Who: Not even the Utopiafest organizers expected their fest would become such a success. But chalk extra points up for the grand natural setting and the decidedly intimate festival atmosphere, just two of several reasons why Utopiafest is now in its sixth season, showcasing a wide variety of touring and local bands.
What: Designed as an alternative music festival experience, Utopiafest limits admission to about 2,000 attendees to keep the atmosphere intimate. Utopiafest also likes to mix things up by putting the spotlight on different musical genres in the festival line-ups, and there are added bonuses like free camping, a variety of activities and – something any music lover would appreciate – no musical overlap. There are only two stages used at Utopiafest, one at a time, so you won’t miss a thing.
When: The fest continues throughout today, starting at 11:30 a.m., with performances by San Antonio Pipes & Drums, Borrisokane, Crooks, Ruby Jane, Hikes, Eric Tessmer, Cilantro Boombox (featured on today’s Austin Music Minute), Star & Micey, Billy Joe Shaver, Holiday Mountain, Benji Hughes, Wild Child, Kishi Bashi, Warpaint, Cold War Kids and Dan Deacon. After hours, take in the Silent Disco with Holding Space, Oliwa, Resonant Frequency and Willgood, or check out some acoustic sets by Calliope Musicals, Bottom Dollar String Band, and Appalachian Dinosaur Exhibit.
Where: Four Sisters Ranch, located at 1555 Lemond Rd. in Utopia, TX., just three hours outside of Austin.
Why: Rain or shine, you know it’s going to be a blast with all of this great music, in addition to a festival environment that isn’t too crowded. Recommended.
– Photography by Misty McLendon.
