Americana Jam Saves a Life!!

Not only were we able to raise $67,122.40 for the Braunfels Foundation Trust at this year's 18th Annual Americana Music Jam at Gruene Hall, we were also able to assist in saving a life! Kathy Flynn, with Love Hope Strength, set up a tent at the event sponsored by Gruene Hall and 92.1 KNBT to register potential bone marrow survivors, and it was there that she was able to MATCH a donor to a patient!! Only 1 in 541 people in the United States are ever matched, so we are overwhelmed that we were able to make this happen at the Jam. 

A little more about the wonderful organization who made the match...

Basically, Love Hope Strength does bone marrow donor drives at rock concerts. It is a great, painless way to get involved in the war on cancer.

Registering is simply filling out a form and doing a painless cheek swab. It takes about two minutes. But if someone is found to be a match for a patient, they go through more intensive testing to find out if they are healthy enough to actually donate. Donation is MUCH easier than people think... in most cases (about 85% of the time) it involves a few days of injections, a bit of soreness as the bone marrow makes more cells than it needs and then spills the extra cells into the blood stream. Donation day is a few hours and a couple of movies. And the incredible opportunity to extend a life when nobody else can!

Most of the patients who need stem cell / bone marrow transplants never find a match, because less than half of them have a match on the registry. About 40(ish)%.  We hope you will register to be a donor at the next Americana Music Jam in May. Who knows how many more lives could be saved!

#ThrowbackThursday

It's Thursday, so we thought it would be fun to take a stroll down memory lane, Gruene Hall-style! The old dance hall has been through a lot, and we are fortunate enough to have pictures that depict different times in the building's history. 

Originally built in 1878 as a social center for members of the surrounding cotton farming community, the Hall would be a gathering place for any and all events. Weddings, funerals, even badger fights! Recognize that wood burning stove? 

As the years passed, the cotton farming town failed, but the old Hall stood its ground. After all, it is the longest continually-operating dance hall in the state. 

Finally in 1975, the Hall was purchased by its current owners and began its transformation into the music venue it is today. Although it took some time to get there... Free keg beer, anyone? 

As the Texas music scene started gaining ground, so did the little old dance hall. With the help of some really great artists like George Strait and Hal Ketchum, and some loyal patrons, Gruene Hall began to transform into the venue it is today.

And aren't we glad!! It's been a turbulent ride, but the Hall is still standing with most of its original infrastructure 136 years later! 

5 Ways to Celebrate America in Gruene!!

July is upon us, which means Independence Day is just around the corner! And there is no better place to celebrate our great country than in Gruene Historic District. Here are a few ideas on how to celebrate July 4th in and around Gruene this week.

1. Float the River!
We caught up with some Instagrammers who recently showed their American spirit as they floated down the Guadalupe. Like @travnasty20 says, "Livin the American Dream!!" Hey, even the fish get the patriotic picture!

2. Two-step in Texas' Oldest Dance Hall
After you've had all the fun in the sun you can handle, throw on your cowboy boots (or keep your flip flops, those are OK too!) and head up to Gruene Hall, Texas' Oldest Dance Hall. Built in 1878, the whole building will make you reminiscent of good ol' days in the USA. Stop in for free live music all day starting with South Austin Moonlighters from 12-4pm followed by Cody Jinks at 8pm.

3. Shoppin'... American Style

From Antiques that resonate the American spirit to home decor perfect for celebratin' Independence Day, there's something for everyone in Gruene. Stop by Lone Star Texas Eclectic to stock up July 4th goodies, then head over to Gruene Antique Company for some older treasures!

4. Good Ol' American Eats!

All that dancing and shopping making your stomach rumble? Head towards the Gruene Water Tower and you'll find the Gristmill River Restaurant & Bar. Situated on the bluff of the Guadalupe River, sit back, relax, and enjoy some American classics as you take it all in! A juicy burger and some strawberry shortcake...doesn't get much better!

5. Stay a day longer and see the Texas Tornados at Gruene Hall on Saturday!
The Texas Tornados, with their infectious, party-ready sound, blending early rock & roll, R&B, blues and whatever other roots music crosses their paths, are back! This is one party not to be missed!

Summertime in Gruene!

Whether you're looking for a quick getaway, or a family-style road trip down South, Gruene has activities for the whole family, all summer long! With live music and river-floatin' every day, you can't go wrong! Here are a few highlights to help you plan your trip: 

When: Everyday!
What: Riding the River & Live Tunes at Gruene Hall
Beat the heat with the cool water of the Guadalupe River.  Whether you choose an inner toob, a raft or a SUP (stand up paddle board), jump in the water and enjoy a leisurely float along one of Central Texas' most beautiful waterways.  Contact outfitters Rockin 'R’ River Rides or Gruene River Company for information. Dry off and head on over to Gruene Hall! Gruene Hall features live music everyday year ‘round. Shows are free most Monday through Thursday evenings and Saturday and Sunday afternoons. Friday and Saturday evenings are generally ticketed or cover shows. For band schedule and availability, visit GrueneHall.com.

When: Every Tuesday beginning June 3rd
What: Two Ton Tuesdays and Swing Dance Lessons
It wouldn’t be summertime without popular rock-a-billy band Two Tons of Steel holding court in Gruene Hall every Tuesday evening.  If you haven't caught Two Ton fever yet, grab your dancing shoes and get ready. The band takes the stage at 8:30pm. Come early for Swing Dance Lessons from 6pm to 7pm. Learn simple, fun East Coast Swing steps in this one-hour class held before each Two Ton Tuesday show all summer long at Gruene Hall. This class is perfect for beginners or those wanting to polish their wraps, tunnels, turns and spins! The one-hour lesson begins at 6pm and is just $8 per person. You don’t even need a partner to join in on the fun! Hang around Gruene for dinner and try out your moves with popular rock-a-billy group Two Tons of Steel that evening.  

