March - Texas Music Events Calendar 2012

The 2012 TMEC lists more than 500 annual events featuring live music. To update listing information for your 2012 event, please contact the Texas Music Office at music [at] governor.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] with @. The Texas Music Office replaced the @ symbol to deter Web spiders from mining this page.

Email: music [at] governor.state.tx.us | Request Info | Texas music event application

Fulton Oysterfest
March 1-4
Fulton Navigation Park; Fulton Beach Road
Fulton Volunteer Fire Department
Margaret Bowman
P.O. Box 393; Fulton, TX 78358
(361) 463-9955; (361) 463-9955; Fax (361) 729-9121
Music: Country
Activities: Music festival
Oysterfest is sponsored by the Fulton Volunteer Fire Department. Oysterfest proceeds are the major source of funding for life-saving and firefighting equipment in the community. Fulton Oysterfest includes men and women’s raw oyster eating contests, oyster shucking contest, live music, parade on Saturday, carnival, arts & crafts booths, food booths, beer garden and more. Musical entertainment this year includes: Sons of Texas, James Edwards & the Midnight Ramblers, Riptide, TK & Bandana Rose, Whiskey Bent, Purple Sage, Mike Sydow & Western Union, Kelly Kenning, Backwoods, Dottsy and Heather Myles. Sunday morning entertainment will be Bailey Family and Song of Glory. Come join us in Fulton for a fun-filled weekend!!

Somervell County PRCA Rodeo
March 1-3
Expo Center; 202 Bo Gibbs Drive
Somervell County Horse Show and Rodeo Association
Terry Starnes, Event Coordinator
P.O. Box 8; Glen Rose, TX 76043
(254) 897-4171; (254) 897-4509; Fax (254) 897-7713
Music: Country
Activities: Rodeo
Somervell County PRCA Rodeo features some of the world's greatest professional cowboys and cowgirls in competition and great country music. Some of the exciting events will be bronco riding, bull riding, calf roping, barrel racing, rodeo clowns, goat milking and of course Mutton Bustin. The Mutton Buston' will be at 7:00pm each night. Mutton Bustin' Contestants must weigh 50 pounds or less. Sign-ups at Rodeo at 6:00pm, limited to first 25 each night -- $10 entry fee. Rodeo performance 7:30 p.m. each night with top professional cowboys & cowgirls. Great Action! Thrills, Spills & Fun!

BorderFest
March 1-4
State Farm Arena; 2600 North Tenth Street, Hidalgo, Texas 78557
Borderfest Association / Chamber of Commerce
Joe Vera III, CFEE
611 East Coma; Hidalgo, TX 78557
(956) 843-2734; (956) 843-2302; Fax (956) 843-2722
Music: Big Band, Children's, Country, Folk/Acoustic, Polka, Pop, Rock, Tejano
Activities: Music festival
BorderFest is a citywide cultural celebration which includes a parade, live entertainment, food, crafts, pageants and more. It is the oldest and largest outdoor heritage music festival in the Rio Grande Valley. The theme for Borderfest 2012 is "Celebrating England" Demi Lovato will be performing at the State Farm Arena at BorderFest 2012 on March 4, as well as other entertainers soon to be announced.

Victoria Jaycee Livestock Show
March 1-5
Community Center; North Street at Ben Wilson
Victoria Jaycees
Heather Schrank
P.O. Box 2185; Victoria, TX 77902-2185
(361) 576-4300; (361) 576-4300
Music: Country
Activities: County fair, Singing contests, Dominos tournament
The Livestock Show & Auction lasts over four days and concludes with the auction on Monday. There a BBQ cookoff, a parade, a carnival, a pet show, country music concerts and Victoria Games.

Outlaws and Legends Music Fest
March 2-3
Abilene Speedway; 6825 West highway 80
Backporch Productions, LLC
Mark Powell
4318 La Hacienda Drive; Abilene, TX 79602
(325) 660-8458
Music: Country, Rock
Activities: Music festival
The biggest one-day, one-stage Texas Music event in the state. Outlaws and Legends Music Fest celebrates Texas Independence Day with the biggest Legends and Texas Music Outlaws, and benefits a local nonprofit, Disability Resources, Inc. The Friday night before features many top Texas singer/songwriters in-the-round, as Mark Powell hosts unplugged sessions. On Saturday, fans will get the rare experience of seeing more than a dozen major country music artists perform on the same stage throughout the day, and many artists performing together onstage. The event is capped off with a grand finale!

Celebrate Texas Independence Day
March 2
Austin; Congress Avenue and State Capitol, Austin, TX
Celebrate Texas, Inc.
Ed Wilkins
3005 South Lamar Blvd., Suite 109; Austin, TX 78704-4785
(512) 288-5506; Fax (512) 462-1147
Music: Country, Cowboy, Folk/Acoustic, Jazz, Tejano
The Texas Independence Day Celebration is in its 8th year and is sponsored in part by the city of Austin and Clear Channel Radio (KVET FM, AM, and KASE FM). Besides the public events, there are many other related activities and programs such as an art and essay contest for Texas High school, middle school, and elementary school students. Over $30,000 has been awarded in scholarships since the program began, according to Harvey Ford, president of the board. "We hope everyone will take the time to 'celebrate Texas' in their own way this year. We're a great place with a proud history," adds Ford.

North Texas Irish Festival
March 2-4
Fair Park, Dallas, TX; Fair Park
Southwest Celtic Music Association
Marsha Singer, Event Director
1920 Abrams Parkway, No. 382; Dallas, TX 75214
(214) 823-4370; Fax (214) 821-1856
Music: Folk/Acoustic, Celtic
Activities: Music festival, Arts & Crafts
Two and half days of Celtic music, dance and crafts. Nine stages with continuous music, Urchin Street kids area, workshops and demos, horse training demos and programs including Spirit of the Celtic Horse and authentic Celtic foods. National and international bands scheduled include Altan, Brock McGuire Band, Cathie Ryan, Dervish, Ed Miller, The Elders, Glengarry Bhoys, Jed Marum & Lonestar Stout, Tommy Sands and McPeake. Regional and Featured acts include Behan, Beyond the Pale, Blue Fiddle, Boru's Ghost, Clandestine, Don Gabbert, Drowsy Maggie, The Irish Rogues, Jiggernaut, Jigsaw, Jim Flanagan, Kelly, Killavil, Legacy, Needfire, Nine - 8ths Irish, Poor Man's Fortune, Raging Sea, The Rogues (Scottish), Sarah Dinan, Seamus Stout, Trinity River Whalers, Tullamore and Vintage Wild Flowers.

Huston-Tillotson University's Ninth Annual President's Mankind Assisting Students Kindle Educational Dreams (MASKED) Scholarship Gala
March 3
Hilton Austin Hotel; 500 East 4th Street, Austin, TX
Huston-Tillotson University
Linda Y. Jackson; Director of Communications and Marketing
900 Chicon Street; Austin, TX 78702
(512) 505-3073; (512) 505-3006; Fax (512) 505-3196
Music: Jazz, Soul/R&B
Activities: Scholarship Gala
Huston-Tillotson University’s Ninth Annual President’s Mankind Assisting Students Kindle Educational Dreams (MASKED) Gala, scheduled on Saturday, March 3, 2012 features Grammy-nominated artist Kenny Lattimore. In addition, the recipient of the inaugural community service award will be announced during the black-tie affair with its dining, dancing, and silent auction components that also spotlights HT students. A mask is required to attend the event that will be held at the Hilton Austin Hotel, 500 East 4th Street. For more information, or to make reservations, call 512.505.3073 or visit the Web site at www.htu.edu. Kenny Lattimore will perform audience favorites as well as showcase songs from his upcoming release. Whether putting a distinctive stamp on classic songs recorded by such musical icons as Donny Hathaway (“I Love You More Than You’ll Ever Know”) and George Harrison (“While My Guitar Gently Weeps”), or creating his own legacy of hits such as “Never Too Busy,” and the wedding ballad “For You,” Lattimore’s style combines passion, sensuality, intensity and subtlety, making him one of today’s premier male vocalists.

