Texas Music Office

The 1st State Music Office in the US since 1990, TMO fosters the economic development of #TexasMusic businesses, musicians, & Music Friendly Texas communities.

[Texas Music Office @txmusicoffice]

The Levitt Family Foundation supports free outdoor music festivals that expand access to the arts, strengthen communities, and create positive social impact. In 2026, the Foundation awarded grants of up to $5,000 to 55 festival organizers across more than 30 states. From small-town main streets and urban trails to major city parks and waterfront docks, these festivals celebrate music, culture, local traditions, and creativity in public spaces. Explore the 2026 festival grantees and discover the diverse communities bringing free live music to audiences across the country.

Applications for the Levitt Family Foundation’s 2027 Festival Grants open October 1, 2026. U.S.-based 501(c)(3) nonprofits may apply for grants of up to $5,000 to present free outdoor festivals in 2027. Eligible festivals must take place outdoors in a public space, be free to attend, and feature music and performances by professional musicians who are compensated. Applications are due Friday, November 20, 2026. Applicants can review the application FAQs and register for the Festival Grants webinar on October 7, 2026; a recording will be sent to all registrants.

@LevittFdn

[Texas Music Office @txmusicoffice]

Final reminder!

Tomorrow is the last day to apply for the Texas Music Incubator Rebate Program. If you've been waiting, now is the time to submit your application.

Applications close September 30 at 5:00 p.m. CT, and late submissions will not be accepted.

Learn more and apply: https://t.co/qryT0p5g9p

#TexasMusic #LiveMusic #TMIR #TexasMusicOffice

[Texas Music Office @txmusicoffice]

The 5th Annual Big Bend Bluegrass Festival takes place October 2–3, at the Alpine Civic Center, 801 W. Holland Ave., Alpine, Texas. The indoor festival begins at 3 p.m. Friday, October 2, and runs through 10 p.m. Saturday, October 3. The anniversary lineup features acclaimed bluegrass acts including Special Consensus, the Edgar Loudermilk Band, Catahoula Drive, the Edwards Brothers, Righteous Intonation, and the Finley River Boys.

Music is scheduled throughout the two-day celebration, with Special Consensus performing Saturday at 7 p.m. and the Edgar Loudermilk Band appearing both Friday and Saturday. The festival also offers free workshops, jamming opportunities, food vendors, and indoor seating, making it a relaxed gathering for bluegrass fans and families. The festival's official listings confirm the October 2–3 dates and Alpine Civic Center location, while current event listings identify the Saturday Special Consensus performance time.

@VisitAlpineTX

[Texas Music Office @txmusicoffice]

The Everybody’s Somebody Festival brought a celebration of Texas music and community to Luckenbach Texas on September 5. Presented by Hayes Carll and The Band of Heathens, the festival showcased a lineup of Texas talent in the iconic Luckenbach setting. A special highlight was the Texas Songwriter set, which the Texas Music Office was proud to partner with HAAM (Health Alliance for Austin Musicians) to present, featuring Graham Wilkinson, Suzanna Choffel, and Katie Shore.

Another memorable moment came when TMO Director Chip Adams and Visit Fredericksburg CEO Lisa Oliveira introduced Hayes Carll, Ed Jurdi, and Gordy Quist of The Band of Heathens. They also announced the upcoming October 17, 2026 celebration at Luckenbach, when Fredericksburg will be officially certified as the 100th Music Friendly Texas Community. The milestone event will include the official certification ceremony and live music at the historic Luckenbach Dance Hall, further highlighting Fredericksburg’s growing role in Texas' music economy.

@LuckenbachTexas
@VisitFredTexas
@hayescarll
@BandofHeathens
@myhaam

[Texas Music Office @txmusicoffice]

The Feels Like Home Festival returns to Brownwood, Texas, on Saturday, October 3, 2026, for a full day of country music, Texas barbecue, and community entertainment. The festival will take place at the Brownwood Event Center Complex, located at 601 E. Baker Street in downtown Brownwood.

