Category: Festivals

MerleFest announces full lineup

JOHNNYSWIM, The Milk Carton Kids, We Banjo 3 and many more added to list of performers for September 16-19 in Wilkesboro, North Carolina. Photo: google

MerleFest, presented by Window World, is proud to announce the full lineup for MerleFest 2021, which will take place September 16-19, 2021. This lineup of world-class bands and artists will be joining the annual homecoming of musicians and music fans on the campus of Wilkes Community College in Wilkesboro, North Carolina, in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. MerleFest tickets are on sale now. (MerleFest, 2021)

MerleFest was founded in 1988 in memory of the son of the late American music legend Doc Watson, renowned guitarist Eddy Merle Watson. MerleFest is a celebration of “traditional plus” music, a unique mix of traditional, roots-oriented sounds of the Appalachian region, including old-time, classic country, bluegrass, folk and gospel, and blues and expanded to include Americana, classic rock, and many other styles. The festival hosts a diverse mix of artists on its 13 stages during the course of the multi-day event. MerleFest is the primary fundraiser for the WCC Foundation, funding scholarships, capital projects, and other educational needs.

The following is MerleFest’s complete list of performers including the previously announced headliners:
Sturgill Simpson, Tedeschi Trucks, Melissa Etheridge, Mavis Staples, Margo Price, LeAnn Rimes, Shovels & Rope, Balsam Range, Amythyst Kiah, JOHNNYSWIM, The Milk Carton Kids, We Banjo 3, Adam Traum, Banknotes, Bill and the Belles, Brittney Spencer, Cane Mill Road, Carol Rifkin, Charles Welch, Charley Crockett, Chatham Rabbits, Cordovas, Creole Stomp with Dennis Stroughmatt, Darin & Brooke Aldridge, Donna the Buffalo, Happy Traum, Hogslop String Band, Iron Horse Bluegrass, Jack Lawrence, Jeff Little Trio, Jim Lauderdale, Jody Carroll, Joe Smothers, Joe Troop (of Che Apalache), John Cowan, Kelsey Waldon, Kruger Brothers, Laura Boosinger, Mark Bumgarner, Mary Flower, Mitch Greenhill & String Madness, Moore Brothers, Nefesh Mountain, Oliver Hazard, One Fret Over, Paul Thorn, Pete & Joan Wernick, Peter Rowan & Free Mexican Airforce with Los Texmaniacs, Piedmont Bluz, Po’ Ramblin’ Boys, Presley Barker, Rev. Robert Jones, Robbie Fulks, Roy Book Binder, Sam Bush Band, Sam Williams, Sarah Shook & The Disarmers, Scythian, Shinyribs, Sierra Ferrell, Smitty and the Jumpstarters, Sweet Potato Pie, T. Michael Coleman, Terrapin Creek, The Barefoot Movement, The Cleverlys, The InterACTive Theatre of Jef, The Local Boys, The Waybacks, Tommy Emmanuel, Tony Williamson, Wayne Henderson, Wyld Fern, Yasmin Williams, and Zoe & Cloyd.

JOHNNYSWIM: Much like families, bands go through it all together. At the core, husband-and-wife Abner Ramirez and Amanda Sudano translate the memories, moments, and milestones on their journey into spirited, slick, and soulful anthems steeped in singer-songwriter tradition, yet amplified by alternative experimentation, rock energy, and pop ambition. JOHNNYSWIM will perform on Friday evening.

The Milk Carton Kids: Listening to The Milk Carton Kids —Joey Ryan and Kenneth Pattengale—talk about their creative process, it is easy to imagine them running in opposite directions even while yoked together. Defying the conventions of melody and harmony is a strategy The Milk Carton Kids have consciously embraced. The Only Ones, the group’s latest record, finds Ryan and Pattengale performing a stripped-down acoustic set without a backing band. On “The Only Ones,” the pair returns to the core of what they are about musically: the duo. The Milk Carton Kids perform on Friday evening.

