Texas Border Business
By Roberto Hugo González / Texas Border Business
Daniel Clark of Clark Auto Group opened his remarks at the MXLAN 2026 press conference with humor and appreciation for fellow speakers. “Somebody was trying to play a prank on me by putting me up here after all these awesome speakers,” Clark said. “Let’s give it a round of applause for everyone else who’s already come up here. Thank you.”
Clark thanked attendees for being present at what he described as an important announcement. “Thanks for walking with us to this exciting announcement. Guys, this is obviously big news. Everyone here today knows this. MXLAN is always an amazing event,” he said.
He noted that the Clark family’s roots in the Rio Grande Valley date back to the 1900s. “The Clark Family Auto Group, we’ve started our roots here in the valley since 1933. So anytime the valley’s doing something cool and forward in the city of McAllen, we want to be a part of it. So, we couldn’t be happier to be here, being a part of it. Thank you.”
Clark said the company has grown alongside the region and takes pride in the community’s progress. “We’ve grown alongside the valley, and we’ve never been prouder of who we are and what our community can accomplish together,” he said.
As part of that commitment, Clark Chevrolet is sponsoring the Neon Knights 5K Run during MXLAN 2026. Clark described the run as an event that “will bring out the best in our community. People of all ages and backgrounds unite in the spirit of friendly competition. And because this is the valley, we’re doing it with more music, color, and fun than anywhere else.”
Clark congratulated the City of McAllen Parks and Recreation Department for what he described as a record-setting, sold-out race in the previous year. “Clark Chevrolet is proud to sponsor the Neon Knights 5K at MXLAN and congratulates the City of McAllen Parks and Rec for their record-setting success at this year’s sold-out race,” he said.
He concluded his remarks by extending well wishes to participants. “On behalf of Clark Chevrolet, Clark Knapp Honda, and the whole Clark Auto Group, we wish every competitor a good run and look forward to seeing everyone at MXLAN 2026. Thank you.”
City officials in McAllen used the press conference to announce details for MXLAN 2026, the city’s signature three-day festival celebrating young Latino culture, scheduled for March 6–8. Leaders described the event as both a cultural platform and an economic driver for the region.
City Commissioner Rolando Rios emphasized the festival’s purpose. “Our young people have the talent to change the world. All they need is opportunity,” Rios said. He described MXLAN as a space where young Latino artists and creators can share their art, music, and heritage while gaining visibility and support.
City Manager Ike Tawil outlined new and returning attractions for 2026. Additions include El Gran Baile, an old-school dance hall experience; MXLAN Roots, focused on environmental education and sustainability; MXLAN Live, a series of pop-up performance stages; and a Grand Carnival featuring rides and games. Tawil also recognized city employees for their work organizing the event, acknowledging their “blood, sweat, and tears” behind the scenes.
Special Events Director Carina Jimenez announced headliners for the Breakthrough Stage and noted that previous performers have gone on to international recognition. Convention Director Yahaira Flores confirmed the return of MXLAN Lucha Libre wrestling and additional experiences, including a tequila and food tasting and an open-fire dining event to close the festival.
McAllen International Airport Director Jeramy Santoscoy said the airport contributed more than $1.2 billion to the regional economy last year. He highlighted expanded air service, including new routes such as Phoenix, and a planned multimillion-dollar terminal expansion to support continued growth.
Organizers concluded the press conference by announcing that admission will be free on Friday, March 6. City leaders said the festival continues to combine culture, business, and community engagement, reinforcing McAllen’s position as a growing destination in Texas.
