Texas Commission on the Arts Designates New Edinburg Arts District
Edinburg, Texas Commission on the Arts, Edinburg Arts District, Cultural District, ACE Center
Staff Report
Edinburg TX – The Texas Commission on the Arts has officially approved the designation of the new Edinburg Arts District, bringing the state’s total number of cultural districts to 61.
Edinburg joins three other Texas communities, Brownsville’s Mitte Cultural District, Galveston and Lufkin, in receiving the designation this cycle, according to the commission. Official designation identifies marketable tourism zones that leverage local arts and heritage to stimulate economic development, and unlocks eligibility for qualifying local arts organizations to apply for state Cultural District Project grant funding.
The Edinburg Arts District is positioned along the Interstate 69 trade corridor. At the heart of the district is the Edinburg Arts, Culture & Events Center, which houses classrooms, a dance studio, gallery spaces and a ballroom for local classes, performances and community gatherings.
Edinburg Library & Cultural Arts Director Letty Leija said the designation reflects citywide collaboration. “Receiving the state designation for our Cultural District is a testament to what happens when an entire city rallies around creativity, heritage, and civic pride,” Leija said. “This milestone belongs to everyone who made it possible — from foundational partners like the Edinburg Arts Foundation, UTRGV, and the Museum of South Texas History, to local downtown staples like Citrus Live and Sidebar. Hand in hand, we are building a walkable, vibrant corridor that honors our roots while inspiring our future.”
The district hosts a year-round schedule of events, including UTRGV’s Festival of International Books and Art, the Edinburg UFO Festival, FridaFest, the South Texas International Film Festival, and the Los Muertos Bailan Day of the Dead festival.
Edinburg Cultural Arts Assistant Director Magdiel Castle said the designation validates the city’s investment in the arts. “This designation is a proud moment for our city and a testament to the incredible creativity and rich history that define Edinburg,” Castle said. “It validates the hard work we’ve put into making the arts a centerpiece of our community’s identity and economic growth, while opening new doors to expand our programming and support local artists.”
The City of Edinburg will host an official celebration in October 2026, with representatives from the Texas Commission on the Arts present to deliver the formal state proclamation.
Gary Gibbs, executive director of the Texas Commission on the Arts, said the designated districts underwent a rigorous review process. “We are pleased to highlight the wonderful work these cultural districts are already doing to attract visitors to their communities, and to enhance the quality of life in our great state,” Gibbs said. “Their applications provided extensive information on their qualifications and were considered through a highly rigorous review process. We congratulate them on this achievement.”
More information on the Cultural Districts Designation Program is available at arts.texas.gov/initiatives/cultural-districts.
Source – Texas Commission on the Arts; City of Edinburg