April - Texas Music Events Calendar 2008

The 2008 TMEC lists more than 500 annual events featuring live music. To update listing information for your 2008 event, please contact the Texas Music Office at music[at]SPAMAWAYgovernor.state.tx.us or call (512) 463-6666.

For a listing of Texas live music venues, please click here.

NOTE: Before sending an email please replace [at]SPAMAWAY with @. The Texas Music Office replaced the @ symbol to deter Web spiders from mining this page.

Email: music@governor.state.tx.us | Request Info | Texas music event application

Brazos Nights
April 1-July 4
Indian Spring Park; Downtown Waco
City of Waco Parks & Recreation Department
Jonathan Cook, Special Events Manager
P.O. Box 2570; Waco, TX 76702
(254) 750-5781; (254) 750-5627; Fax (254) 750-5782
Music: Bluegrass, Cajun, Country, Polka, R&B, Rock, Tejano
Activities: Concert season, Music festival, Street dance, Children's area
Brazos Nights is a free concert series organized by the City of Waco Parks and Recreation Department. Performances take place on the first Fridays of April through June and on July 4 at Indian Spring Park next to the historic Suspension Bridge. Featuring first-class local, regional, and national artists, Brazos Nights offers everything from blues to country to polka. Along with music, the events include food, drinks, dancing, art and games for kids. Brazos Nights concludes on July 4 with a fantastic fireworks display over the Brazos River.

North Texas Jazz Festival in Addison 2
April 2-4
Crowne Plaza Hotel; 14315 Midway Road Addison, TX
Town of Addison and the University of North Texas, College of Music, Division of Jazz Studies
Craig Marshall
P.O. Box 305040; Denton, TX 76203
(940) 565-3742; (972) 450-6281; Fax (972) 450-6225
Music: Big Band, Jazz
Activities: Music festival, Educational competition, Clinics
Swing into spring at the North Texas Jazz Festival in Addison. This is our eighth year for the educational component featuring the best big bands, combos, and jazz vocal groups from the nation's leading schools and universities. The 2008 lineup will include UNT One O'Clock Lab Band, UNT Two O'Clock Lab Band, UNT Jazz Singers, UNT Jazz Faculty Ensemble, the Adjudicators Showcase and performances by student musicians from 70 schools representing 25 states throughout the country. Jazz scholar Hal Miller will present continuous screenings of rare jazz films from his private collection throughout the Festival. Miller is the curator of one of the world's most comprehensive personal jazz video collections with more than 9,000 items.

Entertainment Series of Irving
April 3 and May 14
Irving Arts Center; 3333 North MacArthur, Irving, TX
Entertainment Series of Irving
3835 Twin Falls; Irving, TX 75062
(972) 252-3838
Music: Big Band, Classical
Activities: Concert season
The Entertainment Series of Irving begins continues its 53rd season with The Presidio Brass in concert on April 3 and On Broadway on May 14. The Presidio Brass is committed to presenting live musical programs in an engaging way through a varied, accessible repertoire and the development of close ties with audiences. Their primary focus is to "musicate" children -- the performing arts' future patrons -- through innovative educational programs that cultivate musical learning, supplement the core curriculum and promote discipline, sensitivity and respect. On Broadway features of sparkling review of show-stopping moments from the Broadway stage. 2008-2009 concerts include: Rachael Price, Pavlo, Freddy Cole and Diana Fiddle.

Kingsville International Competitions: Bowed Instrument Competitions 2
April 3-5
Texas A&M University Kingsville; Santa Gertrudis Blvd., Kingsville
Music Club of Kingsville, Inc.
James and Mary Tryer
P.O. Box 2873, Station I; Kingsville, TX 78363
(361) 592-2374
Music: Classical
Activities: Music festival
Kingsville International Competitions will offer Bowed Instrument (String) and Piano Competitions on a rotating schedule. In 2009 the Kingsville Competitions will host a Piano Concerto and Piano Solo Competition. Over $23,000 in prize money is available for distribution to winners in various contests. The highest-ranking winner will receive a minimum total of $6,000 in cash prizes and a performance award with The Festival de San Miguel de Allende, Mexico. Performances are also possible with the Victoria, Texas, Symphony Orchestra and the Corpus Christi Symphony Orchestra.

Tablerock Gospel Festival
April 4-5
Tablerock Amphitheater; Royal Street
Tablerock Festival of Salado, Inc.
Donnie Jackson, Director
P.O. Box 312; Salado, TX 76571
(254) 947-9205; (254) 947-5100; Fax (254) 947-5269
Music: Christian
Activities: Music festival
On Friday April 4th, from 6:00 PM until 9:00 PM, and on Saturday April 5th, from 9:00 AM until 9:00 PM, you are invited to enjoy the best Texas has to offer in gospel singers, bands, groups, trios, duets and individuals. $5.00-Adults, $3.00-Children age 12 and under. Concession stand open both days for your pleasure. Contact event coordinators Jim & Alvalin Woodul at 1-254-634-4658 or E-mail jimwoodul[at]aol.com Information: www.tablerock.org.

Chilifest
April 4-5
College Station
Chilifest Incorporated
PMB 328, 1511 South Texas Avenue; College Station, TX 77840
Music: Country
Activities: Music festival
Chilifest is one of the most anticipated events each year in the Brazos Valley. The annual event draws over 20,000 people. All the proceeds from the festival go to local community organizations. Last year it was over $100,000. Willie will be joined in concert on Saturday night by Cross Canadian Ragweed, Pat Green, Jack Ingram and Aaron Watson.

Starlight Music Series
April 5, 12, May 3, 10, 17, 31, June 7, 14
Wolf Pen Creek Ampitheater
College Station Parks and Recreation
Sheila Walker
1000 Krenek Tap; College Station, TX 77804
(979) 764-3408; (979) 764-3486
Music: Blues, Country, Cowboy, Rock, Rockabilly
Activities: Concert season
The Starlight Music Series is a free concert series sponsored by College Station Utilities and held at the Wolf Pen Creek Amphitheater. Past artists have included Jerry Jeff Walker, Bruce Robison, Bo Diddley, The Bellamy Brothers, Trout Fishing in America, Vince Vance and the Valiants, and Ian Moore and Hadden Sayers, Leon Russell, Gary P. Nunn, Marshall Tucker Band, Radney Foster, Earl Thomas Conley, and Big Otis. Guests are invited to bring their lawn chairs, coolers, and picnic baskets. Starlight Music Series takes place spring and summer of each year at the Wolf Pen Creek Amphitheater. 2008 dates are April 5, 12, May 3, 10, 17, 31, June 7, 14.

Roughneck Chili and Barbecue Cookoffs
April 5
Central Texas Oil Patch Museum; 421 East Davis Street
Luling Area Oil Musuem Association
David Schussler
P.O. Box 1002; Luling, TX 78648
(830) 875-1922; Fax (830) 875-2082
Music: Bluegrass, Country
Activities: Awards show
The Roughneck Chili and Barbecue Cookoff benefits the Central Texas Oil Patch Museum and features entertainment, arts and crafts, and a dance in the evening.

Good Oil Days
April 5
Humble Civic Arena; 8233 Will Clayton Blvd.
Humble Area Chamber of Commerce
110 West Main; Humble, TX 77338
(281) 446-2128; (281) 540-7817; Fax (281) 446-7483
Music: Children's, Country, Cowboy, Jazz, Pop, Reggae, Rock
Activities: Concert season, County fair, Street dance
The City of Humble, the Humble Senior Activity Center, the Northeast Hospital Foundation are proud to present the Annual Good Oil Days Festival. This will be a fantastic event with Arts & Crafts, good food, and plenty of fun. Proceeds will benefit the Humble Area Seniors. Booth Fees, Donations and In Kind Services are Tax Deductible. Arts & Crafts booths will be located on five blocks of Main Street Humble set up back to back right down the middle of the street. Plenty of things to look at, plenty of things to buy. Good Food will be available throughout the festival and beverages will be available in several booths set up at convenient locations. The ever popular KIDS CORNER will be just for kids, where they will have their own games. Come enjoy our festival and help us have a good time.

