Texas Border Business
PHARR, Texas – Over a thousand families attended the 2nd Annual PSJA Spring Festival and Cook-Off at the PSJA Stadium on March 31, 2026.
The family-friendly evening included a PSJA Pit Master Cook-off, where over 10 teams showcased their skills in categories like Beef Fajita, Half-Chicken, and Pork Ribs, serving up bold flavors and friendly competition.
Among this year’s competitors was Saul Leal of Smokin’ Romeo’s BBQ, who was named this year’s PSJA Pit Master Grand Champion.
“This was our second-year competing. Last year we placed third, so coming back and earning 1st Place really means a lot,” said Leal. “I dedicated this win to my cousin who passed away—this one is for him.”
As the evening continued, families participated in an egg-hunt at the PSJA Stadium, featuring over 8,000 colorful eggs filled with fun surprises. To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants, the egg hunt was organized into designated age groups, allowing children to participate comfortably and safely alongside their peers.
PSJA Parent Alejandra Medina shared how it was her first time attending the event, “This was such a great event for our entire family, we came for the egg hunt and everything was so well organized. It’s nice to have events like this where my three kids can have fun, we loved it!”
In addition to the egg hunt and cook-off, attendees also got to enjoy a game area with activities for families, live conjunto performances featuring the PSJA ECHS and PSJA Memorial ECHS conjunto groups, food stands offering a variety of snacks and refreshments with all proceeds benefiting PSJA schools and student programs, and department and vendors tables highlighting district resources and programs.
“The evening truly reflects the spirit of our PSJA Family,” said PSJA Superintendent of Schools Dr. Alejandro Elias. “We are proud to provide opportunities where our students and families can come make memories and spend quality time while also brining our community together and celebrate the season.”
PSJA ISD remains committed to creating opportunities that bring families together and strengthen connections across the Tri-City community.
