There are many rites of spring in the Texas Hill Country, but none may be more joyous than the annual return of the Old Settler's Music Festival. Founded 18 years ago, the festival has grown to be one of the top five events of its kind in the U.S., and it's right here in our backyard.

The festival makes its home at the Salt Lick Pavilion in Driftwood. This beautiful, tree-shaded venue with its flowing creek may be one of the nicest festival settings in the country, helping to create the relaxed, friendly feeling that makes it so different from SXSW or the Austin City Limits Music Festival. You spend your time here having fun and hearing great music, not standing in lines for food or bathrooms.Old Settler's Music Festival in Driftwood, Texas

"We're proud of the fact that we've been able to maintain a family-friendly atmosphere, providing our fans with big-name talent without sacrificing the small festival charm," says festival president Randy Collier.

Mike Labinski of Austin sums up what you hear from everyone you talk to: "This is my favorite festival to come to. It's just so laid back, and the music is always incredible."

More than Bluegrass

Old Settler's is known as a bluegrass festival, but doesn't limit itself to traditional bluegrass. Over the years many artists have graced the stages, including Alison Krause, Slaid Cleaves, Guy Clark, Doc Watson, Shawn Colvin, and Roseanne Cash. This year's festival featured Rodney Crowell, Jimmy La Fave, the Austin Lounge Lizards, Australian country artist Kasey Chambers, Ruthie Foster, the Back Porch Vipers, Flounders Without Eyes, and , a big crowd pleaser with their blend of traditional gospel and original tunes replete with smart lyrics.

Bluegrass fans also got their fill with performances from the Bela Fleck Acoustic Trio, the Red Stick Ramblers, Steppin' in It, Sarah Jarosz, Two High String Band, and more. British Columbian band The Bills got things started on Friday and Saturday, and those lucky enough to get th ...

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