Galveston Chamber Celebrates 180 Years

GALVESTON, TX – October 17, 2024 – Grab your cowboy hats and mark your calendars! The Galveston Regional Chamber of Commerce is thrilled to announce the second annual “Galveston Island Country Music Fest: Where the Gulf Meets Country,” on Saturday, January 25, 2025, at the Galveston Island Convention Center, 5600 Seawall Blvd., at the San Luis Resort. This highly anticipated event promises an evening of unforgettable country music, celebrating the best of Texas talent.

Jukebox Songs Cover Photo

Texas Country Star Drake Milligan to Headline

Headlining this year’s festival is none other than Drake Milligan, a rising star from Fort Worth, Texas, whose authentic sound and soulful heart have compared him with legends such as George Strait and Elvis Presley, have resulted in over 150M on-demand worldwide streams to date. In 2023, Milligan hit #1 on Canadian Country Radio with his song “Honky Tonkin’ About” featuring The Reklaws, while his holiday single “Cowgirl for Christmas” garnered over 5 million views within months. He’s a regular at Billy Bob’s Texas, the world’s largest honky-tonk, and has taken the stage at prestigious venues like The Grand Ole Opry, Stagecoach, and CMA Fest.

As a finalist on Season 17 of America’s Got Talent, Milligan brings a rich musical background to the stage. Watch his original AGT audition here which has garnered over 18M views! His debut album, Dallas/Fort Worth, was named one of the “Best Country Albums of 2022” by Billboard, Saving Country Music, and Whiskey Riff. The album reached number five on Billboard’s Emerging Artists chart and topped the iTunes Country charts.

His latest release, Jukebox Songs, includes his current single, “I Got A Problem,” which was recently the most played song on Australia Country Radio and hit No.1 on the CountryTown National Airplay Chart.

Milligan’s electrifying performances have made him one of Country music’s hottest new acts. This year, he has been on tour with Cody Johnson as part of Johnson’s 2024 U.S. arena tour, further cementing his status as one of Country music’s most recognized rising stars.

A Celebration of Texas Country Music 

“Our vision for the Galveston Island Country Music Fest is to establish it as the go-to event for showcasing the next generation of country music talent,” says Keith Bassett, Chair of the Galveston Regional Chamber of Commerce. “This festival embodies the spirit of Texas country music and brings it to the Gulf Coast.”

Gina M. Spagnola, President and CEO of the Galveston Regional Chamber of Commerce, adds, “We are excited to celebrate the rich musical heritage of Texas and the incredible artistry that defines our state. This event is a true celebration of Galveston’s vibrant culture and community.”

Celebrating 180 Years of the Galveston Chamber

The 2025 festival also coincides with the Chamber’s 180th Annual Meeting, a monumental milestone celebrating the Chamber’s long-standing contributions to the business community. This special occasion will honor local businesses and individuals who have made a lasting impact on Galveston and beyond.

Save the Date!

Plan your weekend now for a fun-filled experience in Galveston. Tickets for the Galveston Island Country Music Fest are now on sale! Stay tuned for event updates, and more by visiting GalvestonCountryMusicFest.com.

About the Galveston Chamber of Commerce

The Galveston Regional Chamber of Commerce, established in 1845, stands as the oldest chamber of commerce in Texas, with a steadfast mission to champion and advance both business and community development. With a mission to promote business success and growth in the region, the Chamber is dedicated to strengthening the local economy, fostering leadership, and serving the Galveston community.

About Drake Milligan

Singer, songwriter, and actor, Drake Milligan has been hailed as a Country traditionalist redefining the current landscape of the music industry. Making his breakout debut with his critically acclaimed album, Dallas / Fort Worth, Milligan perfected his baritone vocals and honky-tonk hooks to create his one-of-a-kind signature sound. Recently releasing his follow up EP, Jukebox Songs, Milligan once again sets the stage for another project full of high-energy, twang, and soulful Country. A Top 3 finalist on America’s Got Talent, Milligan has been recognized by Billboard, CMT, and iTunes for his authentic, roots-driven sound. He continues to make waves with sold-out performances, national tours, and hit releases, solidifying his place as one of Country music’s most exciting new voices.

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