It’s about that time of year again where Austinites and visitors gather together for a weekend full of camping, music, eating, drinking, and being downright merry. One of my favorite music festivals in the world and recently named USA Today’s #5 out of the top-ten music festivals, Old Settler’s Music Festival is a festival like no other, a festival that feels like home.
Located in Tilmon, Texas (just 30 minutes outside of Austin), Old Settler’s Music Festival 2019 will be held on April 11 – April 14, 2019. I’m currently counting down the hours until I set foot on the Homestead and can’t wait for what’s in store during the magical weekend. In the spirit of Old Settler’s, I’m sharing what I believe are the top five reasons to attend.
The Music (DUH!)
We’ll dive a bit more into this later, but the lineup this year is PHENOMENAL. If you’ve been following us lately, you likely know how excited I am about Brandi Carlile, who we recently saw speak at SXSW. In addition to her, I’m particularly pumped to see Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit, The Lone Bellow, Mandolin Orange, and Ley Line. Full of Grammy-award winners and local talent, Old Settler’s 2019 lineup is quite possible the best it’s ever been.
For the full lineup, click here.
The Camping
Alright, guys. This will be the fourth year I’ll be attending Old Settler’s and the first time ever I’ll be camping – I’m beyond excited to finally soak in the full Old Settler’s experience. Between Camp ShhhhTimes (late night sets for campers who can’t get enough jam time), the beautiful grounds and the amazing community that comes with it, camping at Old Settler’s is a must. I can’t wait to roll out of my tent, throw on some clothes, and get right to the music.
For more information on camping, please visit Old Settler’s site here.
The Vendors
Old Settler’s brings in some of the best vendors from our beloved Austin. You’ll be fully covered on food, drinks, art, and shopping. From craft beer to tacos, jewelry to clothes, you’ll be on a sensory overload, but in the best way possible. I’m specifically excited that Torchy’s and White Claw will be there this year – yeah, I’m a little basic.
To view the full list of vendors this year, click here.
The Nature
On fields of green surrounded by luscious forests, the Homestead is Old Settler’s permanent home and the perfect place for nature lovers. I can’t wait to see the sun rise over the campgrounds and set behind the festival stages. With spring in full swing, those Texas wildflowers will surround the grounds, the most picturesque and dreamy oasis you can imagine.
To view the full site map click here.
The Community
I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again. Old Settler’s brings together the friendliest, most laid back group of festival-goers I’ve ever seen. Not only is it easy to make friends there, but you feel so comfortable to be your weird self, the best version of your self. Volunteers and attendees alike all have smiles on their faces, a contagious joy you can’t help but catch.
If you’re interested in becoming a volunteer, visit the site here.
If you haven’t already, there’s still time to snag a ticket! Visit here to do so – day passes, 3-day passes, and even camping passes are still available. We hope to see y’all there!
Stay tuned for recaps and photo galleries to come, and be sure to follow us on Instagram to catch all the shenanigans during the festival.
Feature photo credit: Leigh Kettle/Shuffle Online
Leigh is a native Texan gone temporary New Yorker and now proud Austinite. Passions include but are not limited to music (both as a spectator and dabbler), traveling & cultural adventures, film & television, true crime, design (of the fashion, interior, and graphic sorts), and photographing & writing about all the aforementioned. Self-acclaimed coffee connoisseur & wino, cat aficionado, book worm, and nature junkie.