Article Contributed by McGuckin Entertainment PR
Published on January 24, 2026
The 39th annual Old Settler’s Music Festival is now accepting entries for its 2026 Youth Talent Competition. Open to performers 18 and under, the competition gives young artists a chance to showcase their talent, receive professional feedback, and perform on one of Texas’ most respected festival stages.
The Youth Talent Competition reflects Old Settler’s mission as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to nurturing talent and helping young musicians take the next step. Past winners include Sarah Jarosz, the competition’s first winner in 2002 who has since built a Grammy-winning career, as well as recent Sonic Guild recipient Elijah Delgado.
Through programs like the Youth Talent Competition, Old Settler’s Music Festival continues its long-standing commitment to supporting young artists and preserving the rich traditions of American roots music.
The 2025 Youth Talent Competition winner, Ira Thorne, will perform at this year’s festival. The competition showcases emerging performers in bluegrass, country, blues, gospel, and traditional American roots music. Most contestants perform solo on a single instrument, though participants may include up to two supporting musicians.
Entries for the 2026 competition are now open and must be submitted in video format. There is no fee to enter the competition.
The Final Contest Winner will receive:
Each youth contestant must be accompanied by one adult chaperone. The youth contestant (including supporting musicians) and one chaperone will receive Sunday General Admission passes to the festival. Additional guests must purchase festival passes.
More information: https://oldsettlersmusicfest.
Early Bird passes are now available including 3-Day General Admission and single day passes, Youth, and Child festival passes along with optional Early Entry and Parking upgrades. Tickets are limited and expected to sell out. Tickets & info: OldSettlersMusicFest.org
As a volunteer-led 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to preserving and sharing American roots music, Old Settler’s continues its tradition of creating an intimate, community-focused festival experience.
About Old Settler’s Music Festival
Founded in 1987, Old Settler’s has grown into a nationally recognized multi-day festival celebrating Americana, bluegrass, folk, and roots music. Past performers include Jason Isbell, Brandi Carlile, Béla Fleck, Jerry Douglas, The War and Treaty, Alison Krauss, Los Lobos, The Jayhawks, The Milk Carton Kids, and The McCrary Sisters. Texas favorites including Sarah Jarosz, Shakey Graves, Ray Wylie Hubbard, and Shinyribs have also graced the Old Settler’s stage.