The H-E-B Houston Children's Festival
April 5-6
Downtown Houston; 500 Walker
JW Productions, Inc.
Tony Terwilliger
1915 Commonwealth Street, No. 100; Houston, TX 77006-1841
(713) 553-6900; (713) 522-9723 ext. 6; Fax (866) 775-1580
Music: Children's
The H-E-B Houston Children's Festival is Houston's Official Celebration of Children benefiting Child Advocates. Featuring twelve adventure zones and four stages of family-oriented musical and variety entertainment.

Louisiana Swamp Romp and Crawfish Festival
April 5
Downtown Austin; MLK & Congress
Roadway Productions, LLC
French Smith
12305 Twin Creek Drive; Manchaca, TX 78652-3719
(512) 441-9015; Fax (512) 441-9016
Music: Cajun
Activities: Music festival
It's all about the food and the music! This popular Louisiana themed event features the best in Louisiana cuisine prepared by concessionaires from Louisiana and Texas. Enjoy an extensive menu of Cajun seafood. The highlight of the show is 6000 pounds of jumbo crawfish and other bayou favorites. Enjoy dancers, juju mamas, and lots of beads and tokens. Music includes Cajun, Zydeco, Funk, Brass Bands, Blues, Rock, & Jazz. Artists such as The New Orleans Jazz Vipers Brass Band, Dwayne "Dopsie" & the Zydeco Hellraisers, Dora and the Entourage, Big Sam's Funky Nation, Dr. Zog & Funky Zydeco and T-Broussard & The Zydeco Steppers. Belly dancers and late night burlesque shows will add to the excitement. Estimated attendance is 15,000. Gates open at 10:30am until after Midnight.

Woodystock Music Festival
April 5
Exit 14 off of I-44, East Third Street
Jimmy Smith, Woody Hodges
East 3rd Street; Burkburnett, TX 76354
(940) 569-4213
Music: Country/Rock
Activities: Music festival
Jimmy Smith, a Burkburnett resident, and area promoter Woody Hodges are bringing 10 popular Red Dirt bands, numerous food vendors, a huge chili cook-off and a massive outdoor stage to a hayfield in Smith's 100-plus-acre backyard that reaches to the Red River. Gates open at 10 a.m. Event lasts until 1 a.m. With Johnny Cooper, the Bart Crow Band, Casey Donahew, No Justice, Twister Cain, Under the Influence, Brazos Stone and Crosswind. Also includes the Volunteer Fire Department Chili Cookoff supporting VFDs of North Texas and Southern Oklahoma. Lawn chairs/coolers welcome. No glass containers. Rain or shine. No refunds.

Scarborough Renaissance Festival
April 5-May 25
Near Waxahachie; FM Road 66 off IH 35 East
Coy Sevier
P.O. Box 538; Waxahachie, TX 75168
(972) 938-3247 ext. 16; Fax (972) 938-1890
Music: Classical, Folk/Acoustic
Scarborough Renaissance Festival is a 16th century English Renaissance village. Music, arts and crafts, food and games are all taken from around life in England in the 1550s during the reign of King Henry VIII. Spread over 35 tree-covered acres, the village features live music, dancing, juggling, magic, craft demonstrations, games of the period, and succulent food. The Faire is held every weekend from April 7 through May 28, including Memorial Day.

Bayou City Cajun Festival
April 5-6
Traders Village; 7979 North Eldridge Road
Traders Village
Mike Baxter
7979 North Eldridge Road; Houston, TX 77041
(281) 890-5500; Fax (281) 890-6568
Music: Cajun
Activities: Music festival
Traders Village - Houston hosts the Bayou City Cajun Festival each spring. Traders Village is the largest, most visited flea marketplace and festival complex on the Texas Gulf Coast with more than 1,000 dealers every weekend. The event drew more than 38,300 guests in 2006. The Bayou City Cajun Festival features live cajun and zydeco music, tons of crawfish, boudin, and other Louisiana treats. Headliners have included Waylon Thibodeaux and Wayne Toups. The market is minutes northwest of downtown Houston on N. Eldridge just off of Highway 290.

Japan Festival
April 5-6
Japanese Gardens; Hermann Park
Japan-America Society of Houston
Barbara Metyko
P.O. Box 541992; Houston, TX 77251-1992
(713) 963-0121
Music: Japanese
Activities: Origami, Tea Ceremony, Kendo & Karate, Ikebana, Bonsai displays, Japanese dance groups, etc.
The annual Japan Festival - held in Hermann Park in the Japanese Gardens - celebrates the rich cultural heritage of Japan by offering a variety of activities that represent traditional entertainment, sport, food, and art. Entertainment stages in the park will continuously provide Japanese music, dance, and performances throughout the Festival.

Texas Rio Grande Valley Onion Festival
April 5
Weslaco City Park; 300 North Airport Drive
Weslaco Area Chamber of Commerce
Martha Noell
P.O. Box 8398; Weslaco, TX 78599
(956) 968-2102
Music: Blues, Christian, Country, Cowboy, Dance, Jazz, Rock, Tejano
Activities: Concert season, County fair, Music festival, Trade show/convention, Horse Shows, Gran Cebolla Cook Off, Onion Recipe Contests, Onion Queen Pageant
Join us for the annual Texas Rio Grande Valley Onion Festival at Weslaco City Park, 300 N. Airport Drive. The one-day event offers the best in food, music, and entertainment for the whole family! Onionfest has musical performances for every taste. Choose from a variety of well-known Christian, country, salsa, Tejano and rock bands to perform at Onionfest. People all across the United States ask for this rare type of sweet onions, that won't make you cry. Dr. Leonard Pike, professor of horticulture at Texas A & M University, created the world famous Texas 1015 in the early 1980s here in Weslaco, TX. The world famous vegetable got its name from its suggested planting date, October 15. Since then, the tradition has lived on and every year we celebrate Onion Fest. A crowd of about 10,000 comes together for the celebration. Onion Fest activities include the Onion Fest Pageant, Onion Recipe Contest, Kiddie Land, Arts & Crafts, the Gran Cebolla Cook-Off, the Andalusian & Azteca Horse Shows and the most anticipated Onion Eating Contest.

San Antonio Highland Games and Celtic Music Festival
April 5-6
Helotes Festival Grounds; 12210 Leslie Road
San Antonio Highland Games Association
Tamara Carroll
P.O. Box 5451; San Antonio, TX 78201
(210) 833-2954
Music: Celtic
Activities: Music festival, Highland dancing, Bagpipe Bands, Scottish Highland Games
2008 will be 10th annual San Antonio Highland Games, and planning has begun. Join us in are efforts to make the 10th Highland Games are best yet.Join SAHGA and become one of thosemaking the San Antonio Games the best Highland event in the Southwest. We promise it will be great fun.

Jimmy Heap and the Melody Masters Reunion
April 5
SPJST Hall; FM 619 & US 79
Jerry Heap
Jerry Heap
2204 Lathan Lane; Taylor, TX 76574
(512) 365-6552; (615) 948-7171
Music: Country, Rockabilly, Western Swing
Activities: Music festival, Dance
This year, the reunion features the fabulous Melody Masters: Buth Kurth, Rick McCrae, Tom Prisk, Kenny fraizer, and George Harrison.

The Grind Extreme Water Sports & Music Festival
April 6
Roadway Productions, LLC
French Smith
12305 Twin Creek Drive; Manchaca, TX 78652-3719
(512) 441-9015; Fax (512) 441-9016
Music: Rock
This event will feature professional wake boarders competing in a rail jam for major awards, allong with live music by over 6 alternative rock bands, great food, graphite artist exhibits, custom boat accessories by numerous vendors, wakeboard excessories, wakeboard instructional sessions, a showcase of the latest wake board boats, and much more. Get ready for another great boating season and enjoy some high flying shows and great music.

