Fresh on the Border: Pharr Celebrates 10th Annual Start of the Produce Season and Avocado Festival
Nearly 7,000 thousand people attend inaugural Avocado Festival
Traditional Cutting of the Fruit – Mayor Ambrosio Hernandez, M.D., and special guests including Texas State Senators Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa and Mayor of Reynosa Carlos Victor Peña Ortiz, Chairman of the Pharr International Bridge Board Edgar Delgadillo and board members, and other dignitaries participate in the ceremonial cutting of the fruit.
Avocado Festival – A mother and her son enjoy the festivities at the City of Pharr’s inaugural Avocado Festival.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2023
Pharr, Texas – As part of its Fresh on the Border initiative, the City of Pharr recently celebrated its 10th Annual Start of the Produce Season and its inaugural Avocado Festival. These events are part of the city’s focus on the importance of the produce industry for both the industry stakeholders and the families of the City of Pharr and the Rio Grande Valley.
The events kicked off with City of Pharr officials and Pharr International Bridge leaders celebrating the start of the 2023-2024 Produce Season by welcoming guests to this year’s themed event “Making History” which celebrated the event’s 10th year and featured an array of brightly displayed fresh fruits and vegetables in addition to the 2nd Annual “A Taste of Trade” where local restaurants and businesses showcased delectable offerings crafted with the very produce that crosses our bridge. The event was attended by elected officials, dignitaries, produce growers, importers, distributors, and consumers representing the United States and Mexico.
The Pharr International Bridge (PIB) continues to be the #1 bridge for produce crossings in the nation, with over 60% of all produce from Mexico crossing through Pharr. This is distributed to our local, regional and national supermarkets as we are the logistics produce gateway for America. The bridge also has a long-standing legacy in the produce industry encompassing both the distribution and supply chains.
“Each year, millions of pounds of produce, worth over $6 billion, cross the Pharr International Bridge, traveling from the East Coast and Midwest to the other parts of the country, and ultimately wind up in other countries, and we are so proud of that,” said Pharr Mayor Ambrosio Hernandez, M.D. “As our demand continues to increase, we have been working diligently with many partners to ensure that our bridge continues to have the infrastructure, resources, and funding to meet our future needs,” continued Mayor Hernandez. “In addition, we are proud to have recently launched new initiatives, such as our inaugural Avocado Festival, which celebrates the importance of produce to our city, our region, and our nation,” he added.
The yearly average of produce shipments from Mexico to the U.S. through Pharr is 200,000, ranking this bustling border crossing as the number 1 in the nation for fresh produce. Fresh fruits and vegetables including avocados, pineapples, mangoes, tomatoes, carrots, and more make their way through the bridge every day.
“We are proud to highlight the vital role and economic impact produce has on both sides of our border and these events bring more knowledge and understanding of their importance to our region,” Hernandez added. “Everyone loves avocados, and as one of the staples of the Superbowl, many are not aware just how many of their avocados cross through our bridge to their grocery stores and eventually to their tables, that is why our new Avocado Festival is so important, it brings more awareness,’ he said. “We had a great event with a whopping 7,000 attendees participating in the festivities,” stated Hernandez.
The first-ever Avocado Festival, which was hosted in partnership with the Greater Pharr Chamber of Commerce, is part of our Fresh on the Border featured events that celebrate and recognize the monumental achievements of the Pharr International Bridge and the communities it serves.
“The Greater Pharr Chamber of Commerce is profoundly grateful to all the people who attended the 1st Annual Avocado Festival,” said Sonia Falcon, Treasurer of the Pharr Greater Chamber of Commerce. “We remain committed to our great City of Pharr and its businesses and citizens,” continued Falcon. “The Avocado Festival highlighted the importance of our Pharr International Bridge and its role in crossing 80% of the total volume of fresh avocados from Mexico into Texas to feed America,” she added.
The event featured avocado-themed contests, savory food vendors, lucha libre, vendors, and a performance by a Selena tribute band that brought the iconic Tex-Mex sounds to life.
“The chamber would like to thank all our sponsors and the great leaders at the City of Pharr, the Pharr International Bridge, and the Pharr EDC for believing in our vision,” stated Falcon, “We are already planning the 2nd Annual Avocado Festival for 2024. Looking forward to seeing all of you next year!”
The City of Pharr will continue highlighting Fresh on the Border initiatives and is thankful for a great turnout at both events which goes to show the vitality of the produce industry and the Pharr International Bridge.
Pharr and Greater Pharr Chamber of Commerce to Host Inaugural Avocado Festival, SAT 10/21 @ 4 PM
Pharr, Texas – The City of Pharr, in partnership with the Greater Pharr Chamber of Commerce, is excited to announce the first-ever Avocado Festival.
The celebration is set to take place on Saturday, October 21, 2023, from 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM in Downtown Pharr, located at 200 S. Cage Blvd.
