Texas Dance Hall Preservation Awards Record $50,000 in  Preservation Grants

Big News! We've awarded a record $50,000 in preservation grants to six historic dance halls across the state—the largest total ever awarded in a single grant round. These grants support essential restoration and repair projects that help preserve these vital gathering places and the rich cultural traditions they represent.

“Texas’ historic dance halls have been the lifeblood of rural communities for more than 150 years,” said Sharon Fleming, Board President of TDHP. “They were our state’s original community centers and continue to serve as venues for music, dancing, and celebrations. They embody the true spirit of Texas: you might arrive as a stranger, but you leave as a friend.”

This fall, ten halls applied for more than $84,000 in funding, and six were fully funded for a total of $50,000. TDHP’s matching grant program supports restoration, repair, and preservation projects that ensure these historic spaces remain active parts of their communities.

Photos Below: Historical photo of La Plataforma Jimenez (l) and Pioneer Hall (r).

Fall 2025 Grant Recipients:

La Plataforma Jiménez Junta Patriótica (McCulloch Co.) – Built in the 1930s, this West Texas landmark has been a hub for Melvin’s Mexican-American community. Our grant supports electrical upgrades and restoration of its historic concession stand.

Sons of Hermann Hall (Dallas Co.) – The oldest wooden commercial building still standing in Dallas! This Deep Ellum icon will get a new HVAC system to keep the music going strong.

Twin Sisters Dance Hall (Blanco Co.) – Hosting monthly dances for over 100 years—every first Saturday since 1918! TDHP’s grant helps fund plumbing and electrical repairs to keep the tradition alive.

Anhalt Hall / Germania Farmer Verein (Comal Co.) – Built in 1908 by German settlers, Anhalt Hall still celebrates Maifest and Oktoberfest! Our grant supports roof repairs and stage leveling for this beloved community landmark.

Pioneer Hall (Jones Co.) – W Home of the legendary Texas Cowboys’ Christmas Ball since 1940! The grant will help restore historic windows and preserve its WPA-era charm.

Western Cowpunchers Association (Potter Co.) – Built in 1949, this Amarillo hall has hosted generations of cowboys and families. A new heating and air system will keep this Panhandle tradition dancing year-round.

For more info on the grant awards

Photos below: Entrance to Western Cowpunchers (l) and interior of Anhalt Halle by Dave Norris (r)

More Grant Opportunities for Dance Halls

If your hall is a nonprofit located in the Lower Colorado River Authority (LCRA) service area, you may qualify for an LCRA Community Grant to help fund repairs, renovations, or equipment purchases.

Grants of up to $50,000 — and one special $100,000 award this cycle — are available for projects that benefit the whole community.

The next application deadline is January 31, 2026.

Learn More

See You at Two Step Farm Fest This Weekend – Sat, Nov. 8!

Dust off your boots and join us at Two Step Farm Fest, a full day of music, food, and Texas fun—plus model homes, tastings, and dance demos. We will be there, too. Come see us!

When: Saturday, November 8, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: Two Step Farm in Montgomery, Texas
Who Benefits: Texas Dance Hall Preservation and The Texas Music Project

Come for the BBQ, stay for the live tunes, and help support the places—and the people—that keep Texas two-steppin’!

More info