Texas Western Swing Fiddling Showcase
March 3
Bell County Expo Center; 301 West Loop 121, Exit 292, Belton, TX
Texas Western Saving Heritage Association
Roye Nell Love, Tourism Director
5290 South I-35; Belton, TX 76513
(254) 939-3551; (254) 939-8390
Music: Country, Cowboy, Swing
Activities: Music festival, Dinner and Dance, Fiddling
The Texas Western Swing Fiddling Showcase's 2012 performers include Dave Alexander with featured fiddlers and musicians: Bobby Flores and the Yellow Rose Band, Ricky Turpin, Brooke Wallace Deaton and the Austin Lake Travis ISD Fiddlers.Our mission is to promote and preserve Texas Western Swing music heritage by providing and entertaining an educational Western Swing Showcase.

Big Band Benefit Concert and Dance
March 3
MacArthur High School; 3700 N. MacArthur Blvd. Irving, TX 75062
MacArthur High School
Steve "Doc" Innis, Jazz Band Director
3700 N MacArthur Blvd; Irving, TX 75061
(817) 793-1696; (972) 600-7240
Music: Big Band, Jazz
Activities: Concert season, Dinner, Dance
Join us for our 2nd Annual Big Band Benefit with hours of live entertainment by Mac Jazz on Saturday, March 3, 2012 at MacArthur High School, Irving, TX. The evening will include dinner, dancing and our not-so-silent auction with special appearances by Jazz II and Dominant 7 bands. Many of the successes to ‘Make Mac Music’ would not be possible without people who offer support beyond the classroom and performance arenas -- so, bring your family and friends, invite your colleagues and associates for an evening of band-tastic live music, dancing and competitive bidding! This USO-themed event offers tickets in advance for $10, $15 at the door, and discount admission of $5 to all Veterans and active military personnel. All proceeds will go directly to the MacArthur High School Band program. Visit our web site for tickets, videos and more information on the Big Band Benefit at: "http://www.wix.com/macband/home#!big-band-benefit

Texas Heritage Songwriters Hall of Fame Awards Show
March 4
Moody Theater; Austin, TX
Texas Heritage Songwriters Association
209 East Sixth Street, Suite 200; Austin, TX 78701
(512) 686-3303; (512) 686-3303
Music: Country
Activities: Awards show, Music festival
The Texas Heritage Songwriters Association (TxHSA) will hold its 7th Annual Hall of Fame Awards Show on March 4th, 2012 at Austin City Limits Live at Moody Theater in downtown Austin, Texas. A limited number of tickets are available to the public, and sales begin online at 5 p.m. today. Each year TxHSA brings together exceptional Texas songwriters for an intimate performance and awards ceremony. During the ceremony, musicians who represent the spirit of Texas are inducted into the TxHSA Hall of Fame. This year's honorees include music legends Lyle Lovett, Robert Earl Keen and the late Townes Van Zandt.

Society of Texas Entertainment Professionals Confab
March 4-5
Galveston, TX
Society of Texas Entertainment Professionals
C.W. Kendall
418 South Barton Street; Grapevine, TX 76051-5344
(817) 552-9200; (903) 882-8586; Fax (972) 690-6689
Activities: Trade show/convention
You're invited to join us in Galveston Texas this year for Educational Seminars Featuring discussions on Business Solutions, Politics and more, including networking with industry peers and our incredible entertainment showcase/pub crawl.

Texas Independence Celebration
March 6
Luckenbach; 412 Luckenbach Town Loop, Fredericksburg
Luckenbach
Abbey
412 Luckenbach Town Loop; Fredericksburg, TX 78624
(830) 997-3224 Ext. 29; (888) 311-8990; Fax (830) 997-1024
Music: Country, Cowboy
Activities: Cowboy poetry, Music festival
Come out and join us for our Texas Independence Celebration! Festivities will start at noon and will include a Flag Retirement Ceremony, the reading of the Preamble to the Texas Constitution and live music all day long. Entertainment will be provided by Texas Favorite Brian Burns! followed by Cowboy Doug and the Fiddles of Texas. There will be lots of fun to be had but remember... No BYOB, Purdy Please!

Hill College Performing Arts Series
March 6
Vara Martin Daniel Performing Arts Center; Hillsboro TX
Hill College
Phillip Lowe, Coordinator of Visual and Performing Arts
112 Lamar Drive; Hillsboro TX 76645
(254) 659-7882
Music: Classical, Jazz
Activities: Concert season
In the 1993-94 academic year the Hill College Performing Arts Series presented its first season of concerts on the Hillsboro campus. The series usually has 4-5 programs a year ranging from small jazz groups to full symphony orchestras and everything between. The 2011-2012 season features 4 programs September 22 - Baylor Jazz Ensemble, October 18 - The Guidonian Hand, November 29 - Waco Community Band, March 6, 2012 - Jim Cullum Jazz Band. All programs begin at 7:30 pm. From the beginning it was decided that the series would be free to the public and that donations from the public and financial help from Hill College would be our only means of support. From a very modest initial budget of $2,000, support, both financial and in attendance, has grown tenfold in the past 17 years. The new season for 2012/13 has not been set yet. Please check "http://www.hillcollege.edu/info/PerformingArtsSeries/ for updates.

Texas Steel Guitar Association Jamboree
March 8-11
Sheraton Grand Hotel-DFW; 4440 West John Carpenter Freeway at Esters Road
Texas Steel Guitar Association
Albert Talley, President
2500 West Henderson; Cleburne, TX 76033
(817) 558-3481
Music: Big Band, Bluegrass, Cajun/Zydeco, Country, Cowboy, Gospel, Jazz, Pop, Rock, Rockabilly, Western Swing
Activities: Awards show, Music festival, Trade show/convention
The TSGA is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting steel guitar music, performance, and education in Texas, the United States, and the world! The Jamboree brings together steel guitarists and enthusiasts in a concert setting with education and product availability from the top manufacturer's in the steel guitar industry.

Young Texas Artists Music Competition
March 8-10
Crighton Theatre; 234 North Main Street
Young Texas Artist Music Competition
Susie Pokorski
P.O. Box 448; Conroe, TX 77305
(936) 756-7017; (936) 574-9820; Fax (936) 756-7896
Music: Classical
Activities: Awards show, Singing contests, String, Wind, Brass solo contest
The Young Texas Artists 28th Annual Music Competition for Voice, Piano, Strings, Wind, Brass, Harp, Guitar and Percussion will be held March 8-10, 2012 in Conroe, Texas near Houston. This is a classical music competition for ages 18-30. A three-day event ending with a concert of finalists the evening of Saturday, March 10th, to select the grand prize winner and the Audience Choice Award. We will award over $ 21,000 in prizes . Participants will receive written critiques from five prestigious judges. Preliminary rounds, which are free and open to the public, begin Thursday morning, March 8 and continue through Saturday afternoon. Concert tickets are available at the Crighton Theatre Box Office, 936-441-SHOW (7469). Schedules are posted at YoungTexasArtists.org. Application postmark deadline is December 31, 2011.

35 Denton ~ 2
March 8-11
Downtown Denton, TX
Chris Flemmons
301 North Locust; Denton, TX 76201
(248) 778-5473
Activities: Music festival
35 Denton is a four day walkable music festival programmed in the heart of Denton, TX March 8-11, 2012. Above all 35 Denton values artists and creative exchange and uses these ideals to sustain the vibrant culture of music and art in North Texas. In 2011, 35 Denton won the Texas Downtown Association award for Best Promotional Event. 2012 performing artists include Bun B, Devin the Dude, Mountain Goats, Built to Spill, Dum Dum Girls, Thee Oh Sees, and many more listed on our web site!