Texas Music History Unplugged
April 8
LBJ Student Center Ballroom; San Marcos, TX
The Center for Texas Music History
Deirdre Lannon
History Department, 601 University Drive; San Marcos, TX 78666
(512) 245-2185; (512) 245-3749
Music: Blues, Cajun, Country, Folk/Acoustic, R&B, Rockabilly, Tejano
Activities: Music festival, Question and Answer
The Center for Texas Music History presents the 7th Annual Texas Music History Unplugged concert, featuring Marcia Ball, Ruben Ramos, Barbara Lynn, and other stars of Texas Music. Doors open at 7:30 PM, and the concert starts at 8:00 PM. Admission is free, and seating is limited to the first arrivals. Texas Music History Unplugged is an ongoing lecture series sponsored by the Center, the Department of History, and several other campus organizations. Prominent Texas musicians share the stage in an intimate semi-circle. They perform together and discuss how Texas music reflects the rich history and tremendous cultural diversity of the American Southwest. This series combines education and entertainment so that students, faculty, staff and the general public can better understand and appreciate the ethnic and cultural complexity of our society. Questions from students are incorporated into the show, ensuring that a wide range of topics are covered. Since the very first Unplugged in 2000, the concerts have grown in popularity and have become one of the cornerstones of the many different projects of the Center for Texas Music History. Past performers have included Ray Benson, Flaco Jimenez, Marcia Ball, Joe Ely, Ruthie Foster, John Arthur Martinez, Chris Wall and the Sisters Morales.

Texas Hill Country Wine & Food Festival
April 10-13
Texas Hill Country Wine & Food
Dawn Orsak
12731 Research Blvd., No. 112-A; Austin, TX 78759-4387
(512) 249-6300; Fax (512) 249-6320
Music: Bluegrass, Cajun, Children's, Country, Cowboy, Folk/Acoustic, Jazz, Tejano
A nonprofit organization that increases awareness of Texas wines and food through exposure and education. Several events during the annual Festival feature live Texas music emphasizing the regionality and uniqueness of Central Texas and the state as whole.

Ram Jam
April 11-12
Saustex Media
Jeff Smith
P.O. Box 691356; San Antonio, TX 78269-1356
(210) 745-1418; (210) 223-2830
Music: Punk, Rock
At the 3rd annual Ram Jam, we remember, honor and attempt to conjure up the spirit of the man Ram Ayala and the place we loved so much, Tacoland. Here's the line-up: Friday - The Sons Of Hercules, Hickoids, Los # 3 Dinners, The Bug Nasties, The Sanguinistas and Brian Parrish of the Casbah Radio Show will spinning all night. Saturday - Big Drag, Snowbyrd, The Infidels, Mescaleros, S.A. Creeper and The Velcro Undergound will be DJ'ing this half of the shindig.

Galveston County Fair and Rodeo
April 11-19
Jack Brooks Park; No. 10 Jack Brooks Park, Highway 6, Hitchcock, TX
Galveston County Fair and Rodeo, Inc.
Melondy Bender
P.O. Box 889; Sante Fe, TX 77510
(409) 986-6010; Fax (409) 986-6490
Music: Children's, Christian, Country, Rock
Activities: County fair, Rodeo, Singing contests
The Galveston County Fair and Rodeo festivities include a carnival with midway, live music, livestock shows, auction, rodeo events, a parade, trail ride, talent show, jackpot bullriding, jackpot barrel racing, petting zoo, pony rides, and an arts and crafts show. Musical entertainment includes Still Standin', Randy Rogers Band, Kyle Hunt Band, Jason Bolland & the Stragglers, Cirby, Manchaca, Bootleg-N-Branded, Scotty and the Soultones and Hamilton Loomis.

Poteet Strawberry Festival
April 11-13
Poteet Strawberry Festival Grounds; Texas Highway 16 (20 minutes south of San Antonio)
Poteet Strawberry Festival Association
Nita Harvey
P.O. Box 227; Poteet, TX 78065
(830) 742-8144; (830) 276-3323; Fax (830) 742-3608
Music: Cajun, Children's, Christian, Country, Dance, Tejano
Activities: Fiddling contests, Rodeo
The annual Poteet Strawberry Festival is recognized as one of the oldest and most popular events in the state. The Annual Poteet Strawberry Festival stages 12 areas of continuous family entertainment, featuring outdoor concerts with nationally known country/western and Tejano stars in addition to two nightly dances. The famous strawberry judging and auction, various contests, special children's entertainment, rodeo performances, and quality exhibits are only some of the many events featured during the festival.

Burnet Bluebonnet Festival
April 11, 12, 13
Town Square; Burnet
Bluebonnet Festival Committee / Burnet Chamber of Commerce
Dorothy James
229 South Pierce; Burnet, TX 78611
(512) 756-4297; (512) 756-4297; Fax (512) 756-2548
Music: Cajun, Christian, Country, Pop, Regional Mexican, Rock, Tejano
Activities: Street dance
The Burnet Bluebonnet Festival held the 2nd weekend in April each year is a fun filled event for the whole family. There are activities for all ages to enjoy including a carnival, 5K/10K Run, bicycle decorating contest, the Highland Lakes Air Show, destruction derby and a huge parade. A variety of live music will fill the air while over 150 arts and crafts booths and food vendors fill the square. Friday evening on the square, local favorites take the stage. On Saturday a live band kicks things off with a full day of music and entertainment. Saturday evening there's a street dance planned for all to enjoy. Sunday morning begins with gospel music and the afternoon will take on a Tejano flare. This year's events also include weiner dog races, a free street dance and a pet parade.

Cowhill Chili Fest & BBQ Cook-Off
April 12
Downtown Commerce; Downtown Square
City of Commerce
Jeanie Putnam
1119 Alamo Street; Commerce, TX 75428
(903) 886-1125; Fax (903) 886-8929
Music: Blues, Country, Rock
Activities: Awards show, Music festival, Street dance, Cook-Off
The 5th Annual Cowhill Chili Fest & BBQ Cook-Off features live music beginning at 10:00 a.m. and throughout the evening. Chili will be served to the public starting at 11:00 a.m. with the purchase of a wrist band. The Cook-Off consists of contests pertaining to Chili, BBQ, Salsa, Stew, BBQ Sauce, and Pinto Beans. There will be other family activities such as: Bouncy Houses, Bungee Bull, Pony Rides, Cake Walk and more throughout the day.

Outlaw Music Festival • Bay Area Rally • Yuri's Night
April 12
Space Center Houston; 1601 Nasa Road 1, Houston, TX 77058
Bay Area Houston Convention and Visitors Bureau
P.O. Box 1139; League City, TX 77574
(888) 725-5989
Music: Country, Rock
Activities: Music festival
The Bay Area Rally is pleased to announce the 1st Annual Outlaw Music Festival on April 12, 2008. The festival will be held in conjunction with the Bay Area Rally and Yuri's Night. Performances will begin at Noon and continue until 10 p.m.. Boeing is the proud sponsor of Yuri's Night and presents Grammy nominated Texas Legend Billy Joe Shaver. Other performers include Jackson Taylor, Back Porch Mary, No Justice, and Sheila Marshall.

KTRU's Outdoor Show
April 13
Rice University, IM Field 3 & 4
Rice University
P.O. Box 1892; Houston, TX 77251-1892
(888) 725-5989
Music: R&B, Rock
Activities: Music festival
The 17th Annuel KTRU Outdoor Show will be Sunday, April 13, 2008, from Noon - 9 p.m., at Rice University in Intrumural Fields 3 & 4, near the business school. it is FREE and open to the public. It is a huge event, a free all day festival, with food and St. Arnold beer and root beer and bunnies and music and free music given away and a KTRU record sale and meet the DJs! The lineup this year include Parts & Labor, Rachel Buchman, Flying Balalaika Brothers, Social Insects, :::KAI/ROS:::, Balaclavas, Nosaprise, Dead PA..

