Rockwall, Texas – An evening of Texas music, smoky barbecue, and community spirit is taking shape once again in Rockwall County as Meals on Wheels Senior Services prepares to host the third annual Gone Country Music Fest this summer.
The event, scheduled for Saturday, July 18, will bring residents together at Tate Farms, located at 12992 FM 548, for a night designed not only to entertain but to strengthen support for seniors across the county.
Widely regarded as one of the area’s standout summer gatherings, Gone Country blends live country music with classic Texas hospitality. Guests can expect a lively atmosphere filled with performances, local vendors, raffles, and a cash bar, along with a barbecue dinner prepared by renowned pitmaster Eddie Deen. Every ticket purchased and every sponsorship secured helps advance the organization’s mission of providing essential services to those who rely on its programs.
The funds raised during the festival play a crucial role in sustaining Meals on Wheels Senior Services of Rockwall County. The nonprofit delivers daily meals and support to seniors, veterans, and individuals with disabilities throughout the community. Events like Gone Country help ensure that these vital nutrition services continue without interruption and that no eligible senior is left waiting for assistance.
Beyond maintaining current programs, this year’s event also contributes to a larger vision taking shape in the county. Proceeds will support the organization’s “Welcome to the Table” capital campaign, which is helping fund construction of a new 22,000-square-foot Senior Life Center currently underway near the intersection of Airport Road and John King Boulevard.
The future facility is designed to serve as a central hub for senior services in Rockwall County. Plans include a commercial kitchen capable of preparing daily hot meals for homebound residents, a congregate dining area where seniors and community members can gather for lunch, and administrative offices to support expanding programs. The building will also provide space for partner agencies to offer counseling and other support services on site.
When the center is not serving Meals on Wheels clients, the dining and gathering areas will be available for broader community use, creating additional opportunities for connection and engagement among local residents.
Set against the scenic backdrop of Tate Farms, the festival itself promises a memorable evening of music and entertainment. The venue, a renovated indoor event space situated on a working horse and cattle ranch, carries deep roots in Rockwall County. Established in 1962 by G.L. Tate Sr., the ranch remains one of the last family-owned operations of its kind in the area.
This year’s musical lineup features headliner Ryan Berg, joined by performers Johnny Lyons, Austin Valladarez, and Addie McLaughlin, offering a mix of emerging talent and familiar Texas country sounds.
Since its founding in 1978, Meals on Wheels Senior Services of Rockwall County has grown into a vital lifeline for hundreds of residents. The organization now serves more than 750 unduplicated clients each year and provides over 95,000 meals annually to seniors, veterans, and individuals with disabilities.
Tickets, sponsorship opportunities, and raffle item donations are currently available. Additional information can be found at rockwallmealsonwheels.org or by contacting Maureen Cook at [email protected] or 972-771-9514.