We Banjo 3: One of the best live acts to come out of Ireland in many years, the multi-award winning We Banjo 3 combine supergroup credentials with a breath-taking command of the emotive power of fiddle, guitar, mandolin, and banjo. Any single member of this group could electrify a venue with a solo performance, but together, in the joyous musical alchemy of We Banjo 3, their passionate lead vocalist like a young Springsteen adopted by the Chieftans, the result is truly unforgettable. Simply put, the gold standard of Irish and American roots music. We Banjo 3 will perform on Saturday and Sunday.

 

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MerleFest 2021

Texas Book Festival announces hybrid format for 2021 Festival

The 26th annual Texas Book Festival in October will consist of virtual events and in-person activities. Photo: Texas Book Festival, used with permission.

Texas Book Festival is excited to announce that the 26th annual Texas Book Festival will take place October 25 through October 31 as a hybrid event. Starting Monday, October 25, virtual sessions will lead up to the Festival Weekend on the grounds of the Texas State Capitol and along Congress Avenue in downtown Austin. The Festival will include a diverse lineup of established, emerging, and debut literary talent of all ages. (Texas Book Festival, 2021)

The 2020 all Virtual Festival featured more than 175 authors, illustrators, poets, journalists, artists, and thought leaders including Matthew McConaughey, Dean Koontz, and Erin Brockovich. The annual First Edition Literary Gala was held virtually and raised more than $600,000 to fund all the nonprofit organization’s literary and literacy programs.

In 2021, book enthusiasts can look forward to the return of everything they love about the Texas Book Festival, including a terrific author lineup, timely and thoughtful panel topics, food trucks, a Saturday evening Lit Crawl, and more.

The 2021 Texas Teen Book Festival will also take place during the hybrid Festival, featuring conversations with acclaimed Young Adult authors. The annual First Edition Literary Gala will take place Friday, October 29 as an in-person celebration featuring some of literature’s brightest stars and storytellers, with indoor and outdoor seating options.
Guests can attend sessions in the outdoor tents and are welcome to visit the in-person and virtual Exhibitor Marketplace, which features book publishers big and small, university presses, booksellers, independent authors, and a wide variety of items for the literary shopper.

With a vision to inspire Texans of all ages, the Texas Book Festival connects authors and readers through experiences that celebrate the culture of literacy, ideas, and imagination. Founded in 1995 by former First Lady Laura Bush, Mary Margaret Farabee, and a group of volunteers, the nonprofit Texas Book Festival promotes the joys of reading and writing through its annual Festival Weekend, the Texas Teen Book Festival, the Reading Rock Stars Title I elementary school program, the Real Reads Title I middle and high school program, grants to Texas libraries, and year-round literary programming. This year’s hybrid Texas Book Festival will take place from October 25 through October 31, with virtual events October 25 – 28 and the Festival Weekend taking place on the grounds of the Texas Capitol October 30 – 31, featuring renowned authors, panels, book signings, and children’s activities. Thanks to generous donors, sponsors, and volunteers, the Festival remains free and open to the public.

“Festival-goers have shared with us how eager they are to see us return downtown, safety permitting. And now, encouraged by growing vaccination numbers and only after many conversations with authors, publishers, attendees, partners, other event organizations, and the City of Austin, we’re eager as well. We’ll never abandon what we learned about virtual, though—readers told us they enjoyed that too. Stepping into the hybrid space provides everyone the opportunity to participate in a big, vibrant, diverse Festival program, virtually or in-person.” – Literary Director Matthew Patin.

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Texas Book Festival

TCM Classic Film Festival 2021 coming up in May

This year’s TCM festival will include Michael Douglas introducing One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest on HBO Max. Photo: Turner Classic Movies, used with permission.

Calling all film fans – Yesterday Turner Classic Movies (TCM) released the extensive lineup of talent, films, and exclusive content for the 2021 TCM Classic Film Festival, airing from Thursday, May 6 through Sunday, May 9 at two virtual venues: the TCM network and the Classics Curated by TCM Hub on HBO Max. The virtual festival features more than 100 films and over 30 special guests across Turner Classic Movies Channel and HBO Max. (EG-PR, 2021)

Last year’s Special Home Edition of the TCM Classic Film Festival was one of the first festivals to shift to an all-virtual experience at the onset of the pandemic, and this year, viewers can expect even more stars, movies, and ways to watch.

