Welcome to Wimberley, Spring/Summer 2024

PUBLISHER/AD SALES

Julie Spell Harrington

512-484-9716 • julie@hillcountrysun.com

EDITOR/DESIGN

Melissa Maxwell Ball

512-569-8212 • melissa@hillcountrysun.com

WRITERS

Bonnie Eissler • Colleen Brooks

DISTRIBUTION Gerry Burns

Top Left. Photo courtesy

Bottom Left! Photo courtesy Social on the Square. Right. Photo courtesy Bootiful Wimberley.

By Colleen Brooks

Wimberley Glassworks has come a long way since Tim de Jong established his one-man shop in the early ’90s. At that time, he was fresh out of art school, new to the Wimberley area, and focused on creating unique, hand-blown drinking glasses and pitchers. Now you can find his intricate chandelier installations hanging from office buildings across the country. “We’re one of the largest commercial portfolios in Texas, if not the largest,” Tim explains. “Our work is gaining recognition far and wide.”

Wimberley Glassworks celebrated its 30th year recently, along with some big installations. “We did some really cool pieces – like our Dr. Pepper installation, for instance,” Tim says. “They merged with Keurig, and we created this floating staircase design that Dr. Pepper conceptualized. It has 198 bubbles, three to 14 inches in diameter. When walking up the stairs, it’s as if you’re walking through soda.”

Another recent Wimberley Glassworks installation is “Cascade,” a three-story tall Fibonacci spiral hanging in a medical building in Austin. “Cultivate” was created for the Sugarland City Hall in honor of Sugarland’s 60th anniversary. “The concept was an abstract of sugarcane, signifying the growth and diversification of the city and community,” Tim describes. “The design spans the ceiling in a pattern that mimics the Greco-Roman floor motif.”

Tim’s keen appreciation for glass and lighting was cultivated in New York during art school, inspired by the sun’s play on ice at Niagara Falls. His passion remains as strong today as when he first embarked on his career. The Wimberley community has consistently nurtured and supported his artistic endeavors, from his newcomer days through the COVID lockdowns.

See WIMBERLEY GLASSWORKS, Page 7

Tim de Jong at work.

Photo by Eric W Pohl.

The Wimberley Glassworks’ Dr. Pepper installation features 198 bubbles of various sizes. Photo courtesy Wimberley Glassworks.

“Cultivate,” Wimberley Glassworks installation in Sugarland City Hall. Photo courtesy Wimberley Glassworks.

“The survival of our studio is entirely based on how loyal our clients are,” Tim expresses. “People just came out the of woodwork through the COVID shutdown and supported us. I don’t think I would have survived that if that wouldn’t have happened.”

Recently, he created two new installations for his neighbor, the San Marcos Academy. “They were building a new elementary school library, and we were able to make dream clouds out of hanging platters,” he explains. “We designed them with crazy bright colors so that when the kids are lying on their backs with a book, it looks like they’re looking at rainbow-infused clouds.”

San Marcos Academy also needed to replace the lighting in their massive dining room. “They needed chandeliers,” Tim elaborates. “The ones they had up there had been there since the early 60’s, and they were crumbling. We were able to create very traditional-looking chande-liers. We used a pattern called hot wrap. There are 38 light fixtures on each chandelier. Above each, we added a SMA medallion that a metal worker designed to complement the piece.”

He reflects on these recent installations, “Each space carries with it its own emotion. It is my hope to use the interplay of light through glass to evoke a sense of wonder that inspires the viewer to explore and discover that space anew.”

Wimberley Glassworks offers a gallery and gift shop, where visitors can find a variety of handcrafted items including glass blown décor, exquisite home lighting, elegant jewelry, and unique kitchen accent pieces, including the signature glass and pitcher sets that marked Tim’s early career.

The gallery also hosts live glassblowing demonstrations Thursday through Sunday 10:30 am to 3:30 pm, and classes are offered each fall. Check the website for schedules, and inquire about private events tailored for corporate gatherings, bachelorette parties and other special occasions.

“We’re fortunate to live in such a great place as Texas,” Tim smiles big. “I credit the local support as the sole reason I’ve been able to do what I love for 30-plus years.”

FYI • Wimberley Glassworks is located at 6469 Ranch Road 12 in San Marcos. Hours are Wednesday through from Sunday 10 am to 5 pm. For more information, call 512-393-3316 or visit wgw.com.

WIMBERLEY GLASSWORKS, from Page 7

Tim de Jong. Photo courtesy Wimberley Glassworks.

Wimberley Glassworks offers a gift shop and gallery with live glassblowing demonstrations Thursday through Sunday. Photo courtesy Wimberley Glassworks.

Summer Camps

Embark on a summer of fun for your kids in the Texas Hill Country! Our camps at Blue Hole Regional Park and the Wimberley Community Center promise engaging activities that educate and entertain. Registration opens February 1st – secure a spot for your child’s unforgettable adventure!

Blue Hole Swimming

Escape to the enchanting Blue Hole Regional Park, a hidden gem in the heart of the Texas Hill Country. Nestled amidst iconic Cypress Trees, this natural, springfed swimming hole offers a refreshing oasis for the entire family. Jump into the crystal-clear waters, bask in the warm sun on the grassy swim lawn, and feel the thrill of swinging on our f amous rope swings.

Wimberley Community Center

The Community Center is located in the heart of this charming town. It was created to enhance the spirit of our unique Hill Country community by providing a central venue for all to gather. The versatility of this state-of-the-art facility is suitable for any type of event or celebration including programs, weddings, events, quality of life, education, and out reach for all ages.

www.wimberleyparksandrec.com

Wimberley’s WAG Rescue

By Bonnie Eissler

Dogs connect to their humans in a way that no other animal does. We have strong and tender reactions when we look at a dog’s face and the feeling is mutual. With such a long history of shared love and affection, it is only natural that we humans do not want to see our canine friends abandoned, neglected or otherwise mistreated.

Wimberley Adoption Group and Rescue (WAG Rescue) has made a lifetime commitment to the dogs that come into their care, to

provide medical care as needed, and to find good homes for them.

This June will mark 15 years since co-founders Pat Davis and Debbie Nordyke saw the need for a local organization to rescue and care for abandoned and lost dogs in Wimberley and western Hays County.

WAG Rescue was incorporated in 2009 to address this problem. Since that time, they have rescued and adopted out more than 2,000 dogs and puppies and returned hundreds of lost dogs to their owners. Gina Casarez, WAG Board member since 2011, says the shelter “operates at full capacity, with around 50 dogs at a time (about five in foster homes) and as soon as there is room, we take in another dog.”

WAG takes in any dog or puppy regardless of age or condition, including pregnant dogs or dogs that are injured. They are often asked to take in animals from overcrowded shelters in Central Texas towns, including San Marcos, Seguin, New Braunfels, Canyon Lake and Lockhart.

Gina tells a story about Arizona, a dog that came to them from a local shelter. “Arizona had been hit by a car and unfortunately had to have her right front leg amputated,” Gina says. “One of our foster families took her in to recuperate. She healed and slowly learned to get around on three legs! She was with WAG Rescue for about six months when a wonderful family met her and took her home. A very happy ending for Arizona.”

The organization has always had a working relationship with local veterinarians and hospitals that gives them an advantage in treating and saving sick animals. The veterinarians, from Wimberley and Driftwood, provide health screenings, spay/neuter services, and vaccinations. They can determine if mange is contagious or noncontagious, they check for heartworms and begin treatment.