The World's Largest Rattlesnake Roundup
March 8-11
Round-up at Nolan County Coliseum; Rattlesnake Dance at Jaycees Barn; 1699 Cypress Street (Coliseum); 310 West 4th Street (barn)
The Sweetwater Jaycees
1001 Crane Street; Sweetwater, TX 79556-3305
(325) 235-8938
Activities: County fair, rattlesnake roundup and dance
Since 1958, the World's Largest Rattlesnake Round-Up has been held in Sweetwater, Texas and sponsored by the Sweetwater Jaycees. The Round-Up is held annually on the 2nd weekend in March at the Nolan County Coliseum. The project was originally conceived by a group of area farmers and ranchers as an attempt to rid the abundance of Rattlers that were plaguing them and their livestock, and has grown over the past 51 years to become the "WORLD'S LARGEST RATTLESNAKE ROUND-UP" with over 123 tons of Western Diamondback Rattlesnakes turned in to date. The weekend officially kicks off on Thursday, March 8, 2012 with our Rattlesnake Review Parade [at] 4pm through downtown Sweetwater. Then join us for the Miss Snake Charmer Pageant held in the Sweetwater Municipal Auditorium at 7:00 p.m. The doors will open at 8:00 a.m. Friday March 9, 2012 for the 54th Annual Sweetwater Jaycees World's Largest Rattlesnake Round-Up, with snakes being weighed in at 7:00 a.m. that morning at the Coliseum. Rattlesnake dances are held on Friday and Saturday nights. Tickets may be purchased on dance night at the venue ticket booth or by going to www.outhousetickets.com/Venue/Rattlesnake_Round_Up. Friday Night will feature Granger Smith, with opener Brian Keane. Saturday will be $15 single $25 a couple and features JB and the Moonshine Band, with opener Steve Helms Band.

Star of Texas Fair & Rodeo / Rodeo Austin
March 9-24
Travis County Expo Center; 7311 Decker Lane, Austin, TX
Star of Texas
Katy Berdoll
9100 Decker Lake Road; Austin, TX 78724
(512) 919-3000; Fax (512) 919-3005
Music: Bluegrass, Country, Cowboy, Folk/Acoustic, Latin Pop, Pop, Regional Mexican, Rock, Rockabilly, Tejano
Activities: County fair, Cowboy poetry, Fiddling contests, Rodeo
The Star of Texas Fair and Rodeo, a 501(c) 3 non-profit organization, contributes over $1.5 million annually to the youth of Texas with the help of over 2,800 volunteers, donors and sponsors. Through its acclaimed Livestock Show, Fair, and Rodeo, the Star of Texas continues to work towards the advancement of its mission, Promoting Youth Education - Preserving Western Heritage. In 2008 STFR awarded $337,000 in scholarships to students in Texas. Go to www.RodeoAustin.com for more information!

Rio Grande Valley Livestock Show
March 9-18
Rio Grande Valley Livestock Show Grounds; 1000 North Texas
Rio Grande Valley Livestock Show
Sam Magee
P.O. Box 867; Mercedes, TX 78570
(956) 565-2456; Fax (956) 565-3005
Music: Country, Tejano
Activities: County fair, Rodeo
The Rio Grande Valley Livestock Show, Inc. chartered in 1940, is a nonprofit organization. Its purpose is to help educate and develop young people, particularly in the Lower Rio Grande Valley of Texas, in the care, grooming, management, showing and marketing of livestock. Funds to operate the Show come solely from donations, revenues realized from gate, carnival receipts, commercial exhibit rental, entry and concession fees. Hundreds of volunteers from throughout Hidalgo, Cameron, Willacy and Starr Counties, working without any financial compensation whatsoever, make the Rio Grande Valley Livestock Show possible. The Rio Grande Valley Livestock Show and Fred Loya Insurance are excited to announce award winning Chris Young will be headlining the March 9 concert at 7:30 p.m. in the Rodeo Arena. Tickets go on sale February 17 at Boots 'n Jeans, Bullrider, Cavender's, Lionel's Western Wear, Taubert Farm & Ranch, The Boot Jack, the RGVLS office and online!!!!!

La Salle County Fair and Wild Hog Cookoff
March 10
La Salle County Fairgrounds; Highway 97
La Salle County Fair Association
E. T. Page
P.O. Box 553; Cotulla, TX 78014
(830) 879-2852; (830) 879-2852; Fax (830) 879-3580
Music: Cajun/Zydeco, Children's, Country, Cowboy, Folk/Acoustic, Tejano
Activities: County fair, Rodeo
The La Salle County Fair & Wild Hog Cookoff is a four-day event filled with activities. Events include a livestock show, cookoffs, parade, childrens' contests, arts and crafts, science fair, races and more. Entertainment includes folk and Tejano music as well as a country western dance.

St. Patrick's River Parade
March 17
Arneson River Theatre; On the Riverwalk
Paseo Del Rio and Harp and Shamrock Society of Texas
Carolyn Dowd
P.O. Box 15306; San Antonio, TX 78212
Music: Folk/Acoustic, Irish, Celtic
The Annual River Parade will be held during the 3rd weekend of March. The fun will begin at the Arneson River. At 1:00pm about six barges full of happy people will start winding down the San Antonio River through town. Behind the barges can be seen the bright green water making the San Antonio River, "The River Shannon" for the day. At the Arneson River Theater the barge people will disembark and the official ceremony will begin. There will be bagpipes, color guards, proclamations, speeches, bands and an Irish sing along. The Paseo del Rio Association and the Harp and Shamrock Society of Texas jointly bring this event to the citizens of San Antonio.

South by Southwest Music and Media Conference
March 13-18
Austin Convention Center; 500 East First Street, Austin, TX
South By Southwest, Inc.
Roland Swenson
P.O. Box 4999; Austin, TX 78765
(512) 467-7979; Fax (512) 451-0754
Music: Bluegrass, Country, Folk/Acoustic, Jazz, Rap/Hip Hop, Rock, Tejano, World Beat
Activities: Music festival, Trade show/convention
The South by Southwest Music and Media Conference (SXSW) is a five-day professional meeting held every March in Austin for members of the regional, national, and international music industry. The daytime sessions--attended by more than 16,000 registrants includes scores of panels, workshops and other meetings covering relevant music industry topics and issues as well as a large multi-industry trade show exhibition. Evenings are devoted to the SXSW Music Festival, which showcases over 2000 acts -- from unsigned hopefuls to rising major label acts. Following the business, the event is capped by a Sunday afternoon, Texas-styled barbecue and softball tournament. The 2012 event takes place March 13 - 18, 2012.

Nederland Heritage Festival
March 13-18
Main Street; 1500 Boston Avenue
Nederland Heritage Festival Foundation
Wanda Hollier
P.O. Box 1176; Nederland, TX 77627
(409) 724-2269; Fax (409) 724-1645
Music: Cajun/Zydeco, Country, Rock
Activities: County fair
Nederland Heritage Festival is a homecoming, six-day block party with every civic organization involved. We are the last free festival in Southeast Texas. Every night there is a different type of music, from Cajun, R&B, and country, to rock and roll. Activities include booths, a crafts market, chili cook-off, petting zoo, free entertainment, motorcycle show, carnival, and the best food in Southeast Texas (all homemade).

Austin Music Awards
March 14
TBD; Austin, TX
Austin Chronicle
Margaret Moser and Louis Black
P.O. Box 49066; Austin, TX 78765
(512) 454-5766; Fax (512) 458-6910
Music: Country, Folk/Acoustic, Rock, Tejano
Activities: Awards show
The Austin Music Awards honors the winners of the Austin Chronicle's annual Music Poll, voted on by readers of the weekly. The show also serves as the official opening of the South by Southwest Music Festival. A celebration of Austin's finest, the AMAs have featured the cream of the Live Music Capitol and beyond over its 25 year history: The Fabulous Thunderbirds, Stevie Ray Vaughan & Double Trouble, Eric Johnson, True Believers, Texas Tornadoes, Daniel Johnson, Roky Erickson, Asleep at the Wheel, Don Walser, Lucinda Williams, Lyle Lovett and many, many more.

