Ah, the power of round numbers! It’s always a special occasion when Willie Nelson throws his annual Willie’s Picnic for the Fourth of July, but this year marks both the country music legend’s 80th birthday and the picnic’s 40th anniversary, so it won’t do to make 2013’s gathering just like all the others. Therefore, an intimidating lineup of musicians (including a few legends in their own rights) has been recruited to turn this year’s shindig into a bona fide blowout. Kris Kristofferson, Jamey Johnson, and Willie’s daughter Paula will be among those preceding the Red Headed Stranger on the south stage outside Billy Bob’s Texas, while the north stage will be headlined by the likes of Gary Allan, Ryan Bingham, Leon Russell, and Asleep at the Wheel.
Festivalgoers will need sustenance through this daylong event, so some 20 food trucks will be on hand with delicious fare. Meanwhile, the “cool zone” will provide entertainment and refreshment between acts. If you really need an hour or two of air conditioning, Billy Bob’s itself will be open, with Dale Watson, David Allan Coe, Amber Digby, and others taking the indoor stage.
Willie’s Picnic runs 11:30am-11pm Thu at Billy Bob’s Texas, 2520 Rodeo Plaza, FW. Tickets are $35-55. Call 817-624-7117.
