Jam festivals are something special. Built by a tight-knit community and fueled by legendarily inventive bands such as the Grateful Dead, Phish and, more currently, String Cheese Incident, feel more like family reunions that diehards travel far and wide to experience. Lacking many of the constraints found at mainstream music festivals such as genre, rigid time slots, and format, their warm, freewheeling vibes create a space "where both bands and music lovers alike engage in an intense exchange of artistry, inspiration and emotion for hours on end."

As stalwarts of the jam scene, String Cheese Incident have legions of fans who'll follow them anywhere – even to a brand new festival. The inaugural Waterloo Music Festival in Austin, Texas, is SCI's next festival appearance where they'll dominate for three epic nights in a row, and they'll be accompanied by many of the best jam music talent out there today. A welcome happening for the region's jam band fanatics, Waterloo Fest is one of the only festivals in the region where attendees can witness live magic wrought by international names like Joe Russo's Almost Dead, Railroad Earth, Oteil & Friends, Leftover Salmon, The Motet, Easy Star All-Stars (performing Dub Side of the Moon), alongside local talent and showcasing elements of rock, folk, blues and soul, making the fest an exciting new part of Austin's world-famous music culture. Think of it as a new home for all the loyal fans of these artists.

As a camping event, Waterloo Fest has made sure to provide everything you need to make you feel like the festival is your literal home, as well. It's located on the beautiful Carson Creek Ranch, which is just 10 minutes outside of downtown Austin and boasts 20 acres of pecan tree-lined campgrounds, gorgeous views overlooking the Colorado River, and divine sunsets. There will be restrooms, showers (for a fee), charging stations, hand wash stations, free water refill stations, food and beverage stations, a variety of vendors and ATMs. The whole family is invited to enjoy Waterloo Fest, and acoustic music in the campgrounds is welcome.

You may be wondering about the festivals name. Well, Austin was initially incorporated under the name “Waterloo” before it was selected as the capital of Texas due to its ideal location along the iconic Colorado River. Like the original settlers of Austin, "Waterloo Fest is planting its flag on the banks of the Colorado River and will provide attendees with Texas’ premier camping festival experience."

Waterloo Music Festival embarks on its maiden journey September 7-9, 2018, on Carson Creek Ranch in Austin, Texas. Join Everfest Premium and get VIP for the price of GA (does not include camping), 50% off 3 Day GA (does not include camping), 10% off ALL ticketing, and be a part of the EverNest Group Camp.

This article was produced in collaboration between Waterloo Music Festival and Everfest's editors.