Tanglefoot Festival Brings BBQ, Music, and Texas Spirit to Temple

Temple, Texas, is gearing up for a weekend that’s bound to go down in history. On September 12 and 13, the city welcomes the very first Tanglefoot Festival. It’s a two-day celebration of country music, legendary barbecue, and Central Texas hospitality. With a name that nods to Temple’s lively railroad town roots, Tanglefoot is more than just a festival; it’s a love letter to the community’s vibrant history and thriving culture.

Set at the scenic MLK Festival Grounds, this can’t-miss event is drawing big names and even bigger flavors, promising an unforgettable weekend where the music never stops and the smoke never clears.

A Lineup for the History Books

Tanglefoot is kicking off strong with a stacked lineup of Texas country legends and rising stars. Fans can look forward to performances from Parker McCollum, Cody Jinks, Robert Earl Keen, Randy Rogers Band, and more than 20 other artists who represent the heart and soul of country music.

From heartfelt ballads to boot-stomping anthems, these artists will set the stage for a festival that feels like one big backyard party — Texas style.

Pitmasters Turn Up the Heat

While the music may be loud, the pits will be louder. Sixteen of the best barbecue joints in the country are hauling their smokers to Temple for a two-day flavor showdown. Guests can sample slow-smoked brisket, ribs, pulled pork, and more from a lineup that includes:

• B4 Barbeque
• Bar-A-BBQ
• Brick Vault Brewery & Barbecue
• Edge Craft Barbecue
• Fork Grove Barbecue
• Hill City Chop House
• Meat Mitch Barbecue
• Miller’s Smokehouse
• Olmos BBQ
• Owens & Hull
• Panther City BBQ
• Rossler’s Blue Cord Barbecue
• Schoepf’s BBQ
• Southern Smoke BBQ
• The Original Roy Hutchins Barbecue
• Victorian’s Barbecue

With flavors hailing from Texas, Kansas City, Memphis, and Carolina, this culinary experience is a true tour of America’s barbecue traditions — all in one Central Texas destination.

Why Temple? A Name Steeped in History

“Tanglefoot” isn’t just a catchy name. It’s part of Temple’s DNA, harkening back to the city’s early days as a bustling railroad hub. The nickname captured the spirit of a town alive with movement, music, and community. It’s place where neighbors danced in the streets, celebrated milestones, and forged bonds that remain strong today.

By reviving this name for the festival, organizers hope to honor Temple’s roots while ushering in a new chapter of celebration and pride for locals and visitors alike.

The Perfect Festival Setting

The MLK Festival Grounds offer the ideal stage for a weekend of music and barbecue. Nestled near downtown Temple, the grounds boast expansive green spaces, modern amenities, and easy access to local businesses. With its welcoming layout and Central Texas charm, it’s a natural fit for an event built on community spirit.

Festival Schedule & Essentials

Get ready for two days of nonstop fun:

• Friday: Gates open at 2 PM and music runs until 11 PM.
• Saturday: Gates open at 12 PM and the celebration continues until 11 PM.

The box office opens two hours before gates for last-minute ticket buyers.

Parking & Shuttles:

• Paid Parking (Very Limited): On-site spots will go fast, so arrive early.
• Free Parking + $5 Shuttle (Recommended): Park at Wilson Park and hop on a round-trip shuttle for just $5 per person. Shuttles run an hour before opening and up to 90 minutes after closing.

A Festival for Food, Music, and Community

Tanglefoot isn’t just about great tunes and mouthwatering eats, it’s about boosting rural tourism, supporting local businesses, and celebrating Temple’s unique heritage. Whether you’re a lifelong Texan or just passing through, this festival invites everyone to gather, savor, and dance.

So mark your calendars, call your friends, and bring your appetite. From the pit to the stage, Tanglefoot Festival is ready to make Temple the heart of Texas this September. Purchase your tickets here.