MCALLEN – Event organizers from across the state were in the Rio Grande Valley over the weekend for a conference.

The city of McAllen hosted the 25th Annual Texas Festivals and Events Association Conference and Trade Show.

TFEA members get a chance every year to meet and educate each other on how to better prepare their events, introduce new marketing concepts that can be implemented in their strategy, exchange ideas as well as enjoy local attractions such as the McAllen Performing Arts Center and Quinta Mazatlan World Birding Center.

The conference kicked off with entertainment and food for members at the McAllen Convention Center’s Oval Park. It was also a chance for first-time attendees to network and listen to regional music artists and vendors showcasing their work.

The association also awarded event organizers and recognized their members’ marketing efforts.

The city of McAllen received more than 40 gold marketing awards, including “best parade” for the McAllen Holiday Parade and the Weslaco Chamber of Commerce received three gold awards for the Texas Onion Fest.

In addition to the awards, honorees were recognized for their dedication and passion radiated onto their communities. Alejandra Montenegro was honored as the 2018 TFEA Volunteer of the Year for the effort she's put into the Texas Onion Fest.

Workshops and seminars at the conference covered different elements that are placed before, during and after events, such as event security, social media and sponsorships.

The location of next year’s conference is still pending.