SerpApi.Org
The 22nd annual Laredo International Sister Cities Festival reported its strongest ever turnout after record participation from exhibitors and visitors.
Aileen Ramos, director of the Laredo Convention and Visitors Bureau, said the three-day festival attracted nearly 20,000 attendees and featured more than 213 exhibitors, the highest number in the event's history.
"I think it was a great event," Ramos said. "We believe this event is growing in its visibility with our visitors."
Ramos said organizers also collected more than 130 visitor surveys, with responses showing attendees traveled from across Texas and beyond to experience the festival.
This year's event introduced new family-oriented activities, including workshops where children created traditional Mexican "Lele" dolls and matching headbands, along with expanded cultural performances and artisan demonstrations.
The festival concluded with its annual Sister Cities 5K, which drew more than 500 participants, another milestone organizers said reflects the event's continued growth.
Ramos said the Convention and Visitors Bureau plans to continue expanding the festival while maintaining its focus on celebrating the cultural and economic ties between Laredo and its sister cities.
"We want to continue growing this event," Ramos said. "It's certainly a local favorite and a visitor favorite."
The Convention and Visitors Bureau is preparing for its next major event, the second annual Laredo Coffee Festival, scheduled for October.
