Luke Bryan brings 2025 Farm Tour to Atwater's Castle Airport
ATWATER, Calif. (KFSN) -- Thousands of people showed up at the Castle Airport in Atwater on Thursday to see country superstar Luke Bryan perform.
Bryan's team was hard at work Thursday morning, prepping the stage for night one of his 2025 Farm Tour.
They brought in opening acts, a DJ, bringing Bryan's version of farm life to the tarmac at the airport.
"I honestly didn't think he'd be coming this local. I do live in Gustine, so I'm from a smaller town," said Tianah Vitorino, a concert attendee. "It's really cool seeing him come out here and see the small towns, and we get to come together and have a great party with each other."
Security was tight with various law enforcement agencies making sure the party didn't get too out of hand as the crowd grew in size.
Not a sight you typically see at every concert -- members of the Merced County Sheriff's Posse patrolled the grounds as a steady stream of fans filed into the outdoor venue.
"We are looking at probably 130 officers. Highway Patrol, Merced County, Atwater PD, and even have our Explorers," said Merced County Sheriff Vern Warnke. "CAL FIRE is, obviously, a huge part of this."
Sheriff Warnke says they're ready for a variety of scenarios, with more than 20,000 people expected to fill the tarmac.
"If you can see, we are not messing around here and have our equipment here," said Sheriff Warnke.
That includes a chopper, an armored vehicle, and even a holding cell.
Sheriff Warnke says traffic was a top concern. He urged everyone to be patient and responsible.
"Folks, have a designated driver, don't drive over pedestrians and be kind to your neighbor. It's the golden rule, and you'll have a great time."
However, many complained that organizers seemed unprepared for such a large crowd, leaving them standing in long security lines.
Some fans said the wait was worth it to see a country superstar in such a unique setting.
Surrounding businesses were also optimistic about the show.
Christine Silva, owner of Whiskey River Saloon in downtown Atwater, believes the concert will help expose her bar to new customers.
"This is a big deal for Atwater. We've not had this before," said Silva. "I am super excited. I'm going to the concert and coming back to work!"
The country superstar took to the stage just after 9 p.m., with many in the crowd welcoming his arrival to the North Valley.
As Bryan continued his set, some members of the audience began to leave.
Some said they were disappointed with the rollout of the concert, describing the experience as chaotic, while others left early to beat the traffic.
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