The Local MoCo Rekindles Montgomery Co Arts Scene

## The Beat Goes On: The Local MoCo Resurrects Montgomery County’s Thriving Arts Scene

**CONROE, TX** – From the silent stages of the pandemic to a vibrant resurgence, Montgomery County’s arts community has found its rhythm again, largely thanks to the unwavering efforts of local musician Josh Pitt and the nonprofit he co-founded, The Local MoCo. The organization is now gearing up for its highly anticipated “Good Luck & Fun Don’t Die Fest,” slated for **Saturday, April 27th, from 11 AM to 10 PM at Heritage Place in downtown Conroe**.

What began as a desperate measure to connect artists during the darkest days of the COVID-19 lockdown has blossomed into a full-fledged movement dedicated to showcasing, educating, and unifying the diverse artistic talent across Montgomery County.

“March 2020 felt like an apocalypse for musicians and performers,” recalls Josh Pitt, a Conroe-based artist and the driving force behind The Local MoCo. “All the venues shut down overnight. The fear was palpable – not just for our livelihoods, but for the very soul of our local culture.”

By August 2020, Pitt took matters into his own hands, compiling a grassroots digital database of local artists. His goal was simple yet profound: create a resource for venues to easily find and book local talent once they could cautiously reopen. This initial effort quickly gained momentum, forging partnerships with key venue owners by early 2021 and culminating in the inaugural “Good Luck & Fun Don’t Die” festival in May of that year.

“That first festival was more than just a concert; it was a defiant statement,” Pitt added. “It said, ‘We’re still here. The music hasn’t died, and the fun certainly hasn’t.'”

The success of these early events, including benefit concerts at iconic venues like Dosey Doe Big Barn in Spring, Texas, and subsequent festivals at Conroe’s Heritage Place, solidified Pitt’s vision. By Fall 2022, the collaborators began structuring a more formal organization, officially launching as The Local MoCo, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, in December 2022. Heather McFarland, who now serves as the nonprofit’s Executive Director, joined Pitt to further professionalize its operations and expand its outreach.

“Formalizing as a nonprofit allowed us to really scale our impact,” McFarland explained. “We’re not just about putting on shows; we’re building a sustainable ecosystem for artists. That means educational workshops, networking opportunities, and ensuring artists get fair compensation for their incredible work.”

The Local MoCo’s mission is clear: to keep Montgomery County’s talent – and the economic revenue it generates – right here at home. Historically, many local artists commuted to Houston for performance opportunities. Now, The Local MoCo provides a robust platform within their own community.

Through a vibrant calendar of events at various local venues, including Bernhardt Winery near Plantersville, Southern Star Brewing Co., Fass Brewing, and B-52 Brewing in Conroe, they connect local musicians, visual artists, and performers with eager audiences. A benefit concert at Dosey Doe Big Barn in February 2023 and another successful arts festival at Heritage Place in September 2023 were significant milestones, demonstrating the organization’s sustained impact.

“The Local MoCo has been a godsend for places like ours,” said Steve Said, owner of Dosey Doe Big Barn, a renowned venue that has hosted national acts for years. “They bring a fresh energy and a fantastic array of local talent that otherwise might not have had such a prominent stage. It’s a win-win for the artists, the venues, and the community.”

Local visual artist Maria Rodriguez, who has showcased her work at several Local MoCo events, echoed Said’s sentiments. “Before The Local MoCo, I felt very disconnected from other artists in the county. Now, there’s a real sense of camaraderie and shared purpose. My art has reached so many new people because of them.”

The upcoming “Good Luck & Fun Don’t Die Fest” on April 27th promises to be their biggest yet, featuring a diverse lineup of local bands across multiple genres, art vendors, food trucks, and activities for all ages. It’s a celebration of resilience, community, and the enduring power of art.

“Conroe and Montgomery County are growing so fast, and with that growth, it’s vital to nurture our cultural identity,” said City of Conroe Council Member Todd Yancy. “The Local MoCo is doing exceptional work in making sure arts and culture remain a cornerstone of our community. They truly embody the spirit of local support and innovation.”

Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets to enjoy a full day of music and art in the heart of downtown Conroe. Tickets for the “Good Luck & Fun Don’t Die Fest” are available for pre-purchase online or at the gate.

For more information on The Local MoCo, their mission, upcoming events, and how to get involved, visit their website at [TheLocalMoCo.org] or follow them on social media at [Facebook.com/TheLocalMoCo] and [Instagram.com/TheLocalMoCo].

**Event Details:**
* **What:** Good Luck & Fun Don’t Die Fest
* **When:** Saturday, April 27th, 11 AM – 10 PM
* **Where:** Heritage Place, 500 Collins St, Conroe, TX 77301
* **Tickets:** Available at [GoodLuckFunDon’tDieFest.com] or at the gate.