See WAG RESCUE, Page 11

Corn Dog, WAG’s 2000th adoption, with his adoptive family, the Palmers, and members of the WAG team. Photo courtesy WAG.

WAG’s 4th of July team. Photo courtesy WAG.

Meet WAG’s longest stay dogs (through no fault of their own): ABOVE LEFT Snicks, ABOVE RIGHT Gabe and BELOW Ladybird. Visit wimberleywagrescue.org.

Photos courtesy WAG.

In 2017, WAG Rescue acquired six acres with an existing house. Play yards, covered outdoor kennels and even a nursery and a healing house, all built by volunteers, have been important additions to the refuge. “WAG wouldn’t exist without volunteer support,” Gina says, “more than 100 volunteers are involved with various rescue activities.”

These activities include fostering dogs, working in the “Treasures on Twelve” thrift shop (where 100% of the profits go to WAG Rescue), grant writing and social media. Dog Activity Teams, DAT, spend time every day playing with and training the dogs, teaching basic commands, leash walking and how to get along with other dogs.

The longest a dog has stayed before being adopted has been two years, although most find their forever homes much sooner. Gina says, “We never give up on a dog and we never stop working to find the right homes for all of the dogs that come to us.”

Photos courtesy WAG Rescue.

FYI• WAG Rescue is a volunteer-driven dog only rescue and adoption organization comprised of a network of foster families, generous donors, and dedicated volunteers. Call and leave a message at 512-847-3200, messages are checked daily. The best way to contact is by email through the website at wimberleywagrescue.org, where you’ll find contact information about adoptions, donations, fostering dogs, volunteer opportunities, lost and found pets. The mailing address is WAG Rescue, PO Box 2603, Wimberley, Texas 78676.

The Texas Winery and Vineyard with the Million Dollar View

Founded in 2002, the winery sources half of its fruit from our Estate Vineyard and the other half from Texas High Plains AVA. As the winery grows, we remain commited to our goal of producing food friendly fine wine in Central Texas using Texas-grown fruit exclusively.

Driftwood Estate Winery’s Longhorn Red was the 2015 winner for the Best Texas Wine at the Houston International Wine Competition.

Driftwood Estates Winery is one of the top wine destinations in Texas.

Open daily 11 am to 6 pm

www.driftwoodwine.com

(512) 858-9667

Open Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, plus Special Events and Sunset Dinners

Amazing Food Breathtaking Views

Full Service

Indoor/Outdoor Seating

Globally-inspired Menu Reservations Accepted Catering Services

Private Parties

(737) 414-0222

www.thedriftwoodbistro.com

Gunner Thames Memorial Rodeo

WIMBERLEY H Don’t miss the Gunner Thames Memorial Rodeo Labor Day weekend (August 31 and September 1) at the Wimberley VFW Rodeo Grounds. Gates open at 5:30 pm and events start at 7:30 pm.A “Cowboys’ Cowboy,” Gunner Thames was loved and liked by all that knew him. He grew up hunting and fishing and spending time rodeoing and raising livestock in organizations such as THSRA, FFA and 4-H. After a tragic rodeo accident in 2011, Gunner left this world at the young age of 15. The rodeo was where he loved to be with friends, family, and the rodeo community.The Gunner Thames Memorial Foundation has raised more than $500,000 which has gone to scholarships, 4H/FFA Projects, and families in crisis.

FYI • For information, visit gunnerthamesmemorialfoundation.com.

dining guide

Please check business website and/or call ahead to verify hours & offerings.

Blanco Brew

14200 Ranch Road 12.

Organic coffee, fresh pastries, lunch specials and daily dessert specials. Monday-Friday 6:30 am to 6:30 pm, Saturday and Sunday 7:30 am to 6:30 pm. blancobrew.com, 512-842-3400.

Brookshire Brothers Deli

14100 Ranch Road 12. 512-847-2296

Breakfast, lunch & dinner, signature fried chicken and beer on tap. Delivery & Curbside pickup available.

Chill’s on the Creek

14004 Ranch Road 12, on the Square

Casual bar & grill. Indoor and great deck seating overlooking Cypress Creek. chillsonthecreek.com, 512-847-6060

Community Pizza & Beer Garden

111 Old Kyle Road.

Family friendly with live music, cold beer, full bar, house made pizza. communitybeergarden.com, 512-412-0914.

Creekhouse Kitchen + Bar

14015 Ranch Road 12

Modern Texas Fare & Finely Crafted Cocktails on Cypress Creek. creekhousewtx.com, 512-722-3394.

Dairy Queen

14600 Ranch Road 12. 10 am to 11 pm daily. 512-847-3670.

Dos Olivos Market

13904 Ranch Road 12.

Food, wine. dosolivosmarkets.com, 512-842-3044

Driftwood Bistro

4001 Elder Hill Road, Dritwood

Amazing views! thedriftwoodbistro.com, 737-414-0222

Durango’s Authentic Mexican Food

401 FM 2325.

Delicious carne guisada, rice, beans, migas, tacos made to order, more. durangoswimberley.com, 512-847-3473

Hays City Store & Ice House

8989 FM 150, Driftwood.

Full bar, 50+ beers. hayscitystoretx.com, 512-722-3905.

Hildee’s on the Square

13900 Ranch Rd 12,

Restaurant and bar with Hill Country cuisine and crafted cocktails, wine, beer. hildeeswimberley.com, 512-222-9904

Jobell Café & Bistro

16920 Ranch Road 12.

Upscale bistro fare in rustic, intimate environment. Casual. Wine, beer. Indoor/outdoor seating. jobellcafe.com, 512-847-5700

Kelly’s Hill Country Barbecue - Food Trailer

14306 Ranch Road 12.

Tuesday - Saturday 11 am ’til sold out. 512-947-1609.

Longleaf Craft Kitchen + Bar

314-A Wimberley Square.

Chef-inspired, handcrafted menu. Craft cocktails, beer and wine. longleafwimberley.com, 512-842-3044

Marco’s Italian Restaurant

303 Wimberley Square.

Salads, pastas, pizza, more. Open Wednesday through Saturday 4 pm to 9 pm. marcoswimberley.com, 512-847-0742.

Mima’s Tacos

701 FM 2325.

Popular family owned & operated Tex-Mex restaurant. 512-847-1305.

Oldie’s Burger’s & More

411 FM 2325.

Burgers, sides and more! Tuesday through Friday 11 am to 3 pm, Saturday 11 am ‘til sold out. oldieswimberley.com, 512-842-3363.

Pizza Hut

101 FM 2325.

order.pizzahut.com, 512-847-2844

Rosita’s Food Truck

14306 Ranch Road 12 at the Junction. Monday-Friday 7 am to 2 pm. 512-648-1342.

Savage’s Hill Country Bar & Grill

9595 Ranch Road 12.

Sandwiches, salads, melts, burgers, appetizers and more, plus a full bar. savageshillcountrybar.com, 512-842-3114

Social on the Square

701 FM 2325.

Beer, wine, bubbly bar serving charcuterie from Hill Country Grazing Co. socialonthesquare.com, 512-842-3070.

Subway

809 Ranch Road 2325. 512-847-7824

The Deli Llama

at Shady Llama Beer & Wine Garden on Ranch Road 12 Pressed sandwiches, salads and more. theshadyllama.com.

