Stories Pour In After Garth Brooks’ Surprise Opry Set

The Grand Ole Opry doesn’t officially turn 100 until November 28, but Garth Brooks just gave fans an early reason to celebrate.

On Friday night, October 3, Garth stunned the audience when he walked onto the Opry stage unannounced and launched into “Callin’ Baton Rouge.” The crowd’s reaction was instant—cheers, gasps, and a sea of phones raised toward the famous circle. By the time Garth powered through “The Thunder Rolls,” the night had become one of those Opry moments that has kept the world’s oldest radio show both iconic and fresh.

According to Nashville To Do, “Garth Brooks casually strolled onto the Grand Ole Opry stage with zero warning—and turned the place upside down. The crowd barely had time to react before … it was a full-blown sing-along. Somehow it felt both massive and completely personal. One of those nights where if you were there, you’ll be talking about it forever—and if you weren’t, well… you’ll wish you had been.”

Fans quickly flooded social media with their reactions. “I was there! It was unreal. Definitely a moment I’ll never forget!!!” wrote Catherine Pederson. Erica Morales added, “It was an amazing show! He definitely surprised us and put on a great show!” Christopher Arponen, who attended the Opry for the first time that night, said, “It was a surreal moment. Instant goosebumps!”

"No one there had more fun than I did," Garth laughed. "I've said it before and I’ll say it again, being asked to be a member of the Opry is the highest honor musically I have ever received."

The surprise appearance comes just weeks before the Opry’s official centennial celebration on Black Friday. For an artist who’s been part of the Opry family for more than three decades, Garth’s unannounced set reminded everyone that country music’s most sacred stage still knows how to throw a surprise party.

Tickets for the Grand Ole Opry’s official birthday party celebration show are on sale now.