Heart of Texas Rockfest
March 14-27
6th Street Entertainment District; Austin, TX
H.O.T.Q.B.M.F.
Adam Brewer - founder / organizer
910 Dartmoor; Austin, TX 78746
(201) 417-6061
Music: Country, Folk/Acoustic, Pop, Punk, Rap/Hip Hop
Activities: Music festival
The Heart of Texas Quadruple Bypass Music Festival aka Heart of Texas Rockfest features the best in unsigned talent that Austin and the surrounding southwest region have to offer, as well as some of the best indie artists from across America and beyond. Launched in March 2000, the first Heart of Texas Quadruple Bypass Music Festival started humbly with one venue and sixteen bands in downtown Austin. Now in its 13th year, the 2012 Heart of Texas Rock Fest will boast hundreds of indie acts in several nightclubs and bars and also on our enormous downtown outdoor stages. Motivated by the desire to support and promote the best yet-to-be discovered talent rising from the burgeoning Texas alternative rock scene, the event is strategically scheduled to coincide with Austin's annual South by Southwest (SXSW) Interactive Media, Film and Music Festival. Last year over 40,000 rockers came to our showcases! Over 30,000 entertainment professionals and 200,000 people are expected to attend the ten days of interactive multi media, film, and music events, conferences, and trade shows in Austin. The 13th annual Heart of Texas Quadruple Bypass provides one more good excuse for music industry executives and cutting edge indie bands to come to Austin in March. The Heart of Texas Rockfest has played host to Rock Legends and Hitmakers like Tom Morello, George Lynch, Blue October, Ghostland Observatory, Pepper, Bob Schneider and many more. Every year a star is born and we continue to keep the event FREE and open to the public. If the pressure of being a new artist in this ever-changing music industry landscape and balancing all that time and dedication it requires of a musician today while pursuing a masters degree at the University of Texas (and trying to hold on to any normalcy in life with family and friends) isn’t enough, singer/songwriter Chris Diaz seems to take it all in stride; especially the exciting news that he will be performing on the Main Stage (7th St. and Neches St.) in downtown Austin, TX with headliners at the 13th Annual Heart of Texas Rockfest (www.TexasRockfest.com) on Saturday, March 17, 2012 during SXSW week.

For the Sake of the Song 2
March 15
Frio Country Resort; P.O. Box 257 ConCan, TX 78838
Dickson Productions, Inc.
Kristi Raindl
6425 South IH 35, Suite 105, PMB 293; Austin, TX 78744
1 (888) 926-6226; Fax (512) 295-8801
Music: Country
Activities: Music festival
Get ready for the 7th Annual Sake of the Song taking place at the exclusive Frio Country Resort with Randy Rogers Band, Sunny Sweeney, Reckless Kelly, Turnpike Troubadours, Jason Eady, Matt Skinner and more to be announced! Choose from several lodging options: • Frio Country Cabins • Beach Club With Pool • Cowboy Riviera With Pool • Comanche Crossing • Tierra Linda on the Golf Course Plus more great options! On the beautiful Frio River at the House Pasture Cattle Company. Lodging and concert package details and reservations: 1-888-926-6226 or www.friocountry.com. More information at dicksonproductions.com/rrb.

National Accordion Convention ~ 2
March 15-17
Westin Park Central Hotel; 12720 Merit Dr, Dallas, TX, 75251
National Accordion Association, Inc.
Greg Klugiewicz, Convention Chair
P.O. Box 940165; Plano, TX 75094-0165
(972) 272-2359; (214) 538-5651
Music: Big Band, Bluegrass, Cajun/Zydeco, Folk/Acoustic, Polka, Tejano
Activities: Music festival, Trade show/convention
Accordion training, instruction, workshops, performance techniques, educational how-tos. All levels and age groups of accordion enthusiasts are invited. Accordion ensembles and orchestra. Evening events are open to the public. They include accordion performances and (accordion) orchestral concerts. Dance instructions in various styles will be taught. All musical styles will be explored: big band, bluegrass, blues, Cajun, folk, rock, acoustic accordion, electronic accordion, polka, conjunto, tejano. Accordion dealers, trade representatives, repair workers, accessories, and sales. Related electronics equipment will be displayed, demonstrated, and offered. New/used equipment swap shop. Don’t want to fly with your accordion? Not a problem, we have accordions for rent this year.

"No Excuses!" BBQ Challenge and Music Festival
March 16-17
Gulf Coast Racing Track; 5302 Leopard Street, Corpus Christi
C.E.O. Community Enrichment Organization Corpus Christi, TX
Ray Herrera
P.O. Box 181423; Corpus Christi, TX 78480
(361) 816-1424
Music: Rock, Tejano
Activities: Music festival, BBQ cook-off
"No Excuses!" BBQ Challenge and Music Festival features performances by renowned country and tejano artists. Friday is brought to you by 97.5 KFTX "Real Country Radio" with Charlie Robison, Johnny Kiser, Robert Stowell, and Roy Solis. Saturday, sponsored by KSAB 99.9 Tejano Radio, showcases the talents of SIGGNO, La Conquista, MAZZ, Roberto Pulido, Marcos Orozco, Joey Villanueva, Six Strings Down, and The Rockoholics.

Tejano Music Awards Fan Fair ~ 2
March 16
Market Square; Downtown San Antonio
Texas Talent Musicians Association
Robert Arellano
P.O. Box 761358; San Antonio, TX 78245-6358
(210) 222-8862; (210) 224-7592; Fax (210) 224-7592
Music: Tejano
Activities: Fan Fair
The Fan Fair is a free family event with performances by over 100 bands attended by over 75,000 fans of Tejano music. The event also hosts a special Tejano Artists Autograph session on Friday. The Fanfare will be followed by a series of other events throughout the entire week leading up to the actual Awards Show in Eagle Pass. One such event is the Tejano Music Industry Awards Ceremony that honors individual musicians, songwriters, Rising Female, Rising Male, and Rising Group with voting done by peers. Held at Market Square in downtown San Antonio. 6 stages - 3 day event. All Ages Welcome.

St. Patrick's Day Celebration
March 16-18
Shamrock Area Community Center; South Main
St. Patrick's Day Association
David Rushing, Chamber of Commerce Director
105 East 12th Street; Shamrock, TX 79079
(806) 256-2501; (806) 256-2516; Fax (806) 256-3739
Music: Country
Activities: Rodeo
St. Patrick's Day includes the Miss Irish Rose pageant, a parade, food booths, craft fest, Irish Donegal Beard competition, bullriding, motorcycle rally, three-day carnival, team roping, kick-off banquet, gospel singing, and the feature dance. Tickets are available at Shamrock Chamber of Commerce. Dance features Reckless Kelly Band. The Friday night banquet features country singer Fred Hargrove.

South By So What ~ 2
March 17
QuikTrip Park; 1600 Lone Star Parkway, Grand Prairie, TX
Third String Productions
Dallas, TX
(214) 697-8857
t’s hard to believe that Third String Productions has been doing concerts for 8 years now and that this is the 5th year of South By So What?! This festival IS NOT a stab at SXSW, but simply an opportunity for Dallas residents to enjoy a variety of the talent headed to SXSW when they wouldn’t otherwise be able to. It’s also a great way to save concertgoers money. Instead of paying for half a dozen small shows, we combine them all and give people the opportunity to see over 50 bands for under $50!

KTRU's Outdoor Show
March 17
Rice University, Central Quad; 6100 Main Street, Houston, Texas 77005-1827
Rice University, MS 506
Kieran L and Austin W
P.O. Box 1892; Houston, TX 77251-1892
(713) 348-4098
Music: Children's, Dance/Electronic, Folk/Acoustic, Jazz, Punk, Rap/Hip Hop, Rock, World Beat
Activities: Music festival
The Annual KTRU Outdoor Show is held from Noon to 10 p.m. one Saturday or Sunday in late spring each year at Rice University, in the Central Quad adjacent to the Ley Student Center. It is FREE and open to public. This is a huge event, an all-day festival with food, St. Arnold beer and root beer, bunnies, music, free music giveaways, a KTRU record sale and meet the DJs!

Azalea Festival
March 17
Courthouse Square; Downtown Jasper
Jasper/Lake Sam Rayburn Area Chamber of Commerce
Liz Street, Special Events Coordinator
246 East Milam; Jasper, TX 75951
(409) 384-2762; Fax (409) 384-4733
Music: Bluegrass, Country, Folk/Acoustic
Activities: Awards show, Poetry contest
The Azalea Festival is held each year on the third Saturday in March. It is a day long event that includes arts and crafts, live entertainment, activities for everybody in the family and so much more! We also have our Annual Azalea Trail that takes visitors on a tour of some of the most beautiful Azalea blooms in our city. They begin to bloom in the middle of March and stay for about a month. For more information on the events of our festival or if you are interested in being involved, please contact our Chamber Office at (409)384-2762.

