Galveston’s La Izquierda Festival rolls with the punches as it returns this weekend, May 3-4, bringing live music, surfing, yoga, and more, even after losing a major sponsor and a headlining band.
Even in optimal circumstances, organizing a music festival presents a significant challenge. Despite facing numerous challenges this year, Galveston's La Izquierda Festival is set to return this Friday and Saturday, May 3-4. The event is poised to deliver a weekend filled with high energy and a positive atmosphere on the island.
In a surprising turn of events in late March, Hazy Daze, the primary sponsor of the festival and a well-established presence in Galveston’s music community, was compelled to withdraw following a legal issue. In a significant turn of events, local headliners Come See My Dead Person, whose member was among those apprehended, have been forced to withdraw from the lineup.
Festival founder Robert Kuhn has faced many challenges recently, yet he maintains a steadfast belief: the show must go on.
"I hope everyone navigates this situation swiftly so we can resume our collaboration," Kuhn stated in an interview with The Chron. "The team appeared to be growing; however, this development has hindered progress."
Hazy Daze was set to serve as the official THC sponsor of the festival, intending to provide infused seltzers and merchandise for the beachside event. The shop offered financial support for a billboard and endorsed the performance of the headlining band. Upon exiting, Kuhn unexpectedly discovered a shortage in the labor crew that had been supplied.
In a display of genuine do-it-yourself enthusiasm, Kuhn stepped in as needed, stating, "If worst comes to worst, I can put on my work boots and some gloves," he chuckled. I still possess some remaining muscle strength."
Positively, festival ticket sales continue to show robust performance, with Kuhn promptly securing local psych-rock favorites India Tigers for the Friday-night lineup. A Texas band has been a consistent presence at every La Izquierda event since its inception in 2019.
La Izquierda has optimized its schedule this year, concentrating on two major days rather than three. Music begins promptly at 9 a.m. with performances on the Surf Stage, followed by afternoon shows at Beach Central, located adjacent to the Grand Galvez.
The lineup features a diverse array of talent from across the Gulf region and beyond, showcasing notable highlights such as:
Deltaphonic, a musical entity hailing from New Orleans, continues to make waves in the vibrant local scene. Superfonicos and The Point are set to make waves in Austin. Bayou City Funk and Flower Graves are set to take the stage in Houston, promising an evening filled with vibrant music and captivating performances.
Local performers such as Kevin Anderson, Tyson Webb, and After Mañana are set to take the stage. Despite facing a tighter budget this year, Kuhn asserts that the festival spirit remains robust. The highly anticipated longboard surf contest is set to return, featuring a prize purse of $2,500. In addition to the competition, attendees can look forward to beach yoga sessions, sandcastle-building lessons, and a fun run event.
8th Wonder Brewery is leading in producing THC-infused beverages, while Visit Galveston promotes this initiative through a billboard campaign. Kuhn reports a notable increase in surfer registrations this year, contributing to the festival's relaxed and coastal atmosphere.
"As the festival continues to grow, the bands that have been part of it from the beginning are also expanding," Kuhn stated. "It is regarded as quite impressive."
For tickets, a complete schedule, and lineup information, visit laizquierdafest.org.