When: June 19, July 17 and August 21

What: Come & Taste It 

Meet Texas’ best winemakers and craft brewers at The Grapevine the third Thursday of each month except January. Throughout the year, eleven wineries and the winemakers are showcased on the patio and garden of this popular tasting room in Gruene Historic District. Complimentary tastings will be offered of the craft beer and three of the wineries newest releases, top-selling and hardest to find wines. This a great opportunity to learn direct from these craftsmen, engage with other visitors interested in wine and beer and enjoy the natural surroundings and all the other offerings of Gruene Historic District. Samples of food that is offered for sale will be provided, and each event features live music and prize giveaways. 

When: June 8, July 13, August 10

What: Gospel Brunch with a Texas Twist

In the tradition of a New Orleans-style gospel brunch, we are serving up awe-inspiring gospel music featuring The Gospel Silvertones and Bret Graham, coupled with a mouth-watering buffet, catered by Gristmill River Restaurant & Bar. Known for his Evangelical work and inspiring messages, Buckner Fanning drops in when his schedule allows and it’s always a special treat. Brunch hours are 10:30am-12:00pm. 

When: June 21-22, July 19-20, August 16-17

What: Old Gruene Market Days

Nearly 100 vendors offer uniquely crafted items and packaged Texas foods.  Market hours are 10:00am-5:00pm. Free admission. 

When: June 23

What: Frank Schlather Day in Gruene

Also known as Frank’s Tranquilizer Hour, this event commemorates the legendary former “Mayor” of Gruene with special offers at Gruene Hall, including 50¢ beers noon to 2pm, or until 4pm with an original Frank t-shirt! 

Picture Perfect

There is nothing like spring in Gruene! As each day passes, there are more and more *clicks* of a camera shutter capturing all kinds of special moments and memories. Engagement or wedding photos, family or graduation portraits, anniversaries and special birthday celebrations— we love seeing them all!

When owners Pat Molak and Mary Jane Nalley purchased land in Gruene Historic District, they decided to keep large areas of open space and natural landscaping for people to enjoy while they're here. We're always happy to see people taking advantage of the natural beauty and charm of the small Texas town. 

If you had to pick one place in Gruene to take a portrait, where would it be?

http://www.danielcphotography.com/engaged/augarite-david-engaged-a-gruene-texas-engagement-session

http://www.kateleverenzphotography.com/angela-armando-engaged-gruene-tx/

http://www.rachaelhallphotography.com/valdez-family-portraits-new-braunfels-portrait-photographer/

http://www.sarakblanco.com/2011/12/11/family-session-in-gruene-tx/

http://www.eureka-photography-blog.com/tag/gruene-tx-engagement/

http://carleajphotography.com/blog/2012/01/kristi-guada-gruene-hall-texas-engagement-session/

http://www.bendthelightblog.com/bret-austyns-engagement-photos/

http://www.kellyportmann.com/2013/04/ranft-family-gruene-family-portrait.html

Love is in the Air in Gruene!

The countdown is on to the most romantic day of the year!! Cupid has made his way through the town of Gruene, and we're prepped and ready for lovebirds coming in from near and far. 

Start the weekend off right at the Gruene Mansion Inn with special rates on Thursday, February 13th! Take in the sights and sounds of Gruene Historic District from your private patio for two, then head over to Gruene on Friday to indulge in dining, dancing and fun! 

Start the day with happy hour pricing all day at Cantina del Rio. Enjoy a sangria swirl margarita and fajitas for two for a romantic lunch for just $20.95! Aye carrumba mi amor!! 

When you've had your fill of yummy queso, guacamole and margaritas, head over to The Grapevine where you'll find all the Texas wine and craft beer that your heart desires. Grab a glass and stroll through the town, or relax under the oak tree's of the Grapevine Garden. 

Grab your sweetheart a gift she'll always remember from Lone Star Texas Eclectic, or a hidden treasure from Gruene Antique Company. 

When it's time for dinner, stroll down the brick road past the water tower the the Gristmill for a romantic evening by the fireplace. Indulge in our Valentine's Day Special - a juicy 8 oz New York Strip and award-winning bacon-wrapped jumbo shrimp, served with loaded mashed potatoes and an iceberg wedge, all for $24.99. Finish the evening on a sweet note with some of our turtle cheesecake.

End the evening with some old fashioned romance - Bri Bagwell will be at Gruene Hall for a Valentine's Day Dance. A step back in time as you dance under the beams of Gruene Hall to Bri's great tunes. 

We hope to see you this weekend! 

**Valentine's Day Specials available Friday, Feb. 14 - Sunday, Feb. 16 at Mozie's, Cantina del Rio and Gristmill. 

A Look Back..

We're looking forward to 2014, but before we leave the past in the past, we thought we would take one last look back at what 2013 brought to the little town of Gruene. 

Here are some great events that stood out in our book:

1. Gruene Music & Wine Fest Donates over $135,000 to the United Way of Comal County.

2. Ray Price plays his last show at Gruene Hall.

3. Gruene Hall's Facebook page reaches 180,000 fans - THANK YOU! 

4. Good Morning America names Gruene one of America's Favorite Summer Hotspots! 

5. Gruene Hall is featured in advertising spreads in Rolling Stone not once, but twice! 

6. Stars Lisa Marie Presley & Kevin Bacon play their inaugural shows at the Hall.

7. Gruene Hall launches new website...finally!

8. The Grapevine adds craft beer on tap to their array of options.

9. Gruene Hall donates $10,000 to Two Tons of Steel after their equipment is stolen.

10. The Gristmill adds a new stage to the beer garden for live music. 

We want to know...what were your favorite moments in Gruene in 2013?