Cowboy hats were high, and spirits were even higher as celebrities and country culture enthusiasts came together Saturday for the Stetson x Ray’s Hometown Bar Backyard BBQ at the scenic Tommy Bahama Miramonte Resort & Spa. The lively daytime event, presented by LaCroix Sparkling Water, marked the unofficial start of festival weekend with an Americana-infused celebration of fashion, food, and music in the heart of the California desert.
The afternoon gathering, held from noon to 4 p.m., welcomed a diverse group of guests including Scout Willis, AJ McLean, Kyle Richards, Anna Van Patten, Tiera Kennedy, INK, Noeline Hofmann, Tara Lynn, and Chris Braun, among others. Set against the palm-lined backdrop of the Miramonte lawn, the event served up a full-bodied pregame experience for those heading into the weekend’s desert festivities.
At the center of the celebration was a fully immersive Western-themed activation featuring line dancing, two-stepping lessons, and a ropin’ showcase — all soundtracked by live performances from Chris Braun + MOONLGHT. Guests enjoyed country classics and original music as they mingled and sipped craft cocktails curated by Ray’s, made with Jameson Whiskey and Código Blanco tequila.
Guests also indulged in an array of BBQ favorites, many of which featured sauces by Smash Kitchen — the food brand co-founded by actor Glen Powell. Known for its high-quality, clean-ingredient condiments, Smash Kitchen made a flavorful impression as attendees enjoyed hearty fare beneath the California sun.
A standout feature of the event was the shoppable Stetson experience, where attendees browsed and customized Western essentials including wide-brim hats, leather boots, and rugged denim. Stetson’s setup not only brought heritage style to the festival kickoff but also offered guests a chance to personalize pieces for their weekend wardrobe.
“It was the perfect way to celebrate the start of festival weekend,” one attendee noted. “There was an incredible energy — people dancing, eating, and just soaking in the vibe. The Stetson booth was packed the entire time.”
The laid-back yet stylish atmosphere reflected the ethos of both host brands: Stetson, the iconic American label known for its bold Western fashion since 1865, and Ray’s, a beloved bar concept with locations in Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Miami. Known for its wood-paneled walls, disco ball, and classic jukebox, Ray’s brought a bit of its signature dive-bar charm to the Coachella Valley.
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Founded on the idea of creating spaces where “soon-to-be friends meet,” Ray’s is part of Authentic Hospitality’s expanding portfolio of trendsetting venues, which also includes Pebble Bar and Jac’s on Bond. For this event, the team delivered the same easygoing energy — but with a sun-drenched, country twist.
Tommy Bahama Miramonte Resort & Spa, a desert oasis known for its elegant design and mountain views, served as the ideal setting for the afternoon. Its expansive lawn provided room for dancing, shopping, and socializing, while resort staff ensured guests stayed cool and comfortable throughout the day.
The event comes as Stetson continues its mission to blend timeless American style with contemporary cultural moments. Nearly 160 years after its founding, the brand remains synonymous with rugged individuality and authenticity — qualities that were on full display during Saturday’s celebration.
As the weekend continues with music and fashion festivals across the region, the Stetson x Ray’s Backyard BBQ offered a refreshing reminder of the communal spirit at the heart of festival culture.
Photo credit: Weston Kloefkorn, @westonkloefkorn
Location: Tommy Bahama Miramonte Resort & Spa, 45000 Indian Wells Ln, Indian Wells, CA
Time: Saturday, April 26, 12–4 p.m.
For more information:
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Stetson: https://stetson.com
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Ray’s Bar: https://www.raysbarnyc.com
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Smash Kitchen: https://www.smashkitchen.com
