RGV Music Festival returns for annual five-day event next week

For nearly a decade, the Rio Grande Valley Music Festival has been bringing country, bluegrass, folk and gospel music to the Valley and it will return for the eighth year starting Tuesday, Feb. 14, through Saturday, Feb. 18, at the Rio Grande Valley Livestock Showgrounds in Mercedes.

The five-day event features a wide range of performers, from amateur to professional, who show their skills and talent on five different stages and in two tents.

Along with scheduled concerts by performers such as Jacob Austin Band, Terry Smith, Don Frizzell and Southern Train, each stage will offer open mic slots for musicians who want to play for an audience. Those interested in jamming with others will have two options: an acoustic tent or an electric one.

Aside from offering locals and visitors a chance to perform in professional settings, the RGV Music Festival donates all proceeds after expenses to local youth music programs. Last year, the nonprofit organization was able to give $20,000.

Admission costs $8 per person, but it's free for children under the age of 12. A five-day pass for $25 will be available.

For more information, visit the organization's website at www.rgvmf.com or call (956) 373-0130.

WHEN: 9 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 14, through Saturday, Feb. 18

WHERE: RGV Livestock Showgrounds, 1000 N. Texas Ave., Mercedes

COST: $8, day pass; $25, five-day pass; Free, children under 12 years of age

CALL: (956) 373-0130