“There is nothing to do in Laredo” is a common phrase heard from many students as they complain of the lack of entertainment outlets in Laredo.
Contrary to this commonality, TAMIU has, since 2005, organized an event to combat boredom: Autmus Fest.
Short for Autumn Music Festival, Autmus Fest guarantees not only a fun-filled day with activities but also a chance to enjoy local delicacies, all while listening to the tunes of some of our favorite bands.
“It’s a great source of entertainment for the entire family,” said TAMIU President Ray Keck. “Not only is it fun, it is safe as we will have security.”
Autmus Fest celebrated the official announcement of their line-up with a kick-off party held at Hal’s Landing, Wednesday, Aug. 26.
According to Roy Granados, Autmus Fest promotor and president of Eleven Productions, the line-up consists of The Toadies, of Dallas, Vince Neil of Mötley Crüe fame, and other rising bands such as Love At War, Nico Vega, and several others to be announced.
“It was a difficult process; it becomes a routing issue,” said Granados. “The festival is growing, and now, it’s gotten national prominence.
VH1 and VH1 Classics will be on hand taping the show, as well as representatives of MySpace.”
With such big names heading to the Border City, it was only a matter of time before Autmus Fest got national recognition, and this year’s events are promising.
“Once people start realizing that we are getting artists that have never been here before, such as the Toadies, once they find out VH1 and MySpace are coming, I have a feeling that the turnout is going to be really big,” said Granados.
Autmus Fest was the brain-child of Vice President of Institutional Advancement Candy Hein, who molded the festival after Oyster Bake, the popular musical and food festival held every year at St. Mary’s University in San Antonio and BorderFest, which used to be held yearly in Laredo.
“It was my vision to create a family music festival in Laredo, and this is the result of the University’s hard work,” said Hein.
Presale tickets are $20; $30 at the door. Children under 12 get in free.
For more information, visit www.autmusfest.com.