Main Street Fort Worth Arts Festival
April 17-20
Main Street; Main Street
Downtown Fort Worth, Inc.
John C. Downie, CFEE
777 Taylor Street, Suite 100; Fort Worth, TX 76102
(817) 336-2787; Fax (817) 335-3113
Music: Bluegrass, Blues, Children's, Country, Folk/Acoustic, Jazz, Latin Pop, R&B, Rock, Tejano
Activities: Music festival
MAIN ST. Fort Worth Arts Festival in downtown Fort Worth comes alive during this four-day celebration of the visual and performing arts. Outstanding musical and artistic talents of every variety are showcased on historic, red-bricked Main Street. More than 450,000 people attend each year to hear more than 120 live performances. Two-hundred juried artists are spaced along a 10 city-block area with a national fine arts exhibition and competition, international foods and special events.

Old Settlers Music Festival
April 17-20
Salt Lick BBQ Pavilion and Camp Ben McCulloch in Austin, TX; Farm Road 1826, 11 miles south of Highway 290 West
Old Settlers' Bluegrass Festival, Inc.
Jean K Spivey
P.O. Box 28187; Austin, TX 78755-8187
(512) 346-0999 ext. 3#; (512) 383-1748; Fax (512) 383-1748
Music: Bluegrass, Blues, Children's, Christian, Folk/Acoustic, Jazz
Activities: Music festival, Kids Talent contest
Old Settler's Music Festival is Central Texas' signature music event featuring Grammy winning Americana music, 30 bands on 3 stages, arts and crafts, camping, food concessions and libations. Family-friendly, Old Settler's encourages children and adults to appreciate and preserve American roots music by providing workshops, displays and activities. Additional children's activities include a new talent competition, armadillo races, petting zoo, slide, moonwalk, stilt-walking, doll-making, face painting and more. Camp Ben McCulloch is an enormous campground perfect for RV (electrical and water) or primitive camping. Bring an instrument, a lawn chair, a tent, sunglasses and enjoy the most tantalizing and exciting music the planet has to offer. Show times vary each day. Ticket info, stage schedules up and lots more info at www.oldsettlersmusicfest.org.

Texas Forest Country Western Swing Music Festival
April 17-19
Crockett Civic Center; 1100 Edminson Drive, Crockett TX 75835
Crockett Area Chamber of Commerce
Cyndy Keys
P.O. Box 307; Crockett, TX 75835
(936) 544-2359; Fax (936) 544-4355
Music: Cowboy, Western Swing
The Texas Forest Country Western Swing Music Festival in Crockett, Texas will offer you some of the best Western Swing Music available. Entertainers expected are Clyde Brewer and the River Road Boys, Jodie Nix, Bobby Flores, Darrell McCall, and several more. The event is held indoors at the Crockett Civic Center for the comfort and enjoyment of those attending. There will be room for dancing, which is always a delight when listening to the music called "western swing." This is not a competition event - it is for the pure enjoyment of those attending. There is RV and camping available in the area for those wishing to do so. The facility is handicap assessable but there are not accommodations for the hearing impaired. For more information contact the Chamber of Commerce at (936) 544-2359 or email us at ckeys@crockettareachamber.org or chamber@crockettareachamber.org or visit or website at www.crockettareachamber.com. Please join us for the yearly event..

RioFest
April 18-20
Casa de Amistad and Fair Park; 1204 Fair Park
Riofest, Inc./Harlingen Arts Council
Kathy Preddy, Executive Director
P.O. Box 531105; Harlingen, TX 78553-1105
(956) 425-2705; (800) 746-3378; Fax (956) 440-0476
Music: Country, Regional Mexican, Tejano
Activities: Awards show, Music festival, Singing contests
RioFest is an international festival of the arts offering the community of Harlingen and the lower Rio Grande Valley an opportunity for entertainment, cultural enrichment and educational exposure to fine arts, music, drama and the visual arts. RioFest endeavors to stimulate community awareness of the diverse cultural heritages and traditions of those who have settled and developed this community. RioFest desires to reflect the progressive attitudes and cultural achievements in this area.

Fiesta San Antonio
April 18-27
San Antonio, TX; San Antonio, TX
Fiesta San Antonio Commission
Charles Blische, Executive Director
2611 Broadway Street; San Antonio, TX 78215-1022
(210) 227-5191; (877) 723-4378; Fax (210) 227-1139
Music: Blues, Cajun, Children's, Classical, Country, Folk/Acoustic, Jazz, Latin Pop, Polka, R&B, Regional Mexican, Rock, Tejano
Activities: Music festival, Rodeo, Mariachi Festival , Jazz Festival, Marching Band Festival, Athletic Events, Art Exhibitions, Parades, art exhibits, etc
Fiesta San Antonio is a 10-day extravaganza that celebrates the city's history and cultural diversity. More than 90 nonprofit groups and military organizations stage 100 events. Some 3.5 million people enjoy parades, dances, music festivals, art exhibits, athletic events, carnival rides and patriotic ceremonies. Music permeates Fiesta. From marching bands to mariachis, from jazz to conjunto, from rock �n� roll to German oompah-pah, there�s something to please every ear. The Alamo, shrine of Texas independence, is the heart of Fiesta. But celebrations also take place at churches, colleges, museums, historic sites and the world-famous River Walk. Admission is free at many Fiesta events and very affordable at most others. Proceeds from these activities return to the community, often in the form of scholarship funds for area students.

Greater Southwest Guitar Shows • The Dallas International Guitar Festival
April 18-20
Dallas Market Hall; 2100 Stemmons Freeway, Dallas
GSWGS, Inc.
Mark Pollock, Producer
3622 Shoreside Drive; Garland, TX 75043-1968
(972) 240-2206; (972) 260-4201; Fax (972) 303-4909
Music: Bluegrass, Blues, Christian, Country, Pop, R&B, Rock, Rockabilly
Activities: Trade show/convention
The Annual Dallas Guitar Show and MusicFest is the world's largest and oldest guitar show, blending musicians, fans, collectors and celebrities together into one musical extravaganza. Buy, sell, trade or just browse amongst the thousand upon thousands of new and vintage guitars, basses, amps, banjos, mandolins, straps and strings, effects pedals, keyboards, music memorabilia and more. Rub elbows with guitar legends and up-and-coming artists. Listen to the best local and regional bands at MusicFest's indoor and outdoor stages. This Show of Shows will feature 400+ booths, exhibits and clinics, and live concert performances from 30+ bands on two stages. More than 13,000 are expected to attend, with over $1 million of instruments and memorabilia trading hands. New this year -- Drumworld -- with 16,000 sq. ft of vintage, new and used drums, accessories, clinics and more.

Texas State Gospel Singing Convention
April 18-20
Stephenville High School Cafeteria; 2650 West Overhill
Texas State Gospel Singing Association
Monica Warden
P.O. Box 138; Stephenville, TX 76401
(254) 965-3078
Music: Christian, Southern Gospel
Activities: Music festival
The Texas State Gospel Singing Convention takes place the third weekend in April each year. Class and specialty singing is scheduled for Friday; congregational class singing on Saturday, 10:00am-4:00 p.m. Gospel singers from all over Texas and the Southeast US have gathered in Stephenville for more than 60 years for this event. Admission to each session is free! Learn to sing by shaped notes. Great fun for the entire family. Come and bring your children to participate in this great and educational event. Hear hundreds of new songs written this last year, along with their songwriters and music publishers.