The Leaning Pear

111 River Road, # 110.

Hill Country inspired cuisine. Indoor/outdoor seating. Beer and wine. LeaningPear.com, 512-847-7327

The Let Go

13904 Ranch Rd 12 Suite 1.

Sandwiches, tacos, burgers, more! theletgobar.com. 512-858-6751

The Wooden Spoon

401 FM 2325.

Self serve yogurt with lots of delicious topping options, plus soups and sandwiches. thewoodenspoonyogurt.com, 512-722-3724

Wimberley Cafe

9595 Ranch Road 12.

Breakfast, sandwiches and homestyle entrees. Daily lunch specials. wimberleycafe.com, 512-847-3333

Wimberley Inn + Bar

701 FM 2325.

Monday - Thursday 4 pm-10 pm, Friday 3 pm-10 pm, Saturday 9am10 pm, Sunday 9 am-3 pm. wimberleyinn.com/dining, 512-847-3750.

THE LEANING PEAR

By Bonnie Eissler

Seventeen years ago, Matthew and Rachel Buchanan opened the doors to The Leaning Pear on River Road, a restaurant that was soon to become destination dining for a steady stream of locals and tourists. The original site was charming and rustic, situated in one of the oldest structures in Wimberley, the Lowery House, that the owners lovingly restored. It was a great little place, a gem that didn’t stay hidden for long, and it’s where their reputation for serving delicious New American cuisine in a warm and welcoming environment was established.

Even so, the business was growing and the need for a new place with more kitchen and dining space was inevitable. In 2013, they made the move “just a stone’s throw away” to a new building, with an environmentally sensitive architectural design that is also a celebration of the original rustic eatery. Rachel says, “We wanted to highlight many of our local materials like cedar, dry stack limestone and corrugated metal while creating a unique and inviting space that provides views of the lush meadow leading down to Cypress Creek and all of the flora and fauna that inhabit the area.”

Since expanding their bar offerings to include mixed drinks, the next building project is an extended bar and patio designed by Colorspace. Adding another level to the multi-level outdoor seating area, this wooden deck will be constructed off the existing patio. Rachel says, “Our goal is to create an easily accessible gathering place that celebrates the best elements of Wimberley Valley.”

See LEANING PEAR, Page 18

The Buchanan family.

Crab cake.

In the 1850s, Wimberley had a grist mill, tannery, store, shoe shop, and a school that was also used as a church and meeting hall. By the 1870s, it also had a blacksmith. By 1880, the Post Office was set up.

By 1900, nine houses were built around the Wimberley Square. By the 1920s, the county finally started to improve roads in and out of the village (the road to San Marcos was paved in 1921). By 1939, electricity was available. The population tripled from 1880 to 1947, based on estimates by the Post Office, to a little more than 400 people.

Matthew and Rachel spent years in Italy, gaining an appreciation for the European food culture with its focus on fresh, high quality ingredients, and later in Hyde Park, New York, where Matthew earned a degree in culinary arts from the prestigious Culinary Institute of America. However, as they are both native Texans and Aggies to boot, they naturally found their way back to the Lone Star State and the Texas Hill Country. “Our goal was to establish and maintain a restaurant with quality, creative, locally-inspired cuisine where everyone is welcome,” Rachel says, “and to give back to this community that has given so much to us.”

Brunch Summer Vegetable Hash.

She adds, “We like to think of ourselves as Hill Country Inspired Cuisine. Sometimes they like to pay homage to the cultural influences in the area. For example, the Germanic history here currently finds its way to the menu in the form of their Pork Schnitzel. The housemade pretzel board with beer cheese also honors that history.”

The local farmers, ranchers, artisans, bakeries, coffee roasters, breweries and wineries provide more inspiration for the dishes and cocktails featured on The Pear’s menu. Rachel says, “Right now we’ve got a great cocktail, the Lickety-Split, that showcases a wonderful Red Star grapefruit from Shaker Family Farms.” Summer will bring on dishes with Poteet strawberries taking center stage.

All of the beers are from local craft breweries, like the Black Lab Porter draft beer from Middleton Brewery, just down the road toward San Marcos, and Dripping Springs’ Twisted X Gulf Kolsch Blonde Ale.

Texas pecans and roasted poblano peppers enhance tuna salad and pimiento cheese while familiar comfort foods like macaroni and cheese and meatloaf get special treatment with blue cheese salsa and caramelized pepper and onion. It’s tweaks like these that make many of the good dishes even better and more memorable.

About half of the menu is rotating and seasonal, continuing the tradition that began at their first, and much smaller location, where there wasn’t enough room to have everything available all of the time. This approach is in keeping with the Leaning Pear’s aim to use fresh produce at peak quality, more local products, to have fun with the cuisine and to always keep it creative.

Photos courtesy The Leaning Pear.

FYI • The Leaning Pear is located at 110 River Road. Hours are Wednesday through Saturday from 11 am to 9 pm and Sunday for brunch 11 am to 3 pm. Visit leaningpear.com, email info@leaningpear.com or call 512-847-7327 (PEAR) for more information.

LEANING PEAR, from Page 16

Beet and watercress salad.

Farmers’ Market Pizza.

Eclectic

Supporting

KISS THE COOK KITCHEN ESSENTIALS

By Bonnie Eissler

Kiss the Cook opened in Wimberley on October 1, 2001, and has been a mecca for cooking enthusiasts from near and far ever since. It is considered by many to be one of the best, perhaps the best, kitchen store in the Texas Hill Country. Bren Isgitt owns and oversees the store and Dean Chambers, who trained in Italy and is a chef himself, has been the manager for over 3-1/2 years.

This is the store that cooking enthusiasts will want to visit often and where brides will register for gifts, it’s where you’ll go to talk about food, because to be honest that’s what so many of us love to talk about. This is the store where you’ll find any kitchen item you’re looking for, from ramekins and pizza pans to paper napkins with cheeky sayings, such as “The first 40 years of parenthood are the hardest.”

And you’ll find even more items that you never knew you needed until you walked into Kiss The Cook, like Sticky Fingers Lemon Poppyseed Scone mix or a Euroscrubber, a non-scratching scour pad that - according to Dean - is one of the best-selling items in the store.

The variety and quantity offered in the unique shop is mindboggling: tools and gadgets, cookie sheets and cast iron skillets, serving bowls, storage bowls, table linens, aprons and napkins, casserole dishes and a greatly expanded gourmet specialty foods section with jellies, syrups and vinegar, jars of fruits and vegetables, and a dizzying display of dip mixes.

Kiss the Cook owner Bren Isgitt and manager Dean Chambers.

Kizik Spring Step L’Artiste Rieker Remonte Peepers Bajio Stanley

Everything is logically and artfully arranged, but there’s so much to take in and there’s a temptation to read every descriptive card and label. Pace yourself and remember that you can always return another day and that you most likely will.

Kiss the Cook is the most recent business to occupy one of the original old rock houses on the Wimberley Square, a house with a lot of stories to tell. One of the small rooms served as a switchboard office in the 1940s World War II era. “The exterior is made up of rocks and stones from all over the place,” says Bren. Indeed, there are rocks in a variety of shades and textures, rough cut, some containing fossils.

Before it was remodeled in 2001 by architect and designer Arlen Conner, there were several small rooms inside, a low ceiling, and a fireplace in the front area that has now been covered up, though the chimney is still visible outside.

