Stampede Dancehall
The Stampede Dance Hall, located at 1610 E TX-350 in Big Spring, Texas, is a historic West Texas dance hall established in 1954 by Hoyle Nix. Built as a home venue for his band, the West Texas Cowboys, the Stampede became a central gathering place for country and western swing music, preserving a tradition of live dance music that continues today.
Built for Music and Dancing
Located just outside Big Spring, the Stampede was constructed by Hoyle Nix and his brother Ben at the height of their band’s popularity. Designed with a large hardwood dance floor and simple interior, the hall was built for function rather than appearance, reflecting its purpose as a place to gather and dance.
A Home for Western Swing
The Stampede served as the home base for Hoyle Nix and the West Texas Cowboys for more than three decades. Influenced by Bob Wills, Nix developed a regional western swing sound, and the venue regularly hosted performances by artists including Jimmy Heap and Johnny Bush.
A Legendary Dance Hall Experience
From its opening night in 1954, when more than 1,000 people crowded into the hall, the Stampede earned a reputation as a lively destination for music and community. Known for its informal atmosphere and bring your own beverage policy, the venue welcomed audiences of all ages and backgrounds.
Continuing a Texas Tradition
Since 1985, the Stampede has remained active under the leadership of Hoyle Nix’s son, Jody Nix, continuing the legacy of the West Texas Cowboys. Today, the hall stands as one of the state’s enduring country dance venues, where the sounds of fiddle and steel guitar still accompany dancers across its historic floor.
Explore Sites Related to the Stampede Dancehall
Plains Trail Region
Buddy Holly Center
1801 Crickets Avenue Lubbock, TX 79401 (806) 775-3560 Website
Plains Trail Region
West Texas Walk of Fame
1824 Crickets Ave Lubbock, TX 79404 (806) 775-2242 Website
Plains Trail Region
Alexander “Eck” Robertson Gravesite
Westlawn Memorial Park 314 S Hedgecoke St Borger, TX 79007
Plains Trail Region
Waylon Jennings Museum at Waymore’s Liquor Store
901 Hall Ave Littlefield, Texas 79339 +18063855561 Website
Plains Trail Region
Buddy Holly Center
1801 Crickets Avenue Lubbock, TX 79401 (806) 775-3560 Website
Plains Trail Region
Jimmy Dean and Llano Estacado Museum
Wayland Baptist University 1900 West 7th St. Plainview, TX 79072 (806) 291-3660 Website
Plains Trail Region
Woody Guthrie Folk Music Center
320 S. Cuyler Pampa, TX 79065 (806) 664-0824 Website
Plains Trail Region
Texas Outdoor Musical
Texas Outdoor Musical 11450 State Hwy Park Rd 5 Canyon, TX 79015 Website