Programming and Talent highlights of the Festival include:

  • Opening Night on Thursday, May 6 at 8p.m. ET features the 60th anniversary screening of West Side Story (1961) with stars Rita Moreno, George Chakiris and Russ Tamblyn giving new and exclusive interviews. Opening Night will premiere simultaneously on TCM and HBO Max
  • The Masters collection on HBO Max, featuring interviews with directors Barry Levinson (Good Morning, Vietnam) and Barbara Kopple (Harlan County, USA) 
  • Debbie Allen introduces Fame (1980) and sits down for an exclusive interview
  • Michael Douglas introduces One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest (1975) on HBO Max
  • Jacqueline Bisset introduces Bullitt (1968) on TCM and on HBO Max
  • The world broadcast premiere of Bill Morrison’s latest short film on TCM, let me come in (2021), featuring decayed film reels from the lost German silent film Pawns of Passion (1928) and co-presented by the Los Angeles Opera
  • A tribute to iconic comedian Martin Short with Clifford (1994) and Innerspace (1987) on HBO Max 
  • SF Sketchfest Presents a table read of Ed Wood’s Plan 9 From Outer Space (1959) on TCM, adapted by comedian Dana Gould and featuring Maria Bamford, Bobcat Goldthwait, Oscar Nuñez, Laraine Newman, Bob Odenkirk, David Koechner, Janet Varney, Jonah Ray, Paul F. Tompkins, Gary Anthony Williams, Baron Vaughn, Deborah Baker Jr. and Kat Aagesen

Fans will also be able to engage with the Festival at live virtual events and experiences throughout the weekend including:

  • The return of fan favorite Meet TCM panel where network execs share insight into the network, how programming is scheduled and produced, and a preview of upcoming events and series, will be live on Wednesday, May 5
  • Club TCM, a staple at the in-person Festival, is going virtual this year. Fans can join on Zoom to hear from TCM hosts and festival talent, learn something new, and share their love of classic movies with fellow fans
  • Live Tweets and Instagram Lives with Festival talent and hosts – follow along with #TCMFF 
  • The official TCM Classic Film Festival Boutique featuring limited-edition merchandise such as a new host pin set, mugs, t-shirts, popcorn salt, and more

Turner Classic Movies (TCM)  is a two-time Peabody Award-winning network that presents great films, uncut and commercial-free, from the largest film libraries in the world highlighting the entire spectrum of film history. TCM features the insights from Primetime host Ben Mankiewicz along with hosts Alicia Malone, Dave Karger, Jacqueline Stewart and Eddie Muller, plus interviews with a wide range of special guests and serves as the ultimate movie lover destination. TCM produces a wide range of media about classic film, including books and DVDs, and hosts a wealth of material online at tcm.com and through the Watch TCM mobile app. Fans can also enjoy a TCM curated classics experience on HBO Max.

HBO Max® is WarnerMedia’s direct-to-consumer platform, offering best in class quality entertainment. HBO Max features the greatest array of storytelling for all audiences from the iconic brands of HBO, Warner Bros., DC, Cartoon Network, Adult Swim, Turner Classic Movies and much more. The streaming platform initially launched in the United States in May 2020. This year, it will expand into Latin America and the HBO-branded streaming services in Europe (the Nordics, Spain, Central Europe, the Baltics and Portugal) will be upgraded to HBO Max.

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TCM Classic Film Festival

DelFest 2021 announces lineup

DelFest 2021 will take place on September 23-26 in Cumberland, Maryland. Photo: google

DelFest, the beloved genre-spanning festival brainchild of McCoury Music and High Sierra Music is pleased to announce the initial lineup for its 14th annual festival, once again taking place in beautiful Cumberland, Maryland, on September 23-26.  (DelFest, 2021)

The festival, which typically takes place on Memorial Day weekend, will make a one-time move to the fall in 2021 to ensure a COVID-safe gathering. Festival organizers are working with local and state health officials to ensure the safety of musicians, attendees, and staff, and will adhere to local, state, and federal safety mandates. COVID-specific protocols will be announced closer to the festival. For information including camping, parking, partners, and more, please visit DelFest online and follow DelFest on all social platforms.

