Weslaco's 23rd Annual Onion Fest adds another day of fun, food and music

The 23rd Annual Onion Fest grew into a two-day affair this year, taking place on Saturday, March 24 and Sunday, March 25 at Weslaco City Park.  Local food vendors, businesses, and all types of entertainers were featured at the event.  People of all ages showed up early to get a head start on all the different attractions and features, which included vendor booths, contests, and carnival rides for the children.

Saturday’s entertainment kicked off at the MVEC Main Stage with the Weslaco High School Mariachi Pantera, followed by Ralph and the Cruisers bringing back some classic rock ‘n roll oldies.  Marshall Law and Whiskey D. added the country and rock element, while Estruendo followed, kicking off the evening’s set.  Marlissa Vela and Costumbre closed out the evening as comedian Raymond Orta offered plenty of laughs throughout the evening as the emcee.  On Sunday, R&B recording artist Lamar Jones started out the afternoon, followed by gospel acts, country music by Bob & Sheila Everhart and Tejano Boys closing out the event.

The Frost Bank Cool Spot Mini Stage hosted Winter Texan favorite Country Shades, entertainer Chuchin, belly dancers Reinas de Sabas and the famous Onion Eating Contest, hosted by KRGV reporter Camaron Abundes.  On Sunday, Onion Fest held its first talent showcase, featuring local talent of all ages.

The InterNational Bank Arts and Crafts tent highlighted local vendors with a variety of products ranging from handmade jewelry to scented candles. 

Various games and activities were available for children at the South Texas College Kid Zone, with the return of the Mascot Games, which featured several familiar mascots from the community including Jerry the Jaguar, the Payne Brothers, H.E. Buddy, and the Mascot Games champion, Cowboy Cash from Lone Star National Bank.  The mascots stuck around afterwards for photo ops with children and adults alike.

On Saturday, the Knapp Medical Center Pavilion provided plenty of useful health information, while the Security First Credit Union Car Show featured all types of classic and contemporary vehicles.  Nearby, Bass Pro Shop displayed a variety of their boats and ATV’s.

The AEP Texas Culinary Stage held cooking demonstrations, featuring chefs from H-E-B, the STC Culinary Dept., Alhambra and the Blue Onion.  On Sunday, both amateur and professional cooks competed in the H-E-B Recipe and Salsa contests.  Thank you to Lowe’s for building the kitchen onsite.

Rancho Caballo de Pura Raza Azteca performed at the Shah Eye Center Charro Arena, entertaining the crowd with Azteca and Andulasian horses dancing to mariachi music on Saturday and Sunday. 

Overall, this year’s Onion Fest was another fun-filled and exciting affair, and would not have been possible without the help of all our sponsors and volunteers.  Thank you to everyone who helped make the event a success, as well as everyone who attended.  Visit www.weslaco.com/onionfest or like us on Facebook to see a lot more photos!