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by John Stanley - Jan. 24, 2012 03:22 PM
The Republic | azcentral.com
Dallas has Billy Bob's.
And in a couple weeks, Florence will have Moonshine Willy's.
Owner Harry Luge Sr. described the $1 million, multi-use entertainment facility as "the largest honky-tonk in the state."
"We have the real deal," Luge said. "This is a real honky-tonk, not a wannabe. Some places may have a country name, but this is a true country honky-tonk with live bull riding, bronc riding and special events. It's a one-of-a-kind facility."
Moonshine Willy's, which opens on Feb. 10, includes a 30,000-square-foot picnic area and a 25,000-square-foot pavilion. Altogether, Luge said, the facility can handle about 2,500 people. It has a liquor license, will serve barbecue and holds a stage with a complete sound system.
Local band Dually Stoned will perform a mix of original music and covers -- primarily country songs played with a rock-and-roll edge -- on opening night, as well as nearly every Friday and Saturday.
Members of the public can ride live bulls at Moonshine Willy's on Friday nights; Saturdays will be reserved for competition riders, said Luge, who has owned and operated Rooster's Night Club in east Mesa for more than four decades.
Guests wishing to stay the night can book a room at the facility's Cowboy Bunkhouse, a 40-unit motel that also opens on Feb. 10.
Moonshine Willy's is part of the Canyon Moon Ranch, a 203-acre property a few miles northeast of Florence that has hosted the County Thunder music festival every April for the past seven years.
Moonshine Willy's will be open every Friday and Saturday night. In addition, it will host special programs throughout the year. Upcoming events include the National Amateur Moore Extreme Fighting Championship on Feb. 11.
Moonshine Willy's
When: 5 p.m. to 2 a.m. Fridays and Saturdays.
Opening night: Feb. 10.
Where: Canyon Moon Ranch,20585 E. Price Road, Florence.
Details: 480-570-4711, moonshinewillys.com