Bren says, “He had a knack for visualizing interiors, he gutted the place and raised the ceiling.”

Kiss the Cook was remodeled again in 2017 when Bren, now sole owner, hired a retail specialist who covered up a fireplace, adding an enormous quantity of space allowing for more effective product display. “We redecorate every couple of months, depending on what’s going on,” Dean says. In March, the center aisle was decked out for Easter with spring flowers, kitchen towels and egg cups in pretty pastels, bunnies and carrots on platters and mugs. There will be new seasonal and holiday displays, changes for Mother’s Day and the Fourth of July, when the flags and bunting appear.

Prior to the highly anticipated total eclipse of the sun on April 8, that’s expected to bring thousands of visitors to our area, Kiss The Cook will be open all weekend. There will be raffle giveaways and the first 50 customers will each get a gift.

Dean says, “We’ll be launching a new line of cookware, Made In, offering discounts on these high-quality carbon steel and stainless clad skillets, pots and pans all weekend.” He explains that this brand is new to retail as it was previously sold only to restaurants in Italy, France and America. “We’re excited to be one of the first retailers to offer the Made In brand to home cooks,” he says.

Whether you are a culinary artist, serious foodie, a dabbler or a novice, there is inspiration and a plethora of products to match your abilities at Kiss The Cook.

All Photos by Lauren Clark Photography.

FYI • Kiss The Cook is located at 201 Wimberley Square. Hours are Monday through Saturday 10 am to 6 pm and Sunday noon to 5 pm. For more information, visit the website at kissthecookwimberley. com or call 512-847-1553.

KISS THE COOK, from Page 20

After calling Wimberley home for almost 40 years, the Jamieson family designed and built Black Canyon Wimberley with the community in mind.

Three generations continue to own and operate the family business, represented here by Sally Jamieson Hawkins, Jennifer Jamieson, Dove Hawkins and Jayden Jamieson on the porch of their new golf simulator clubhouse.

BLACK CANYON Wimberley

By Bonnie Eissler

Black Canyon Wimberley is a boutique resort with a tiny RV park, two-bedroom cottages and modern cabins, that opened in 2019. It offers a relaxing retreat for travelers, even though it’s only a five-minute drive along the Blanco River to reach shops, restaurants and galleries on the bustling town square.

The owners, Sally Jamieson Hawkins and her brother Joseph Jamieson, share an unwavering focus on family, community and preserving the natural beauty and the laid-back, slightly offbeat, village lifestyle that are so essential to Wimberley’s charm. Their family has been in the area for 40 years.

“We lived on the Blanco Bend and attended Wimberley schools,” Sally says, “I now live in the house where I grew up, just a short distance from here (Black Canyon).”

Sally’s background is in fine arts, hospitality, design and construction. She has worked as an event coordinator and for six years, from 2001-2007, she taught art to junior high students in Wimberley. She says, “I got married and had a family, spent my time raising babies, but after the kids started to school, I wanted to work part time and I wanted to be self-employed.”

Sally and Joseph decided to open a small hospitality business, beginning with the RV side, that consisted of seven RV sites and two cabins. “The RV park was Joseph’s idea,” Sally says, “at that time, there were no RV parks in town.” Since Wimberley draws so many tourists, there was clearly a need for this.

See BLACK CANYON, Page 25

Sally says, “Also, I like RV people – they’re not pretentious, they enjoy nature and being outdoors.” It’s hard to believe that the park is so close to town because it really does feel like being out in the country. So that was how their business began. Their last expansion was huge, adding more cabins and amenities, including the pool complex and a luxury clubhouse with comfy couch and chairs, where the showstopper is Jackalope Golf, a challenging and fun top-of-theline golf simulator.

While it’s true that nothing beats being out on the golf course, when the temperature rises into the 90s and beyond, an airconditioned clubhouse with a state of the art golf simulator is a more comfortable way to play the game.

See BLACK CANYON, Page 26

H Riverfront Cabins

H Large Group Lodging

H Unique Event Spaces

H Reconstructed Old West Town

H Blanco River Access

H Blanco River Outfitters Retail Store

H Retro Arcade

H Old Fashion Ice Cream Parlor

H Pioneer Express

Memberships • Hourly Rates • Lessons • Private Parties Air-Conditioned Luxury Clubhouse. Texas golf. Rain or shine. JackalopeGolf.com • @jackalopegolftx

Jackalope Golf is at Black Canyon Wimberley. Stunning pool complex, Hill Country views, and five minutes from the Square. Let us host your extraordinary moments and memories. blackcanyonwimberley.com @blackcanyonwimberley

BLACK CANYON WIMBERLEY

“Our family loves playing the Double J golf course,” Sally says, “but there’s no driving range and in the summer (and other seasons) Texas is hot, y’all.”

Black Canyon stays true to their roots by remembering the wants and needs of local residents. Accordingly, locals can reserve the clubhouse for private events, meetings and parties. While the resort can provide concierge services, they allow parties to bring in their own food and drinks, something that many seem to enjoy doing for themselves.

Also, locals as well as guests at the resort can schedule coaching sessions with the club golf pro, Bill Tarwater. Jackalope Golf memberships are available and come with perks and privileges like priority booking, discounted rates and invitations to special events.

“As longtime Wimberley locals, this town is so important to us and we want our Black Canyon boutique resort to respect what is most appealing about this area – the natural beauty and a community where people know each other and care about each other,” Sally says.

The design of the lodgings incorporates open spaces and natural elements (trees, canyon, forest, dark night skies glittering with stars) along with practical and luxurious amenities and a quiet peaceful setting, all reflecting the timeless appeal of the little town so many people fell in love with long ago.

Photos courtesy Black Canyon Wimberley.

FYI • Black Canyon Wimberley is located at 630 Wayside Drive. To make reservations and for more information about the cabins, cottages, RV park and amenities, visit blackcanyonwimberley.com or call 737-3039163. You can also learn how to become a Jackalope Golf member at jackalopegolf.com.

BLACK CANYON, from Page 25

Guests enjoy a state of the art golf simulator at Black Canyon.

So much to do & see around Wimberley

Wimberley Lions Market Day

Don’t miss a fun-filled day of shopping at Wimberley Market Days held the first Saturday of every month, March through December, from 7 am to 4 pm (rain or shine). You can peruse 475-plus booths filled with treasures along wide, paved, tree-shaded lanes, and choose from a variety of food and drink to enjoy. You’ll find everything you can’t live without. Local musicians gather at the spacious Lions Pavilion and entertain the crowds who sit in the shade to eat, drink and rest. Plenty of clean restroom facilities are provided, too. Admission to Market Day is free; parking is available for a $5 donation. Wimberley Lions Club Market Day is at 601 FM 2325. There is ample parking in three Lions Club lots, plus other nearby private lots. For information, visit shopmarketdays.com.

Did you say you love to shop? Well... then you have definitely landed in the right town! Wimberley is well known for its variety of unique shops, boutiques and galleries. You’re sure to find special shopping choices for just about everyone, as well an amazing selection of fine art, custom jewelry, gourmet food and gifts and fashion, plus plenty of options for dining and drinks on and around the on and all around the charming Square. Head to town, get out and explore, or plan your excursion online with information from the Wimberley Chamber at wimberley.org.

