The City of Edinburg and Texas Folklife is proud to announce the 19th Annual Big Squeeze Semi-Finals, taking place on Saturday, April 26, 2025, at the Promenade Park Amphitheater in Edinburg, TX. This exciting evening of music and culture will spotlight over 15 talented youth accordionists from across Texas competing for a coveted spot in the Big Squeeze Finals in Austin.

Guitars For Vets will be on site and sharing information about their program serving Veterans across the nation!

Before the main event, free accordion workshops will be held from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM, offering a unique opportunity for the community to connect with the art and traditions of accordion music. Doors open at 5:30 PM, and the semi-finals competition kicks off at 6:00 PM. A special Recognitions and City Welcome will take place at 8:00 PM, honoring the community and participants.

This year’s Edinburg semi-finals will feature the largest group of contestants to date, with performances in genres like Conjunto, Polka, and Zydeco, reflecting the vibrant diversity of Texas accordion traditions.

Following the competition, enjoy high-energy live performances by: The Ybarra Brothers – Taking the stage at 7:30 PM, this dynamic young family band from the Rio Grande Valley is dedicated to preserving and energizing the conjunto sound for a new generation. Their musicality, rooted in tradition but brimming with youthful flair, has made them rising stars in the regional music scene.

La Calma – Headlining the event at 9:00 PM, La Calma brings their signature Tejano style, blending powerful vocals with tight instrumentation and a modern twist on classic Texas sounds. A local favorite, their performances are known for electrifying energy and crowd-pleasing charisma.

Admission is free and open to the public for the accordion workshop, competition, and concert. Bring your friends, family, and dancing shoes to celebrate the spirit of Texas folk music and support the next generation of accordion talent.