Everything You Need to Know About ‘CMA Country Christmas’ 2017
It's the most wonderful time of the year! Annually in November, the Country Music Association tapes, and then airs, its CMA Country Christmas television special.
Now in its eighth year, CMA Country Christmas is going through one major change in 2017. Read on to find out everything you need to know about the annual holiday event.
When and Where Is CMA Country Christmas 2017 Taking Place?
The 2017 CMA Country Christmas TV special will air on Nov. 27 on ABC at 8PM ET. This year, for the third year in a row, the show taped at the Grand Ole Opry House in Nashville; the taping took place on Nov. 14, about a week after the 2017 CMA Awards.
Who Is Hosting CMA Country Christmas 2017?
Reba McEntire announced on Facebook on Sept. 13 that she would host the festive event this year: “Watching CMA Country Christmas has become one of my favorite holiday traditions,” McEntire shared on social media. “And I was absolutely thrilled to be asked to host.”
McEntire is taking over hosting duties from Sugarland's Jennifer Nettles, who has performed the role for the past seven years, since CMA Country Christmas began. While McEntire says that Nettles' shoes will be hard to fill, fans know she's capable: She's hosted or co-hosted 17 ACM Awards ceremonies over the years.
"Reba epitomizes country and the cheer of the holiday season," CMA Chief Executive Officer Sarah Trahern says. "She's also the most nominated female in CMA Awards history, so the fit couldn't be more perfect."
Who Will Be Performing at CMA Country Christmas 2017?
On Nov. 7, the CMA revealed the list of performers for CMA Country Christmas 2017: Kelsea Ballerini, Chris Young, Luke Bryan, CB30, Dan + Shay, Brett Eldredge, Alan Jackson, Lady Antebellum, Little Big Town, Dustin Lynch, CeCe Winans and Trisha Yearwood. Reba McEntire, who is hosting the show for the first time, will also perform a song from her My Kind of Christmas album.
Whom Does CMA Country Christmas Benefit?
The United States Marine Corps was on site at the Grand Ole Opry House from 3PM to 6PM on the day of CMA Country Christmas 2017's taping to collect toys for their holiday Toys for Tots drive; the show has supported the charity in years past. Those attending CMA Country Christmas 2017 were encouraged to bring unwrapped toys to donate.
Who Will Be Attending CMA Country Christmas 2017?
In addition to a vast array of some of country music's brightest stars, fans were invited to attend the CMA Country Christmas taping. Tickets became available for purchase beginning on Oct. 6, through the Grand Ole Opry.
See Photos From the 2016 CMA Country Christmas Taping