Around the Square Concert Series ~ 2
March 17, June 29
Frisco Black Box Theater; 8004 North Dallas Pkwy, Frisco, Texas, 75034
McKinney Guitar Studio
Cindy Fish
3615 Canyon View Court; McKinney, TX 75071
(972) 832-1646; (469) 952-2202
Music: Classical
Activities: Concert season, Master Class, Guitar Display
McKinney Guitar Studio will present guitarists John Wynn and Carlo Pezzimenti on March 17, 2012. This evening will showcase music from several genres in an acoustic setting. Anne Royer will be painting on canvas live during the concert as well. This concert will be followed by String Fever in concert on June 29, 2012. String Fever presents an eclectic mix of acoustic music and is quite entertaining. Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for students. For information on more musical events check out our website at www.johnwynn.com.

Guitar Fest
March 17
The Dulaney House; 315 South Chestnut Street, McKinney, TX
McKinney Guitar Studio
John Wynn
3615 Canyon View Court,; McKinney, TX 75071
(972) 832-1646
GuitarFest is an annual event in McKinney, Texas that features concerts, workshops and private lessons for guitarists, music enthusiasts and the whole family. This year it is hosted by Grammy award winner Doug Smith and John Wynn. There are 4 workshops and two concerts throughout the weekend. Workshop topics include playing the Blues, Beatles tunes, Alternate tunings, and much more. Reservations are recommended. Admission to the concerts is $15, workshops are $25. Private/small group lessons are $100 per hour and may be split by up to 4 people. For more info go to www.johnwynn.com

A Fest Of Tails Kite & Dog Fair – Music & Arts Festival
March 17
McAllister Park – Dog Park Area; 13102 Jones Maltsberger Road San Antonio, Texas 78247
San Antonio Parks Foundation
Teresa Cox, Executive Vice President
600 Hemisfair Plaza Way, Building 247; San Antonio, TX 78205
(210) 212-8423
Activities: Music festival, kite festival, animal adoption
This annual event showcases music, arts and crafts, various exhibitors, dogs of all sizes and breeds, and a sky full of kites! Everyone, young and old, is encouraged to bring a blanket and lawn chair to watch the spectacular air show, or favorite kite and participate in the community flying exhibition. Kites will also be available for purchase at the Festival as will pet adoptions & services.

Bro Fest 2012
March 18
Club Dada; 2720 Elm Street, Dallas, TX
Parade of Flesh
John Iskander
1602 Tribeca Way; Dallas, TX 75204
(214) 763-7882
Music: Punk, Rock
Activities: Music festival
Parade of Flesh’s BRO FEST 2012 is celebrating its 5th year of bringing established and emerging indie, electronic, garage and metal acts to Dallas on the Sunday after SXSW. This year will be another all ages, one-day / two-stage showcase of awesomeness at Club Dada in Dallas, TX on Sunday March 18th, 2012. In this intimate ‘club-style’ concert/event/festival/whatever you want to call it, patrons will be able to experience a little bit of what they are missing in Austin.

Refugio County Fair & PRCA Rodeo
March 21-24
Refugio County Fairgrounds; 106 Fairground Road, Refugio
Refugio County Fair Association
Julie Van Ness
P.O. Box 88; Refugio, TX 78377
(361) 526-4685
Music: Country, Tejano
Activities: County fair, Rodeo
Refugio County Fair & PRCA Rodeo covers five days with many events and contests such as a chili cook off, hot sauce contest, livestock show, arts and crafts, and live dances.

South Texas State Fair
March 22 - April 1
Southeast Texas Entertainment Complex; IH-10, Beaumont, Beaumont, TX
Young Men's Business League
Chris Colletti
7250 Wespark Drive; Beaumont, TX 77705
(409) 832-9991; Fax (409) 838-0402
Music: Bluegrass, Children's, Country, Jazz, Rock
Activities: County fair, Rodeo
The South Texas State Fair is a regional fair with livestock and poultry shows, arts and crafts, an auto show, and amateur live entertainment. Also the Bill Hames Shows provides a 50 ride carnival midway.

Frontier Fiesta
March 22-24
UofHouston Cougars Stadium (North Side); 3874 Holman Street, corner of Scott and Holman
Frontier Fiesta Association
Alicia Tillman, Director of Productions
51 University Center; Houston, TX 77204
(832) 842–6235; Fax (713) 743–5170
Music: Country, Folk/Acoustic, Latin/Spanish, Rock
Welcome to the University of Houston Frontier Fiesta Association. Frontier Fiesta is a student–run, student–led festival hosted by the University of Houston to promote scholarship, community, and education in the University of Houston students, staff, and faculty, as well as in the Houston community. Frontier Fiesta is a diverse showcase for the talents of the University of Houston student body. Each year a piece of our campus is transformed into a fully functional town called "Fiesta City." Frontier Fiesta features free live concerts each night, variety shows by student organizations, carnival booths, multicultural performances, and a BBQ Cook–Off and Bake Fiesta. Artists who have performed at Frontier fiesta include: Roger Creager, The Clipse, Kenny Rogers, T.I., Frankie J, Reckless Kelly, Anne Baxter, Robert Earl Keen, Humphrey Bogart, and many more.

Temple College Jazz Festival
March 22-24
Temple College, Mary Alice Marshall Performing Arts Center; 2600 South First Street
Temple College Music Department
Thomas Fairlie
2600 South First Street; Temple, TX 76504
(254) 298-8555; Fax (254) 298-8549
Music: Jazz
Activities: Music festival
An entertaining and educational weekend of outstanding jazz that will bring together top professional artists, clinicians and hundreds of college, high school, and middle school musicians for clinics, competitions and great performances. Come to the finest performing venue in central Texas, the Mary Alice Marshall Performing Arts Auditorium on the Temple College campus and...be a part of it! Featured artists are The Waco Jazz Orchestra, trumpeter Marcus Printup, and saxophonist Ed Calle.

Southwestern Region of the American Music Therapy Association Conference ~ 2
March 22-24
Hilton Hotel; 113 South University Parks Drive
Southwestern Region of the American Music Therapy Association
Janice M. Harris
Waco, TX
(214) 729-4773
Activities: Trade show/convention
The Southwestern Region of the American Music Therapy Association (SWAMTA) will host its annual meeting at the Hilton Hotel in Waco, TX March 24-26, 2011. Dr. Louise Montello, an internationally known authority on music and wellness and award-winning author of Essential Musical Intelligence: Using Music as Your Path to Healing, Creativity and Radiant Wholeness (Quest 2002), will provide the keynote address at the Opening Session at 7:00 pm CST on March 26, 2011. Dr. Montello will also present a continuing education course on Performance Wellness Thursday morning. Ronna Kaplan, President of the American Music Therapy Association (AMTA) will speak at the Closing Session on Saturday at noon. Concurrent sessions on Friday and Saturday include The Rock and Roll Threshold: How Loud is Too Loud?, The Use of Literature in Public School Music Therapy Practice, Music Interventions in Respiratory Care: Research Implications, and Left-Brained Drum Circles for Right-Brained Therapists.

Honk!TX Festival of Community Street Bands ~ 2
March 23-25
Austin, TX
Austin Community Foundation
Jason Fialkoff, Founder/Organizer
4315 Guadalupe Street, Suite 300; Austin, TX 78751
(512) 472-4483; Fax (512) 472-4486
HONK!TX is a different kind of festival that will present music to Austin in an unprecedented fashion. Twenty community street bands will participate in transforming everyday locations into organic stages where the line between crowd and performers dissolves. HONK!TX’s unique format will demonstrate the potential for creative use of our public spaces without the need for amplification or artificial stages. Across the country and around the world, a new type of street band is emerging. Ambulatory and playing without amplification, these radical street bands are here to share their ecstatic sprit! Bands include: Acadêmicos da Ópera, Best Best Best Friends, Brass Messengers, The Carnival Band, Emperor Norton’s Stationary Marching Band, Environmental Encroachment, Extraordinary Rendition Band, Fandango Tejás, Garbage Can Marching Band, The Hubbub Club, March Madness Marching Band, Minor Mishap Marching Band, Petrojvic Blasting Co., Scene of the Crime Rovers, Second Line Social Aid & Pleasure Society, Seed and Feed Marching Abominable, Seu Jacinto, TITANIUM SPORKESTRA, What Cheer? Brigade and Young Fellaz Brass Band.

