BUDA, Texas — Central Texas keeps growing as a destination for music lovers.
On March 31, Gov. Greg Abbott officially declared the city of Buda as a “Music Friendly Texas Certified Community,” after the city went through a certification process.
“Congratulations to the city of Buda on earning the Music Friendly Texas Certified Community designation,” said Gov. Abbott. “Music is key to the Texas brand and is deeply rooted in the cultural traditions of our great state. Music Friendly Texas Communities work tirelessly to attract and develop the local music industry to boost local job creation and economic growth. With support from the Texas Music Office, the Texas music industry accounts for 196,000 direct and indirect permanent jobs and generates over $31 billion in annual economic activity statewide. Together, we will continue to work alongside communities in every region of our state to build a stronger, more prosperous Texas than ever before.”
At 7:45 p.m. on April 5, a certification ceremony will be held at the Buda’s 144th Birthday Celebration at the Buda Amphitheater and City Park at 204 San Antonio St. The event will be open to the public.
“Congratulations to the city of Buda on being designated a Music Friendly Texas Certified Community,” said Sen. Judith Zaffirini. “This well-deserved recognition celebrates Buda’s vibrant music culture and helps pave the way for new opportunities for music-related economic development. As part of Senate District 21, Buda continues to showcase the rich creativity, talent and spirit that make our community – and our state – so special.”
The Music Friendly Texas Community program was introduced as the first of its kind by the Texas Music Office in 2016 with the goal of creating more business focused on music in the state.
Other Central Texas cities have also been awarded this designation. Bastrop became a certified “Music Friendly” city in 2020, and San Marcos was given the same title in 2021. Marble Falls and Lockhart also recently received the designation.
“Becoming a Music Friendly Texas Community is a game-changer for Buda,” said Mayor Lee Urbanovsky. “Music is at the heart of our community, bringing people together, driving economic growth and enhancing our cultural identity. By earning this designation, we’re not only supporting our local artists and businesses, but we’re also putting Buda on the map as a destination for live music lovers. This is an investment to our future – one that will amplify our small-town charm while creating big opportunities for musicians, residents and visitors alike.”
Abbott said he hopes to continue growing this initiative across the state, sharing and honoring more cities each year to come.