Dayton Old Tyme Days
April 18, 19, 20
Downtown; Dayton
Dayton Ole Tyme Days Festival Committee
Kleve Kirby
P. O. Box 456; Dayton, TX 77535-0008
(936) 258-2642; (936) 257-2393
Music: Bluegrass, Cajun, Country, Folk/Acoustic, Jazz
Activities: Street dance, BBQ cook-off, classic car show, TX4x4 competition
You are invited to the 16th annual Dayton Old Tyme Days, in the downtown aread of Dayton, Texas. Activities include a carnival, pony rides, train rides, a petting zoo, face painting, BBQ cookoff, junior chili cookoff championship, "Family Night"(Friday), street dance/concert(Saturday), local entertainment, food, arts & crafts galore! Nightly Days Festival is held annually to promote Dayton, Texas and to raise money for local youth scholarships. The Festival has grown considerably in past years. Admission is free. A free hourly shuttle service is available to and from the festival Saturday and Sunday, from both Dayton High School and Highway 321 and Woodrow Wilson Junior High School on Highway 146. Make plans to attend Dayton Ole Tyme Days Festival, April 18-20, 2008 for a weekend full of safe, fun and exciting activities. All proceeds made from the festival go to benefit the Dayton Ole Tyme Days Youth Scholarship Fund.

Burton Cotton Gin Festival
April 18, 19, 20
Main Street; 307 North Main
Burton Cotton Gin and Museum, Inc.
Wanda Whitener
P.O. Box 98; Burton, TX 77835
(979) 289-3378; (979) 289-3378; Fax (979) 289-5210
Music: Bluegrass, Cajun, Children's, Christian, Country, Cowboy, Folk/Acoustic, Polka
Activities: Cowboy poetry, Music festival, Street dance
This event started in April 1990 and has continued over the years to remain a small family oriented festival. The Burton Farmers Gin was built in 1914 and closed in 1974. We also have a parade on Saturday morning that includes our mule team and antique tractors and cars. We have stationery entertainment before the parade to entertain all of the parade attendees. We have entertainment on Friday evening, all day Saturday and Saturday evening, all day Sunday. The theme of daytime is German/Chek/Country/Cajun. Night time is Rock and Roll/Country and usually well known in the county and surrounding counties. We use children's entertainment during the day and also Folklife Interpretation. We have an average for the weekend attendance of 7,000 people.

Mauriceville Crawfish Festival
April 18-20
Mauriceville Fairgrounds; Highway 62
Mauriceville Crawfish Festival Committee
Sybil Jenkins
P.O. Box 683; Mauriceville, TX 77626
(409) 745-1202; (409) 745-1357
Music: Bluegrass, Cajun, Country
Activities: County fair, Singing contests, Street dance
The Mauriceville Crawfish Festival is an annual event featuring a parade on Saturday, a carnival, arts and crafts booths, live entertainment and a crawfish eating contest. The event begins at 5 p.m. on Friday and lasts until midnight Saturday. The parade begins at 9 p.m. and gates open at 10 a.m. and close at midnight. On Sunday, the festival opens at 12 noon and closed at 5 p.m.

Texas Crawfish and Music Festival
April 18-20, 25-27
Preservation Park, Old Town Spring; one mile east of I-45N on Spring Cypress Road
Old Town Spring Preservation League
Seth Sanders
123-F Midway; Houston, TX 77373
(281) 353-9310; (800) 653-8696; Fax (281) 288-6674
Music: Big Band, Blues, Cajun, Country, Cowboy, Pop, R&B, Rock, Rockabilly
Activities: Music festival, Street Festival, Carnival, Talent Shows, Arts and Crafts, Dance Groups
The Texas Crawfish & Music Festival is a fun family atmosphere with live entertainment, carnival, arts & craft vendors, a variety of authentic Cajun dishes and pounds upon pounds of crawfish. Enjoy the the Texas Crawfish and Music Friday, April 18 through Sunday, April 20, 2008 and Friday, April 25 through Sunday, April 27, 2008. 6 p.m. to 12 a.m. every Friday, 12 p.m. to 12 a.m. every Saturday and 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. every Sunday.

Fiesta Oyster Bake
April 18-19
Campus of St. Mary's University; One Camino Santa Maria San Antonio
St. Mary's University Alumni Association
Steve Rosenauer
One Camino Santa Maria; San Antonio, TX 78228
(210) 436-3324; Fax (210) 431-6864
Music: Big Band, Blues, Children's, Country, Dance, Jazz, Latin Pop, Pop, R&B, Reggae, Regional Mexican, Rock, Rockabilly, Tejano, World Beat
Activities: Music festival, Carnival, Fireworks
The Fiesta Oyster Bake, sponsored by the St. Mary's University Alumni Association, funds student scholarships and university and alumni programs. The event features more than 100,000 oysters served baked, raw and fried plus 70+ food and beverage booths that dish up savory favorites and quench every thirst. Enjoy continuous Country/Americana, Oldies, Jazz, Contemporary and Classic Rock 'n' Roll, Latin/Tejano, and Children's musical entertainment. Also, enjoy the Fireworks Spectacular on Friday evening. Join more than 7,000 volunteers and 60,000 patrons at this exciting event, now in its 91st year, at one of San Antonio's most popular Fiesta events. For more information, check out our mascot, Shuckie's, web site at www.oysterbake.com!

Houston's 44th Annual Scottish Festival Spectacular 2
April 18
Toyota Center; 1510 Polk, Houston
St. Thomas' Episcopal School Scottish Arts Department`
Lyric Todkill / Doug MacRae
4900 Jackwood; Houston , TX 77096
(713) 666-3111; Fax (713) 668-3887
Music: Folk/Acoustic, Scottish, Pipe Band
Activities: Music festival, Highland Dancers
44th Annual Scottish Festival Spectacular with "More Than 300 Pipers, Drummers, and Dancers." Last years festival included headlining performances by the 5-Time and 2006 World Champion Pipe Band of St. Thomas'. Also performing will be the 2006 US and North American Champion Highland Dancer who was the 4th Place Winner at the 2006 World Highland Dancing Championships. This Exclusive One-Night Engagement, reminiscent of the famous Edinburgh Tattoo, will provide a spectacular array of originally choreographed music and dance numbers including traditional pipe band favorites as well as contemporary classics with a Scottish twist.

Stingaree Music Festival 2
April 18-20
Bolivar Peninsula; Crystal Beach
Crystal Beach, TX 77650
Music: Country, Cowboy, Folk/Acoustic
Activities: Music festival, Rodeo
The festival features a combination of known national artists and the best new up and coming artists. Last year there were 21 performers on three different stages over the course of the weekend. Expect more of the same this year. Performers thisyear include Terry Allen, Bonnie Bishop, and Hayes Carll.

1st Annual Bluegrass Music Festival & Grand Jam
April 18-20
Fayetteville's Courthouse Square; State Hwy. 159 in Fayetteville
City of Fayetteville - Texas Pickin' Park
Dorothy Stall
P.O. Box 3; Fayetteville, TX 78940
(979) 378-2753; Fax (979) 378-2037
Music: Bluegrass, Christian, Country, Folk/Acoustic
Activities: Concert season, Music festival
The Bluegrass Music Festival and Grand Jam offers a family-fun atmosphere with live entertainment at Fayetteville's Texas Pickin' Park. "Bring your folding chair" and listen to the sounds of some great Texas bluegrass artists such as No Strings Attached, Blue River Band, Blue Creek Gospel Band and the Lonestar Bluegrass Band, voted Best Bluegrass Band by Houston Press three years in a row. The weekend-long event will also feature a Banjo Workshop, Mandolin Workshop, directed slow jams by Jerry Scribner and the chance to win a $5,000 custom guitar. For full details, see our website at www.texaspickinpark.com.