Heart of Texas Country Music Association's 23rd Anniversary Celebrations ~ 2
March 23-24, 30-31
Brady Civic Center, Heart of Texas Events Center; 101 East Main Street, Brady, TX
Heart of Texas Country Music Association
Tracy Pitcox, Producer
1701 South Bridge Street; Brady, TX 76825-7031
(325) 597-1895; (325) 597-1895; Fax (325) 597-0515
Music: Country, Western Swing
Activities: Music festival
Heart of Texas Country Music Association's 23rd Anniversary Celebrations are taking place on March 23-24, and March 30-31. with Friday Events At Heart of Texas Events Center 804 San Angelo Hwy, and Saturday Events at Brady Civic Center in Brady, Texas. Tickets Go On Sale On February 1, 2012 at 9:00 AM. First Weekend: Friday, March 23 - Welcome Party And Dance 8:00 PM with Bobby Flores and the Yellow Rose Band, special guests The Survivors, featuring Darrell McCall, Tony Booth and Curtis Potter. Saturday, March 24 - Classic Country Concert 1:00pm/Anniversary Dance 8:00 pm at the Civic Center with Junior Brown, Darrell McCall, Tony Booth, George Hamilton IV, Mona McCall, Curtis Potter, Amber digby, Dottsy, Bobby Lewis, Frankie Miller, Justin Trevino, and Rance Norton Second Weekend: Friday, March 30- Welcome Party And Dance at Heart of Texas Events Center with Billy Mata and Texas Tradition Band, Special Guests the Survivors. Saturday, March 31- Classic Country Concert 1:00 PM/Anniversary Dance at Civic Center with Johnny Bush, Norma Jean, Darrell McCall, Tony Booth, George Hamilton IV, Mona McCall, Curtis Potter, Amber Digby, dottsy, Frankie Miller, Bobby Lewis, Justin Trevino, Landon Dodd, Kim Murray, and Rance Norton. 12:00 am Ernest Tubb Midnight Jamboree--Free Admission.

Bayou City Art Festival - Memorial Park
March 23-25
Houston, TX; Memorial Park
Art Colony Association, Inc.
Kim Stoilis
1113 Vine Street Suite 138; Houston, TX 77002
(713) 521-0133; Fax (713) 521-0013
Music: Children's, Classical, Folk/Acoustic, Jazz, World Beat
The Bayou City Art Festival features over 300 artists displaying their work. This festival occurs twice a year, in October and March. Festival from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. every day. Houston Arts Alliance presents live music and dance performances from classical to world music on the festival stage. Musicians also offer ambient music throughout the day. There will be hands-on children's art activities in the creative zone and a festival food court.

RiceGrass Festival
March 23-25
Fischer Hall; 115Fischer Store Road
Cabin 10, Inc
Jeff Gavin
P.O. Box 551; Hunt, TX 78024
(830) 739-6986
Music: A cappella, Bluegrass, Country, Cowboy, Folk/Acoustic, Jazz, Rock
Activities: Music festival, Silent Auction
RiceGrass Festival is one of two festivals presented by Cabin 10, that raise money for The Rice Harrington Art Scholarship. Just imagine pure acoustic music in a vintage Texas dance hall set in the beautiful hill country southwest of Wimberley. Jam sessions Friday and Sunday. This year we will hold the entire event at Fischer Hall and Rancho de Solis. Saturday’s schedule features several internationally acclaimed touring bands: 12:30 p.m. - Fischer Folk featuring the Mayor of Fischer; 1:45 p.m. - AirCargo; 3:00 p.m. - The Lost Pines; 4:30 p.m. - MilkDrive; 6:00 p.m. - Two High String Band; 7:30 p.m. - Bearfoot; 9:00 p.m. - Tim O'Brien. Tickets are available online, good for 3 days of camping and picking with the option of taking in the full day of great performances at the hall. For more info and tickets, visit "http://www.cabin10.com/, or write Jeff at draftex [at] maverickbbs.com.

Texas Indian Market and Southwest Showcase
March 23-25
Arlington Convention Center; 1200 Ballpark Way, Arlington
Texas Indian Markets
Randy Wilkerson and Paula Wilkerson
7301 Alandale Drive; Plano, TX 75025
(972) 398-0052; Fax (972) 398-0052 call first
Music: Native American
Activities: Music festival, Art festival
Texas Indian Market and Southwest Showcase is now heralded as America's premier festival of Indian, southwest, wildlife, and western arts, crafts, song, dance, and culture. There is live entertainment performing continuously all three days from Indian music and dance to western acts and music to Aztec dancers and wild bird shows. It's a thrilling experience for the entire family as there are magical sights at every turn. Show Hours: Friday, March 26 - 1 PM to 8 PM, Saturday, March 27 - 10 AM to 7 PM and Sunday, March 28 - 10 AM to 5 PM.

Waxahachie's Old Fashioned Singing Project
March 23-24, May 11-12, November 2-3
Historic Chautauqua Auditorium, Getzendaner Park; 400 South Grand Avenue, Waxahachie, TX 75165-2302
Waxahachie's Old Fashioned Singing Project
R. G. Huff
PO Box 126; Waxahachie, TX 75168-0126
(972) 923-2709
Music: Folk/Acoustic
Waxahachie's Old Fashioned Singing Project is a non-profit organization supporting the preservation and enjoyment of historical congregational singing in the American south. The staged musical presented three weekends each year features southern congregational songs performed by a 12-member vocal ensemble with acoustic instruments on the stage of the historic Chautauqua Auditorium in Waxahachie where sacred music concerts were common in the first half of the 20th Century. Tickets are $15. Details and directions are available at www.WaxaOFS.com.

Texas Regional Radio and Music Awards &Radio Seminar
March 24-25
Arlington Music Hall; 224 North Center Street, Arlington, TX
The Texas Regional Radio & Music Association
Dave Smith
Arlington, TX
(817) 283-7984; (214) 697-8954
Activities: Awards show
Texas Regional Radio Report and the Association Of Texas Music groups will host the first annual Texas Regional Radio Music Awards Show and Radio Seminar March 25th-26th, 2011 at the Arlington Music Hall in Arlington, Texas; just down the road from Cowboys Stadium and The Ballpark in Arlington. The Awards show will be held on March 25th and the radio seminar will be on March 26th.The Texas Regional Radio Music Awards Show is the first music chart sponsored awards where Texas/Red Dirt artists who have achieved recognition in the Texas Regional Chart will be nominated and voted on by fans, music industry professionals and artists for awards show honors. Voters must be members of the Association of Texas Music (ATM) to vote. Three rounds of voting will take place. The first round is the nomination ballot, the second round is the final nomination ballot and the third round is the final voting round. To become a member, log on to www.TexasRegionalRadio.com/ATM.

Feel the Steel Pan Jam Steel Drum Festival
March 24-25
All Points Production
Sandra Williams
1312 Live Oak Num. 104; Houston 77003
(281) 538-4165; (281) 615-3187
The Kemah Lighthouse District comes alive with the beat of Steel Drums, Fire Dancers, Exotic Bird Shows, Pet Contest and a large variety of entertainment as the 8th Annual Kemah "Pan Jam" Steel Drum Festival sets up shop on Saturday, March 26th & Sunday March 27th, 2011. "Pan Jam" is defined by authentic Caribbean steel drums, calypso and reggae musicians who have performed all over the world. The headliners for this year are Freddy Harris III and Mustafa, both out of New York. The entertainment schedule also features Jerry Diaz & Hanna's Reef, San Jacinto College, and University of Houston-Clear Lake and Lone Star College steel drum bands and many other fabulous groups. A kick off celebration will be held on Friday, March 25th at Crazy Alan's Swamp Shack in Kemah from 6:30 to 9 p.m. There are arts and crafts booths offering a variety of fun items, including Fine Arts & Handmade Crafts. Check the website for applications. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the participating College Steel Drum programs and Bay Area Pet Adoptions.

