From the Nunda Rural Fire Protection District
Behind-the-Scenes Coordination and Public Safety Operations during the Recent Luke Bryan Farm Tour Concert in Prairie Grove
On a quiet farm field in the Village of Prairie Grove, population just under 2,000, one of the largest events in McHenry County’s recent history unfolded as country superstar Luke Bryan took the stage for a sold-out concert that drew more than 20,000 fans.
What began as a wide-open rural field became a temporary venue filled with music, lights, vendors, production crews, and public safety personnel working behind the scenes to keep everything running smoothly.
Photo, provided as a courtesy from Luke Bryan’s production company, includes several representatives from the event with Luke Bryan. While space allowed only a handful to be pictured, an effort was made to include at least one representative from each agency.
Bringing an event of this magnitude to a small village required months of planning and coordination across fire, EMS, law enforcement, local government, and private partners.
From the earliest conversations through final demobilization, the Nunda Rural Fire Protection District played a central role in public safety operations, working closely with village officials, production staff, and the Berning Family Farms, who generously provided the site.
Coordination with law enforcement and other public safety partners helped ensure an organized, unified approach to the planning and execution of this large-scale event.
Fire and EMS units were strategically placed across the grounds, with access lanes carved into the field to allow responders to reach any part of the site within moments.
EMS coverage was supported through a coordinated effort between the fire district, A-TEC Ambulance, and Event Medical Solutions.
Crews responded to nearly 50 emergencies, including minor falls to heat-related illnesses.
All patients were treated quickly, and the event continued without disruption.
Public safety personnel remained fully engaged throughout the concert, managing radio traffic, adjusting assignments, and staying ready for anything.
While the crowd focused on the show, responders remained at their posts.
As the final song ended and traffic began to clear, fire and EMS crews assisted vendors, supported traffic flow, and continued to monitor conditions.
The last units cleared well after midnight, wrapping up a full day of operations.
Farm Tour 2025 was more than just a concert.
It was a milestone for the Village of Prairie Grove and a clear example of what is possible when local leaders, responders, and partners work together with a shared commitment to safety and service.
The Nunda Rural Fire Protection District is proud to have supported this one-of-a-kind event and extends its appreciation to everyone who made it possible, including Luke Bryan, his production team, the Berning Family Farms, dedicated volunteers, and the countless individuals who supported the operation behind the scenes.
