Georgetown's San Gabriel Park recently hosted Texas's country music extravaganza, Two Step Inn, where the blend of mud and music became a boon for local retailers. FOX 7 Austin reported an influx of some 70,000 attendees to the park, benefiting businesses that saw country music fans turning the cold and dreary weather into a shopping opportunity. Divine Treasures, a local store, witnessed increased foot traffic with patrons looking to get their western wear fix. "We’ve had packs of people coming in, buying lots of good things today," Divine Treasures' Gaynelle Derr informed FOX 7 Austin.
Despite the weather challenges, with temperatures dipping into the low 50s, the festival, touted as the world's largest outdoor honky-tonk, showcased a lineup that featured Alan Jackson, Miranda Lambert, and Lynyrd Skynyrd, among others. The latter's Sunday performance was part of their 50th-anniversary celebration, noted for a nostalgic setlist that concluded with their anthem, "Free Bird". The Austin American-Statesman captured the enduring spirit of the fanbase as the Rock and Roll Hall of Famers delivered an electric closing jam. "For me, Skynyrd saved the day," the article concluded.
Two Step Inn was not just a testament to music's power to draw crowds despite less than ideal weather but also to its economic ripple effect on Georgetown. As The Escape's Faith Lenner shared with FOX 7 Austin, the correlated waves of chilly festival-goers sought refuge and retail therapy in downtown shops. "It’s a lot like waves, you know, it gets busy as it’s been colder, a lot more people have been flocking to the square for, you know, cover and warmth," said Lenner. The positive impact on the local economy is palpable, with Lenner asserting that the tourism is "huge."
A notable mention in the lineup was rapper Nelly, whose crossover into country rap genres was highlighted by his performance of hits both classic and new. Despite starting his set 16 minutes late, his presence warmed up the otherwise cool Texan air. The Austin American-Statesman underscored his appeal, noting that he even threw a white rag to the crowd during his set, prompting "All my senior ladies make some noise!" The nostalgia factor was unmistakable, as was the collaboration of old and new influences shaping this year’s Two Step Inn.
While music was the main draw, the festival also put a spotlight on local flavors with over 30 food vendors on the grounds. The massive turnout hints at the growing trend of music festivals serving as catalysts for regional economic and cultural growth. With events like the Red Poppy Festival and the Georgetown Spring Art Stroll on the horizon, there's an anticipation for continuous buzz in this Texan city.
