Country Roads returns with 37th anniversary concert

Saturday, 20 September 2025 00:00 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

By Michelle Therese Alles

Sri Lanka’s longest-running concert dedicated to supporting children’s causes, Country Roads, will stage its 37th edition on Sunday, 19 October 2025 at Cinnamon Life.

A stellar ensemble features the Mavericks from Germany, and longstanding local favourites, The Cosmic Rays, and Feizal and the Country Revival Band with Thilan Wijesinghe. Also joining the stage is acclaimed guitarist Allan Outschoorn, alongside rising YouTube sensation Manethree, who will be making her Country Roads debut.

Organised by the Country Music Foundation (CMF), the annual fundraiser has, over nearly four decades, become a much-anticipated event on the local music calendar, with all proceeds going to children’s charities.

This year, the concert moves to a new venue at The Forum, Cinnamon Life, South Asia’s first integrated resort.

CMF President Feizal Samath said, “Cinnamon Life at City of Dreams is a spectacular architectural feat, and we are delighted to welcome them as our Official Hospitality Partner for 2025. I am confident that both our loyal fans and new audiences will enjoy an unforgettable evening at this world-class venue, while experiencing excellent local and international talent recognised for their heartfelt performances.”

“It will be a privilege to take the stage at Cinnamon Life as part of the celebrated line-up for Country Roads 2025,” commented Outschoorn. “What makes this concert truly special is that every note played goes towards uplifting children’s lives, and I am honoured to contribute to that through my music.”

For Manethree, who began performing online during the pandemic, Country Roads 2025 marks a defining step in her musical journey. “Music has always been my way of expressing myself and connecting with others,” she said. “The positive feedback I received inspired me to take up live performance. I am honoured to be part of this event and to bring love, joy, and support to children around Sri Lanka.”

An entirely volunteer-run initiative, the Country Roads Concert has, since its first edition in 1988, consistently donated 100% of its proceeds to children’s causes. Nearly four decades later, the event has raised millions of rupees to support some of the most pressing issues faced by children across the island.

Joining Cinnamon Life as sponsors are Dilmah, LOLC, Cargills, and Firefly, with LankaPay coming on board for the first time. Tickets, priced at Rs. 3,000 and Rs. 4,000, are now available at selected Cargills Food City outlets in Kirulapone, Kohuwela, Majestic City and Staples Street.