As a lot as all of us admire the bratitude of Charli XCX, some people simply can’t deal with ACL crowds. For many who need to stay sociable with out being jostled by shirtless bros, the fortieth annual Gruene Music & Wine Competition gives a a lot gentler fall expertise.
The annual shindig is returning October 8-11, providing 4 days of tastings, stay music, and artisan markets centered across the city’s charming historic district. Tickets are actually on sale.
The Hill Nation custom started in 1987 as a one-day showcase of Texas nation and Americana music earlier than rising right into a four-day affair. Within the subsequent years, the organizers drafted breweries and wineries to hitch in on the enjoyable.
This yr brings some acquainted favorites to the musical lineup, together with Robert Earl Eager, Shane Smith & the Saints, The SteelDrivers, and Dos Borrachos that includes Kevin Fowler and Roger Creager. Sure, that’s quite a lot of Americana and nation, however anybody who has ever listened to “The Highway Goes on Eternally” is aware of that hardly means sedate.
The competition is a fundraising powerhouse for the United Approach of Comal and Guadalupe Counties’ packages addressing meals insecurity, psychological well being, housing assist, and extra. In 2025, the occasion raised $214,500, a purpose it hopes to interrupt in its milestone yr.
As all the time, competition passes are à la carte. Those that need to uncover a brand new favourite Pinot Noir or IPA must buy tasting tickets and stroll via dozens of cubicles. Particular person reveals are priced individually to let visitors choose and select their favorites. And if daytrippers merely need to absorb the quaint ambiance, Gruene’s eating places, bars, and boutiques can be open for enterprise.”
At its coronary heart, Gruene Music & Wine Fest has all the time been about bringing folks collectively,” stated Cami Lehmann, Vice President of Advertising for organizers Momentous Ideas, in a press release. “We’re excited to make this yr’s competition our greatest but.”
