Alpine warmly welcomes attendees to the Lonestar Poetry Gathering, currently in full swing from February 15-17, 2024. This event has quickly become a focal point for enthusiasts of cowboy culture and folklore, offering an array of performances, storytelling, and music that pay homage to the traditions of the American West.
The weekend began with chuckwagon breakfasts on Friday and Saturday mornings, setting the stage for a series of engaging activities and shows. The highly anticipated “Roll On, Cowboys” show on Saturday night features a lineup of notable artists, including Andy Hedges, Ramblin’ Jack Elliott, Dom Flemons, Pipp Gillette, Brenn Hill, Corb Lund, Waddie Mitchell, Brigid Reedy, Randy Rieman, Rod Taylor, and Andy Wilkinson, all sharing their artistry and love for cowboy culture.
Hal Cannon, a respected documentarian and folklorist, is presenting the keynote address titled “Making the Ordinary Heroic: The Story of John Lomax,” exploring the significant impact of Lomax’s work in preserving folk music traditions.
The gathering also presents “A Taste of the Gathering,” showcasing performances by 11 artists, and features a special episode of Cowboy Crossroads where Andy Hedges interviews Waddie Mitchell, celebrating the podcast’s 100th episode.
Other highlights include a Friday night show with Doris Daley, Jill Jones and the Jingle Bobs, Andy Nelson, and Corb Lund, as well as a Saturday afternoon show with Waddie Mitchell and Pipp Gillette. A tribute to “Fifty Years Ago: Songs of Ian Tyson” by Corb Lund and Brenn Hill is scheduled for Saturday at 3:30 PM.
In addition to the performances, the event offers supper each night at the Alpine Civic Center, catered by Roux Alpine, and free sessions in six locations across the city. Attendees have the opportunity to engage in mandolin and guitar Q&A sessions with John Moore and delve into poetry and humor with Doris Daley.
The Lonestar Poetry Gathering also fosters the growth of new talent through youth poetry contest winner performances and open mic sessions. A mercantile with performer and Gathering merchandise is available for those looking to take a piece of the event home.
Alpine’s embrace of the Lonestar Poetry Gathering underscores the community’s dedication to celebrating and preserving the stories, songs, and spirit that characterize cowboy culture. This event not only enriches the cultural landscape of Texas but also offers a unique opportunity for participants to immerse themselves in the enduring legacy of the American West.