Texas Music Awards
March 24
The Texas Music Barn; 301 East Houston Street, Linden, TX
Academy of Texas Music, MyTexasMusic.com
Lucky and Jinelle Boyd
P.O. Box 148; Linden, TX 75563
(713) 793-6368
Music: Country, Folk/Acoustic, Rock, Rockabilly, Americana, Texas Music
Activities: Awards show, Trade show/convention
The Texas Music Awards are held each year to recognize excellence in Texas music. Sanctioned by the Academy of Texas Music, Inc. The TMAs present awards in several categories including Male Vocalist, Female Vocalist, Singer/Songwriter, Album, Song, Record, Producer, Musician, Vocal Group or Duo, Rising Star, Disc Jockey, Broadcast Radio Station, and Live Band of the Year. The Texas Music Awards are not a contest or a popularity poll, but rather a recognition of achievement voted on 70% by those who have received the awards in the past, 20% by the Academy members, and 10% by the general public. Past celebrity hosts include Michael Martin Murphey, Sonny Burgess, Gary P. Nunn and B.J. Thomas.

Mud Dauber Festival and Ball
March 24
Luckenbach; 412 Luckenbach Town Loop, Fredericksburg
Luckenbach
Abbey
412 Luckenbach Town Loop; Luckenbach, TX 78624
(830) 997-3224 Ext. 29; (888) 311-8990; Fax (830) 997-1024
Music: Country
Activities: Music festival, Games and tournaments
Annual Festival celebrating the day the Mud Daubers -- Little bluesish-blackish wasp-like creatures that do not sting...for those folks that may be wonderin' (Yankees) -- come back to Luckenbach (also the same day the swallows return to San Jaun Capastrono, but since this is Luckenbach, you won't hear much about that). It's time for our Annual Mud Dauber Festival & Ball. It's an entire day filled of live music, fun, and cold beer.

Wild Hog Festival and Craft Fair
March 24-25
Sabinal City Park & Yellow Jacket Stadium; Sabinal
Sabinal Lions Club
Ross Burris
P.O. Box 233; Sabinal, TX 78881
(830) 988-2709
Music: Bluegrass, Country, Cowboy
Activities: hog catching contest, food, arts-n-crafts, bands
2012 will mark the 21th annual celebration of this event which is held during the last weekend of March. Every year it has been organized by the Sabinal Lions Club, Texas. This wonderful event brings together the best of this region in two days of festivity. It offers a variety of fun and entertainment including live music, wild hog chasing, arts and crafts, games and rides, and plenty of good food. See web site for a full schedule of events!

Texas Onion Fest
March 24-25
Weslaco City Park; 300 North Airport Drive
Weslaco Area Chamber of Commerce
Laura Espinoza, Marketing Director
P.O. Box 8398; Weslaco, TX 78599
(956) 968-2102; Fax (956) 968-6451
Music: Country, Dance/Electronic, Tejano, Norteno, Salsa
Activities: County fair, Music festival, Horse Shows, Car Show
Join us for the annual Texas Onion Fest at Weslaco City Park, 300 N. Airport Dr. This two-day event offers the best in food, music and entertainment for the whole family! Onion Fest has musical performances for every taste. Choose from a variety of well-known country, Christian, Tejano and rock bands to perform at Onion Fest. People from all over the U.S. 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 sweet Texas onion in the early 80’s in Weslaco. Since 1989, Weslaco celebrates the sweet Onion every year at Onion Fest. Activities include Arts & Crafts, Kids Zone, onion recipe and salsa contests, live cooking demonstrations, dancing horse show, food and commercial booths, and of course, the onion eating contest!

"Big Squeeze" Accordion Contest- Auditions ~ 2
March 25 (Dallas); 30 (San Antonio)
Gallista Gallery; 1913 South Flores Street, San Antonio, TX
Texas Folklife
Sarah Rucker Program & Events Manager
1317 South Congress Avenue; Austin, TX 78704
(512) 441-9255
Music: Cajun/Zydeco, Cowboy, Polka, Tejano, German, Conjunto and Norteño
Activities: contest
"The Big Squeeze" is Texas Folklife's sixth annual statewide contest for young accordion players. The contestants, aged 10-21, receive prizes as well as performance opportunities, mentoring and special recognition through their participation in the contest. Businesses including Hohner Accordions, Embassy Suites-Downtown Austin and the historic SugarHill Recording Studios donate grand prizes, hotel rooms for touring and mentoring. The Big Squeeze will come to Dallas on Sunday, March 25, hosted by the Latino Cultural Center and sponsored by the City of Dallas Office of Cultural Affairs. ALSO, The Big Squeeze will come to San Antonio on Friday, March 30, hosted by Conjunto Heritage Taller and Gallista Gallery. The Big Squeeze contest is open to non-professional accordionists 21 and younger. All genres of accordion-based music are encouraged to audition, including: Cajun, German, Czech and Polish polka, Tejano, Conjunto, and Norteno, Western and Zydeco. Contestants' entries will be judged by a panel of esteemed music professionals on song interpretation, technical skill, originality, execution, and stage presence in early April and up to eight semifinalists will be notified by April 10. Contestants may register onsite or in advance by calling Texas Folklife at (512) 441-9255. More information on the contest can be found at: www.texasfolklife.org.

Brazos Valley Symphony Season
March 25, April 22
Rudder Theatre; Texas A&M University Campus, College Station, TX
Brazos Valley Symphony
Nika Hancock
P. O. Box 3524; Bryan, TX 77805
(979) 696-6100
Music: Classical
Activities: Concert season
There are two events remaining in the 30th Anniversary Symphony Season: On March 25, 2012 (Show at 5:00p.m.), come on a journey of that will take us into the realm of Spanish, Cuban, Brazilian, and American music. Works by composers from each of these countries will be featured in this musically demanding concert. Guest artist, Guitarist Chad Ibison, the winner of the 2011 Texas A&M International Guitar Symposium and Competition, will perform what many consider to be the most beautiful and stirring guitar concerto in his debut performance with the Brazos Valley Symphony. And on April 22, 2012 (Show at 5:00 p.m.), our 30th season ends in a dramatic finale with works ranging from contemporary composer, Craig Biondi, to romantic era composer Tchaikovsky. Lulu Chang, Grand Prize Winner of the 2010 Juanita Miller Concerto Competition, will perform Prokofiev’s technically demanding Piano Concerto No. 1. Then, Maestro Bussiki brings the season to a close with one of Tchaikovsky’s most beloved works, Symphony No. 6. Please stay tuned for information on the 2012/13 Season.

Russian Spring Celebration
March 25
The Discovery Green Park; 1500 Mc Kinney, Houston, TX 77010
Russian Cultural Center, Our Texas
Sophia Grinblat
2337 Bissonnet; Houston, TX 77005
(713) 395-3301
We will celebrate the end of winter in tradition of Russian folk holiday - Maslenitsa or Pancake week. An essential and delicious element of the celebration- bliny or Russian pancakes, popularly taken to symbolize the sun. Round and golden, they are made from butter, eggs, and milk, and will be on sale at the festival! Also on sale will be an assortment of traditional Russian souvenirs. Well-known Russian trio Flying Balalaika Brothers will provide the entertainment. The group plays various music: from Russian folk to bluegrass, country and rock. Watch out for the Bass Balalaika! This year we will also be adding special activities for children.

