Marble Falls FiestaJam spotlights singer-songwriters

FiestaJam 2025 is May 1-3 in Marble Falls. Legendary Western swing band Asleep at the Wheel, led by Ray Benson, headlines the event. The music festival celebrates singer-songwriters while benefiting music education for local youths. 

FiestaJam kicks off with Singer-Songwriter Master Classes led by Susan Gibson and Bernie Nelson at Lakeside Pavilion, 305 Buena Vista Drive in Marble Falls. The ticketed classes focus on the fundamentals of songwriting, with exercises to spark creativity and insider tips to improve songs. 

The Kent Finlay Song Search opens the first evening of live music at the Johnson Park Amphitheater, 230 Avenue J South. It is named in honor of the late Kent Finlay, founder of the iconic Cheatham Street Warehouse, where many musical careers were launched. Singer-songwriters will compete for top honors and a prize package that includes a chance to play their song in front of an audience on day three of FiestaJam, a professionally produced recording of the winning song, a custom handmade guitar, and more.

All musical performances take place at the amphitheater and are free (general admission) and open to the public. Reserved seating, drink service, designated parking, and restrooms are available in the VIP Section.  

The FiestaJam 2025 schedule is:

Thursday, May 1

• 8:30 a.m.-3 p.m.—Master Classes (Lakeside Pavilion) 
• 5 p.m.—Kent Finlay Song Search
• 6-9 p.m.—Song Swap with Susan Gibson, Bernie Nelson, John Arthur Martinez, Shawn Camp, and Verlon Thompson

Friday, May 2

• 6-10 p.m.—Free public performances by John Arthur Martinez & Tejas, Ruben Ramos & The Mexican Revolution (VIP seating offered)

Saturday, May 3

• 5:30-11 p.m.—Free public performances by Lake Travis Fiddlers, Mike Blakely & John Arthur Martinez, and Asleep at the Wheel (VIP seating offered)

The 2025 event coincides with Marble Falls MayFest, a four-day carnival that takes place in Johnson Park. FiestaJam is the creation of singer-songwriter John Arthur Martinez and longtime musician and conductor Robert Linder.