Hot ticket — Seen are photos from San Benito’s Independence Day weekend ResacaFest which drew thousands of attendees to the Heavin Trail area of the Resaca City to enjoy the daylong festivities. (Courtesy photo/City of San Benito)
By TRINA “INDI” JOHNSON
Special to the NEWS
A new sound is rising from the heart of the Rio Grande Valley, and it’s rooted in rhythm, tradition, and a city determined to take center stage. With its new Soul of South Texas Summer Concert Series, San Benito is blending its conjunto legacy with national acts to build something bigger than just a music lineup, city officials say.
What began as a vision to celebrate heritage has become one of the most ambitious cultural undertakings in the region.
“We are doing this to change the culture of San Benito,” Commissioner Tom Goodman told the media.
According to reports, the city committed approximately $900,000 through its Economic Development Corporation, with another $100,000 from hotel occupancy tax revenue dedicated to promotion.
Organizers expect sponsorships, ticket sales, vendor proceeds and alcohol concessions to help offset costs. One sponsor, the Davila Law Firm, contributed $30,000 toward the effort. Organizers say the first week of shows broke even.
The fairgrounds have been transformed into a regional venue drawing music lovers from across the Valley and beyond. The series continues through mid-August, with each performance bringing a new thread to the cultural fabric the city is showcasing.
July 18 brings Pesado to the stage, the Monterrey-based Norteño band known for heartfelt lyrics and accordion-driven hits that have defined the genre for more than three decades.
On July 19, Tejano takes the spotlight with a stacked lineup featuring La Fiebre, David Lee Garza y Los Musicales, Ricky Naranjo y Los Gamblers, and Mike Gonzalez & The Iconiczz. A fireworks show will follow the performances.
July 25 welcomes Texas country favorite Aaron Watson, whose blend of storytelling and upbeat anthems has earned him a loyal following across the state.
The following night, July 26, stand-up comedian George Lopez will bring his sharp humor and cultural observations to the San Benito stage in one of the series’ most anticipated non-musical acts.
Midland performs on August 1, bringing a polished honky-tonk style and modern classic-country sound to the fairgrounds. The Grammy-nominated group is known for hits like “Drinkin’ Problem” and “Burn Out.”
August 9 features Gary Allan, whose emotionally charged vocals and gritty style have made him a standout in contemporary country for decades.
The series closes August 16 with Steve Treviño, the Texas-based comedian known for routines about family, fatherhood and everyday life in South Texas.
Concerts take place at the San Benito Fairgrounds, with gates opening at 5:30 p.m. Children under 12 are admitted free. Tickets and additional details are available at www.sanbenitofairgrounds.com.
Following the kickoff weekend, city officials thanked the community in a post on the city’s Facebook page: “Your support brings the music, the magic, and the community together.”
Music runs deep in San Benito, where conjunto and rich traditions have long shaped the community’s identity. Now, the city’s stage reflects both that heritage and a vibrant future, bringing people together through sound and celebration.
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