We invite the entire community to join us at this brand-new occasion that pays tribute to our thriving Pharr International Bridge, the nation’s leader in importing fresh produce, including berries, tomatoes, pineapple, and, of course, the beloved avocado.
The Avocado Festival is part of our Fresh on the Border line of events and allows the entire community to take part in celebrating and recognizing the monumental achievements of the Pharr International Bridge and the communities it serves.
“We are thrilled to bring another exciting event to our Pharr residents and community,” said Pharr Mayor Ambrosio Hernandez, M.D. “As the nation’s #1 produce importer, the Pharr International Bridge and the produce it imports play a significant and historical role in our city,” he added. “I invite everyone to join us as we kick off our inaugural Avocado Festival for a fun-filled and family-friendly event,” continued Hernandez. “We hope to see you there!”
Get ready to dance the night away with a spectacular performance by a Selena tribute band that will bring the iconic Tex-Mex sounds to life. Test your skills and compete in exciting contests with fantastic prizes up for grabs. Challenge your taste buds with avocado-themed contests and more. Food vendors will line the streets of Downtown Pharr offering a wide range of options.
We are thrilled to offer FREE admission to the Avocado Festival. This event is open to the public, and we welcome everyone to join us for a day of fun and festivities. Media is also invited to cover this event.
Come and join us for a day of live music, delicious food, contests, and, most importantly, a celebration of the avocado! Let’s commemorate the bridge that keeps our community connected and the dedicated people who make it all possible.
All media and the public are invited to attend.
DETAILS
WHAT: Inaugural Avocado Festival
WHEN: Saturday, October 21, 2023, from 4-10 PM
WHERE: Downtown Pharr (200 S. Cage Blvd. Pharr, TX 78577)
Pharr International Bridge Hosting Grand Celebration for 10th Annual Start of the Produce Season on 10/19 @ 10AM
Pharr, Texas – The Pharr International Bridge is thrilled to announce the 10th Annual Start of the Produce Season Celebration, a significant milestone in our ongoing commitment to ensuring the smooth and efficient flow of fresh produce between the United States and Mexico.
Our Start of the Produce Season celebration event takes place Thursday, October 19, 2023, from 10 AM to 12 PM at the Pharr International Bridge (9900 S. Cage Blvd.)
“The City of Pharr remains the #1 Port of Entry for Produce in the nation and we are proud to celebrate this continued milestone as we kick off the 2023-2024 Start of the Produce Season,” said Pharr Mayor Ambrosio Hernandez, M.D. “This annual celebration brings together all produce partners from both sides of the border to highlight the vital role and economic impact produce has on both sides of our border,” he added.
City officials, alongside produce growers, importers, distributors, and consumers from both sides of the border, will gather to celebrate this remarkable occasion. The Pharr International Bridge has remained unwavering in its commitment to serving as one of the nation’s primary gateways for fresh produce.
This year, we are proud to introduce the 2nd Annual “A Taste of Trade” event, where local restaurants and businesses will showcase delectable offerings crafted with the very produce that crosses our bridge. It’s a unique opportunity to savor the delicious results of the collaboration between our bridge and the local culinary community. Mayor Dr. Ambrosio Hernandez and our guests will take part in the traditional cutting of the fruit symbolizing the start of the produce season.
Don’t forget to wear your Guayabera, as we come together to celebrate a decade of achievements and look forward to an even brighter future for the Pharr International Bridge and the communities it serves.
The public and members of the media are invited to attend.
Please RSVP to this special occasion by contacting Vanessa Guzman at [email protected].
DETAILS
WHAT: Start of the Produce Season
WHEN: Thursday, October 19, 2023, from 10 am – 12 pm
WHERE: Pharr International Bridge (9900 S. Cage Blvd.)
Pharr Presents Trail of Terror: A Spine-Tingling Halloween Experience
Pharr, Texas – Get ready for a chilling adventure like no other as the City of Pharr invites you to the Trail of Terror! This heart-pounding trail ride promises thrills, suspense, and endless fun for those brave enough to embark on a terrifying journey through the unknown. Get ready to face zombies, psycho nurses, killer clowns, and more spine-tingling guests that will haunt your dreams!
The Trail of Terror is a FREE TICKETED EVENT. Tickets will be available starting Friday, October 13th, at the Pepe Salinas Recreation Center (1011 W Kelly Ave, Pharr, TX). Round one of ticket distribution will begin promptly at 9:00 AM. Round two of ticket distribution will start at 6:00 PM.
Mark your calendars for October 27th, 28th, and 29th. Trail rides begin at 7:30 PM and wrap up at 10:30 PM. The Trail of Terror takes place at the Pharr Vanguard Nature and Birding Center (1025 S Richmond Dr, Pharr, TX 78577).
Each ticket admits a group of up to 6 people, so gather your friends and family and prepare for a night of bone-chilling terror. Do you have what it takes to conquer the Trail of Terror and emerge unscathed?