The 2026 music lineup features country favorites Gary Allan, Scotty McCreery, Mark Chesnutt, Jack Ingram, and rising Texas singer-songwriter Caroline Hale. Along with live performances, guests can enjoy barbecue from acclaimed Texas pitmasters, interactive attractions such as mechanical bull riding and axe throwing, vendors, and an expanded BBQ stage.

@brownwoodtx

[Texas Music Office @txmusicoffice]

Lewisville Western Days returns September 25–26, 2026, bringing two days of live music, western-themed activities, food, shopping, and entertainment to Old Town Lewisville, Texas. The festival runs from 4–11:30 p.m. Friday and noon–11:30 p.m. Saturday, with performances spread across six stages.

Music highlights include Eli Young Band, headlining Friday night at 10 p.m., and Randy Rogers Band, closing out Saturday at 10 p.m. Other scheduled performers include The Wilder Blue, Chaser Crouch, The Peterson Brothers, Carter Faith, Blaggards, J. Isaiah Evans & The Boss Tweed, Cole Phillips, and The Texas Zephyrs, among many others. The festival is centered in Old Town Lewisville, making it a lively destination for Texas music, western culture, food, and family-friendly entertainment.

@LewisvilleTexas

[Texas Music Office @txmusicoffice]

On September 27, the University of Texas at San Antonio’s Institute of Texan Cultures will present “Strings of Tradition: Exploring Conjunto’s Fiddle,” a special program focused on the history and evolution of conjunto music. The event brings together experts from the Texas Conjunto Music Hall of Fame and Museum to discuss the often-overlooked role of the fiddle in conjunto. Although the accordion and bajo sexto are strongly associated with the genre, the fiddle has also contributed to its distinctive sound and demonstrates how musicians have adapted and experimented with traditional instruments over generations. The program will be moderated by ITC head curator Bianca Alvarez and will conclude with a live performance by conjunto musicians Zeth Lara and Aaron Salinas.

The event connects directly with the Institute of Texan Cultures’ “Puro Conjunto: Border(less) Sound” exhibition, which explores conjunto as an important expression of Texas culture and identity. Conjunto developed through migration, working-class communities, and cultural exchange, combining influences from German and Eastern European dance music with Indigenous, Spanish, and Mexican traditions. The exhibition emphasizes how conjunto has remained a living tradition through family, community gatherings, dance halls, festivals, and new generations of musicians. By focusing on the fiddle, “Strings of Tradition” shows that conjunto is not a fixed musical style but an evolving tradition shaped by the creativity and experiences of Texas communities.

@TexanCultures

[Texas Music Office @txmusicoffice]

One week left!
If you're planning to apply for the Texas Music Incubator Rebate Program, now is the time.
Applications close September 30 at 5:00 p.m. CT.
Learn more and apply: https://t.co/DrfL5CzNEO
#TexasMusic #LiveMusic #TMIR #TexasMusicOffice

[Texas Music Office @txmusicoffice]

The 57th Annual Cowboy Capital of the World PRCA Rodeo rides into Stephenville, Texas, September 24–26, 2026, bringing three nights of top-notch professional rodeo action to the Priefert Cowboy Capital Fairgrounds Arena, 9875 U.S. Highway 67, Stephenville, TX. Each performance begins at 7 p.m., with plenty of Western excitement as Stephenville celebrates its heritage as the Cowboy Capital of the World. Cowboy Capital of the World Fairgrounds.

The rodeo weekend also features live music following each performance. Thursday, Sept. 24: Kevin Fowler, David Lewis, and Ethan Pacheco; Friday, Sept. 25: Carson Jeffery & Parker Ryan and Michael Armstrong; and Saturday, Sept. 26: Wade Forster, Jordan Nix, and Landon Farrar. Admission to the concerts is included with a rodeo ticket, making this a full night of rodeo thrills and Texas country music.

@stephenvilletvb

[Texas Music Office @txmusicoffice]

Belton’s Bacon, Blues, & Brews returns September 25–26 to the Historic Bell County Courthouse Square, 101 E. Central Ave., Belton, Texas. This free two-day festival brings together bacon-inspired food, craft brews and wines, vendors, and live entertainment in the heart of downtown Belton.
The music lineup features South Austin Moonlighters on Friday evening, followed by an action-packed Saturday with the Peterson Brothers, Jay White and the Blues Commanders, ZZ Tex, and Texas Flood. From live blues and great food to cold brews and family-friendly activities, Belton’s Bacon, Blues, & Brews offers a flavorful weekend of Texas fun for the whole family.