See THINGS TO DO & SEE, page 32

Lodging & Event Venue

Middleton Brewing

By Bonnie Eissler

Asix foot high decoratively painted fiberglass boot is on display near the outdoor patio and EZ Eats Food Trailer at Middleton Brewing. This giant cowboy boot was designed and painted by local artist Kim SpringerSmith and features a mermaid swimming upward through an amber ocean of beer toward the foamy surface. The design simultaneously evokes the natural beauty of the Hill Country, with its clear rivers and creeks, while making you just a little bit thirstier for a nice cold beer.

Middleton Brewing’s new owner since 2023, Calvin Kouba, began his career there more than 10 years ago when he got in on the ground floor, not long after Dennis Middleton opened his flagship brewery at The Junction in Wimberley. At that time, Calvin was an avid home brewer and still attending his alma mater, Texas State University.

“I started out in the tap room,” Calvin says. In Wimberley and later at the current venue in San Marcos, he continued to work closely with Dennis, as an assistant brewer and then head brewer with increasing levels of responsibility and independence. As head brewer, Calvin was in charge of the process of brewing, packaging beer and quality control.

Although it’s true, as Calvin has said, that they still have the “same brewer, same beer,” he is putting his personal stamp on the business, in accordance with his own ideas and dreams. “I wanted to bring in more natural light, more foliage with some native plants and art and accessories that relate to the Hill Country, the river, and Texas animals,” he says. See

Calvin Kouba, Jimmy Nelson and Scott Bruffy.

Customers appreciate the high quality of the beer, friendly customer service and overall relaxing ambience. There’s a great brewpub feeling with the brewing equipment just in sight from the bar. There’s also a traditional beer hall atmosphere, with long wooden tables and plenty of seating both indoors and outside, that’s reminiscent of the beer halls and gardens in Germany and Austria, where beer is undoubtedly the signature drink.

Warmth, friendliness and a sense of belonging are all reinforced by shared tables, good beer and food, music and other activities such as disc golf putting league, trivia night, open mic night, and flytying night. There’s always something happening. It’s worth noting that even though the chaos of the pandemic is mostly behind us, there are still some lingering negative effects. COVID took a toll on restaurants, clubs and breweries, including Middleton, but they are are still here and thriving. Calvin encourages folks to “come on over to the tap room and be part of the community there.”

Middleton Brewing also supports local nonprofits and is one of 30 craft breweries partnering with Divine Canines for their annual fundraiser event, Barks for Beers, throughout the month of May. Patrons purchase the 2024 Divine Canine pint glass for one pour at participating breweries, which are required to offer indoor and outdoor dining space and to be dog-friendly.

With their popular Black Lab Porter (brewed with a variety of roasted malts) and Calvin’s dog, Banjo, who is a regular at the brewery, they qualify as very dog-friendly! Divine Canines is a wonderful organization that recruits and trains teams of therapy dogs, along with their owners, and schedules regular visits to people in need of the physical and emotional support that canine therapy provides.

An Eclipse Watch Party is planned for Monday April 8, amd doors open at 10 am. Upstairs deck seating is limited to 50, so please arrive early to watch from the deck. There will be plenty of seating available in their other outdoor areas, but bring a chair to make sure you’ve got a seat. Complimentary solar eclipse glasses will be available, while supplies lasts, plus beer specials all day.

Photos courtesy Middleton Brewing.

FYI • Middleton Brewing is located at 101 Oakwood Loop in San Marcos. Room Hours are Monday 2 pm to 10 pm, Wednesday and Thursday 2 pm to 10 pm, Friday and Saturday noon to 10 pm and Sunday noon to 9 pm. To schedule private events or to carry our beer, email office@ mbtx.com. For more information, visit middletonbrewingtx.com or call 512-847-3435.

MIDDLETON BREWERY, from Page 28

The bar at Middleton Brewery is a solid piece of poured concrete almost 50 feet in length. Pictured atop this impressive bar is a selection of their signature brews.

HITCH A RIDE!

So much to do & see

The Wimberley Players

Founded in 1979, the Players are the oldest non-profit organization in town. The group’s mission is to provide first-class live theater and they do not disappoint! If you have the opportunity, catch a performance in the intimate Wimberley Playhouse. The 2024 season includes “Doubt, A Parable” April 26 - May 19, “Legally Blonde - The Musical” July 12 - August 4, “Now and Then” September 13 - October 6 and “Miracle on 34th Street” November 15 - December 8. Details and tickets at wimberleyplayers.org. The Wimberley Playhouse is at 450 Old Kyle Road. For more information, call 512- 847-0575

Enjoy an intimate concert at Susanna’s Kitchen Coffee House

Music lovers, take note!

The beloved Susanna’s Kitchen Coffee House monthly concert series is hosted the third Thursday of each month at Wimberley’s United Methodist Church. This intimate smoke- and alcohol-free venue, offers the audience a wonderful listening experience and hosts renowned Texas artists.

2024 performances include the Lost Austin Band April 18, Dana Cooper May 16, Jeff Plankenhorn June 20, Shake Russell July 18, the Austin Lounge Lizards August 15, Two Tons of Steel September 19, Jeff Black October 17, Terry Hendrix and Lloyd Maines November 21, and Adam and Chris Carroll December 19. Photo courtesy the artists

Doors open by 7 pm, music starts at 7:30 pm. Food and drink is available for purchase, including tamales, pie, coffee and sodas. Wimberley United Methodist Church is at 1200 County Road 1492. All are welcome, tickets available at the door. For more information, visit wimberleyumc.org/susannas-kitchen.

Bootiful Wimberley

Have you ever seen anything like it? Spend some time enjoying the 6-foot fiberglass cowboy boots — painted by area artists — all over town! A project of the Wimberley Valley Arts and Cultural Alliance, the whimsical “Bootiful Wimberley” collection includes 60 unique and artisticlly themed boots. Head on over to bootifulwimberley.com for information and a Boot Trail map.

From Page 27

Wimberley Valley Winery

Founded in 1983, the Wimberley Valley Winery has a history of producing wines in Central Texas with a “focus on quality and a wide selection to suit all palates.” Stop by for a tasting. Have 10 or more people in your party? Then be sure to make a reservation!

The winery is open Sunday through Thursday 10 am to 6 pm, Friday 10 am to 8 pm. A food truck is on site Friday and Saturday 11:30 am to 7:30 pm and Sunday 11:30 am to 5:30 pm. Wimberley Valley Winery and Tasting Room is at 2825 Lone Man Mountain Road in Driftwood. Call 512-8472592 to inquire about availability/pricing. wimberleyvalleywine.com.

Climb Mount Baldy

Experience a breathtaking and iconic Wimberley landmark for generations, and get some exercise to boot! Once at the top of the 218 rock steps, you’ll be rewarded with 360-degree views of the Wimberley Valley. Mount Baldy has been the site of marriage proposals, scout camping trips, and family traditions, and it’s also popular among those seeking to achieve fitness. Most just climb it for the magnificent view.

To visit Old Baldy, head north on FM 2325 from the square. Go 1.7 miles and turn right on Woodcreek Drive, then take the first right onto El Camino Real. Travel 0.2 mi to the dead end, then turn right on La Toya Trail. After about a half mile, you will see the parking area and the Old Baldy steps.

Wimberley Zipline

Experience high-flying fun on an action packed ride at Wimberley Zipline, as you soar over canyons and creeks with 15-mile views of the Wimberley Valley on a series of 10 zip line crossings. Tours last 1-1/2 to 2 hours. Tours are $101.62 (plus 8.25% sales tax for total price of $110) per person, including parking, equipment, training, guided walking tour, bottled water, and of course all 10 lines of the Zipline Adventure. Reservations required.

