DALLAS
Squeeze Play
Expect the young accordionists at the Big Squeeze contest to bring their A games, not only to win but also to impress Flaco Jiménez, a maestro of the instrument, who will be performing. Latino Cultural Center, March 24,
dallasculture.org
DENTON
Alternative Rock
If the madness of Austin’s SXSW is too much to handle, head to 35 Denton, a music festival that showcases more than one hundred bands from around the world—and some homegrown acts, like Roky Erickson. Various locations, March 7–10, 35denton.com
HOUSTON
The First Pitch
The Astros, with their new uniforms, new manager, and new league, are starting fresh in nearly every way as they head into the season opener against the Rangers, who are trying to win without former MVP Josh Hamilton.
Minute Maid Park, March 31, mlb.com
MARFA
Cookout
Big City Camp Cooking is a culinary workshop led by restaurateur, rancher, and chef Lou Lambert, who will prepare dishes using local ingredients to prove that one doesn’t have to sacrifice good grub in the great outdoors.
El Cosmico, March 8–10, elcosmico.com
SWEETWATER
The Serpent Whisperer
Satisfy your morbid curiosity at the Sweetwater Rattlesnake Roundup, where watching brave handlers come perilously close to a diamondback’s fangs is sure to rattle you. Nolan County Coliseum, March 8–10, 325-235-5488