This event promises to be an unforgettable Halloween experience, filled with screams, surprises, and memories that will last a lifetime. Don’t miss your chance to face your fears and join us on October 27th through 29th at the City of Pharr’s Trail of Terror!
All media and the public are invited to attend.
TICKET DISTRIBUTION DETAILS:
WHAT: Trail of Terror Ticket Distribution
WHERE: Pepe Salinas Recreation Center (1011 W Kelly Ave, Pharr, TX)
WHEN: Friday, October 13, 2023, at 9:00 AM and 6:00 PM
TRAIL OF TERROR DETAILS:
WHAT: Trail of Terror
WHERE: Pharr Vanguard Nature and Birding Center (1025 S Richmond Dr, Pharr, TX 78577)
WHEN: Friday – Sunday, October 27-29, 2023, from 7:30 PM – 10:30 PM
City of Pharr to Host Monumental Unveiling on Tuesday, 10/17 @ 10 am in Downtown Pharr
Pharr, Texas – The City of Pharr will host a Monumental Unveiling Ceremony, and invites the community to take part in the celebration.
The unveiling will take place at 10 am on Tuesday, October 17, 2023, at Downtown Park (200 S. Cage Blvd), near Pharr City Hall.
The monument will pay homage to the city and its community. All details will be revealed during the event.
All media and the public are invited to attend.
DETAILS
WHAT: City of Pharr to Host Monumental Unveiling
WHEN: Tuesday, October 17, 2023 at 10 am
WHERE: Downtown Park (200 S. Cage Blvd, Pharr, TX 78577)
The Board of Commissioners of the City of Pharr met for a regular meeting on Monday, September 18, 2023, and considered an agenda that included the following highlights:
City Proclaims September 19, 2023, as National I.T. Professionals Day
The Pharr City Commission approved a proclamation declaring September 19, 2023, as National I.T. Professionals Day. This day recognizes the technicians and analysts, developers and architects, engineers and administrators, managers and directors, and all I.T. professionals who make sure our computer systems and networks run smoothly. Jose J. Peña, Director of the City of Pharr Innovation and Technology Department accepted the proclamation alongside members of his staff. Commissioners recognized the accomplishments of the City of Pharr’s I.T. professionals and congratulated the department on the excellent work they have accomplished especially with the implementation of TeamPharr.Net.
City Declares September 23, 2023, as Shriners Legion of Honor Veterans Day
The Pharr City Commission approved a proclamation declaring September 23, 2023, as Shriners Legion of Honor Veterans Day. The City of Pharr is proud to recognize all veterans for their service, sacrifice, and contributions to our nation. The proclamation supports the local Pharr chapter of the Shriners Legion of Honor Veterans which will be hosting a Military Ball honoring and saluting veterans on Saturday, September 23, 2023, at the Nomad Shrine Club located at 1044 W. Nolana Loop in Pharr, Texas. Commander Col. Glaze, Skip Kirkland, and Gilbert Medina accepted the proclamation and invited all veterans to participate in the upcoming event.
City Proclaims September 25, 2023, as National Day of Remembrance for Murder Victims
The Pharr City Commission approved a proclamation declaring September 25, 2023, as National Day of Remembrance for Murder Victims. The observance pays tribute to murder victims and their surviving family members. Crime victims and survivors will gather at events across the country to commemorate this Day of Remembrance by focusing on the impact murder has on families and communities, and ways to support and serve survivors. Robert Garcia, Founder of the Rio Grande Valley Family and Friends of Murdered Children accepted the proclamation and was joined by families of victims from Pharr and the throughout the Rio Grande Valley. The City of Pharr will host the 7th Annual Candlelight Vigil “Together We Climb The Mountain To The Peak Of Hope”, to be held on September 25, 2023, at the Pharr Events Center from 6 pm – 9 pm.
City Approves Ordinance Adopting and Approving 2023-2024 Budget
The Pharr City Commission unanimously approved an Ordinance adopting and approving the budget for the fiscal year beginning October 1, 2023, and ending September 30, 2024. Interim City Manager Jonathan B. Flores announced that the city was proud to produce a balanced budget with a $1 million dollar surplus.
Featured Event: Movies at the Park – Friday, September 22, 2023, from 7 pm to 9 pm
Get ready for a paw-some adventure like never before! Join us on September 22nd at 7pm in our Downtown Park for an exclusive screening of the brand-new trailer for “Paw Patrol: The Mighty Movie,” followed by the full Paw Patrol movie!
Bring your family and friends for an evening filled with excitement, action, and the unstoppable Paw Patrol team. It’s a howling good time you won’t want to miss!
Get ready for a paw-some adventure like never before! 
Join us on September 22nd at 7pm in our Downtown Park for an exclusive screening of the brand-new trailer for “Paw Patrol: The Mighty Movie,” followed by the full Paw Patrol movie! 