@beltontexasgov

[Texas Music Office @txmusicoffice]

On Tuesday, September 22, Austin will once again become one giant stage for HAAM Day Music Festival, the annual celebration benefiting the Health Alliance for Austin Musicians (HAAM). This year’s citywide festival brings together more than 400 local musicians for 250+ free performances at 120+ venues across Greater Austin, highlighting the artists who make Austin’s music community so vibrant while helping provide local musicians with access to affordable healthcare and wellness services.

One of the day’s standout showcases will take place at the Texas State Capitol South Steps, with music beginning at 10 a.m. Parker Woodland will kick things off with an acoustic duo set at 10 a.m., followed by Mama Duke at 11 a.m. The free, all-ages performance is presented by HAAM, Women in Music, FVF Law and the Texas Music Office, offering a chance to experience two dynamic Austin artists in one of the city’s most iconic settings—all while supporting HAAM’s mission to keep Austin’s music community healthy and thriving.
@myhaam

[Texas Music Office @txmusicoffice]

We couldn't be more excited for Texas to takeover Nashville TOMORROW!!!

The Texas Takeover marks a new chapter for Texas’ presence at AMERICANAFEST, with the Texas Music Office taking on the role of curator and producer in 2026 and building on the legacy of The Longhorn Shindig, presented for many years by Kessler Presents. The official AMERICANAFEST Texas Day Party takes place Saturday, September 19, from noon to 6 p.m. at Skinny Dennis in Nashville, and is free and open to the public with no wristband required.

Presented by the Texas Music Office and Travel Texas, along with Prekindle, Visit Fort Worth, Visit Dallas, and The Longhorn Ballroom, the lineup features Next of Kin, Jess Williamson, Jaimee Harris, Judy Blank, Lemongrass, Kathryn Legendre, Matthew McNeal, Marcel, Our Man In The Field (UK) and surprise guests, with special performances by Gracen Wynn, Remy Reilly, and Courtney Santana.

@skinnydennisbar
@TravelTexas
@prekindletickets
@VisitFortWorth
@visit_dallas
@Longhorn_Dallas

[Texas Music Office @txmusicoffice]

One month from today, Saturday, October 17, Fredericksburg will make Texas music history when it is officially certified as the 100th Music Friendly Texas Community. To commemorate the milestone, the Texas Music Office and Visit Fredericksburg will host a celebration at the historic Luckenbach Dance Hall. Festivities begin at 6 p.m. with a two-step lesson, followed by live music from Kathryn Legendre and Theo Lawrence—perfect for dancing—along with the official certification ceremony. The event is free and open to all ages.

The Music Friendly Texas (MFT) Program provides communities with a structured framework to support and grow their local music economies. By bringing together local stakeholders, music industry professionals, and city leadership, the program encourages collaboration, strengthens industry connections, and creates opportunities for long-term economic growth. Fredericksburg’s designation as the 100th certified community marks a significant milestone for the statewide program and highlights the growing role music plays in Texas communities.

Two-step dance Lessons - 6pm
Kathryn Legendre - 7pm
Theo Lawrence Band - 8pm

@LuckenbachTexas
@VisitFredTexas

@legendre

[Texas Music Office @txmusicoffice]

North Texas native Jess Williamson has spent the past decade carving out a singular space in American music, blending the traditions of country and Western songwriting with the atmospheric textures of indie folk. Born and raised in the Dallas area, Williamson’s Texas roots remain a vital thread throughout her work, from her early solo records to her acclaimed collaboration with Waxahatchee as Plains. Her evocative songwriting, distinctive voice, and deeply personal storytelling have established her as one of the most compelling voices in contemporary Americana.

