Mercedes Flying High With Skyfest: A New Community Tradition Begins
The skies above Mercedes are set to dazzle with color and creativity as the city hosts its inaugural Skyfest on March 1. Aiming to bring a vibrant, signature community event to the region, this festival combines the timeless art of kite flying with crafts, live music, and family-friendly activities — all at the Mercedes Dome Rec Center.
The Vision Behind Skyfest
Skyfest is a brainchild of Mercedes City Manager Alberto Perez, who drew inspiration from the annual kite festival in Austin. Recognizing that a similar event is lacking in the Rio Grande Valley (RGV), particularly following the shift of South Padre Island’s traditional kite festival to an indoor setting, Perez envisioned Skyfest as a way to reignite outdoor family fun in the area.
Marisol Vidales, Mercedes’ library director, is spearheading the organization of Skyfest. Discussing the festival’s goals, she emphasized its community-centered approach. “We thought an event like this would be something good to bring kids and families outside,” Vidales explained. “We hope to bring people here from other communities as well since we’re located in the middle of the Valley.”
A Community Event with a Plan to Expand
Skyfest 2025 marks the beginning of what is hoped to be an annual celebration with plans for future expansion. This year’s festivities will include a kite-flying contest with categories such as best kite design, highest-flying kite, and champions in youth and senior categories. The event will also feature face painting, crafts, vendors, and entertainment provided by The South Austin Moonlighters, courtesy of a state grant.
Plans for next year already indicate a potential expansion to a two-day festival. Day two is envisioned to highlight model airplane and drone flying, adding a modern twist to the traditional kite festivities. Perez sees this as a bridge between the timeless enjoyment of kites and the emerging interest in aerial technology.
Impact on the Rio Grande Valley
Skyfest stands to influence the broader RGV region by attracting families, enthusiasts, and tourists, thereby boosting local commerce. Jose Martinez, a business owner in Mercedes, expressed optimism, noting that such events are crucial in drawing attention to the region and stimulating economic activity. “Events like Skyfest not only offer entertainment but also bring people to local businesses,” Martinez stated.
Community engagement is also integral to the festival’s success, with local schools being involved to ensure participation from young residents. As Vidales shared, “We’re reaching out to schools and hope to have many students participating and competing. This is their community.”
Building on Past Traditions
Historically, the RGV has seen various festivals and cultural events that unite residents, such as the McAllen Holiday Parade and Brownsville’s Charro Days. Skyfest aims to position Mercedes on the map with its own celebrated tradition, fostering community spirit and showcasing the city’s potential as a hub for cultural activities.
Looking Ahead
With its inaugural event, Skyfest sets the foundation for what could become a beloved tradition in Mercedes and the Rio Grande Valley. By merging community interest with local impact, it indicates a positive trajectory for the area’s cultural and economic vibrancy.
For more information on attending or participating in Skyfest, Mercedes residents and visitors can contact the Mercedes Dome Rec Center or visit the city’s official website. By joining this new tradition, participants contribute to a narrative of growth and unity, elevating the fabric of the broader South Texas community.
