Introduction
Willie Nelson’s Outlaw Music Festival Tour has recently encountered a major setback as severe weather conditions forced multiple show cancellations and left both fans and organizers scrambling. On June 29th, what was supposed to be a memorable night of music at Thunder Ridge Nature Arena in Ridgedale, Missouri, was cut short by a sudden and intense storm. Heavy rain and high winds not only disrupted the performances but also caused significant damage to stage equipment and musical instruments, many of which were left waterlogged and unusable.
As a result of the storm’s aftermath, the scheduled July 1st performance at the Lucky Star Amphitheater in El Reno, Oklahoma had to be cancelled. Organizers cited safety concerns and the inability to restore or replace key gear in time for the show. A statement released by the festival explained that although safety precautions were taken swiftly—including evacuating the crowd—the impact on the tour’s logistics was unavoidable.
The festival, which features a stellar lineup including Bob Dylan, The Avett Brothers, The Mavericks, and Asleep at the Wheel, now turns its focus to recovering in time for its next major stop in Austin, Texas on July 4th. That event, set to take place at the Germania Insurance Amphitheater, holds special significance as it doubles as Willie Nelson’s iconic Fourth of July Picnic—an annual celebration beloved by country music fans nationwide.
Tammy Neilson, one of the festival’s featured artists, shared videos and photos on Instagram showing the storm’s intensity, including snapped tents and damaged structures. Though she managed to perform her set before the weather worsened, Dylan and Nelson’s headlining performances were called off for safety.
As extreme weather becomes more frequent during the peak summer touring season, outdoor festivals like Outlaw Music are increasingly at risk. Organizers have confirmed that full refunds will be issued for the cancelled Oklahoma show. Fans are hopeful that the tour will rebound in Austin and continue its 10th anniversary celebration without further disruption.
Stay tuned for updates, and remember to support live music—rain or shine.