With cowboy hats in the air and barbecue smoke drifting through the crowd, the first-ever Branding Iron Country Music Fest brought two days of dancing, fried food, and country classics to life.
Held May 30–31 at The Pavilion, the intimate festival was the brainchild of singer-songwriter Billy Gray, who opened Friday’s show and returned Saturday to sing the national anthem. A modest but lively crowd turned out for the debut, leaning into the laid-back, boots-and-burgers vibe with fringe jackets, wide-brimmed hats, and beers in hand.
“We got to dance and cheer with the rest of the crowd and it was so fun,” said Rylee Mondschean, who attended with her best friend. “I grew up listening to country music with my parents, so it will always hold a place in my heart.”
Food and drinks matched the energy. Barraco’s Pizza served slices late into the night. Route 66 Diner dished out burgers and BBQ. El Campeón poured piña and mango coladas, and the Branding Iron Bar & Grill kept the drinks flowing.
The beats were just as satisfying. Gray’s outlaw-country set gave way to Friday headliner Collin Raye, whose platinum-selling ‘90s ballads drew cheers and singalongs. Saturday kicked off at noon with line-dancing lessons from instructor Estelle Peabody, followed by a packed lineup including RipLock, SunFallen, Andru Jamison, Bigg Vinny, Buckle, and country-rap star Colt Ford.
The range of acts spanned old-school nostalgia and genre-bending energy — from Bigg Vinny’s comedic stage presence to Ford’s southern swagger.
By the time the last guitar riff faded, the inaugural Branding Iron fest had done what it set out to do: welcome summer with boots, burgers, and beats.
