Boots, BBQ & Bourbon: Your Guide to Boots On The Bend
Dust off your boots and get ready to two-step. The Bend is about to turn up the country!
As the first-ever Boots On The Bend Country Music Festival rides into town, it's the perfect excuse to embrace all things country, western, and southern-inspired. We've rounded up the best places to eat, sip, shop and explore. Here's your guide to making the most of the weekend.
Eat & Drink
Barbecue and Southern American food tend to go hand-in-hand with country music. Luckily, we have some incredibly tasty spots for you to stop by on your way to or from the festival.
Dean's Barbecue and Restaurant
Nothing says country music weekend quite like slow-smoked barbecue. A longtime local favorite, Dean's Barbecue & Restaurant serves up tender ribs, pulled pork, brisket and all the classic comfort food that pairs perfectly with a day of live music.
Early Bird Eatery
Kick off your festival day with a hearty breakfast at Early Bird Eatery. From chicken and waffles to biscuits and gravy, oversized pancakes and creative brunch favorites, it's the perfect place to fuel up before spending the day singing along to your favorite country artists.
Ember
Ember serves wood-fired dishes crafted with fresh, locally sourced ingredients in a warm, inviting atmosphere. This delicious spot is only available for delivery, but the southern flair is spot on.
Fatbird
For Southern comfort food with a modern twist, Fatbird is a must-visit. Known for its crispy fried chicken, house-made biscuits and flavorful sides, this downtown South Bend favorite delivers the kind of hearty meal that'll fuel you for a full day at Boots on the Bend.
Fat Cap Smoked Meats
If authentic Texas-style barbecue is calling your name, make your way to Fat Cap Smoked Meats. Their slow-smoked brisket, pulled pork, ribs and homemade sides are packed with rich, smoky flavor, making it the perfect stop for anyone craving true pitmaster barbecue before the festival.
Mission BBQ
Celebrate American barbecue traditions at Mission BBQ, where smoked brisket, pulled pork, ribs and classic Southern sides take center stage. With generous portions and a welcoming atmosphere, it's an easy choice for satisfying your barbecue cravings during festival weekend.
The Prized Pig
A hidden gem for barbecue lovers, The Prized Pig dishes out smoky meats, savory sandwiches and homemade comfort food that feels right at home on a country music itinerary. It's the kind of laid-back spot where great food and friendly service come together.
Talking Horse
Treat yourself to something sweet with a stop at Talking Horse Ice Cream—because you can't celebrate a country music weekend without a nod to horses! This charming local ice cream shop serves up handcrafted flavors that are perfect for cooling off between festival events.
Gear up
We're feeling the part, and we want to look the part! There are a few spots around The Bend that offer all the country gear you could need for the festival. Purchase some boots to wear in The Bend!
Al-Bar Ranch
Start your Boots on the Bend look with a stop at Al-Bar Ranch Outfitters, a local favorite for western apparel and gear. Browse a wide selection of cowboy boots, hats, jeans, belts, buckles and accessories to create the perfect festival outfit. Al-Bar Ranch Outfitters has everything you need to step into the festival with authentic western style.
Boot Barn
Still searching for the perfect festival outfit? Make a stop at Boot Barn to complete your country-inspired look. From cowboy boots and hats to denim, graphic tees, belts and western accessories, you'll find everything you need to dress the part.
Boots Y'all
From classic cowboy boots and hats to stylish apparel and accessories, this locally owned shop has everything you need to create your festival look. Whether you're a seasoned country fan or just embracing the western vibe for the weekend, you'll be ready to two-step into the festival in style.
Country Dancing
Cheers Bar and Grill
Every Friday night you can jump into some country line dancing from 9-11 p.m. at Cheers Bar and Grill in Roseland. Once dancing wraps up, the party continues with karaoke!
Art of Dance Warsaw
If you're ready to hit the dance floor before the music even starts, take a quick road trip to Warsaw, Indiana, and brush up on your moves! Whether you're hoping to master a country line dance or glide through a few west coast swing steps, Art of Dance Warsaw is the perfect place to get festival-ready. While the studio specializes in ballroom, Latin and swing dance, they also love mixing in a few country western favorites.
This August, the spotlight is on West Coast Swing, and there are plenty of opportunities to learn. Join the Dancing Delights classes every Wednesday at 7:15 p.m., or stop by the Saturday Social Dance Lesson from 6–7 p.m. before putting your new skills to the test at the Social Dance Party from 7–8 p.m.
Don't miss the First Friday Warsaw Westies Dance, an open West Coast Swing dance party happening August 7 from 6:30–8:30 p.m. It's a fun, welcoming way to build your confidence, meet fellow dancers and make sure you're ready to dance the night away at Boots on the Bend.
LEARN MORE
Art of Dance Warsaw
210 S Buffalo St. Warsaw, IN 46580
While you're in town
While Boots On The Bend is certainly the place to be August 14-15, there are plenty of things to do around that weekend in town. Here are a few ideas to create the ultimate exciting weekend in The Bend.
FULL EVENTS CALENDAR
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