10th Annual Utopia Festival Kicks Off Today

Reveille Peak Ranch sits just under two hours northwest of San Marcos, and its picturesque landscape certainly fits Merriam-Webster’s description of a “place of ideal perfection.”

By, Andrew Blanton, Lifestyle Reporter | Exclusive To Corridor News

The tenth annual Utopia Festival kicks off Thursday, Nov. 1, bringing much more than your average music festival.

What started as a small gathering of friends on founder Travis Sutherland’s family ranch in Utopia has grown steadily since 2008. This year, they will break in their new location in Burnet.

Reveille Peak Ranch sits just under two hours northwest of San Marcos, and its picturesque landscape certainly fits Merriam-Webster’s description of a “place of ideal perfection.”

Hot off the tour of his self-titled album that featured the likes of Lady Gaga and iconic guitar solos from his father, Willie, Lukas Nelson will headline the event. Listeners may have heard the upbeat “Fool Me Once” spinning on Sun Radio across the Hill Country.

“People come for the music but almost more so for the experience,” Sutherland said.

The festival offers a full getaway experience not seen in many urban festivals. Attendees are welcome to camp for the weekend, bring a mountain bike for the trails and play a round at the disc golf course.

A special concert dubbed the “Big Ol’ Nasty Getdown” will close the first official day of music Friday featuring Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award winner Cyril Neville from the Meters, Rami Jaffee from the Foo Fighters, Nick Etwell from Mumford and Sons and many others.

“That will literally be a once in a lifetime show,” Sutherland said.

Tickets for the event can be purchased at utopiafest.com.