Houston International Festival
April 19-20, 26-27
Downtown Houston
Houston Festival Foundation
Lane, Mitch
4203 Montrose Blvd., Suite 230; Houston, TX 77006-5466
(713) 654-8808; Fax (713) 654-1719
Music: Blues, Cajun, Children's, Christian, Classical, Country, Folk/Acoustic, Jazz, Pop, R&B, Reggae, Rock, Rockabilly, Tejano, World Beat, Celtic
Activities: Music festival, Street dance
The Houston International Festival is the official city celebration of the arts, showcasing local, national, and international performing artists. Outdoor zones spotlight more than 1500 performers featuring a mix of jazz, country, blues, Cajun/zydeco, Latin, Gospel, rock, world and popular music. In addition, visitors are treated to a variety of dance, theatre, visual arts exhibitions, the nationally recognized Juried Arts and Crafts exposition, open-air markets, international foods and special children's activities and performances. The 2008 iFest's theme will be Africa.

Terrell Heritage Jubilee
April 19
Ben Gill Park; Highway 80
Terrell Chamber of Commerce
Sara Kegerreis
P.O. Box 97; Terrell, TX 75160
(972) 563-5703; Fax (972) 563-2363
Music: Country
Activities: Fiddling contests, Rodeo
Heritage Jubilee, held the third weekend in April at Ben Gill Park, is a fun-filled celebration for the whole family. Events include a BBQ cook-off, museum tours, arts & crafts exhibition, carnival, live music, a quilt show, an auto show, and other special attractions. The celebration traces its origins to a livestock show first held in 1981. In subsequent years the show added entertainment, games, contests, food. The Heritage Trail Tour of Homes joined the spring festival in 1983. Heritage Jubilee retains the western flavor of the original livestock show. Entertainment includes trick ropers, gun fighters, horses, and a cowboy poet. Terrell Chamber of Commerce Convention & Visitors Bureau volunteers and staff. work with the Christian Academy, Poetry 4-H, Terrell Heritage Society, and the City of Terrell, to put together a full weekend of activities and entertainment. More than 12,000 are expected to attend the event. Admission to the Heritage Jubilee is free..There is an admission charge for the Carnival rides and games, Tour of Homes, and Rodeo.

East Texas Gusher Days
April 19
Downtown Gladewater; Located on U.S. Highway 80 and State Highway 271
Gladewater Chamber of Commerce
Leon Watson
P.O. Box 1409; Gladewater, TX 75647
(903) 845-5501; (903) 845-5501; Fax (903) 845-6326
Music: Country
Activities: Street dance
Enjoy a variety of events revolving around the nostalgia of the Oil Boom Days! Includes a Kick-Off luncheon, Heritage Parade, Bass Tournament, Chili Cook-Off, Fun Activities, Antique Car Show, Brownie Bowl Lick-Off, live musical entertainment, street dance, arts & crafts, food concessions and commercial area.

Kirbyville Magnolia Festival
April 16-19
Magnolia Park Grounds; Hwy 96 at Hebo Street
Magnolia Festival / Directors
Vondol Bailey
P.O. Box 687; Kirbyville, TX 75956
(409) 423-6500
Music: Bluegrass, Christian, Country, Rock
Activities: County fair, Singing contests
The annual Kirbyville Magnolia Festival is held the third weekend in April at the Magnolia Park on US Highway 96 at Hebo Street. The Festival is sponsored by the Magnolia Festival Committee. All proceeds are used for community development. The event begins with the opening of the carnival on the Wednesday night prior to the third weekend. The carnival runs Wednesday through Saturday, with special arm band nights and rides to suit every age group. Events for Friday and Saturday include arts and crafts, novelty and food vendors; a Saturday morning parade at 10:00 a.m.; a pet show at 1:00 p.m.; an art show and exhibit, sponsored by the Kirbyville Heritage Society; door prizes and silent auction; and continual entertainment under the Pavilion.

Depot Day 2
April 19
Old Depot; Buddy Riley Blvd.
Magnolia Historical Society
Celeste Graves
P. O. Box 186; Magnolia, TX 77353-0399
(281) 356-8514; (281) 356-1488; Fax (281) 356-2552
Music: Blues, Country, Rock
Depot Day is an all-day festival with live entertainment provided by the Bobby Croft Show, a carnival, food, and arts and crafts booths.

Erinshire at the Gap Music Festival
April 19
Buffalo Gap Historic Village; Buffalo Gap
Erinshire Gardens
Amy Smith
435 College Drive; Abilene, TX 79601
(325) 572-3365; (325) 437-3133
Music: Folk/Acoustic
Activities: Music festival
The Texas Frontier Heritage & Cultural Center is pleased to announce the 5th Annual Erinshire at the Gap Music Festival April 19, 2008 at the Buffalo Gap Historic Village. The Buffalo Gap Historic Village is an award winning living history museum that offers more than a dozen turn of the century buildings and wonderful grounds for visitors to enjoy. The Historic Village is the perfect home for Erinshire at the Gap, as the increase in size and addition of some very unique indoor venues means more people can enjoy the great music of Erinshire. A lot of people ask "What is Erinshire?" Quite simply it is a way of thinking; a way of sharing your life with friends and family. Erinshireat the Gap is a music festival that promotes dozens of Texas musicians from all over the state and from all types of music genres. Erinshire is where friends and families come together to share good times and great music under the big oak trees of Buffalo Gap. Come out and experience Erinshire at the Gap Music Festival. This project is supported by a grant from the Abilene Cultural Affairs Council, the City of Abilene, the Texas Commission on the Arts, and the Abilene Regional Airport.

Austin Reggae Fest
April 19-20
Auditorium Shores; Austin
Capital Area Food Bank
Pat Costigan
2200 FM 2001; Buda, TX 78610
(512) 312-0435; (512) 312-0435
Music: Reggae, World Beat
Activities: Music festival
The Austin Reggae Festival is presented by the Capital Area Food Bank. On April 19 & 20, 2008, come to Auditorium Shores for top-quality world music, arts & crafts, ethnic food, and premium people watching. Better still, your presence at the event benefits hungry families in the Central Texas area.

Gumbo Cookoff - Cajun Fesitval
April 19
Anhalt Hall; Anhalt Road at Highway 46
The Cajun French Music Association of Louisiana, San Antonio Chapter
David Davenport
1080 Madeline; New Braunfels, TX 78132-4723
(830) 609-3038; (210) 240-2456; Fax (830) 609-0740
Music: Cajun
Activities: Music festival, Gumbo Cook-Off
The Cajun French Music Association of Louisiana San Antonio Chapter will sponsor a Cajun Music and Food Festival featuring three cajun bands 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Doors open: 10 a.m. Directions from San Antonio: Highway 281 North to Highway 46, turn left, go 4.1 miles to Anhalt Road, turn right, go straight to fork, veer left to hall. Also look forward to: Renovated 1800's-style farmer's social hall with large wooden dance floor. Plenty of room inside and out. Cajun and Non-Cajun Food, Soda, Beer, Setups -- Do not bring beer or wine. Souvenirs will be available in the "Country Store."

Crawfish Festival
April 19
Cypress Creek Cafe, Wimberley Square; 320 Wimberley Square
Cypress Creek Cafe
Bruce Calkins
P. O. Box 76; Wimberley, TX 78676
(512) 847-2515; (512) 847-2515; Fax (512) 847-5200
Music: Blues, Cajun, Rockabilly
Activities: Music festival
For over two decades "dem Corkins boys done throw some fais do do yeh"! Since 1982, cousin Eric has brought as many fresh Louisiana crawfish that he can haul over...boiled them mudbugs to perfection, and caused many a big smile as the "true" crawdad connoisseurs flock in to indulge themselves. He'll throw some gulf shrimp in also, just for those that are a bit squeamish. One can also find several types of gumbo, etouffe, red beans & rice with andouille sausage, hot dogs (for the kids), and Key lime pie or bread pudding. Beverages include cold beer, sodas, wine, and bottled water. Even though food and beverage is a big part of the party, the live music is the other main attraction of this festive annual event. For the last 10 years, the amazing Wayne Toups has been the feature entertainer, each year culminating what is arguably the most exciting festival day of the year in the Wimberley area. Typically, the festival takes place on the third Saturday in April...just check the calendar.

