Grand Ole Opry Makes Rare Change for 100th Anniversary

When you think of the Grand Ole Opry, a few things immediately come to mind: legendary performances, deep country roots, and symbols that have stood the test of time. One of those symbols? The Opry’s signature three-sided microphone stand. It’s been a staple on that stage for nearly a century, and it had only been updated four times since 1925. But in honor of its 100th anniversary, the Opry just made that rare change one more time.

A Fresh Look for a Historic Mic Stand

The big reveal happened during a special anniversary show on March 1, 2025, featuring Vince Gill, The Oak Ridge Boys, Marty Stuart, and more. Gill had the honor of introducing the updated mic stand, which still keeps its classic three-sided design but now has a sleeker, modern touch.

Dan Rogers, the Opry’s executive producer, explained just how much this mic stand means to the institution. “Like the Opry’s famed Circle center stage and its signature barn backdrop, the show’s familiar microphone stands have been a key part of our iconography for decades,” he said. And with the centennial celebrations in full swing, the new stand represents both history and the Opry’s future: “This anniversary is all about celebrating our past and opening wide the doors to the next century of music, and these stands will be a testament to that for as long as they are featured on the Opry stage.”

Keeping Tradition While Looking Ahead

This change isn’t happening in a vacuum. The Opry has been making some big moves to modernize while keeping its traditions alive. Back in 2023, they revamped their stage with a new barn set, upgraded lighting, and a state-of-the-art sound system. The mic stand update feels like a natural next step; keeping the iconic look but making sure it fits with the evolving Opry experience.

With the 100th anniversary officially landing on November 28, 2025, this is just the beginning. The Opry is rolling out a full lineup of celebrations, including a commemorative book, “100 Years of Grand Ole Opry: A Celebration of the Artists, the Fans, and the Home of Country Music,” coming April 15, 2025. The book will be packed with historic photos and behind-the-scenes stories, giving fans a closer look at the Opry’s incredible journey.

At the end of the day, this mic stand update might seem small, but it’s a big deal for an institution that thrives on tradition. The Opry is proving that you can respect history while embracing the future; and that’s what keeps it legendary.