ALL THINGS ELGIN
Bigger, Bolder & Rooted in Local Talent
By Brian McKinney
Don't Miss EMF 2025
Under the direction of local musician Quinn Walton, the Elgin Music Festival returns for its second year, promising a bigger, better, and more community-focused experience. “With an expanded lineup, stronger partnerships, and a deep commitment to showcasing local talent, this festival is shaping up to be an unforgettable celebration of music and culture,” says Walton.
A professional musician with nearly 30 years of experience, Quinn has played across Central Texas and beyond. But his heart remains in Elgin. “The road doesn’t sound nearly as interesting as it used to,” he admits. “I’m happier being a local musician, playing for friends, neighbors, and all the new faces moving to town.”
After nearly a decade with Elgin’s Own Gypsy Drifters, Walton was a natural choice to take on the director role following the success of last year’s inaugural event. Now, with a full year to plan, he and his team are focused on taking the event to new heights.
“We only had about four or five months to pull together last year’s festival,” Walton recalls. “This year, with more lead time, we’re able to do so much more.”
What’s New for 2025?
With more time for planning and stronger community involvement, this year’s festival will include:
- A revamped website and social media presence, featuring reels, video content, and behind-the-scenes festival updates.
- A streamlined sponsorship and donation process, making it easier for businesses and supporters to contribute.
A Free Festival for All Ages
Unlike the major ticketed festivals that dominate Central Texas, the Elgin Music Festival remains free and open to all ages—a decision Walton and the team stand firmly behind.
“We want everyone to be able to experience this festival—no wristbands, no price tag,” Walton says. “The goal is to bring people downtown to discover the music, the businesses, and the community that make Elgin special.”
The Daily Schedule
This year’s festival spans four days (April 10-13) offering nonstop music and entertainment throughout downtown Elgin.
Thursday, April 10
The festival kicks off at the Elgin Farmers’ Market, where visitors can enjoy live music alongside fresh produce and artisan crafts.
Friday, April 11
An evening lineup featuring 3X Clockwise, followed by The FI-LYTES, with The Peterson Brothers headlining the night.
Saturday, April 12
The festival’s centerpiece, featuring nonstop music from noon to 10 PM, followed by after-hours performances at local venues.
Childcare Saturday Evening
Correction: Childcare is not free as originally reported.
To ensure families can fully enjoy the festival, First United Methodist Church (216 W 3rd St.) will provide childcare on Saturday evening from 5:30 PM to 9:30PM. $15 - Includes dinner and entertainment for kids. Register Here
Sunday, April 13
A family-friendly close to the festival with performances from local church choirs, school groups, and a special showcase by Studio
22 Music Academy.
A Community-Powered Event
Elgin’s businesses have rallied behind the festival, offering financial support, venue space, silent auction donations, and in-kind contributions. Volunteers are also being recruited to assist with logistics, hospitality, and cleanup.
“It takes a small army to make a festival like this happen,” Walton says. “We’re grateful to have Shametra McGregor from the Harvest Ridge subdivision coordinating the volunteer effort this year. She’s got a great track record organizing community events.”
Key Organizers:
- Megan Stewart – Former festival director, now handling finances and signage.
- Krista Marks – Fundraising and sponsorship outreach, representing Downtown Elgin Inc.
- Brian Lawhorn – Local realtor and musician, focused on sponsorships.
- Christina Rios (Velasquez) – Liaison to Elgin’s Latino community, ensuring cultural diversity in the lineup.
- Caleb Dawson & Erin Riley – Co-owners of The Lightnin’ Bar, assisting with venue coordination and branding.
- Gary Luedecke – Veteran sound engineer ensuring top-tier audio quality.
Spotlight on Local Talent
Rather than chasing big-name headliners, the Elgin Music Festival remains dedicated to celebrating homegrown musicians.
“Sure, we’ve reached out to a few bigger acts, but our priority is local musicians,” Walton says. “There’s so much talent right here in Elgin and the surrounding towns, and these are the folks who really make our music scene special.”
This local-first approach not only maintains the festival’s identity but also ensures sponsorship funds are directed toward artists and event improvements.
More Than Just Music
For Walton, the festival is about more than just music—it’s about celebrating Elgin’s rich cultural fabric.
“We’re making sure the lineup reflects the true diversity of Elgin,” Walton says. “Country, Tejano, soul, rap—all of it. That’s who we are as a town, and that’s what people can expect to hear.”
As Elgin continues to grow, Walton and his team are committed to preserving its tight-knit, small-town spirit—one song at a time.
“We’re a handmade festival,” Walton says. “We’re sponsored not by some national brand, but by local businesses and hard-working folks who care about this town. That’s what makes it special.”
How to Get Involved
With band bookings underway and more sponsors signing on, the 2025 Elgin Music Festival is gaining momentum. Stay tuned for lineup announcements, event schedules, and exclusive content at ElginMusicFestival.com.
Be part of the magic!
✅ Volunteer Signup: Visit ElginMusicFestival.com
✅ Sponsorship Info: Contact the organizing team through the website
✅ Follow on social media: @ElginMusicFestival (Facebook & Instagram)
Mark your calendars for April 10-13 and get ready to experience the sound of Elgin—live and in full color.
The Elgin Chronicles
