Leslie Blasing Productions present “Honoring an Era at the WinterFest and Expo to be held Monday, February 12, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Tuesday, February 13, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The event will be held at the South Padre Island Convention Center.
There is no entrance fee to the event, but Blasing is highlighting the local food pantries by collecting canned goods. Donations are not required either but are encouraged and greatly appreciated.
The event, held annually, honors an era – 1964 to 1973. There will be a special salute and musical tribute to Vietnam Veterans. There will also be guest speakers from the era. All speakers have a connection to something in the era, and have great things and great stories, to share. In previous years, Blasing has had Custom Canines, a nurse from Saigon, and others that served in Vietnam give presentations about their experiences and where they are now.
Also at the event will be the All-Valley Karaoke Contest Finals, a mini museum/memorabilia room, concessions, dancing, vendors, and demonstrations. There will also be DJ and line dancing music. Door prizes will be given away every half hour.
Courtesy golf rides will be given from the parking lot to the front doors of the convention center.
The event will feature live music by Leslie Blasing, Geoff Clifton, Rick McEwen, Curt James, and very special guest from Nashville, Vince Moreno. There is a full schedule online.
This year’s event has added a Mardi Gras Masquerade Dinner and Dance for the evening of the 13. Tickets for the event are $25 per person and can be purchased through Leslie at all of her scheduled appearances, or by calling (956) 761-4347. Leave a message to arrange the ticket purchase if she does not answer.
Tickets for the dinner must be purchased in advance and before Thursday, February 8.
Karla’s catering will be featuring a Taste of Italy with a Special King Cake dessert surprise. Cash bar will be available.
The doors for the dinner open at 6 p.m. and will be open seating. Dinner will be served from 6:30 to 7:30p.m. with a dance following from 7 to 9 p.m.
If you want to stay on the Island overnight, Blasing has partnered with several Island hotels to bring you the best rates. The Courtyard Marriott can be reached at (956) 433-0590. The Hilton Garden Inn, (956) 761-8700, $129 plus taxes. The Sand Rose Beachfront, (956) 772-7000, $120 plus taxes, includes breakfast. La Copa Inn, (956) 761-6000, dial “0” for $80 plus taxes and free full breakfast. Be sure to ask for the WinterFest and Expo rate when making reservations.
For more information, you can visit the website at www.spiwinterfest.com. The Convention Center is located at 7355 Padre Blvd.