The Wood County Economic Development Commission heard a proposal to hold an outdoor Christian music festival at the Mineola Nature Preserve in October 2026.

John Henry of Winnsboro said there is no longer a major festival of this type in Texas, after three ceased operations several years ago.

Similar festivals around the country draw thousands, and he said he expects up to 10,000 to attend the first year for a one-day event, with plans to grow it into a three-day affair.

He said six major acts will be featured, with a smaller stage for local artists.

The first event would be all day Saturday followed by a Sunday morning worship event.

Henry is the owner of Honor Coffee in Winnsboro and the recently-acquired Speakeasy Coffee House in Quitman.

But his background is in the music business, having spent time in Nashville.

He plans a family-friendly event with ticket prices kept inexpensive, at $35, with children 12 and under free.

Proceeds would be funneled to local non-profits as well as a benevolence fund for persons in need.

The festival would feature vendors, carnival rides and a kids zone.

He said he checked with other towns that host such events, and they reported significant economic impact.

It will be known as Rock The Pines.

The board also heard a report last Wednesday from Vic Savelli concerning the efforts of the Airport Land Use Task Force and the Aviation School Task Force, to ramp up development at the county airport which is nearing completion on an expansion to 5,000 feet that will allow jet traffic.

He described the projects as long-term, and include improving infrastructure at and around the airport.

For example, there is only a narrow county road to access the airport, which would need to be expanded if manufacturing concerns are located there.

He also noted the need for better signage than the small sign located along State Hwy. 37.