This year, festival hosts The Del McCoury Band and The Travelin’ McCourys will be joined by Old Crow Medicine Show, St. Paul & The Broken Bones, Sam Bush, The Infamous Stringdusters, The Lil Smokies, Della Mae, Cris Jacobs Band, Hot Club of Cowtown, Frank Solivan & Dirty Kitchen, The Broomestix, Rob Ickes & Trey Hensley, Steve Poltz, Sister Sadie, Lonesome River Band, Ghost of Paul Revere, Dre Anders, Twisted Pine, Fireside Collective, The Jakob’s Ferry Stragglers, Crying Uncle Bluegrass Band, Birches Band, Haint Blue, Dirty Grass Players, and The 9th Street Band. As always, Joe Craven, will emcee for the weekend. 

In addition to traditional stage sets by these world-class artists, attendees can again expect to see one-of-a-kind collaborations, special guest sit-ins, various tributes to Del McCoury and his musical legacy, and intimate appearances from the artists. DelFest will, as usual, be immediately preceded by the 3-day DelFest Academy hosted by The Travelin’ McCourys and other all-star players.

Located along the Potomac River in the scenic Appalachian Mountains, and personally chosen by Del, the Allegany County Fairgrounds in Cumberland, MD (2.5 hours from Baltimore and D.C.) serves as the ideal location for DelFest. The fairgrounds are conveniently located near four major airports and can be easily reached by rail or road. The city of Cumberland, MD, is a welcoming host offering multiple hotel options, a charming downtown, and great amenities that include biking, fishing, and kayaking, as well as a steam train engine and museum, and interesting dining options. Come for the music, and perhaps stay an extra day to explore the area offerings which are well suited for music fans and outdoor enthusiasts alike. 

 

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DelFest 2021

Culinaria music festival benefits Texas musicians and crew members

Culinaria’s second music festival to benefit those affected by the pandemic will be held on Sunday November 22, 2020. Photo: Culinaria, used with permission.

Culinaria continues to support all facets of the hospitality industry, including supporting musicians and crew members whose livelihood has been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.  On Sunday, November 22 from 2p.m. to 8p.m., Culinaria will host its second music festival at Freiheit Country Store in New Braunfels, Texas to benefits those affected by the pandemic. (Culinaria, 2020)

Some familiar faces on the Texas music scene will perform at the Culinaria Music Festival including Wade Bowen, Americana Country; Cody Canada, rock/alternative country;  Bri Bagwell, contemporary country; Jamie Lin Wilson, country/folk; William Beckmann, traditional country/Americana; Tony Taylor, country/folk/Americana;  and Austin Gilliam, Americana rock.  The outdoor event will also showcase a silent auction and guest bartenders.

Seating is limited.  General admission and VIP tables range in price from $300 to $900, for parties of four to six people.  To purchase tickets and view the complete artist lineup visit Culinaria online.

Freiheit Country Store is located at 2157 FM 1101 in New Braunfels, Texas. To meet safety protocols, the venue is limiting capacity and designated seating is socially distanced.  Masks are required when not seated.

Cash donations to support the Culinaria Hospitality Fund can be made through PayPal, Venmo, or by check payable to Culinaria, 999 East Basse Road, Suite 180-448, San Antonio, TX, 78209.  Donations are tax-exempt through Culinaria.

Culinaria hosts Hospitality Tour Music Festival

William Clark Green will headline the Hospitality Tour Music Festival which will benefit the Culinaria Hospitality Fund. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

On Saturday September 12, Culinaria will host an outdoor music festival at the Historic Freiheit Country Store to benefit the Culinaria Hospitality Fund in support of the New Braunfels community. The Culinaria Hospitality Fund provides aid to restaurateurs and furloughed workers. (Culinaria, 2020)

William Clark Green and Statesboro Revue, known for music that redefines rock and roll, headlines the Festival with a performance at 7p.m. Tony Taylor with his country, folk and Americana tunes, opens the day of music with Blue Water Highway, known for Americana roots-rock, at 11a.m., followed by a rock performance at 3p.m. with Austin Gilliam and Mario Flores, Latin Jazz.  Tickets are $10 for the 11a.m. and 3p.m. performances and $25 for the finale.  A small number of VIP tables are available for the entire day, $300 for a party of four, and $450 for a group of six. Tickets are available online.

