MXLAN festival: a celebration of culture and traditions

MXLAN is a three-day festival that highlights the rich influence of Mexican culture and brings communities together through music, art and food. Since 2019, the South Texas community has gathered for the festival each May at the McAllen Convention Center. The event kicks off on a Friday with a ceremony that captures the essence of the festival and continues through Sunday, attracting visitors from all over the United States, Mexico and other parts of the world. It’s a celebration of the richness of Latino culture, and has become one of the most important in the Rio Grande Valley.

At Reliant, we believe in the importance of supporting the communities where we live and work. That's why we've proudly sponsored this event since its inception.

Fun for the whole family

MXLAN serves as a window into the rich cultural tapestry that defines our communities. It features a variety of events, some free and some paid. These are some of the most popular:

Art exhibitions

In addition to displaying and selling their work at the festival’s artisan mercado, MXLAN also offers artists a community space where their creative processes are in full view. One of the most anticipated events of the festival is "Creators in Motion," where you’ll have the opportunity to see world-renowned muralists painting large-scale murals live.

Music

Although music is heard everywhere at the festival, head to the main stage to enjoy a variety of performances by Latinx artists, from indie pop and cumbia to sierreña and electronic music. Popular artists such as Omar Apollo, Alta Reala, Los Aptos, Selines and Rubio have performed on stage at MXLAN. The best part? Concerts are included with your general admission ticket.

The calenda and fireworks

Each night of the festival, attendees can enjoy the calenda, or street parade. The calenda originates from the Oaxaca region of Mexico and is a traditional way to kick off community events. At MXLAN, the parade takes place every night at 7:30 p.m. Live music is performed, and the public dances with giant dancing puppets. It’s one of the most anticipated events of the festival, and one that captures the joy and festive spirit of the community. The parade is capped off with a fireworks display from the clock tower of the McAllen Convention Center, which takes place Friday through Sunday at 9:30 p.m.

The flavors of Mexico

Food is at the center of every Hispanic celebration, and it's also a must-have at MXLAN. You can explore the authentic flavors of Mexican cuisine at food festivals that include tequila and mezcal tastings, as well as exclusive drinks and traditional cuisine from the region's best restaurants.

Neon Nights 5K Run

The 5K is one of the most anticipated events of the festival. Thousands of people participate and enjoy vibrant lights and live music during their runs. Runners usually wear brightly colored clothing and paint their faces. You'll need to register to participate, and you'll receive a T-shirt, a medal and neon lights to wear. It’s an event that’s fun for the whole family, whether you’re running the 5K or cheering on the sidelines. 

MXLAN Lucha Libre

At MXLAN Lucha Libre, you’ll get a chance to see some of the best wrestlers with deep roots in the Mexican wrestling tradition. This two-hour event inside the Convention Center has featured wrestlers such as Blue Demon Jr., Pirata Morgan, Hijo del Pirata Morgan, Black Cat Jr., Tiffany and Silencio. A ticket is required to attend this event.

How can you get tickets?

To be part of this unique cultural celebration, attendees can purchase their tickets through the official MXLAN website.  The general admission tickets include access to concerts, art exhibits, the artisanal mercado, street parades and fireworks from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. Children under 12 years of age do not need tickets for general admission events. There are also premium events that require an additional cost. Visit the festival's official website for more information about schedules and tickets.

Reliant is proud to sponsor and participate in this wonderful celebration of Mexican culture. Join us at MXLAN, where we can experience together the magic, music and traditions that unite the community. See you at the festival!