Wimberley Zipline is located south of Wimberley on Four Winns’ Ranch at 300 Winn Valley Drive. Advance reservations required; guests must be 9 years of age or older; legal guardian must sign release for participants less than 18. Visit wimberleyzipline.com or call 512-847-9990.

Photo courtesy Wimberley Zipline.

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So much to do & see

Central Texas Theatre Academy

Central Texas Theatre Academy’s (CTTA) mission is “to provide every child in Central Texas with the opportunity to fulfill their dreams of being on stage and participate in creating theatre, with the hope of instilling a life-long appreciation of the arts.”

The Academy presents the hit Broadway musical “Anastasia” May 3-11, 2024. Central Texas Theatre Academy’s Acting Conservatory Theatre will a magical trip to Narnia April 18-21 as they present “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe.”

Summer theater camps include Mythology Camp (ages 5-12) June 10-14, Shakespearience Camp (ages 5-12) June 3-7 and Shrek Musical Theatre Camp (ages 8-16) June 17-28. CTTA also offers classes for children and adults ranging from: beginner drama, intermediate drama musical theater academy and acting academy. For more information about theatre camps, classes and performances, visit centextheatre.org.

EmilyAnn Theatre & Gardens

The EmilyAnn Theatre & Gardens, where founders Ann and Norm Rolling and their team welcome visitors daily, is a Wimberley treasure. Bring a picnic, stroll the paths, play in the musical gardens and enjoy a game of chess or checkers on the oversized board. Or, hike to the top of the hill to the Veterans Memorial Plaza for spectacular 360-degree views around the Wimberley Valley.

In addition to providing a relaxing retreat, the EmilyAnn Theatre & Gardens offers a wealth of family entertainment and theatre, as well as a special place of remembrance of loved ones. Don’t miss the beloved 24th Annual Butterfly Festival April 20. You can find details about all upcoming productions and events on the website at emilyann.org. The EmilyAnn Theatre & Gardens is located at 1101 Farm Market 2325 in Wimberley. For more information, call 512-847-6969.

From Page 32

Take a Hike at Blue Hole Regional Park

Grab your hiking boots and head to Blue Hole Regional Park for a day of outdoor adventure. With stunning trails and breathtaking scenery, it’s truly a hiker’s paradise. Within Wimberley’s Blue Hole Regional Park, there are 5.5 miles of trails to choose, with options for all types of hikers. In addition, two trails extend outside of the park. The Wimberley Hike and Bike Trail extends outside of the park limits for 2.2 miles one way, offering a unique opportunity to explore even more of the area. Another trail that extends outside the park is Cypress Creek Nature Trail which extends 0.4 miles one way towards downtown Wimberley. To make the most of your adventure, check out the park’s trail map. This guide features trail locations along with accurate mileage, making it easy to plan your route and navigate the trails. Pick up a copy at the park, or download the map to take along with you on your phone.

Blue Hole Regional Park is at 333 Blue Hole Lane. For more information, call 512-660-9111 or visit cityofwimberley.com.

Visit Pioneer Town at 7A Ranch

A Western town of the 1880s, Pioneer Town is a sight to see! Enjoy an old-fashioned arcade, ice cream parlor and great shopping at Blanco River Outfitters during office hours. Plus you can take a ride on the nostalgic Pioneer Express train Saturdays 9 am to 1 pm and 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm, and Sundays 9 am to 12:30 pm. All of this in addition to comfortable cabins and lodges for families, large groups and business meetings, right on the beautiful Blanco River. Find out more at 7aranch.co.

Photo courtesy EmilyAnn Theatre& Gardens

Photo courtesy Central Texas Theatre Academy.

Photo courtesy 7A Ranch

Real estate PRofessionals

BARBARA LATIMER

Broker Associate/ Branch Manager HILLS OF

TEXAS/ SKY REALTY

Barbara’s career in real estate began in 1997 and transitioned to top producer and eventually Broker/Owner at Hills of Texas Realty. In 2015, her company merged with Austin-based Sky Realty to become Hills of Texas/Sky Realty, where she is Branch Manager.

Originally from Houston and a graduate of the University of Texas, Barbara and her husband live in Wimberley. They love the beauty of the Texas Hill country and feel blessed to call it their home.

If you are in need of a real estate professional, contact Barbara. She and her experienced group of Realtors® are ready to help you buy or sell a home, unimproved land, waterfront property or ranch.

TRACI PHILLIPS

Assoc. Broker/Realtor, CRS, ABR, ALC

TEAM LEAD WITH AMY DOYLE and KELLY JAMES are the Texas Land Ladies!

& RANCH REAL ESTATETHE HILL COUNTRY GROUP

We are located in the middle of one of the most desirable areas to live, according to US News and World Report and MSN. We would love to help you find your piece of the Hill Countrywhether you are looking for a home in town or a large ranch and everything in between..

With 40-plus years of experience, we are ready to use our experience and knowledge for you. We serve ALL of the Texas Hill Country which is rare!

Traci, our team lead, has been voted “Best of Wimberley — Best Real Estate Agent” for the past four years, nominated as “Best of Hays” and recognized as an outstanding Woman in Leadership for Hays County in 2020 and Visionary in 2021. The connections she has gained over the years are a benefit not many can offer. We love what we do - and our many clients can attest - our clients are the focus and we would love to have you be part of those satisfied clients!

LOCAL EVENTS

FIRST SUNDAY

Wimberley Coffee & Cars.

Anyone with a hot rod, muscle car, sports car, exotic, classic truck or unique ride is welcome to come out and put your car on display. 8 am to 11 am. Blanco Brew, 14200 Ranch Road 12.

THURSDAY - SUNDAY

Live Glassblowing at Wimberley Glass Works. Watch a team of artisans create beautiful art glass using age-old techniques before your eyes. 10:30 am to 3:30 pm. 6469 Ranch Road 12, San Marcos. 512-393-3316, WGW.com.

EVERY FRIDAY IN APRIL

12th Annual Friends of Wimberley Parks Concert Series. Bring your blanket, chairs, and food as you relax and listen to free live music at the famous Blue Hole Swimming Area. 333 Blue Hole Lane.

EVERY FRIDAY

Live Bingo at the VFW.

Four-game “Early Bird” session which starts at 7:15 pm. Main event begins at 8 pm and offers 10 games with a midway intermission. OldhamCummings VFW Post 6441, 401 Jacobs Well Road.

FIRST SATURDAY

Wimberley Market Days. (March-December)

Shop the Texas Hill Country’s largest outdoor market, with 490 booths on 20 oak shaded acres. 7 am to 3 pm. Lions Field. 601 FM 2325.

APRIL 4

WCCC’s “ A Night in All White” Home Tour Kick-off Party

Immerse yourself in an evening of bubbles, sweet bites, and breathtaking Hill Country sunset views at Steve Parshall’s unique architect’s retreat. WimberleyCCC.org/home-tour.

APRIL 6

Street Dance at Wimberley Ace Hardware. Live music, food vendors, dunking booth, bounce house, raffle. BYOB fundraiser. Bring chairs! 6 pm to 10 pm. 14307 Ranch Road 120

APRIL 6-8

Wimberley Total Solar Eclipse Event.

