Introducing the inaugural Texas Mead & Music Festival, a new addition to the fall festivities in Waxahachie. Taking place on Saturday, September 19, attendees can enjoy mead tastings, live music, and an early glimpse of Scarborough’s Hollow from 1 PM to 7 PM at 2511 FM 66.
Mead, often referred to as “honey wine,” is one of the oldest alcoholic drinks in the world, made by fermenting honey with water and yeast. Its rich history spans thousands of years, with cultures worldwide embracing this timeless beverage long before the advent of beer and wine.
Today’s mead producers are expanding the possibilities of this age-old craft, offering a wide range of options from traditional honey-forward varieties to innovative fruit-infused melomels, spiced concoctions, sparkling meads, and barrel-aged creations. This results in an astonishing array of flavors, appealing to both seasoned mead enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
The festival aims to create an inviting atmosphere for mead lovers and curious attendees to explore the world of mead. It serves as a gathering point for some of the finest meaderies in Texas and beyond, providing a day filled with discovery, entertainment, and community engagement. Visitors will have the chance to meet mead makers, sample unique creations, learn about the craft, and enjoy a vibrant lineup of live music, artisan shopping, delectable food, and engaging experiences.
Beyond mere tastings, the event celebrates artistic expression across various forms, from handcrafted beverages and artisan products to live performances and memorable attractions. Whether you are drawn in by the mead, the music, the marketplace, or simply seeking a distinctive day out with friends and family, the Texas Mead & Music Festival promises something for everyone.
For those eager to delve deeper into the world of mead, educational sessions will be available for attendees of all levels. Led by experienced mead makers and beekeepers, these sessions will explore the rich history of mead, the intriguing realm of honeybees, and even offer guidance on making your own mead at home. Classes will be hosted at the Harvest Garden, and participation is on a first-come, first-served basis, included with festival admission unless otherwise specified.
One session, titled “From Hive to Honey: The Journey Behind Every Glass of Mead,” will feature Kirby Jay Carmichael from the Rockwall Honeybee Company. Participants will gain insights into the world of honeybees, learning how nectar transforms into honey, and how various floral sources impact honey’s flavor and mead’s character. Attendees will also have the unique opportunity to taste fresh honey straight from the comb. This engaging presentation will occur at 2 PM and 5 PM.
Another educational offering, “The History of Mead: From Ancient Civilizations to Modern Craft Culture,” invites guests to journey through mead’s history, from its ancient origins to its contemporary revival. This session will delve into why mead is dubbed “the drink of the gods” and explore the cultural significance and legendary stories behind it. Scheduled for 3 PM and 6 PM, this presentation caters to both newcomers and long-time mead fans.
VIP ticket holders can also attend an exclusive class titled “Introduction to Home Mead Making,” taking place at 12:30 PM and 4 PM. Conducted by Richard Antley, owner of The Clove & Hive and a seasoned mead-making expert, this session will cover the essentials of creating traditional mead at home while exploring various styles and techniques. Attendees will receive practical guidance on the brewing process, along with insights into mead’s rich history and beekeeping, followed by a live Q&A session.
For details on general admission, VIP tickets, and the schedule of live music performances and entertainment options, please visit SRFestival.com/txmeadfest/.