This Saturday, she will take the stage at The Texas Takeover at Skinny Dennis Nashville, kicking off a busy fall of performances. She’ll head to Austin on October 1 to support Brandon Flowers at Stubb’s Waller Creek Amphitheater, followed by a performance at Austin City Limits Music Festival on October 4. On October 8, Williamson will return to Austin’s iconic Continental Club to celebrate the release of her highly anticipated new album, A Mile South of Heaven, ahead of its official October 9 release.

The Texas Takeover marks a new chapter for Texas’ presence at AMERICANAFEST, with the Texas Music Office taking on the role of curator and producer in 2026 and building on the legacy of The Longhorn Shindig, presented for many years by Kessler Presents. The official AMERICANAFEST Texas Day Party takes place Saturday, September 19, from noon to 6 p.m. at Skinny Dennis in Nashville, and is free and open to the public with no wristband required. Presented by the Texas Music Office and Travel Texas, along with Prekindle, Visit Fort Worth, Visit Dallas, and The Longhorn Ballroom, the lineup features Next of Kin, Jess Williamson, Jaimee Harris, Judy Blank, Lemongrass, Kathryn Legendre, Matthew McNeal, Marcel, Our Man In The Field (UK) and surprise guests, with special performances by Gracen Wynn, Remy Reilly, and Courtney Santana.

@skinnydennisbar
@TravelTexas
@prekindletickets
@VisitFortWorth
@visit_dallas
@Longhorn_Dallas

[Texas Music Office @txmusicoffice]

The Texas Music Incubator Rebate Program application period is already halfway through. If you plan to apply, now is a great time to submit your application and check it off your list.

Deadline: September 30 at 5:00 p.m. CT

Learn more and apply: https://t.co/qryT0p5NYX

#TexasMusic #LiveMusic #TMIR #TexasMusicOffice

[Texas Music Office @txmusicoffice]

Aurora Sessions arrives at AWKN Ranch in Austin on Saturday, September 19, bringing together live music, visual art, movement, wellness, healthy food, and community for an immersive day designed around connection and participation. Created by Austin musician and founder Shanik Hughes, the experience moves from yoga, meditation, breathwork and somatic movement into sound healing, pottery, visual art and live music, culminating in an evening concert and community jam around the fire. The event is intentionally alcohol-free and welcomes families with children ages 10 and older.

The musical lineup includes Shanik Hughes and Brynn Bowman, with Hughes also leading the evening community experience. Aurora Sessions is supported by a network of Austin creative and community organizations, including Maison Palo Santo, The Blank Space Yoga, Don’t Stop Rocking, and the City of Austin Arts, Culture, Music and Entertainment, The Good Wolf Experience, with additional support from the Austin Live Music Fund Grant.

Together, these partners reflect the event’s larger mission: creating a space where music, creativity, wellness and community intersect—and where guests move beyond simply watching a performance to becoming part of the experience.

[Texas Music Office @txmusicoffice]

Originally from Utrecht, NL, and now an Austin resident, Judy Blank is a singer-songwriter known for her honest storytelling, warm melodies, and captivating live performances. After making her mark on stages across the U.S., Blank has become an active part of Austin’s vibrant music community, and we are thrilled for her upcoming performance at The Texas Takeover. Her music pairs intimate songwriting with a natural stage presence that connects with audiences wherever she performs.

Blank will be hitting the road throughout the fall, with September dates in Dallas, Austin, and Houston supporting Six Foot Blonde. In October, she’ll continue touring in support of Katie Pruitt, bringing her distinctive sound to even more audiences. From her roots in Utrecht to her home base in Austin, Judy Blank continues to carve out her own space in the Americana and singer-songwriter landscape.

The Texas Takeover marks a new chapter for Texas’ presence at AMERICANAFEST, with the Texas Music Office taking on the role of curator and producer in 2026 and building on the legacy of The Longhorn Shindig, presented for many years by Kessler Presents. The official AMERICANAFEST Texas Day Party takes place Saturday, September 19, from noon to 6 p.m. at Skinny Dennis in Nashville, and is free and open to the public with no wristband required. Presented by the Texas Music Office and Travel Texas, along with Prekindle, Visit Fort Worth, Visit Dallas, and The Longhorn Ballroom, the lineup features Next of Kin, Jess Williamson, Jaimee Harris, Judy Blank, Lemongrass, Kathryn Legendre, Matthew McNeal, Marcel, Our Man In The Field (UK) and surprise guests, with special performances by Gracen Wynn, Remy Reilly, and Courtney Santana.