International DFW FiestaLatinoamericana
April 19
Amphitheater at Oak Point Park; 1520 K Avenue, Plano, TX
DFW International Community Alliance
Melissa Ditch
12800 Hillcrest Road, Suite A211; Dallas, TX. 75230
(972) 661-2764
Music: Folk/Acoustic, Regional Mexican, World Beat
A multimedia theatrical presentation with live music by six Latino folkloric ensembles, theater, film and a traditional dance. Performers include: Ollin Tonaltzin, Daniel de C�rdoba Bailes Españoles, Ayubu Kamau Kings and Queens, Cantares, Trio Folklorico Argentino, Jose Aponte Ensemble, Danzas Folkloricas de Argentina. 7:00-10:00 pm.

Larry Joe Taylor's Texas Music Festival and Chili Cookoff
April 22-26
Stephenville, TX; Melody Mountain Ranch
LJT Office
Larry Joe Taylor
4217 County Road 423; Stephenville, TX 76401
(254) 968-8505; (254) 968-8505; Fax (254) 968-8800
Music: Country, Folk/Acoustic, Reggae, Rock, Rockabilly
Activities: Music festival
The Larry Joe Taylor Texas Music Festival and Chili Cookoff will start on Tuesday April 17 with a special acoustic show sponsored by Palo Duro Records. On Wednesday, Jerry Jeff Walker will be the special guest. Artists that have been announced to appear the rest of the week include: The Randy Rogers Band, Jason Boland, Mike McClure, Stoney LaRue, Reckless Kelly, No Justice, Tommy Alverson, Ed Burleson, Bonnie Bishop, Susan Gibson, Jason Eady, Kyle Bennett Band, Bart Crow, Ray Wylie Hubbard, Micky and The Motorcars, Brandon Rhyder and others. Five Day tickets are already sold out. There are 4 day tickets remaining at press time. For more information go to: www.larryjoetaylor.com. Larry Joe Taylor's Texas Music Festival and Chili Cookoff features entertainment second to none with seasoned Texas music performers and outstanding new singer/songwriters. You will hear original music from every performer on stage and discover great songwriters and musicians around the campfires each night. This is a CASI sanctioned cook-off with great food, fun and original country music.

Buccaneer Days
April 23-May 4
American Bank Center-Corpus Christi Bayfront; 402 South Shoreline
Buccaneer Commission
Jane Ritter
P.O. Box 30404; Corpus Christi, TX 78463-0404
(361) 882-3242; (361) 884-8331; Fax (361) 882-5735
Music: Cajun, Christian, Country, Cowboy, Tejano
Activities: Music festival, Rodeo
Buccaneer Days brings back memories of Corpus Christi's past as a hideaway for pirates. It features 12 days of fun and festivities such as PRCA Rodeo, carnival, parades, fireworks, music festival, Folklorico competition, BBQ Challenge, Senior Dance, Junior Talent Showcase, and numerous athletic and sporting events.

Texas State Championship Fiddlers Frolic
April 24-27
Knights of Columbus Hall P.O. Box 46, 77964;; Highway 77 South
Texas State Championship Fiddlers' Frolics Inc.
Frank Zaruba, (361) 798-3953
P.O. Box A; Hallettsville, TX 77964
(361) 798-2311
Music: Bluegrass, Cajun, Country
Activities: Fiddling contests, Music festival, Songwriting contests, BBQ Cookoff
The Texas State Championship Fiddlers Frolic features more than 100 contestants competing in age divisions for the $1,500 top prize and state championship trophy. The event's lineup is as follows: jam session for early arrivals on Thursday; Cajun and Bluegrass Night on Friday with Cajun bands and Cajun food; a dance with Nashville stars, contests, and barbecue, sausage, and chili cookoffs on Saturday; and on Sunday, induction of worthy fiddlers to the Hall of Fame, fun run, cookoffs, and the State Championship Fiddler contest finals. Added for the year 2000, The Texas State Championship Fiddlers Frolic will include an Out of State Division with $2,500 in prizes, a Guitar division with $1,000 in prizes; Freshman Fiddling Division with a $2,000 violin as first prize plus $500 for other entries, $5000 in prizes for the top twenty in Championship Texas Division, and a Senior Division for fiddlers over 65 years of age.

Wildflower Trails of Texas 2
April 24-27
Courthouse Square; Linden
Wildflower Trails of Texas
Rebecca Bowden Narramore
370 CR 1897; Linden, TX 75563
(903) 756-8944; (903) 756-9934; Fax (903) 756-7842
Music: Bluegrass, Christian, Country, Cowboy, Rock, Texas Music
Activities: Awards show, Rodeo, Arts & Crafts, Art Show, Wildflower Education, Quilt Show, Children's Books Author, 5k Run
Wildflower Trails is a celebration at the start of the wildflower blooming season. The Wildflower Trail consists of Highways 49, 155, and 11 between Avinger, Linden, and Hughes Springs. There are literally thousands of different varieties of wildflowers naturally occurring in the area. Although blooming of wildflowers is unpredictable, the last full weekend in April has proven to be one of the most beautiful. Wildflower Trails of Texas, is scheduled for April 24-27 in Linden, Hughes Springs, and Avinger. Texas musicians will be featured throughout the festival, along with church and gospel groups to celebrate with music and the beauty of Spring in east Texas.

Germanfest
April 25-27
City Park; Highway 82 and Maple Street
Muenster Chamber of Commerce
Margie Starke
P.O. Box 714; Muenster, TX 76252
(940) 759-2227; (800) 942-8037; Fax (940) 759-2228
Music: Children's, Christian, Country, Jazz, Polka, Rock
Activities: Bicycle rally, Fun Run, BBQ cook off
Muenster was founded in 1889 by people of German heritage and Catholic faith. This unique German community located in North Texas, of approximately 1,500, is a close-knit family in both kinship and kindred spirit. This family, of common heritage and faith, throws one of the biggest parties in Texas, Germanfest, the last full weekend in April. This three-day festival attracts thousands to mouthwatering German sausage, scrumptious apple strudel, hearty cheeses and homemade bread, cakes and pies. So, come to Muenster and let us be your host for food, fun and frolic. Be sure to bring a "guten apetit." Plan to participate in one or more of our exciting activities. Events include a 5k and 15k Germanfest Fun Run, a Metric Century Bicycle Rally, a Sausage and Rib Cook-Off, and other assorted competitions. There will be entertainment for the whole family, including mimes, magicians, clowns and storytellers, or the Karneval and Kinder Theater for the children, while Mom and Dad delight in dancing, music, arts and crafts, a rock-climbing wall, folk dancing, and two stages with non-stop entertainment. Located on U.S. Highway 82, 14 miles west of I-35, about 70 miles north of the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, Muenster is waiting to welcome you to their community and entertain you at Germanfest.

Denton Arts and Jazz Festival
April 25-27
Denton Civic Center Park and Facilities; 321 East McKinney
Denton Festival Foundation, Inc.
Carol Short, Director
P.O. Box 2104; Denton, TX 76202
(940) 565-0931; (940) 383-4418; Fax (940) 566-7007
Music: Big Band, Bluegrass, Blues, Cajun, Children's, Classical, Country, Folk/Acoustic, Jazz, Polka, Pop, R&B, Reggae, Rock, Tejano
Activities: Music festival, Fine Arts Show
The Denton Arts and Jazz Festival is an annual three-day arts in the park featuring the best in professional jazz and cross-cultural music on three stages. Local performers and musicians are showcased on three other stages including choral, bands, orchestras, dance, theatre, storytelling, and puppet shows. With the addition of fine artists and craftsmen, concessions, games, activities and a large Children's art tent, people have the opportunity to experience a multicultural event that is for and about the arts in a beautiful park setting. A partial listing of professional groups playing at the festival include: Delbert McClinton, The Neville Brothers, Brave Combo, Joe McBride, Rodney Booth, Fingerprints, Carlos Guedes, UNT One O'Clock Lab Band, David Carr Jr., UNT Jazz Faculty Ensemble and many more. Roving musicians include Dixieland, brass and chamber music, and bagpipes. Event hours are Friday 5 p.m.-10 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m.-10 p.m., and Sunday 11 a.m.-7 p.m.

