Located just over an hour from the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, vibrant Mineral Wells is one of Texas’ most engaging small towns and hottest live music destinations. That’s no exaggeration, either. Mineral Wells’ vibrant music scene, along with its enthusiastic support of singers and songwriters, helped it earn a Texas Music Friendly Certification from the Governor’s Office in 2024. Well-known acts and up-and-coming talent alike can be found at bars and restaurants, outdoor festivals, and even rooftop concerts at a historic downtown hotel. There’s no shortage of opportunities to catch some of the country and region’s most accomplished musicians. A well-known stop for artists heading for gigs in nearby Dallas-Fort Worth, Mineral Wells may be a hidden gem when it comes to music fans, but not to musicians.
Crazy Water Festival
Since 1979, the Crazy Water Festival is Mineral Well’s signature event, attracting thousands of locals and visitors alike for a boot-stomping good time. Along with street art, children’s activities, regional cuisine, a car and truck show, and a 5K race, the fall festival is an outdoor music lover’s paradise. Catch new and established live bands on the main stage, beginning with a kick-off concert on opening night. The fun continues with back-to-back bands all day Saturday. Bring a lawn chair or blanket, and, of course, your best dance moves. Enjoy a wide variety of rock, country, blues and more played by some of the region’s most accomplished pickers, singers and performers.
Crazy Concerts on the Rooftop Series
Consider it music with a view. Held regularly on the rooftop patio of the historic Crazy Water Hotel, this popular concert series is a terrific place to enjoy live music against the stunning backdrop of downtown Mineral Wells. Sip your cocktail and savor farm-to-table eats while soaking up original tunes in the open air. You won’t believe your good fortune as you take in breathtaking bird’s eye views of the majestic Baker Hotel, first built in 1929 and the Palo Pinto Mountains. You’d be hard pressed to find a music experience this memorable. The Crazy Water Hotel is a must-see on its own. Established in 1913, the downtown landmark was restored and reopened in 2021, offering historic beauty amid modern grandeur. Enjoy well-appointed guest rooms, a carousel of shops on the first floor, dining, and a rooftop ballroom open air events pavilion complete with live music.
Flying Pig Festival
A celebration of creativity and community spirit, the Flying Pig Festival is a must for music lovers. Multiple stages feature Texas country, rock, blues, and folk, with both rising stars and well-known artists. The Songwriters’ Showcase offers an intimate look at the stories behind the music. Relax with a drink, enjoy the tunes, and experience the energy of this one-of-a-kind festival in Mineral Wells.
Rickhouse Brewing
Only in small town Texas will you find a brewpub that’s a well-known hub for singer-songwriters. Warm, welcoming Rickhouse Brewing serves up a wide variety of local craft beer and casual fare along with live music multiple times a week. Events include Wild A$$ Wednesdays, featuring regular artists and guests, and Real Texas Radio’s “Texas Unplugged” every Sunday, in which musicians swap songs and stories on a live radio broadcast. That’s just part of the fun. Rickhouse Brewing’s regular “Tiny Keg Concert Series,” is a must-see for serious music fans. Artists play in an intimate setting, wowing attendees with moving, acoustic sets. Live music in its most personal form, the series has included popular artists like Kody West, Zane Williams, Cody Canada, and Chris Knight.
Friendly and fun, Mineral Wells features a wide variety of accommodations for every taste and price point. Opt for a luxurious downtown hotel or take the lead of Ronald Reagan and stay at the historic Rest Yourself River Ranch. From brand name chains to boutique inns and RV parks, there’s something for everyone. Book your trip to Mineral Wells today for a music-filled getaway in a relaxed setting where every seat’s a good one.
