Friday Night Magic: Happy Hour at Hotel Giles

Some places have a way of bringing people together, and we like to think that Hotel Giles in Comfort, Texas, is one of them. As a boutique hotel, we welcome travelers from all over, offering them a charming and historic retreat. But on Friday nights, something special happens—our historic hotel transforms into a haven for music lovers, travelers, and locals alike during our weekly Happy Hour and Pickin’ Circle. It’s not just about drinks and small talk—it’s about connection, community, and the kind of impromptu musical magic that only happens when the right people gather in the right place.

A Tradition Rooted in Community
We started hosting Happy Hour with a simple goal in mind: to create a space where our guests and locals could engage with one another in an authentic and meaningful way. And in Central Texas, where music and songwriting are woven into the cultural fabric, what better way to do that than with a pickin’ circle? It’s a long-standing Texas tradition—an informal gathering where musicians take turns leading songs, jamming along, and improvising together. Here, the music isn’t just background noise—it’s the heartbeat of the evening.

Each Friday night at Hotel Giles has its own rhythm. Some weeks, the mood is laid-back and intimate, with a handful of musicians swapping songs in a relaxed setting. Other weeks, it's standing-room only, with enthusiastic singalongs and foot-tapping tunes filling the air. The only constant? A warm, welcoming vibe that makes everyone feel at home—whether they’ve been coming for months or just happened to walk in off the street. We host Happy Hour in our parlor or, if the weather permits, in the gazebo in our courtyard.

Memorable Moments and Musical Magic
Over the weeks and months, our Happy Hour has seen its fair share of unforgettable performances. Acclaimed songwriter Anthony Garcia once stopped by, blending his original songs with well-loved standards for a crowd that won’t soon forget it. Another time, Walt and Tina Wilkins brought their own special brand of musical magic, sitting in with our local favorites for an impromptu jam session.

Then there’s Billy Rains—a regular guest who loves our Happy Hour so much he plans his stays around it. Our local musicians have even started learning his favorite songs just for him. And if you think a pickin’ circle is just about guitars, think again. Over time, musicians have brought everything from banjos and mandolins to saxophones, violins, harmonicas, an upright bass, and even an accordion. Occasionally, someone will sit down at our stunning 1880 Steinway, adding a whole new dimension to the night’s music.

Like any great music gathering, certain songs have become Friday night staples. Jon Curry, a regular fixture, often plays his colorful originals. Ernie Slatinsky never fails to break out “All of Me” or deliver a soulful trumpet rendition of “Black Coffee.” And when Michelle Pokorny starts singing “Hallelujah,” the whole room joins in—voices blending together in a moment of pure harmony.

Who Shows Up? Everyone.
One of the most beautiful things about our Happy Hour is the ever-changing crowd. Some nights, it’s a perfect balance of locals and hotel guests. Other nights, a wedding group might be staying with us, leaving the locals to take center stage. Sometimes, it’s mostly visitors who just happened upon Comfort and discovered the magic of our Pickin’ Circle. The unpredictability of it all only adds to the charm.

Over time, these weekly Happy Hours have strengthened our bond with the Comfort community. Locals have come to see our hotel as more than just a historic landmark—it’s a living, breathing part of their town’s story, a place where friendships form and old connections are rekindled.

And sometimes, something truly special happens. Comfort has deep German roots, and every now and then, a German-speaking local will strike up a conversation with a visitor from Germany. Given that German was the primary language in our hotel’s early days, these moments feel like echoes of the past, a reminder that history and the present are always intertwined.

Come for the Music, Stay for the Magic
We’d love to have you as our guest at Hotel Giles. But even if you’re not staying with us and you find yourself in Comfort, Texas, on a Friday night, do yourself a favor—stop by for Happy Hour. Whether you’re a musician looking to join the Pickin’ Circle or just someone who appreciates good music, good company, and a little bit of that Hill Country magic, you’ll be welcomed with open arms.

Some places just have a way of bringing people together. We like to think Hotel Giles is one of them.