Real. Texas. Festival.
April 25-27
Resistol Arena and environs; 1818 Rodeo Drive, Mesquite, TX, 75149
City of Mesquite and Mesquite Championship Rodeo
Daren Watkins
1515 Galloway; Mesquite, TX 75149
972-216-6499; 972-989-5396
Music: Bluegrass, Country, Folk/Acoustic, Latin Pop, Rock, Rockabilly, Tejano, Celtic
Activities: Concert season, Cowboy poetry, Music festival, Rodeo, Carnival, Car Show, BBQ Cook-off
The Real. Texas. Festival. presented by Dodge features three days of concerts by national and regional recording artists. Friday, April 25, L'Angelus, The Killdares and Chris Cagle will perform. Saturday, April 26, is a double headlining bill with Keith Anderson and Stoney LaRue. Also scheduled to appear on Saturday are Maren Morris and Mark McKinney. Sunday will be a Latino-themed concert setting featuring Ambixion, Los Reyes de Dallas, Roberto Pulido and Ruben Ramos.

Buzzfest
April 26
Woodlands Pavilion; 2005 Lake Robbins Drive, Woodlands
94.5 The Buzz
Millie Lewis
2000 West Loop South, Suite 300; Houston, TX 77027
(713) 212-8000; Fax (713) 968-1055
Music: Punk, Rock
Activities: Music festival
The Buzzfest played in Houston is a bi-annual show hosted by the radio station 94.5 The Buzz, usually in the late summer, by the radio station 102.9 "The Buzz". This year's lineup include 3 Doors Down, My Chemical Romance, Seether, Puddle of Mudd, Chevelle, Finger Eleven, Theory of a Deadman, 10 Years and more..

Folklife Festival and Frontier Jubilee
April 26-27
Cisco Junior College Campus; Cisco
Cisco Civic League
Millie Lewis
P.O. Box 411; Cisco, TX 76437
(254) 442-3827; (254) 442-2537; Fax (254) 442-2546
Music: Children's, Christian, Country, Folk/Acoustic
The Folklife Festival and Frontier Jubilee features musical entertainment, different arts and crafts demonstrations, bread making, food vendors and an antique tractor show.

King William Fair
April 26
King William Historic District
King William Association
Pamela Kenny
1032 South Alamo Street; San Antonio, TX 78210
(210) 227-8786; (210) 271-3247; Fax (210) 271-7250
Music: Ambient/New Age, Bluegrass, Blues, Cajun, Children's, Folk/Acoustic, Jazz, Polka, Pop, R&B, Reggae, Rock, Rockabilly, Tejano, World Beat
Activities: Music festival
The King William Association invites you to celebrate the History and Diversity of Texas' first historic neighborhood. The King William Fair strives to bring you a family-oriented event, favoring local non-profits and mom-and-pop outlets for food, crafts, and entertainment. Corporate booths are discouraged, but corporate sponsors are welcome.

Big Symphony Association Spring Concert
April 26
Big Spring Municipal Auditorium; 310 East Third
Big Spring Symphony Association
808 Scurry; Big Spring, TX 79720
(432) 264-7223; (432) 263-8235
Music: Christian, Folk/Acoustic
Activities: Concert season
Big Symphony Association Spring Concert presents the Best of Broadway, Encore appearance featuring Renay Joubert, Soprano with the Big Spring Symphony Chorus.

Pam Scheirman Memorial "Great Texas Songwriters" Annual Festival
April 26
Palacios; 515 Commerce Street
Festival Committee
Judy Walters
905 Fourth Street, Palacios, TX 77465
(512) 751-2465; (361) 972-1479
The Pam Scheirman Memorial Great Texas Songwriters Annual Festival is a must see. Songwriters and artist from across Texas gather by the bay in the City of Palacios, Texas, to showcase and sell their music. The festival also benefits the American Cancer Society for ovarian cancer research. There are three stages of performers, market days, food and much, much more. Come on out, bring your family, your friends and enjoy a relaxing, music filled day. We are very honored to host this annual event with the American Cancer Society for ovarian cancer research. All monies collected will be donated to the American Cancer Society. Songwriters and artists donate their time to bring you great music, a relaxing atmosphere and many memories. Musicians application deadline is March 1st.

Lynn Harrell Concerto Competition Final Round
April 26
Caruth Auditorium; Southern Methodist University
Dallas Symphony Orchestra Association
Kristin Carpenter, Education Coordinator
2301 Flora Street, No 300, Schlegel Administrative Suites; Dallas, TX 75201
(214) 871-4019; Fax (214) 953-1218
Music: Classical
Activities: Competition
The Dallas Symphony Orchestra's Lynn Harrell Concerto Competition is intended to identify and encourage the highest level of musical talent in the south central United States. The competition for Strings, Piano, Woodwinds and Brass is open to applicants between the ages of 8 to 18 (inclusive) on Febraury 25, 2008, and who are a current resident of the states of Texas, New Mexico, Oklahoma or Louisiana. The final round takes place on April 26, 2008, and the first place award is a $3,500 scholarship to be used for career advancing opportunities, and an opportunity to perform with the Dallas Symphony Orchestra. Application must include a CD of a complete concerto (all movements) in the standard orchestral repertoire including works by J.S. Bach through to present-day composers, plus a solo work of contrasting style. The solo work may be accompanied or un-accompanied. Application forms are available from the event coordinator.

Wildflower Bluegrass Festival
April 26
Texas Early Day Tractor & Engine Showgrounds; 1717 Eberhardt Road, Temple
Temple Sunrise Rotary
Eldon Tietje
304 South 22nd Street; Temple, TX 76501
(254) 770-7940; (254) 624-4919; Fax (254) 298-7011
Music: Bluegrass
Activities: Music festival
5 Bluegrass bands play on a stage in a shaded grove from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. with 2 open mic sessions. Site is the Texal Early Day Tractor & Engine Showgrounds with several well restored houses, church, dentist office from the late 1800s. Several good locations for informal jams. Food and drinks are available. A family oriented event.

Sonatina and Sonata International Youth Piano Competition
April 26-27
Omni Marina Hotel; Corpus Christi
Fryderyk Chopin Society of Texas
Nina Drath
4610 Abner Drive; Corpus Christi, TX 78411
(361) 854-6807; (361) 854-6807; Fax (361) 853-6771
Music: Classical
Activities: Awards show
The Sonatina and Sonata International Youth Piano Competition is held every other year and is open to all students in grades 1 through 12. The winners of this competition will be performing three recitals at Weill Hall, Carnegie Hall, New York City, in September 2008.

Country Fest, Rock Fest, Groove Fest and Bluegrass Fest 2
April 28-May 2 and Dec. 1-5
Tom T. Hall Production Studio; South Plains College
South Plains College
Cary Banks
1401 South College Avenue; Levelland, TX 79336
(806) 894-9611 ext. 2280; (806) 894-9611; Fax (806) 894-5274
Music: Bluegrass, Blues, Christian, Country, Cowboy, Folk/Acoustic, Jazz, Pop, R&B, Rap/Hip Hop, Rock, Rockabilly, Tejano
Activities: Music festival
Country Fest is held on Monday evening at 6 p.m., Rock Fest is held on Tuesday evening at 6 p.m., Groove Fest is held on Wednesday evening at 6 p.m., Thursday night is Thursday Night Live at 7:30 p.m., and the Bluegrass Fest is held on Friday evening at 7:30 p.m.

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