Freiheit Country Store is in New Braunfels at 2157 FM 1101. The venue is limiting access to less than half of its capacity and social distancing is required as well as masks when inside or purchasing beverages outside. Between each show, staff will disinfect and sanitize the venue for the next audience.

Cash donations to the Culinaria Hospitality Fund are welcome and can be made through PayPal, Venmo, or by check payable to Culinaria, 999 East Basse Road, Suite 180-448, San Antonio, TX 78209.  Donations are tax-exempt through Culinaria. 

Culinaria is an independent, not-for-profit organization committed to promoting San Antonio as a premier wine and food destination while fostering community growth and enrichment. Culinaria is a registered 501 c (3) tax-exempt organization. A volunteer board of directors who represent the community and guide the organization in its mission to champion the wine and food industries governs Culinaria.

Hola Mexico Film Festival features first film in the Teenek language

This year’s Hola Mexico Film Festival will be a virtual event and will feature “At’ Anii,” the first film in the Teenek language. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

The 12th annual Mexican film festival, Hola México Film Festival, will make its virtual debut September 11 – 20 exclusively through the spanish premium broadcast service PANTAYA, a partnership between  Lionsgate  and  Hemisphere Media Group, Inc. The festival is offering the public the opportunity to enjoy the best of Mexican cinema and serves as a reminder of how much Mexican cinema has evolved over the past two decades. As usual, the festival will feature 20 films, starting with “Chicuarotes” from renowned Mexican actor, director and producer Gael García Bernal. (Hola México Film Festival, 2020)

Due to the COVID-19 situation, organizers of Hola México Film Festival, have decided to practice social distancing by offering the festival, for the first time, in virtual format. The festival will also include Q&A sessions with filmmakers and virtual red carpets.

The opening film “Chicuarotes” focuses on the story of “the cagalera” and “the Molotheque,” two youngsters struggling to get out of poverty that plagues their community. To achieve that, they start working as public transport clowns but soon realize that they do not earn enough even for their basic needs. The story takes a radical turn when they decide to assault the passengers. The  2019 Mexican drama film was screened in the “Contemporary  World Cinema” section in “Toronto International Film  Fesitval,” “Cannes Film Festival” in 2019 and was selected to compete in “Shanghai International Film Festival.” The festival will feature an awards ceremony. The awards will include best director, best short film and best film selected by the audience.

To enjoy the festival using PANTAYA for only $1.00, use code HMFF2020. With this economic incentive, festival organizers hope to create more access to the films this year while hoping to inspire new generations of filmmakers.

Hello Mexico Film Festival consists of the following categories: México Ahora, Documental, Hola Niños, El Otro México  and  Nocturno. México Ahora presents the best of Mexican cinema released in recent years, covering all genres. Documental includes the best documentary films made by Mexican filmmakers. Hola Niños  presents Mexican animated films  for children. Otro México highlights the experiences of Mexicans who are almost never portrayed on screen, presenting perceptual narratives that challenge the status  quo. The Nocturno category features Mexican films that are purely horror or strange.

México Ahora: “Asfixia,” “Amores Modernos,” “Classes De Historia,” “Chicuarotes,” “Los Paisajes,” “Blanco De Verano” and “El Deseo De Ana.”

Documental: “Retiro,” “Disparo,” “El Guardián De La Memoria,” “Radio Silencio,” “Erase Una Vez,” “Yermo,” “Vaquero De Mediodía” and “Obblatos, El Vuelo Que Curco La Noche.”   

Nocturno: “Club Internacional  Aguerridos” and “Desde Tu Infierno.”  

El Otro México: “At’ Anii” and Tio Yim.” 

Hola Niños: “Un Disfraz Para Nicolás”

“At’ Anii” is the first film in the Teenek language. Lucio and Enedina are a happily married, young Teenek couple that lives in the Huasteca Potosina’s jungle with their three children. They love each other and share everything; nevertheless, everything crumbles when the construction of a highway, that their community has been requesting for so long, finally arrives. As part of this development, workers from other towns also arrive, among them there’s Juancho, a machinist that accidentally comes across beautiful Erendida and begins seducing her. Soon, rumors spread in their community until they reached Lucio’s ears, unleashing consequences they wouldn’t be able to survive.

