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By Josiah Carrasco
Fort Stockton, Texas, is bustling with anticipation as the annual Barrio Fest 2024 kicks off this weekend. The three-day event, running from September 13 through September 15, offers a vibrant showcase of Hispanic culture and community, celebrating the rich heritage of Fort Stockton’s Latino population. As one of the largest cultural gatherings in the region, this year’s festival promises an engaging lineup of activities, performances, and tributes, bringing people together from all walks of life.
A Celebration of Tradition
The Barrio Fest is much more than just a local party—it’s an homage to the enduring cultural legacy of Fort Stockton's Hispanic community. The festival has grown in scope over the years, and 2024 is no different, with a packed schedule that kicks off today. The event begins with educational tours focused on the history of the region and the oral histories of the local community, curated by Texas Tech Southwest Collections. Attendees will have the chance to hear first-hand accounts of the region’s Hispanic roots, a unique opportunity to preserve and honor these stories for future generations.
The Veterans Legend and Memorial event, slated for the afternoon of September 13, is another key part of the festival. This moving tribute honors local veterans and the sacrifices made by the Hispanic community in times of conflict, drawing attention to their often-overlooked contributions to the nation's history(Big Bend Times).
A Weekend Packed with Activities
Saturday’s lineup at the Barrio Fest is sure to delight all ages, with activities ranging from the Barrio Fest 5K Run/Relay to the much-anticipated historic baseball game at Rooney Park. Baseball has deep roots in the Hispanic community, and this historic game serves as a nostalgic nod to the local teams that once dominated the diamond in Fort Stockton.
In addition to sports, the festival boasts a packed day of arts and crafts booths, food vendors, and cultural performances. Ballet Folklorico, one of the most visually captivating performances, will feature prominently during Saturday’s festivities, and the Stakitas’ Car Club Show will draw classic car enthusiasts from across the region. The inclusion of a car show highlights the community’s pride in both culture and craftsmanship, with awards presented to the most impressive entries(Big Bend Times)(Visit Fort Stockton).
Music, Dance, and Art
Throughout the weekend, music and dance will fill the air, bringing an extra level of vibrancy to the festival. Local and regional acts, including Mariachis Los Parientes de Pedro Moreno, will take the stage, while the Cumbia Movement will close out the night on Saturday with a street dance that promises to keep the energy high well into the evening.
One of the standout features this year is the Adobe Making Workshops, giving attendees a hands-on opportunity to learn about the traditional art of adobe construction, a practice that has shaped the architecture and history of the region for centuries. For those more interested in visual arts, the Barrio Art Installation Display at Chunk Art Gallery & Studio will showcase local artists' interpretations of community and heritage(Big Bend Times).
Supporting Local Businesses and Artists
Barrio Fest not only serves as a cultural celebration but also as an economic engine for local businesses and artists. Vendors at the festival will offer a wide range of handmade goods, food, and art, giving attendees the chance to support small businesses while enjoying the festivities. The festival is also a prime platform for local artists, with opportunities for them to showcase their talents and engage with the broader community.
A Unified Community
The final day of Barrio Fest will begin with a special Sunday Mass at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, honoring the spiritual roots that are so integral to many in the Hispanic community. Afterward, the festival will conclude with the Historic Baseball Tournament Championship at Rooney Park, a thrilling culmination of the weekend's sporting events.
As Fort Stockton prepares to come together once again for this cherished event, it’s clear that Barrio Fest is more than just a celebration—it’s a testament to the community's resilience, unity, and pride in its rich Hispanic heritage. The festival offers a unique space for reflection, joy, and connection, bringing together people of all ages to celebrate the traditions that continue to shape Fort Stockton today.
For full details on the event schedule and other upcoming activities, visit the official festival website or the Fort Stockton Tourism Board's site(Big Bend Times)(Visit Fort Stockton).
A day to remember!