Grab your lawn chair or blanket and join us at Blue Hole Regional Park soccer fields for an open sky, to view this amazing event! Free to attend; $20 for parking. 333 Blue Hole Lane.

APRIL 12-13

WCCC 36th Annual Hill Country Home Tour. Tickets at www.wimberleyccc.org

APRIL 13

Star Party at Blue Hole.

Enjoy stargazing in the Hill Country and fascinating presentations by the Wimberley Dark Sky Committee. The Texas State Astronomy Club will be sharing their telescopes and knowledge with us for the night. wimberleyparksandrec.com.

Greg has been in the business of helping people realize their dream for more than 25 years. He is a dedicated real estate professional that knows how to get results.

Greg and his wife of 44 years live in Wimberley and enjoy the Hill Country lifestyle.

Before moving to Wimberley and focusing on hill country real estate, Greg had the good fortune of acquiring several parcels of land near Breckenridge, Colorado he developed into mountain homesites, which he marketed and sold himself. He also purchased acreage near Kansas City he developed plus constructed 30+ new homes, which he called Timber Hill Farms. Three decades later, Greg and his wife made their way back to Texas and are very happy to call Wimberley home!

Real Estate Professionals

LINDA GERMAIN Realtor, ABR, GRI, SRES, SRS

KELLER WILLIAMS REALTY

Linda Germain has been a Realtor here in the Texas Hill Country with Keller Williams Realty for the past 20 years, since starting her Real Estate career in 2004. Born and raised in San Francisco, CA, Linda attended San Francisco State College, majored in Business, and then spent more than 25 years in retail management for major retailers.

Outstanding customer service has always been a high priority in Linda’s retail career and remains her number one priority in working with her Real Estate clients. She is a member of the National and Texas Association of Realtors, as well as the Austin Board of Realtors.

Linda and her husband, Gene, moved to Wimberley 20 years ago and both are active, involved members of the Community. Linda is again serving on the Board of Directors for the Wimberley Valley Chamber of Commerce, having served two previous terms on the Board, two of those years as Chairperson. She is past President and current Membership Chair/Secretary for the Wimberley Community Chorus and previously served two terms as Secretary of the Wimberley Valley Arts & Cultural Alliance (WVACA).

As a long-time volunteer for Alzheimer’s Texas, Linda facilitates the monthly Wimberley Alzheimer’s Caregivers Support Group, teaches classes for caregivers of Dementia patients and works as a volunteer with the ‘Circle of Friends’ Respite Program, held weekly at the Wimberley Community Center. “It is a joy to live here in Wimberley and an honor to serve and ‘give back’ to the Wimberley Community.”

PARTNERS IN REAL ESTATE GROUP KELLER WILLIAMS REALTY

Partners In Real Estate Group is the “premier real estate experts” in Wimberley, Dripping Springs, Blanco, and the Texas Hill Country. As highly trained, full time, experienced Real Estate Agents with Keller Williams Realty, Partners In Real Estate Group are always your best resource for the Texas Hill Country Real Estate information and community knowledge. We work with both buyers and sellers sharing our extensive knowledge in the latest real estate strategies. Partners In Real Estate Group has a team of agents with more than 50 years’ experience combined. We are a very knowledgeable experienced team that specializes in residential homes, water properties, lots and ranch properties. Stop by our office in Wimberley today.

ROBIN AGAN Realtor, Luxury Specialist, ABR, CLHMS, CREN KELLER WILLIAMS REALTY | LIVINGINWIMBERLEY.COM

With a proven track record of success and a passion for delivering exceptional service, Robin is dedicated to helping clients achieve their real estate goals. She is a third generation Realtor who graduated from Southwest Texas State with a degree in Business Communications. As a Realtor for more than 25 years, Robin has developed an extensive network of contacts and a deep under-standing of the Texas real estate market. She is a Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist, Certified Real Estate Negotiator, Accredited Buyer Representation designee and is committed to staying up-to-date with new trends, technology and digital marketing. Her clients appreciate her attention to detail, professionalism, negotiation skills and commitment to making their experience smooth and enjoyable. Robin is knowledgeable about the local vacation rental and investor market. Robin loves giving back to her community, promoting local businesses, volunteering at WAG (Wimberley Adoption Group & Rescue) and is a member of the Wimberley Civic Club. She donates a percentage of each transaction to the charity of her client’s choice. She also enjoys hiking, boating, water skiing, learning to play golf and relaxing on the Blanco River with her family and dogs. Robin’s local office is located at 13620 Ranch Road 12, Suite 1, Wimberley.

Around Wimberley....

REV. KEVIN LJ SCHUBERT ST. STEPHENS

Whoever you are, and wherever you find yourself on the journey of faith, you are welcome at St. Stephen’s! We have many wonderful offerings of fellowship, worship, lifelong learning, and outreach that are integral to the community. “We are truly a welcoming community that is committed to being in relationship with God and one another. It is my great pleasure and honor to welcome you.” – The Rev. Kevin LJ Schubert, Rector of St. Stephen’s

On Sundays we offer two worship services: one at 8 am in the Chapel and another at 10:30 am in the Sanctuary. Children’s Sunday School is offered during the 10:30 am service, September through May. The Nursery, for ages infant through 4 years, is available Sundays during Sunday worship and during adult Lifelong Learning classes. We have also an active program for Teens that meets weekly.

Adults have opportunities for lifelong learning on Sundays, as well as Bible study groups, and social and service activities throughout the week. We also offer a mid-week Holy Eucharist service on the first Wednesday of each month at 10:30 am in the Chapel, which includes healing prayers for those in need. For all the details on worship, classes, and fellowship gatherings, visit the church website at www.ststeve.org.

REV. JIM DENHAM CHAPEL IN THE HILLS

Chapel in the Hills is a Christian, Interdenominational Church that has been serving the Lord here in Wimberley since 1949. If you are curious about our worship style, music, and the way we worship, please go on-line to our Facebook page and watch one of our services. This will tell you much about our Church and Sunday worship, but when you visit, you will discover our personal friendship and fellowship for yourself.

Reverend Jim Denham has served as Pastor for this Chapel twice: from 1999 to 2008, then returning in 2014 to again serve as Pastor. He has also served as a Hospice Chaplain, Hospital Chaplain, and pastor in several other congregations here in Texas.

Our church’s tag line for decades has been “There are no strangers here, only friends you haven’t met.” Come for a visit on Sundays at 9 am with Guitar music, or at 11 am with a Choir and English handbells. Hope to see you on Sunday.

Sunday Services: 9 am Church Service, 10 am Sunday School, 11 am Church Service. WimberleyChapelInTheHills.com (online service).

Photo by Maengel Gonce.

