National Charro Day
February 29 - March 2, Thursday – Saturday
Charro Days is an annual festival held in Laredo, Texas and Nuevo Laredo, Mexico in late February. The festival was created to celebrate the cultural heritage of Mexican and American culture and to strengthen ties between the two cities that share a border.History and Significance
The Charro Festival was first held in 1898 and has since become an important part of the cultural identity of both cities. The name "Charro" refers to the traditional Mexican cowboy, who plays a significant role in Mexican culture. The festival celebrates the pride and heritage of Mexican traditions, particularly horseback riding, music, dance, and cuisine.
Dates
The festival typically takes place on the last weekend of February, but the exact dates can vary from year to year. Major events include a parade, musical performances, exhibits, and competitions.
Festival Highlights
Charro Parade. One of the highlights of the festival is the parade, where participants wear traditional Mexican costumes such as sombreros and charro hats. The parade includes bands, musical ensembles and horseback riders.
Dance and Music. The festival features concerts featuring local and visiting musicians performing traditional Mexican music, including mariachis and folkloric ensembles.
Food Shows. The festival also offers a variety of Mexican cuisine, including traditional dishes such as tacos, enchiladas and salsa, as well as desserts.
Sports Competitions. The festival features horseback riding competitions such as rodeos and horsemanship contests, which also highlight charro traditions.
Cultural Shows. Local artists and artisans present their work
National Charro Day in other years
- 2025 February 27 - March 1, Thursday – Saturday