Country music band Parmalee will visit Cornell College to headline Cornell’s annual Big Event on Saturday, Jan. 31, in the Richard and Norma Small Athletic and Wellness Center (the SAW).
Doors open at 6 p.m., and the show starts at 7 p.m. with Cornell’s Pop/Contemporary Ensemble opening the concert and Parmalee taking the stage at 8 p.m. The concert is free for Cornell students, staff, and faculty with their Cornell ID. The general public must purchase a ticket online for $10.
“Cornell students can look forward to an unforgettable experience this year with Parmalee headlining,” said Student Activities Coordinator Nicole Casal. “It’s the perfect opportunity for our campus and the local community to come together for an incredible night—an event you won’t want to miss!”
The band has been together since 2001 and has released several No. 1 hits over the years, including “Carolina,” “Just the Way,” and “Take My Name.” The North Carolina band recently topped the charts with their single, “Cowgirl,” from their 2025 album, “Fell in Love With a Cowgirl.” This single became the longest-running No. 1 by a band in nearly 14 years on the Billboard Country Airplay chart. The band consists of brothers Matt Thomas (guitar/lead vocals) and Scott Thomas (drums), along with their cousin Barry Knox (bass) and lifelong friend Josh McSwain (guitar).
A team of student leaders, college staff members, and student organizations, including Student Senate, Performing Arts and Activities Council, Greek Council, KRNL, Student Athlete Advisory Committee, Black Awareness Cultural Organization (BACO), Gente, and the Student Life Office, organize the event, with help from the Facilities team, Campus Safety, and Bon Appétit. Dozens of students will volunteer on the concert day to ensure everything runs smoothly.
In the past, Cornell has welcomed other big names such as rapper bbno$, rapper Wakka Flocka Flame, rapper Bryce Vine, comedian Vanessa Bayer, recording artist Daya, and Indie pop band AJR for The Big Event.
No outside food or drink, weapons, or bags are permitted in the gym for The Big Event. Visitors should expect a security screening at the entrance of the SAW. Parking is available on the street or in the lot next to the building. Cornell is a smoke-free campus.
The Big Event is made possible each year through The Williams Fund and Student Senate. The Williams Fund was established by Life Trustee Richard Williams ’63 and his wife, Marlene, to bring special events to campus.