Since 1979, the Cactus Cafe has been one of the great American listening rooms — a small stage where the room leans in and the music does the talking. But that doesn't mean anyone's sitting still: it's the kind of room where you can tap your feet or let loose right along with the band. That mix of close-up listening and pure fun is exactly what Hot Club of Cowtown brings to a stage: their vintage sound, part Bob Wills swing and part Django Reinhardt gypsy jazz, was made for a night like this one.

Since forming in 1997, Austin-based trio Hot Club of Cowtown — fiddler Elana James, guitarist Whit Smith, and their signature slapping upright bass — have served as the world's premier ambassadors of Western swing, earning induction into both the International Western Music Association's Hall of Fame and the Texas Western Swing Hall of Fame. This fall they return home fresh off a two-night stand at New York's famed Birdland Jazz Club and a summer of major Django Reinhardt festival stages, still touring the crossroads where country meets jazz.

Whether you're there for the fiddle-and-guitar fireworks of a Tchavolo Swing or ready to Stay All Night, this crowd won't want the night to end.

📍 Cactus Cafe, Austin, TX

🗓️ September 18, 2026 | 7:30–9:30 PM

🌐 hotclubofcowtown.com

Parking note: After 6 PM, street parking is generally available around campus and along the Drag.