Charro Days, an annual fiesta celebrated in Brownsville, Texas in late February, was first conceived in 1937 by local business leaders.  The event commemorates the Mexican heritage of the area on both sides of the Rio Grande, and is named in honor of the "Charro", that dashing Mexican gentleman cowboy.  The first Charro Days celebration was held in February of 1938, and featured parades, dances, races, a bullfight, a rodeo, a concert, a grand ball and Noche Mexicana.  Residents and visitors dressed in the traditional costumes of Mexico and honored the Mexican "Charros".



Sombrero Festival

Sombrero Festival, a three day street party in Washington Park joined the festivities in 1986 with Tejano, Conjunto, Norteno, Country and rock performers, adult and kids events and rides and a wide variety of traditional and local foods.

Thse two organizations collectively give back to the local community in the areas of recreation, beautificaion, tourism and higher education.