Governor Greg Abbott has announced that Harlingen is now a Music Friendly Texas Certified Community. This designation, awarded by the Texas Music Office (TMO), follows the completion of a multi-step certification process. The program aims to promote economic development and job creation related to the music industry in Texas.
“Congratulations to the City of Harlingen on earning the Music Friendly Texas Certified Community designation,” stated Governor Abbott. He highlighted that the Texas music industry supports over 196,000 jobs and generates more than $31 billion annually. “Together, we will continue to work alongside Music Friendly Texas Communities in every region of our state to boost local job creation and economic growth.”
Representative Oscar Longoria expressed his support for Harlingen’s new status: “Harlingen has always worked to provide residents and visitors with fun, family-friendly attractions; the Music Friendly Texas Certified Community designation will only increase those options.” He added that joining this program would enhance both the local economy and music scene.
Harlingen Mayor Norma Sepulveda remarked on the broader impact of this achievement: “Becoming a Music Friendly Texas Certified Community is about more than entertainment. It’s about building identity, strengthening our economy, and uniting our community through the power of music.”
City Commissioner Rene Perez emphasized Harlingen’s commitment to creativity: “Being recognized as a Music Friendly Texas Certified Community shows that Harlingen values creativity, supports local talent, and understands the power of music to bring people together.”
Harlingen is now one of 87 communities with this certification. More information about the program can be found at gov.texas.gov/music/page/music-friendly-communities.
The TMO operates under the Governor’s Economic Development & Tourism Office and was established in 1990 as the first state music office in America. Since 2016, it has run a statewide initiative promoting music-friendly communities across Texas.