Founded in 2008, Hola México Film Festival, the largest Mexican film festival, attempts to highlight the best of Mexican cinema and film talent. Covering comedies, dramas, horror and documentaries, the festival features high-quality cinema in a festive atmosphere in conjunction with exclusive celebrations and outdoor concerts. Celebrating its 12th edition, Hola México Film Festival will be presented virtually in September 2020, offering film enthusiasts the opportunity to see a variety of Mexican films.

Drive-In Film Festival hosted by Anthony Michael Hall

summerdrivein
Anthony Michael Hall’s Summer Drive-In Film Festival continues this weekend. Photo: EVO Entertainment Group, used with permission.

EVO Entertainment Group® is excited to announce Anthony Michael Hall’s Summer Drive-In Film Festival taking place over four weekends in July and August. Anthony Michael Hall, known for films like The Breakfast Club, Weird Science, 16 Candles and more will be hosting the film festival. Each evening will offer a double-feature presentation of two films shown outdoors at the EVO® Drive-In experience. The festival will take place at EVO Entertainment’s Schertz, Texas and Kyle, Texas locations. (EVO Entertainment Group, 2020)

The Summer Drive-In Film Festival schedule:
Weekend 2 – July 24 & July 25 (sold out)
John Hughes Comedy Classics #2 – The Breakfast Club / National Lampoons Vacation

Location:
Friday, July 24 at EVO Schertz
Saturday, July 25 at EVO Kyle

Weekend 3 – July 31 & August 1
Rudy / The Goonies

Location:
Friday, July 31 at EVO Schertz
Saturday, August 1 at EVO Kyle
Special Guest: Sean Astin

Weekend 4 – August 7 & August 8
The Iconic Duo – Terminator 2 Judgement Day / War Machine

Location:
Friday, August 7 at EVO Kyle
Saturday, August 8 at EVO Schertz
Special Guest: Robert Patrick

Weekend 5 – August 14 & August 15
AMH & RDJ: The Iconic Duo – Hail Caesar / Johnny Be Good

Location:
Friday, August 14 at EVO Kyle
Saturday, August 15 at EVO Schertz

Throughout the screenings, guests will have the ability to purchase food and beverage, merchandise, autographs and more via EVO’s mobile app. During the intermission between the two films, guests will also enjoy a 45-minute interactive Q&A with Anthony Michael Hall and guests plus the opportunity to have a professional photo taken with the celebrities. In order to promote a safe environment, questions for the Q&A will be submitted via EVO’s mobile app or in writing. Guests that partake in the photo opportunity will be asked to wear a mask up until the photo is taken and photos will be available for download through EVO’s website. The use of personal phones for photos will not be permitted in an effort to limit the number of surfaces being touched during the photo opportunity.

All tickets are priced at $25.00 per vehicle and can be purchased online. Tickets are valid only for the weekend and location chosen and shown on the tickets. Guests must purchase a separate ticket for each event they wish to attend, there are no all-inclusive ticket options. Tickets are non-refundable.

Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic EVO Entertainment has taken extra precautions to better ensure the safety of its staff and guests. To learn more about EVO’s safety procedures visit EVO Cinemas online.

Texas Book Festival announces virtual festival

2019 Texas Book Festival
The Texas Book Festival will take place entirely online from October 31 through November 15.  Photo: Texas Book Festival, used with permission. 

For the first time ever, the Texas Book Festival will take place entirely online. Featuring two full weeks of free virtual programming, the 2020 Festival will run October 31 through November 15 and will bring together thousands of readers and authors across Texas and beyond for sixteen straight days of engaging, enlightening and educational programming. TBF’s vision is to inspire all Texans to love reading and this year’s virtual Festival will expand that vision beyond Texas to ensure book lovers across the country and the world can join in celebrating literacy, ideas and imagination. (Texas Book Festival, 2020)

The 2020 Texas Book Festival will feature more than 125 authors participating in virtual sessions, including programming for adults, young adults, middle-grade readers and children. The 2020 Texas Teen Book Festival will also take place during the two-week virtual festival, featuring conversations with acclaimed Young Adult authors aimed at teenage readers.

