From its inception in 1973 in Dripping Springs, Texas, Willie as hosted the showin various incarnations in cities throughout Texas.
Its main purpose has been to bring musicians and fans from all walks of life together to celebrate the day. From 1995-1999, the event was held in Luckenbach and then relocated to Austin in 2000.
The Picnic has drawn more than a quarter-million music lovers to the Lone Star State but this year, it heads in a new direction, at least geographically.
The even will take place at the Gorge Amphitheater in George, Wash., a nine time winner of Pollstar's Best Major Outdoor Concert Venue: award.
In addition to Nelson & Family, he's tapped alt country vets Son Volt, the recently reunited Old 97's, southern rockers Drive-By Truckers and singer-songwriter Amos Lee to join help celebrate Independence Day.
Tickets are $79, $59, $49 and $35, and 4-Pack lawn tickets available for $99. Tickets go on sale Saturday, May 12 at 9 a.m. through Ticketmaster and livenation.com.