It doesn’t take long for Old Settler’s to feel like the right place to be. You pull up to a field in the middle of nowhere, the sun is already too bright and somehow you know you’re exactly where you’re supposed to be.
Old Settler’s Music Festival in Dale, Texas is the kind of fest that doesn’t try too hard. It doesn’t need to. It’s all about good music, easy vibes and the kind of people who will hand you a beer and call you family five minutes after meeting you.
We didn’t know exactly what to expect when we rolled up, but by the time we left, we had a full heart, a camera roll full of smiles and a sunburn I wasn’t even mad about.
Here’s what we love most about Old Settler’s Music Festival!
The People
Everyone was a little weird in that perfect way where you feel like you belong without even trying. It wasn’t fake weird. It was real, good, Austin-area weird. Big smiles and big hats. And let’s not forget the big hugs.
The Music
One second it’s bluegrass. The next it’s folk. Then it’s a little country rock. Somehow it all just fit. No big acts taking over, just good music everywhere.
The Welcome
We weren’t even through the gate and this sweet older lady gave us the biggest welcome. It felt like we had just come home after a long trip. No fake smiles, no script, just warmth. You don’t get that everywhere.
The Food
Not even gonna lie, We came for the music but stayed for the ice cream. It was hot, and that ice cream was a life saver. Sweet, creamy and exactly what you want when you’re standing under a Texas sun trying to look cute and not melt.
The Setup
Easy. That’s the best word for it. You didn’t have to hike for 20 minutes to find a bathroom. The stages were close but not so close you couldn’t chill. You could find food, water, music, whatever you needed without stress.
The Kids
There were kids everywhere, but in the best way. They had little crafts, games, a space to just be messy and happy. No one was yelling at them to behave. It felt like a festival for grown-ups and little ones. And it made everything lighter somehow.
The Feeling
It’s hard to explain but it felt like everybody left their drama at home. No bad moods and no egos. It’s just people happy to be outside, eating good food, hearing good music and hanging out under the sky. It was easy – and real.
If you’re thinking about going to Old Settler’s Music Festival next year, do it. Bring your messy kids – your weird uncle – your best friends. We promise, you’re all gonna love it.