Corpus Christi Festival of the Arts
March 30 - April 1
Corpus Christi Bayfront; Shoreline Drive at Sherrill Park & Art Center of CC
The Festival of the Arts
Joye LeBarrett, President
P.O. Box 60110; Corpus Christi, TX 78466-0110
(361) 549-3246; (361) 883-2787; Fax (361) 985-9466
Music: Classical, Country, Jazz, Latin Pop, Rock, Tejano
Activities: County fair, Music festival
Celebrate the Arts on the beautiful Corpus Christi bayfront, the jewel of the South Texas coastline. The Festival of the Arts, celebrated annually during the last weekend in March, offers cool gulf breezes and a beautiful waterfront view. This FREE 3 day event includes the creation of a 15 ft x15 ft Italian Street Painting by internationally recognized artists. Patrons will enjoy presentations in a genre consisting of Classical Piano, Opera, a Capella Harmony, Mariachi, Chorale, Jazz, Swing, Soul, Latin, Rock, Alternative, Tejano, Americana, Country music and more! Additional presentations consisting of an exciting array of talent in contemporary & folk dance, independent film/cinema, ballet, theatre, stunning visual art exhibits, sand sculpturing and an art-full KidZone will be continuous entertainment. Showcasing local, national and internationally recognized artisans vending fine art, workshops, lecture/demos, and tram tours of the city’s Public Art collection, there will be something for everyone to enjoy.

Dayton Old Tyme Days
March 30-April 1
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/Zydeco, Country, Folk/Acoustic, Jazz
Activities: Street dance, BBQ cook-off, classic car show, TX4x4 competition
You are invited to the 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. All proceeds made from the festival go to benefit the Dayton Ole Tyme Days Youth Scholarship Fund.

Texas Christian University Jazz Festival
March 30-31
Ed Landreth Auditorium; University Drive and Cantey Street
Texas Christian University
Joe Eckert
TCU Box 297500; Fort Worth, TX 76129
(817) 257-7640; (817) 257 6625; Fax (817) 257-5006
Music: Big Band, Jazz
Activities: Music festival
The annual TCU Jazz Festival has become one of the most prestigious festivals in the state. Since its beginning in 1978, the event has attracted more than 20,000 talented high school players. In addition, bands have attended the TCU Jazz Festival from as far away as Tennessee, Iowa, and Hawaii.

Walker County Fair
March 30 - April 8
Walker County Fairgrounds; 3 miles west on IH-45/Highway 30
Walker County Fair Association
Kay King
P.O. Box 1817; Huntsville, TX 77342-1817
(936) 291-8763; Fax (936)291-9030
Music: Country
Activities: County fair, Rodeo
Welcome to the Walker County Fair & Rodeo in Huntsville, TX. The WCFA plans a week of fun and exciting family activities for those of all ages. Activities include family entertainment, carnival attractions, professional rodeo and youth projects. The fair is the youth's week to shine as they exhibit their skills and show what they have learned from their projects. A schedule of events is available online.

Ingleside Round-Up Days Festival
March 30-31
N.O. Simmons Park; 2355 Highway 361
Ingleside Chamber of Commerce
Jessica Williams
P.O. Box 686; Ingleside, TX 78362
(361) 776-2906; (888) 899-2906; Fax (361) 776-0678
Music: Country, Regional Mexican, Rock, Rockabilly, Tejano
Activities: County fair
This hometown event takes place in the middle of town and right off of the highway at N.O. Simmons Park! Help us celebrate with a parade, awesome bands playing all day every day, tournaments, a beauty pageant, carnival and contests galore!

Hill Country Acoustic Music Camp • Winter Jam Camp
March 30 - April 1
Mt.Wesley Conference Center; 610 Methodist Encampment Road, Kerrville, Texas 78028
Hill Country Acoustic Music Camp
Bob Miller
1214 Oriole; Kerrville, TX 78028
(830) 459-2120; Fax (830) 896-5569
Music: Bluegrass, Country, Cowboy, Folk/Acoustic
Activities: Music Camp, Jam sessions, classroom instruction
Winter Jam Camp is designed to teach jamming skills - playing your instrument in a group with other instruments. All classes are organized by skill level and led by our great faculty. Specific camp details, faculty line up, daily schedule and registration information are available at www.hcamp.org

Liberty Jubilee
March 30-31
On the Square, Humphreys Cultural Center; Downtown Liberty
City of Liberty
Dianne Tidwell, Candice Motschman, Naomi Herrington
1829 Sam Houston; Liberty, TX 77575
(936) 336-3684; Fax (936) 336-9846
Music: Bluegrass, Children's, Country, Rock
Activities: Street dance
Often described as one of the best small town festivals in the State of Texas, the Liberty Jubilee is a family style festival held around the historic downtown area on the fourth weekend of March each year. The festival opens at noon on Friday with various food vendors, arts and crafts vendors and the Liberty Municipal Library’s book and bake sale. That evening there is a fish fry sponsored by the local Lions Club, a fireworks display, and a street dance. A popular Barbecue Cookoff competition is held each year with teams setting up on Friday afternoon and judging held on Saturday. The festival is greatly expanded on Saturday, beginning that morning with a parade featuring costumed children on bicycles, walking their pets or riding on small floats. There is literally something for everyone in the family to see or do throughout the day on Saturday. There are three stages of live entertainment, strolling clowns, children’s games and rides, outdoor recreation section, arts and crafts and, of course, great food.

Tomball German Heritage Festival ~ 2
March 30 - April 1
Historical Train Depot Plaza; 201 S. Elm Street, Main Street (FM 2920) and Market Street
Tomball Sister City Organization
Grady Martin
P. O. Box 1131; Tomball, TX 77377
(281) 379-6844
Music: German
Activities: County fair
The 11th Annual Tomball German Heritage Festival will be located on the Old Downtown Streets of Tomball Texas near 201 S. Elm Street, Main Street (FM 2920) and Market Street. It is a music/street festival celebrating German and ethnic heritage with five stages of live music entertainment, ethnic and festival food, beer, wine, 150 street vendors, all kinds of German souvenirs and clothing, arts crafts, antiques, Heritage Center, German church service, fireworks, carnival, petting zoo, strolling music makers, street performers, and much more.

Jerry Jeff Walker Texas Bash Weekend
March 31 - April 1
Paramount Theater / Gruene Hall; Austin and New Braunfels, TX
Tried & True Music
Susan Walker
P.O. Box 39; Austin, TX 78767
(512) 477-0036; Fax (512) 477-0095
Music: Country
The 2011 Texas Bash includes a show on Saturday, March 31 at the Paramount Theater at 8:00 p.m. in Austin, TX and on Sunday, April 1 at Gruene Hall at 7:00 p.m. in New Braunfels, TX. Tickets on sale Tuesday, January 17, 2012. More details to come.

San Antonio Highland Games and Celtic Music Festival
March 31-April 1
Helotes Festival Grounds; 12210 Leslie Road
San Antonio Highland Games Association
Tamara Carroll
P.O. Box 5526; San Antonio, TX 78201-0526
(210) 833-2954; (210) 464-2545
Music: Celtic
Activities: Music festival, Highland dancing, Bagpipe Bands, Scottish Highland Games
As our Highland Games festival attendees will attest, it is not a Highland Games without bagpipes. Normally held in conjunction with the opening ceremony of the games, several pipe bands and piping soloists will march and play together. The result is a thunderous rendition of traditional bagpipe favorites such as Scotland the Brave or Amazing Grace, and other crowd-pleasing favorites. The music of the bagpipe has come to symbolize music at the Games and is reminiscent of Scotland itself. But the pipes and drums are not the only music which can be heard at the San Antonio Highland Games. The San Antonio Highland Games features a wide variety of Celtic music each year playing on three stages throughout the weekend. Many such performances feature fiddling, harp, Celtic bands and other forms of musical entertainment. Though the actual bands will vary year to year, the music performances will typically feature nationally recognized Celtic bands and Celtic folk music performers. In past years, fans packed the main stage to tune in to Celtic rock bands such as Seven Nations and Needfire. These bands have artfully blended bagpipes and Celtic fiddles, with modern rock band instruments to create a unique sound that draws in listeners and creates new fans instantly.

The Houston Children's Festival - Presented by Baker Hughes
March 31 - April 1
Downtown Houston; 500 Walker
Spectrum Events
Tony Terwilliger
P.O. Box 7130; The Woodlands, TX 77387-7130
(713) 553-6900; (713) 522-9723 ext. 6; Fax (866) 775-1580
Music: Children's
The Houston Children's Festival is Houston's Official Family Celebration benefiting Child Advocates. Featuring twelve adventure zones and six stages of family-oriented musical and variety entertainment. The largest children's festival in the United States.