by Leslie Marlow

On a warm Sunday afternoon during the SXSW music festival, some of Austin’s most interesting hippies, hipsters, artists and musicians gathered along with ordinary folk to attend Lee Ann Atherton’s Full Moon Barn Dance.  Lee Ann is a local musician and music teacher who has been hosting these gatherings at her home for years.  Set on adjoining properties in South Austin, there is a real barn and a stage out back where some of the best music in Austin can be heard.

For $10 and a dish to share, you can eat and dance all day long.  The smokers and bbq pits run continuously and the long tables are constantly replenished and laden with food.  From pasta salads to brisket to vegan dishes and yummy desserts, there’s something for everyone to choose from.  Bring a cooler of your favorite beverage and a chair to sit on to enjoy the music.

The atmosphere is laid back and friendly.  Everyone has a smile and guests warmly greet each other as if they’ve known for years, even though many of them just met.   The conversation is always just as entertaining as the music.

On this particular afternoon, it was St. Patrick’s Day.  Many of the people were wearing green or just some colorful tie-dyed or Hawaiian shirt or crazy t-shirt to celebrate the occasion.   The barn dances are always great for people-watching.

As for the music, there were a couple of Norwegian pop bands, Will Taylor’s Strings Attached, Ray Bonneville and a set with Garrett Lebeau, Sam Baker, Slaid Cleaves and Jimmy LaFave.  The music was varied but each band was great.  The dance floor was crowded and my boyfriend and I got on the dance floor and danced a few songs.

Needless to say, it was a fantastic afternoon South Austin style.  If you missed this barn dance, don’t worry.  LeeAnn hosts these gathering several times a year.  They aren’t always on a full moon, but there is always music and dancing and lots of fun. Leeann also plays Friday nights at Maria’s Taco Xpress.