@judyblankmusic
@skinnydennisbar
@TravelTexas
@prekindletickets
@VisitFortWorth
@visit_dallas
@Longhorn_Dallas

[Texas Music Office @txmusicoffice]

The Texas Women Songwriters Festival returns September 18–20, 2026, bringing an unforgettable weekend of original music, storytelling and collaboration to historic downtown Lockhart, Texas. The three-day celebration features headline artists BettySoo, Patrice Pike, Patricia Vonne and Susan Gibson, plus 50 women songwriters of all ages and backgrounds performing across multiple walkable downtown venues.

From intimate multi-artist song swaps to headline performances and a Sunday mariachi brunch, TWS Fest offers music lovers the chance to discover both emerging voices and beloved Texas songwriters. All song swaps are free and open to the public, making this a welcoming celebration of the incredible diversity, talent and community of women in Texas music.

@CityLockhartTX

[Texas Music Office @txmusicoffice]

Kathryn Legendre is a native Texan and acclaimed singer-songwriter known for her original take on traditional honky-tonk. Drawing inspiration from classic country, Texas dancehall music and the everyday highs and heartbreaks of life, she has built a catalog that includes her debut album Old Soul, the EPs Don’t Give A Damn and Making It Up, and her 2025 full-length album Here’s Your Honky Tonk. Her work has earned multiple Ameripolitan nominations and an Austin Music Awards nomination, while festival appearances at Two Step Inn, Stagecoach and ACL Music Festival have helped establish her as a standout voice in modern Texas country.

Next week, Legendre heads to Nashville to kick off The Texas Takeover at Skinny Dennis as part of the official AMERICANAFEST Texas Day Party. Taking place Saturday, September 19, from noon to 6 p.m. at Skinny Dennis, 2635 Gallatin Pike, the free event will showcase a strong lineup of Texas and Americana talent, with Legendre among the featured performers.

The Texas Takeover marks a new chapter for Texas’ presence at AMERICANAFEST, with the Texas Music Office taking on the role of curator and producer in 2026 and building on the legacy of The Longhorn Shindig, presented for many years by Kessler Presents. The official AMERICANAFEST Texas Day Party takes place Saturday, September 19, from noon to 6 p.m. at Skinny Dennis in Nashville, and is free and open to the public with no wristband required. Presented by the Texas Music Office and Travel Texas, along with Prekindle, Visit Fort Worth, Visit Dallas, and The Longhorn Ballroom, the lineup features Next of Kin, Jess Williamson, Jaimee Harris, Judy Blank, Lemongrass, Kathryn Legendre, Matthew McNeal, Marcel, Our Man In The Field (UK) and surprise guests, with special performances by Gracen Wynn, Remy Reilly, and Courtney Santana.

@legendre
@skinnydennisbar
@TravelTexas
@prekindletickets
@VisitFortWorth
@visit_dallas
@Longhorn_Dallas

[Texas Music Office @txmusicoffice]

Rhythm & Rails Music Festival rolls into Downtown Denison, Texas, on Saturday, September 12, turning the historic downtown district into a walkable celebration of live music and local culture. The festival will feature performances across multiple downtown venues, with Heritage Park serving as a key gathering point. The event is designed to highlight Denison’s railroad heritage while bringing residents and visitors together through music, entertainment and community.

The lineup features a diverse mix of local and regional performers throughout the day, including Rust & Vinyl, Sawyer Guymon, Steel City Band, Kerosene Drifters, Jon the Revelator, Ken Nicholson, Oliver White, Victoria Lemons, Taylor Walker, Tori Smyers and Neely Rose. The evening will culminate with Elevation by Emerald City Bands at 111 E. Main Street, while Try Again, Blends and Aztec Grass take over RedRock Saloon later that night.

@DowntownDenison
@DiscoverDenton