Charro Days was born 71 years ago when it was organized by Brownsville boosters who wanted to lift their community’s collective spirits during the Great Depression. It is a week-long event that celebrates the spirit between the border towns of Brownsville and Matamoros, Mexico.

Today it continues to spread a positive message of international friendship and shared heritage.
It all kicks off on Sunday with the free Baile del Sol at the Charro Days Headquarters located at 455 E. Elizabeth St. from noon to 6 p.m. There will be street dances, food, live music, a children’s costume contest and taco eating contest. This free event also includes the
traditional “Grito” yell to launch the festival.

Don’t miss Sombrero Fest, which takes over Washington Park from Feb. 25-27. A street party for all, Sombrero Fest includes a jalapeno-eating contest, music and dancers, arts and crafts, cooking competitions and 30 food booths.  Popular rock, country and Tejano entertainers give festival-goers plenty to enjoy.

The Children’s Parade on Feb. 25 features school children dressed in traditional costumes who perform intricate dance steps that portray the rich history of Mexico. It starts at 2:30 p.m. and travels through downtown Brownsville.

The biggest parade of all, The Grand International Parade, is on Saturday, Feb. 27 and has floats, bands and dancers from two countries.

Don’t forget the big Charro Days Carnival at the Amigoland Convention Center at 325 Mexico Blvd. Rides and fun for the entire family from February 25 to March 7.

The Amigoland Convention Center will also host the Noche De Fiesta Variety Night Thursday, Feb. 25 from 6-11 p.m. Tickets are $20 per person and include great food, folklorico dancers, El Mariachi Mexico Lindo and music by Noe Pro and The Band.

For a complete schedule or more information call the Charro Days Headquarters at 956-542-4245. Or visit www.charrodaysfiesta.com.