Everyone knows bbq and bootscootin’ in Texas go hand-in-hand. Whether you are a Texas native, have family that lives in the Lone Star state, or you’re just traveling through, there’s no denying the love of some southern cooking and line dancing that’s always bigger in Texas. With the first Texas BBQ joint being started in Bastrop in 1878, it’s no wonder it’s been a generational favorite passed down to family and friends alike.
Bootscootin’ in Gruene Hall
Along with generations of good food like bbq, dancing and bootscootin’ in Texas to good old country music has been around just as long. While there’s some debate on where the first “honky tonk” originated, there’s certainly no question about the love of the dance. It is recorded that Gruene Hall, in New Braunfels Gruene Historic District was also built in 1878 and is now considered to be the premier headliners usually make their first big debut.
It seems that bbq and bootscootin’ in Texas really did go hand in hand. We can guarantee one thing, somebody was hungry for some good food and ready to shake a tail feather around the same time, and not too far from each other over a century ago.
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BBQ and Bootscootin’ in Texas at Coupland Dance Hall
Today you will find over 2,500 BBQ joints and hundreds of dance halls in the great state of Texas. There’s even a few places that combine the 2, like the Coupland dance hall in Coupland, Texas. Not only can you dance the night away to great music, but you can eat delicious BBQ on the weekends to replenish all that energy you’ll use up bustin’l a move.
Some may wonder what’s different about Texas BBQ. The key is the wood and seasoning. Depending on what part of the state you’re in, you will find an array of southern wood that large cuts of meat are smoked on. Oak, mesquite and pecan are the favorites. The main component of Texas BBQ is brisket.
The largest part of the cow, lightly seasoned with salt and pepper, and slowly smoked for 12 hours minimum, makes for a mouthwatering meal that you’ll want time and time again. BBQ is a staple in most Texas households as well as line dancing, or bootscootin’.
Bootscootin’ in Texas originated from POLKA
Now you may find yourself wondering how BBQ and dancing can be as equally unique in Texas. Line dancing originated from polka dancing. Many people in Texas having polish descendants. Texans reinvented the dance to what we now know as the “two-step” after the Grand Ole Opry aired in Nashville, TN. in 1925. Texans created many renditions over the years and incorporated it into different cultures. It’s as easy as 1, 1, 2.
No matter your preference, everyone loves a small gathering with good food and dancing. Texans just like to do it bigger!