LOCAL CHURCHES

CHAPEL IN THE HILLS

14601 Ranch Rd 12

512-847-9762

wimberleychapelinthehills.com

HILL COUNTRY COWBOY CHURCH

120 Green Acres Drive 512-847-9526

hillcountrycowboychurch.com

COWBOYS FOR JESUS

8400 FM 32 Fischer, TX 210-389-6235

cowboysforjesus.com

CYPRESS CREEK CHURCH

211 Stillwater 512-847-1222

cypresscreekchurch.com

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH

15951 Winters Mill Pkwy. 512-847-9035

fbcwimberley.com

FREEDOM VALLEY FELLOWSHIP

10691 Ranch Road 12 512-680-9765

freedomvalleyfellowship.org

JEHOVAH’S WITNESS

443 Jacobs Well Road 512-847-8129 • jw.org

LUTHERAN CHURCH OF THE RESURRECTION

Spoke Hill at RR 12 512-847-3386

welcometonewlife.org

ST MARY CATHOLIC CHURCH

14711 Ranch Rd 12 512-847-9181

smwimberley.org

ST STEPHEN’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH

6000 Ranch Road 3237 512-847-9956

ststeve.org

UNITY CHURCH OF WIMBERLEY

455 White Wings Road 512-847-6587

unityofwimberley.com

WIMBERLEY CHURCH OF CHRIST

15500 Ranch Rd. 12 512-847-9357

wimberleychurchofchrist.org

WIMBERLEY

CHRISTIAN CHURCH

13706 Ranch Rd 12 512-847-3853

wimberleychristianchurch.com

WIMBERLEY PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

956 Ranch Rd 2325 512-847-5292

wimpres.org

WIMBERLEY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

CR 1492 & RR 12

512-847-3109

wimberleyumc.org

APRIL 18-21

“The Lion The Witch and The Wardrobe.”

Central Texas Theatre Academy’s Acting Conservatory Theatre is taking a magical trip to Narnia. centextheatre.org.

APRIL 20

24th Annual Butterfly Festival

Butterfly releases, crafts, and activities,plus live music, a beautiful flight house, yummy concessions and more! 9 am to 5 pm. EmilyAnn Theatre & Gardens. www.emilyann.org.

Murder in the Hill Country Mystery Dinner.

Mystery and murder plus a dinner at Old Glory Ranch. 512-847-3646.

Wimberley Film Festival

Featuring Texas-made short films and live music. 6 pm to 10 pm at Blue Hole Regional Park Swim Lawn. wimberleyparksandrec.com.

APRIL 26-MAY 19

Wimberley Players present “Doubt: A Parable.” By

John Patrick Shanley.

WimberleyPlayers.org.

APRIL 27

Wimberley Pie Social

Best pie contest, pie eating contest, live music, hot dogs. Free admission. Wimberley Valley Museum. 14068 Ranch Road 12. wimwic.org/piesocial.

Camp No Kids.

Adults-only summer camp day offers nature hikes, team challenges, swimming, rock wall climbing, and crafts. Aday full of outdoor adventure and activities at Blue Hole! wimberleyparksandrec.com.

APRIL 27-28

Wimberley Arts Fest 2024

Enjoy nearly 100 booths nestled among the pecan trees and cabins featuring a variety of art and media. wimberleyartsfest.org.

MAY 3-11

“Anastasia.”

Central Texas Theatre Musical Theatre Academy presents the hit Broadway musical, based on the beloved animated film. centextheatre.org.

MAY 4

KWVH 94.3 Kentucky Derby Party.

An unforgettable afternoon at Videre Estate supports KWVH, Wimberley’s non-profit community radio station. 512-484-7500

“Star Wars” Movie in the Park.

Grab your lightsabers, embrace the force, and enjoy a cinematic journey to a galaxy far, far away. Free movie begins at 8 pm. Blue Hole Regional Park. 333 Blue Hole Lane. wimberleyparksandrec.com.

Wimberley Community Garage Sale.

At the Wimberley Community Center from 8 am to 4 pm. More information at wimberleyparksandrec.com.

MAY 6

Stars Over Wimberley Benefit Concert.

James McMurtry and Betty Soo in intimate 100-seat setting, where evert seat is a good seat! Wimberley Playhouse. wimberleyarts.org.

MAY 20

2024 Birdies for Business Golf Tournament.

Presented by Wimberley Chamber of Commerce at Kissing Tree Golf Club. 512-847-2201 for details.

MAY 25

Glow Ride at Blue Hole Regional Park.

Deck out your cycle in glowsticks, lights, and whatever glows in the park as we ride around to celebrate national bike month. Open to riders of all ages and skill levels. $10 admission.wimberleyparksandrec.com.

MAY 25-26

Wimberley Memorial Day Rodeo.

Performances start at 8 pm, but come early! Barbecue, concessions, snowcones and more. A full slate of rodeo events, plus mutton bustin’ and a calf scramble for the kids. www.WimberleyRodeo.org.

MAY 31 & JUNE 1, 2, 7, 8, 9

“Into the Woods.”

Enjoy the wonderful musical “Into The Woods” in the comfort of the EmilyAnn’s Burdine Johnson Indoor Studio Theatre! EmilyAnn.org.

JUNE 24-28

Summer Acting Camp.

For kids ages 7-12. Get complete details and application at www. EmilyAnn.org.

See EVENTS, Page 44

JUNE 6-15

Shakespeare Under the Stars.

For kids ages 12-18. Unique Shakespeare Intensive offers students opportunity to study and perform one of Shakespeare’s plays. . Details and application at www.EmilyAnn.org.

JUNE 17-22

Musical Theatre Camp.

For students ages 10 and up. Get complete details and application at www.EmilyAnn.org.

JULY 4

July 4th Parade.

Don’t miss the “best little parade in Texas” in downtown Wimberley! More information available from the Wimberley Chamber. Call 512-847-2201.

JULY 5 - 7

Wimberley VFW Post 6441 4th of July Rodeo

77th Annual CPRA Sanctioned/Open VFW Rodeo at the VFW’s rodeo grounds, Chester Franklin Arena, north of Wimberley on Jacobs Well Rd., just off Ranch Road 12. More information at www.vfw6441.com.

JULY 12 - AUGUST 4

Wimberley Players present “Legally Blonde, The Musical.” Based on the hit-movie of the same name, this musical chronicles the journey of Elle Woods, a fashion-savvy UCLA sorority girl who enrolls at Harvard Law School to win back her ex-boyfriend. WimberleyPlayers.org.

AUGUST 31 - SEPTEMBER 1

Gunner Thames Memorial Labor Day Rodeo.

Doors at 5:30 pm, events begin at 7:30 pm at the Wimberley VFW Rodeo Grounds. gunnerthamesmemorialfoundation.com.

SEPTEMBER 13 - OCTOBER 6

Wimberley Players present “Now and Then.”

An old man wanders into a young couple’s bar late one night and makes them an offer they can’t refuse. Before long they realize that he is unusually invested in their personal choices...and the reason he gives them causes them to question their own reality. WimberleyPlayers.org.

SEPTEMBER 21

Wimberley Pride March.

6th annual event takes place near the Wimberley Square. For information, email wimberleypride@outlook.com.

NOVEMBER 15 - DECEMBER 18

Wimberley Players present “Miracle on 34th Street.” Based on the hit-movie of the same name. WimberleyPlayers.org.

NOVEMBER 30 - DECEMBER 26

26th Annual Holiday Trail of Lights.

Enjoy a festively-decorated walking trail through approximately 8 acres of lighted exhibits at the EmilyAnn Theatre& Gardens, with live entertainment most nights and a yule log where guests can enjoy complimentary marshmallows and hot chocolate. EmilyAnn.org.

TASTING ROOM HOURS

THURS-SAT 11:30 AM - 8:00 PM

SUNDAY 10:30 AM - 5:30 PM

BRUNCH SAT/SUN UNTIL 3:00 PM

HAPPY HOUR THU/FRI 3:00 - 7:00 PM

5330 BELL SPRINGS ROAD