including the Nissan Stadium and the famous Broadway Street. Operations had to be meticulously planned to minimize disruption and ensure the safety of the public.
• Multi-Site Coordination: The project involved four distinct locations, each with its own unique terrain, spatial constraints, and specific build requirements, demanding a versatile fleet and precise coordination.

The Solution: A Strategic Lifting Performance

Leveraging a partnership that dates back to 2008 (under the Amquip name), Maxim Crane developed a comprehensive, site-specific lifting plan. Our strategy was built on selecting the perfect crane for each stage’s unique demands to maximize efficiency and safety.

• Nissan Stadium Main Stage: For the festival’s largest stage, we deployed a 110-ton Tadano ATF100G-4 for the build and an 80-ton Liebherr LTM1070 4.2 for the swift post-festival dismantle.
• Chevy Vibes Stage: Maxim utilized a 70-ton Liebherr LTM1060 3.1 for the build, and a Liebherr LTM1070 4.2 was brought in for the dismantling of the stage.
• Hard Rock Stage: Positioned on the highly-trafficked Broadway, this stage required a compact yet powerful solution. The 65-ton Liebherr LTM1055 3.2 was the ideal choice for both a safe setup and a quick dismantle.
• Riverfront Stage: To erect this stage, our team used a versatile 70-ton Liebherr LTM 1060 3.1, utilizing a 52-foot swing around jib to meet the specific demands of the location.

The Results: Setting the Stage for Success

Maxim Crane’s meticulous planning and flawless execution delivered exceptional results, ensuring the festival’s critical infrastructure was in place on schedule. The outcome was a resounding success:

• On-Time Completion: All four stages were constructed safely and on schedule, enabling CMA Fest to open its doors to 95,000 attendees without a hitch.
• Zero Safety Incidents: Over 30 critical labor hours were completed with an unblemished safety record, a testament to our rigorous planning and experienced crew.
• A Trusted Partnership: By successfully delivering once again, Maxim solidified its role as the go-to lifting partner for one of the nation’s premier live events.

Beyond the Crane: The Maxim Crane Solution

• Proven Event Expertise: With over 15 years of experience at CMA Fest, we have unparalleled knowledge of the venues, timelines, and logistical needs of large-scale public events.
• Versatile and Modern Fleet: Our ability to deploy a range of all-terrain cranes ensures that the right equipment is used for every specific challenge, maximizing efficiency and safety.
• Meticulous Planning & Coordination: We excel at planning and executing complex lifts in congested urban environments, ensuring projects are completed on time and without incident.
• Unwavering Commitment to Safety: Safety is at the core of every lift. Our crews are highly trained and our planning processes are designed to mitigate risk in high-stakes environments.

Bring Maxim’s Expertise to Your Next Project

Whether it’s a high-profile music festival or a complex industrial project, Maxim Crane has the fleet, expertise, and dedication to ensure your project is a success. We are more than a vendor; we are a partner in planning and execution.

Contact us today to get started on your next lift.