Willie Nelson Picnic Turns 40

Willie Nelson’s annual Fourth Of July celebration is set for 2013 with the Red Headed Stranger along with his guests Kris Kristofferson, Leon Russell, David Allan Coe, Ryan Bingham, Ray Wylie Hubbard, Ray Price and Justin Moore.

Photo: Chris McKay / WireImage.com

Georgia Theatre, Athens, Ga.

Of course, you get Nelson’s family as part of the deal. After all, it’s a picnic and that means son Lukas and daughters Paula and Amy will join their pop on stage.

This year’s Willie Nelson Picnic takes place at the Fort Worth Stockyards’ “North Forty” field July 4 with local country music venue, Billy Bob’s, doing much of the heavy lifting.

News that the Willie Nelson Picnic is 40 years young is sure to shake up folks who consider the yearly extravaganza to be as much a part of Texas’ Fourth Of July celebrations as fireworks, barbecue and beer.

In a statement announcing the Picnic, Billy Bob’s president Concho Minick talked about the event’s history as well as its main attraction.

“Beginning in 1973 in Dripping Springs, Texas, Willie’s Fourth Of July Picnic has become a Texas tradition unlike any other,” Minick said. “We are thrilled to play a small part in the 40-year history of the picnic and do it in the Fort Worth Stockyards. Our mission this year was to design a monumental event worth of a 40 year anniversary and Willie’s 80^th birthday. When you see it you will agree.”

Tickets ranging from $35 -$250 are on sale now. Click here for more information.