The Return of RioFest

Started in 1982, RioFest grew to be one of the Harlingen community's biggest annual events over its 25-year history. Now, after a 14-year hiatus, RioFest is back, Visit Harlingen (the Harlingen Conventions and Visitors Bureau) announced on September 8, 2022. RioFest will be held on November 11, 2022 from 5 pm to 10 pm and November 12, 2022 from 12 pm to 10 pm at the Harlingen Baseball Field and Lon C. Hill Destination Park. Musical headliners include Kevin Fowler on Friday night and Eli Young Band on Saturday night. This two-day festival also features a Mexican artisan market, vendor village, kids activity corner, food festival, beer garden, and live balloon canvas art. Friday night activities include the Run RioFest 5K and ribbon cutting. Friday night's schedule is as follows (gates open at 5 pm): 6:30-8 pm Jenny and the Mexicats 8:30-10 pm Kevin Fowler On Saturday, there will be a tailgate party so college football fans can relax and watch some games. The Art Walk at Lon C. Hill Park will highlight art in action exhibits, RGV artisan market, Harlingen Consolidated Independent School District (HCISD) band performances, HCISD art competition winners, and magician. Saturday night's schedule is as follows (gates open at 12 pm): 12:30-2 pm The "Band"itos 2:30-4 pm Alex Coba 4:30-6 pm Los Garcia Brothers 6:30-8 pm Solido 8:30-10 pm Eli Young Band Additionally, the Heart of America carnival will be held Thursday, November 10 through Sunday, November 13, 2022. Carnival wristbands for unlimited rides will cost $25 on Thursday, $30 on Friday, $35 on Saturday, and $25 on Sunday. Tickets are on sale now ($5 general admission per day and $25 for VIP tables). Children age 13 years of age and younger are free. You may purchase t ickets online , by calling 800-514-3849, in person at The Boot Jack or BullRider Western Wear locations, or at the gate at the event. Prices go up to $10 general admission per day at the gate. Helpful links: RioFest website RioFest tickets Visit Harlingen