The TBF’s annual First Edition Literary Gala, which raises significant funds for TBF’s programs and is traditionally held on the Friday evening before the Festival Weekend, will also take place virtually on November 6, 2020. The first of its kind, this year’s Gala will bring together supporters of the arts, members of the TBF community and some of the world’s leading literary minds for an evening filled with good books and wonderful conversation.

Since the beginning of the COVID-19 outbreak and stay-at-home measures in the U.S., the Texas Book Festival has produced dozens of online programs with Texas readers and book-lovers. These include Instagram Live author interviews, children and middle-grade story times on Instagram Live, conversations and lessons from acclaimed children’s book illustrators, educational resources for students and parents and children’s story times from beloved authors and Texans as part of the Festival’s Read Together Texas series. TBF is excited to continue providing additional online programming in the months leading up to and through the two-week virtual Festival, offering even more book discussions, author panels and interviews and bringing exciting conversations from celebrated and emerging writers, journalists, artists, scientists, chefs and more into the homes of readers across Texas and the country.

The Texas Book Festival connects authors and readers through experiences that celebrate the culture of literacy, ideas and imagination. Founded in 1995 by former First Lady Laura Bush, Mary Margaret Farabee and a group of volunteers, the nonprofit Texas Book Festival promotes the joys of reading and writing through its annual Festival Weekend, the Texas Teen Book Festival, the Reading Rock Stars Title I elementary school program, the Real Reads Title I middle and high school program, grants to Texas libraries and year-round literary programming. The 2020 virtual Texas Book Festival Weekend will take place from October 31 through November 15. Thanks to generous donors, sponsors, and volunteers, the Festival remains free and open to the public.

“Nothing will stop us from bringing people together around books, including a global pandemic. We are committed more than ever to serving our community and excited that people from all over Texas, the country, and the world can participate in this year’s Festival.” – Texas Book Festival Director Lois Kim

The Squeezebox announces Fiesta Packs To Go

fiestapacks
Fiesta Packs To Go are available at The Squeezebox. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Fiesta may have been postponed but San Antonians can still get their Fiesta fix this week. The Squeezebox is announcing “A Night in Old SQZBOX” with Fiesta Packs To Go for customers to enjoy at home. The package options include a 6 pack of beer plus Fiesta food favorites like Chicken on a Stick, Gorditas, Footlong Sausage and Footlong Corndog. The Fiesta foods will be catered by Berna’s Street Food. All packages include a FREE Twang Michelada Kit and Beer Salt. (The Squeezebox, 2020)

Availability will be on a first come, first served basis (pre orders have closed). 100 percent no contact pick-up. Payment only via debit and credit card. Pick ups will be available Thursday, April 23 through Saturday, April 25 from 6p.m. to 10p.m.

Package options include:

Tio’s Fiesta ($25):

  • 6 Pack of Domestic Beer (Choose between Lone Star, Lone Star Light, Bud Light, Miller Lite, or Coors Lite)
  • 2 Fiesta Foods of Your Choice
  • Twang Michelada Kit + Beer Salt

MRKT Square Starter Pack ($30):

  • 6 Pack of Premium Beer (Choose between Dos XX, Modelo, Carta Blanca, Tecate, Tecate Light, or Pacifico. Whiteclaw and Austin Eastciders also available).
  • 2 Fiesta Foods of Your Choice
  • Twang Michelada Kit + Beer Salt

Squeezebox Owner and vinyl DJ Aaron Peña is also offering a Fiesta Spotify music list for folks to enjoy at home with their Fiesta Packs.

The Squeezebox
2806 N St Mary’s St.
San Antonio, TX 78212

Twang Partners Ltd. is a family-owned and operated creator and manufacturer of premium-flavored salts, sugars and seasonings based in Texas. Product lines include Twang-A-Rita, Beer Salt and more designed to easily add flavor to drinks and elevate at-home alcoholic beverages to cocktail bar status. Twang’s products are available throughout the country in 46 states, in grocery stores, convenience stores and online.  Twang Partners has successfully collaborated with some of the top food and beverage companies around the world to create innovative custom blends.