FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 6, 2025
Free, All-Ages Series Benefiting the SIMS Foundation Presented by Shiner Beer and Rambler Sparkling Water
GRUENE, TX — This summer, Gruene Hall launches Honky Tonk Thursdays, a brand-new music series designed to spotlight rising stars in Texas country. Running May 29 through September 4, 2025 (excluding July 3, 10, and 24), the free, all-ages series is presented by independent, family-owned Shiner Beer and supported by Rambler Sparkling Water.
Each Thursday kicks off with two-step dance lessons for $12 per person from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m., followed by free music with an opening band from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m., and a headlining artist from 9:00 to 11:00 p.m. The series offers guests the chance to discover new talent in the heart of a venue where country music legends have taken root for generations.
The debut night on Thursday, May 29, will feature The Texases as the opener and Clay Hollis as the headliner.
“Honky Tonk Thursdays are about honoring the roots of Gruene Hall - offering a platform for emerging artists to grow their audience in an authentic, iconic space,” said Ryan Weinbrandt, CEO of Molak Corporation. “We’re proud to support Texas talent, welcome guests of all ages, and give back to the music community through our partnership with SIMS.”
The series also benefits the SIMS Foundation, a nonprofit providing mental health and substance use recovery services to musicians, music industry professionals, and their families.
“We’re deeply grateful for this partnership with Gruene Hall,” said Derrick Lesnau, CEO of SIMS Foundation. “Events like Honky Tonk Thursdays allow us to continue our mission of supporting the well-being of the people behind the music - many of whom are just starting out and working hard to build a future in this industry.”
“Shiner has always been proud to stand behind Texas music, and we’re excited to support the next wave of country artists through this iconic venue,” said Nick Neiland, Director of Marketing for Shiner Beer. “Honky Tonk Thursdays not only celebrate emerging talent, but also support the important work of the SIMS Foundation - making it a true reflection of what Texas music culture is all about.”
For full artist schedule and weekly updates, visit gruenehall.com or follow @gruenehall on Instagram and @gruenehalltx on Facebook.
About Gruene Hall
Built in 1878, Gruene Hall is Texas’ oldest continually operating dance hall and one of the most iconic live music venues in the state. Known for its original wood floors, high-pitched tin roof, and open-air side flaps, the Hall has hosted generations of artists - from George Strait, Willie Nelson, and Townes Van Zandt to up-and-coming musicians shaping the future of Texas music. Located in the historic town of Gruene, the venue remains a cornerstone of the live music scene, offering a one-of-a-kind setting where authenticity, community, and unforgettable performances come together.
About Shiner, the K. Spoetzl Brewery, and the K. Spoetzl Distillery
The K. Spoetzl Brewery was founded in Shiner, Texas (population 2,127), in 1909, by Czech and German immigrants brewing beer with old-world traditions and recipes for South Central Texas. Since then, the brewery has grown to be one of the largest independent craft brewers in the country with beers available in all 50 states, Puerto Rico, Mexico, and U.S. military bases around the world. In 2023, the Spoetzl Brewery expanded to include the K. Spoetzl Distillery with its line of Shiner Craft Spirits. To this day, every drop of the award-winning beer is brewed right in Shiner, TX, where it all started 116 years ago.