Temple, Texas is gearing up for a significant cultural celebration as the inaugural Tanglefoot Music & BBQ Festival announces a comprehensive expansion of its fan experience. Scheduled to debut on September 12-13, 2025, at the newly renovated MLK Festival Grounds in Downtown Temple, this two-day event promises to be more than just a music and barbecue showcase; it’s a multifaceted community gathering designed to highlight the best of Texas hospitality, talent, and local flavor.
A Musical Feast: Chart-Topping Country Artists Take Center Stage
The Tanglefoot Music & BBQ Festival will feature an impressive roster of over 20 country and Americana artists performing across two outdoor stages. Headlining the event are Texas country music powerhouses Parker McCollum on Friday, September 12, and Cody Jinks on Saturday, September 13. These celebrated musicians, known for their chart-topping hits and energetic live performances, will be joined by a diverse array of talent. Attendees can look forward to sets from Texas music legends such as Robert Earl Keen, the dynamic Randy Rogers Band, acclaimed singer-songwriter Jack Ingram, and rising star Corey Kent, among many others. The festival proudly emphasizes homegrown musicians from across the State of Texas, alongside other acclaimed national touring acts, ensuring a rich tapestry of music for all festival-goers.
Culinary Masterclass: The Pitmasters Privilege and BBQ Delights
Beyond the stage, the Tanglefoot Festival is setting a high bar for barbecue enthusiasts with its “Pitmasters Privilege BBQ Demos” and “BBQ Time @ The Smoke Stack” experiences. The festival will host over a dozen elite pitmasters, many of whom have earned recognition on Texas Monthly’s prestigious Top 50 BBQ Joints list. These culinary artisans will offer an authentic taste of barbecue from various regions, including Texas, Kansas City, Memphis, and Carolina styles.
The “Pitmasters Privilege” add-on provides an intimate, 60-minute program each day, featuring live tutorials, Q&A sessions, and exclusive tastings. On Friday, Panther City BBQ owners Chris Magallanes and Ernest Morales, renowned for their Michelin-recognized brisket, will lead a masterclass, accompanied by Nashville chef Tim Clowers focusing on pork. Saturday’s sessions will feature Temple’s own Fat Boys BBQ, led by three-time world champion pitmaster Corey Mikes, and John Wayne Shaw, Executive Chef at Bosque River Taphouse, who will demonstrate the art of sausage-making. These exclusive experiences also include a commemorative T-shirt and photo opportunities.
For a more casual tasting experience, “BBQ Time @ The Smoke Stack” offers unlimited samples from over 15 pitmasters during designated hours. This experience is included with VIP festival tickets and also available as a single-day pass, allowing attendees to savor a wide range of barbecue flavors.
The Mercantile Market: Showcasing Texas Artisans and Local Flavors
Adding another vibrant dimension to the festival, the new Mercantile Market will spotlight a curated selection of Texas makers, artisans, and boutique vendors. Shoppers can discover unique, Texas-made goods, ranging from handcrafted jewelry and custom cowboy hats to vintage Western apparel and distinctive boho-inspired items. This market aims to bring a local flair to the festival shopping experience, supporting small businesses and offering attendees a chance to take home a piece of Texas craftsmanship.
Immersive Experiences and Local Engagements
Attendees can anticipate a variety of on-site activations designed to enhance the festival atmosphere. These include engaging activities such as axe-throwing with Tomahawk Targets and thrilling bull-riding games. For guests aged 21 and over, there will be opportunities to sample spirits from popular beverage brands like Crown Royal and Casamigos, adding an elevated touch to the weekend’s festivities. The festival is also fostering strong local business activations, with over 20 partners, including KPA Engineers, Don Ringler Chevrolet, and Landreth Concrete, stepping forward to support the inaugural event, underscoring a shared commitment to the Temple community.
A Celebration of Temple’s Heritage and Community
Named after a historical nickname for Temple, “Tanglefoot” evokes the town’s rich past as a bustling railroad hub founded in 1881. The festival aims to honor this legacy by creating a lasting cultural celebration that fosters community pride and provides a significant economic boost through tourism. The City of Temple, in partnership with Soundskilz, has organized the event to showcase the unique spirit of Central Texas. The MLK Festival Grounds, recently undergoing a multi-million dollar renovation, will provide an accessible and scenic backdrop, further enhanced by the Santa Fe Market Trail connecting it to Downtown Temple.
Furthermore, the festival is contributing to a good cause, with a portion of Friday’s ticket proceeds dedicated to supporting Central Texas flood relief efforts, reflecting the community’s collective spirit.
Tickets and Planning Your Visit
Tickets for the Tanglefoot Music & BBQ Festival, including access to the special BBQ experience add-ons, are currently on sale at www.TanglefootTX.com. Organizers encourage attendees to secure their passes early, as single-day tickets have also been released. More details on the festival schedule and specific vendor participation will be available on the official website and social media channels.
The Tanglefoot Music & BBQ Festival is poised to become a signature event in Central Texas, offering a dynamic blend of top-tier music, exceptional barbecue, engaging activities, and a celebration of local culture, making it a must-attend event for music lovers, foodies, and families alike.
