Art, Music, and Luchadores: Unforgettable Moments at MXLAN Festival 2023

MXLAN, a celebration of Latinx culture and heritage was hosted at the McAllen Convention Center where, from the entrance, attendees were greeted with open arms and plenty of Mexican antojitos, including iconic espiropapas (tornado potatoes) and aguas frescas

The family friendly function began with a stroll through Oval Park with plenty of good vibes going around. Some were taking a ride on peddle boat swans and others taking pictures with a parade that included charros (Mexican horse riders) displaying their mesmerizing roping skills and leading their dancing horses around the park.Inside the convention center, kids and the kids at heart had a fun time making their own animal themed party masks. Festival walkers got to enjoy the many vendors offering a range of items from classic Mexican-style dress wear, jewelry, anime plushies and the sight of amazing local art spread throughout. 

The highlight of the evening was announced in ten minute increments with various luchadores fighting to victory whilst displaying their acrobatic skills and engaging crowd work. Fan favorite masked fighters included (los rudos; rude boys) duo Simbolo and Silencio and duo Lady Maravilla and Percy Persephone. The night ended in big, with a final firework display while the band, Kinky, had the crowd dancing and bopping to the beat. Songs in their set included the classic “Hasta Quemarnos,” “Sound Tha Mi Primer Amor,” and “Instintos Animales” from their most recent album Fierrro

If you missed it this year, not to worry, the 4-day festival is hosted every year during the summer time in south Texas. 

Video captured by Emily Martinez for Off Record Blog.

Emily is a southern bred writer and devoted bike-rider from Mission, Texas. She is known for crafting the finest assortment of playlists for every occasion. She received her Bachelor’s degree in Radio-Television-Film at UT Austin. Emily enjoys dabbling in a variety of hobbies and is always out to learn something new. She is an ISFJ (Defender Personality) according to 16 Personalities, do what you will with that information.