LAGRANGE TO HOST BEST LITTLE COWBOY GATHERING
Mark your calendars and buff the boots because cowboy classics, western swing, and country will be rockin' the stage at the Fayette County Fairgrounds in La Grange as the Best Little Cowboy Gathering returns to celebrate THE COWBOY from Thursday, March 12 through Sunday, March 15 (always the second full weekend in March--rain, snow or sunshine). And, besides the great music and dancing day and night, BBQ cookers, children's events, historical events, and a BBQ cook-off is held.
The entertainment line-up is staggering and includes: The Survivors (Curtis Potter, Tony Booth, and Darrell McCall), Jeff Woolsey & The Dancehall Kings, Billy Mata & The Texas Tradition, Jake Hooker & The Outsiders with Tommy Hooker, Jody Nix & The Texas Cowboys, KR Wood, Mikki Daniel (a true cowgirl), Hailey Sandoz, Texas Wildfire!, Heybale, Shoot Low Sheriff, Rance Norton, Jason Roberts, Carolyn Martin, Amber Digby, Justin Trevino, Lake Travis Fiddlers, Jody Nix Fiddle Extravaganza, Dutch Oven Demonstrations, Sunday Morning Cowboy Church, and JR "Jake"Edmondson (a real live John Wayne impersonator)--a who’s “Who’s” of stars and activities.
The motto, “Come a Day Early, Stay a Day Late” reminds all of the great shining country hospitality that the community has to offer. Bring a jacket (temperatures can drop 20-30 degrees at dusk), grab some sunscreen and camp chairs (might warm up), and cast your cares away as this event takes you to a time forgotten. The event is never cancelled--some venues are simply moved indoors. This celebration of cowboy culture (with proceeds going to youth scholarships--a real "win-win"), is held at the Fayette County Fairgrounds (one mile north of La Grange on Highway 77) and has become not only a tradition but an educational venue to those that may have not ever embraced that “cowboy persona”--a perfect weekend event for all ages--treat your friends and family to something really special.
Thursday kicks off with Rance Norton showcased in the dance hall at 3:00 pm. Rance has always had a love for traditional country music and enjoys performing each weekend throughout Texas. He is followed by The Survivors (Curtin Potter, Tony Booth, Darrell & Mona McCall) at 7:00 pm. This group has careers spanning over 40 years each.
Friday, folks are in for a treat as featured female artist Mikki Daniel performs. At noon, Heybale will be spotlighted at the Dance Hall, followed by Shoot Low Sheriff at 4:00 pm at the Exhibit Hall, Jeff Woolsey at 4:00 pm at the Dance Hall, then Jake & Tommy Hooker at the Dance Hall at 8:00 pm, and Amber Digby and Justin Trevino at 8:00 pm at the Exhibit Hall.
Saturday, outside on the Main Stage at 10:30 am, "John Wayne" graces the audience. Featured by JR Jake Edmondson a living historian, this character personifies the legend that people adored for decades--John Wayne. KR Wood (who has returned ever year for this event), will bring Texas past back to life at 11 am. Gear up for "biggie" because 1:30 pm brings on the Jody Nix Fiddle Extravaganza--the audience will not be disappointed. Lake Travis Fiddlers follow at 3:00 pm and 4:30 pm spotlights Billy Mata, Floyd Domino, and special guest Carolyn Martin (who has graced the stage from Europe to Nashville). Texas Wildfire! With Mikki Daniel & Hailey Sandoz featuring the KR Wood Band complete the Main Stage venue beginning at 6:00 pm. The Dance Hall will be featuring Jody Nix at 4:00 pm and Bill Mata with Special Guest Carolyn Martin kicking off at 8:00 pm. Jason Roberts will be showcased at 8:00 pm at the Exhibit Hall.
Sunday Morning Cowboy Church returns with yet another special treat for all. Pastor Russ Weaver, co-host of the Cowboy Church program on RFD TV and Pastor of Shepherd's Valley Cowboy Church in Egan will officiate the services. Kimmy Hudson (Cowboy Gospel singer) will lead all in the celebration of faith. uss was a Calf Roper for 13 years and started the Race Track Chaplaincy of Texas. Services commence at 10:00 am and wraps up the events.
The ever competitive LSBS Best Little Cook-off in Texas commences Friday, March 13 thru Saturday, March 14 and includes margarita, chili, pinto beans, chicken, pork ribs, and brisket. Forms may be obtained by going to www.bestlittlecowboygathering.org or by contacting Jimmy Rohde at rowdyj@cvctx.com. Teams consist of a chief cook and five team members and the event is sanctioned by the Lone Star BBQ Association.
Children's Stick Horse Races will commence at 3:00 pm and expect to see artists and craftsmen from various backgrounds showcasing their cowboy art, fine jewelry, vintage furniture, custom clothing, and many other exhibits. And food will be plentiful. Breakfast burritos, hamburgers, and catered meals (that may be pre-purchased) will be available as well as other food vendors. The catered meals are courtesy of Peter's BBQ and will be served on Friday and Saturday from 6:00 to 7:00 pm on both days. Meals are served beside the chuck wagons and may be part of the ticket package.
If you know nothing about the history, culture, and climate of the cowboy, you’ll leave with some lasting memories through music, demonstrations, and activities for all ages—and all at a small cost for the entire family that can’t be beat. For tickets, ticket packages (children under 12 are admitted free with an adult), and/or information on the 7th Annual Best Little Cowboy Gathering in Texas from March 12-15 in La Grange, visit www.bestlittlecowboygathering.org.