by Lori Coker
Special for News
HARLINGEN, Texas — San Benito will be heavily represented at this year's TexasFest celebration, taking place here April 12-14.
Held at Harlingen Field, 1216 Fairpark Blvd., Harlingen, and led by the Texas Heritage Independence Celebration Association (THICA), a non-profit organization of Texas Revolution reenactors, TexasFest celebrates the rich history, diverse culture and resilient spirit of the Lone Star State. Especially the Tejanos who fought for Texas independence.
Organized by the TexasFest Committee in collaboration with local community partners, this annual event is an immersive experience for attendees of all ages.
According to organizers, including THICA member and San Benito resident Victor Rosas, the festival grounds will be lively with a variety of activities, performances and barbecues.
A highlight of the event is the commemoration of three pivotal battles of the Texas Revolution: the Battle of the Alamo, Gonzales, and San Jacinto. Texas history buffs will have the opportunity to watch re-enactments of these historical moments, providing a deeper understanding of Texas' struggle for independence.
In addition to the battle reenactment, attendees can enjoy the results of the IBCA State-sanctioned BBQ Cook-Off, featuring barbecue creations from talented experts. The festival will also present a variety of live music performances spanning various genres.
According to Rosas, TexasFest is a center for cultural exploration, adding that performances by Aztec and folk dancers and the Mexican Traditional Folkloric Ballet highlight the region's rich heritage.
Attendees can also admire the artistic talents of local students in the Student Art Gallery and immerse themselves in living history displays and displays. For participating elementary schools, the art exhibition will showcase the best 30-40 pieces of art that attendees will vote on for prizes.
The festival includes activities such as the Lone Star Dream Student's Musical, tug-of-war competitions featuring front-line warriors, and special presentations by area school districts. Additionally, attendees can browse the many food and craft vendors, offering an array of delicious cuisine and unique handmade goods.
Organizer Fred Garza, who started the event in 2007, created the festival to present a better version of Texas history and focus on the Tejano soldiers who fought for Texas alongside James Bowie, William B. Travis and David Crockett. He wanted “to recognize Tejanos like Juan Abamelo, Juan A. Badillo, Carlos Espaler, Gregorio Esparza, Antonio Fuentes, José María Guerrero, Damasio Jiménez, Toribio Losoya, and Andres Nava, who also defended the Alamo.” Garza noted that Esparza fought against his brother, who was in the Mexican army — brother against brother. In addition, “Esparza was the only one who was properly buried, while the others who died were placed in mass graves,” Garza said.
Rosas, who is also the organization's treasurer, said the event “is living history and caters to the kids,” so they know the history and learn about Tejanos who also fought for Texas.
He also said entry teams can be purchased the weekend before the event for the three-day event for $3 through April 11. General admission is $8 per day, and veterans with a service ID can enter for $4 per day.
Gates open at 1pm on Friday, 10am on Saturday, and 9am on Sunday.
Events scheduled for Friday (April 12) include an SBHS Mariachi/Conjunto set in San Benito at 2:30pm and again at 5pm, the Resaca City Boys will take to the main stage at 8pm and a San Benito talent show will be held between 1:30-3:30pm on Saturday, and Resaca City Boys will be back on the main stage on Sunday starting at 4:30pm
Saturday's events will feature the Battle of Gonzales and the Battle of the Alamo with actors ages 17 to 50. On stage, fourth graders will perform a version of the Battle at the Alamo. As part of this massive event, organizers will present a “Riderless Horse Ceremony” to honor all veterans and those who died in battle. Garza explained that they will display the last flag raised over Vietnam.
TexasFest is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization made possible through the support of sponsors and volunteers. This event celebrates the community's collective heritage and showcases the vibrant culture and hospitality of Harlingen.
TexasFest 2024 is supported by the City of Harlingen, the Harlingen Economic Development Corporation, the Greater Harlingen Chamber, and the Rio Grande Valley Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.
For more information and updates about TexasFest 2024, including the event schedule and ticket information, visit the official website at www.happybirthdaytexas.com. Inquiries can also be directed to Rosas at (956) 367-3448 or Diane Bates at (956) 739-0401.
