Schedule Changes Announced for Shiner’s 47th Half Moon Holidays

The wait is over. The 47th Annual Half Moon Holidays returns this weekend, July 3-4, as the Shiner Chamber of Commerce welcomes residents and visitors for two days of patriotic celebration, family fun, championship barbecue, live entertainment and community tradition in honor of America’s 250th birthday.

This year’s celebration features several exciting additions and important changes that attendees should know before arriving.

The biggest change is that the annual fireworks spectacular will take place Friday night at 9:15 p.m., instead of Saturday. Organizers encourage families to come out for one of the largest fireworks displays in the area, made possible through the generous support of Huntington Bank, Kaspar Companies, K. Spoetzl Brewery, Darilek Automotive and First State Bank.

Saturday morning also brings changes to the annual Half Moon Holidays Parade. The parade will now begin at 9:30 a.m., with lineup starting at 8 a.m. on Avenue B.

There will be no parade check-in, no assigned lineup numbers and no preassigned positions. Participants should simply arrive and line up in the order they arrive.

The parade route also returns to its traditional path, beginning on U.S. Highway 90A at the intersection of FM 3435 before traveling through downtown and turning onto St. Ludmila Street near Patek’s Grocery, giving spectators an extended viewing route.

Barbecue competitors will also find several new categories this year, including Shiner Bock Beer Chili, Salsa and the Half Moon Happy Hour Bartender’s Choice Drink Competition, adding even more excitement to one of the region’s premier cookoffs.

Festivities begin Friday with the BBQ Head Cook’s Meeting at 4 p.m., followed by the public Dessert Contest at 5 p.m., vendor booths, live music, the Half Moon 5K, tennis tournament and the 9:15 p.m. fireworks show.

Saturday’s festivities continue after the parade with kids games, vendors, the Kids Fishing Tournament, live music by the Shiner Hobo Band and the BBQ Awards Ceremony. The weekend wraps up Saturday evening with the Half Moon After Party at K. Spoetzl Brewery featuring the Emotions Reunion Concert celebrating the band’s 50th anniversary.

“This year’s Half Moon Holidays offers something for everyone,” Brandi Wallace, chamber vice-president said. “Whether you’re watching the fireworks, cheering on the parade, enjoying great barbecue or spending time with family and friends, we can’t wait to celebrate with our community.”

For a complete schedule and event updates, visit www.ShinerHalfMoon.com or follow the Shiner Chamber of Commerce on social media