ALPINE The friendly community of Alpine invites everyone to join in a special two-day event, the LET IT RAIN Alpine Fire Benefit Weekend, June 28 and June 29. This benefit aims to raise funds for local businesses devastated by a recent downtown fire and to celebrate the unbreakable spirit of Alpine’s residents.
On May 26, a fire ravaged a historic block in downtown Alpine, destroying five beloved businesses: Judy’s Bread and Breakfast, Eva’s Salon, Gallery on the Square, La Azteca, and Vintage Antiques and Snazzy Things. Although there were no injuries, the loss in merchandise, equipment, livelihoods and the historic structure was considerable.
In the wake of this tragedy, the people of Alpine have rallied to organize the LET IT RAIN Benefit Weekend. This event represents the community’s determination to rebuild and support those who have lost their livelihoods. It promises to be a vibrant and heartfelt celebration, bringing together art, music and local culture, all with the aim of lifting spirits and reaching a $30,000 goal to support those affected by the fire.
The weekend will feature a variety of activities, from art exhibits and musical performances to book signings and fajita dinner fundraisers, ensuring there is something for everyone to enjoy while contributing to a meaningful cause.
Friday, June 28
5 p.m. — Pop-Up Art Show
Mingle with the artists at 5 p.m. at TexPop Alpine, located at 110 North 6th Street, during the Big Bend Arts Council show titled Animals: Real and Imaginary. The event gives the artists a chance to meet the public in a relaxed atmosphere. Beverages and food will be available.
6 p.m. to Midnight — LET IT RAIN Benefit Music Fest
Enjoy a night of incredible music with 15 bands playing across two stages at Granada Theatre and Alcove Social. This musical extravaganza promises a diverse lineup of bands, food and drinks. A suggested donation at the door ensures your contribution to the relief fund.
Saturday, June 29
1 p.m. to 3 p.m. — American Black Bears: New Neighbors in the Big Bend
Meet author Chris Ruggia as he debuts his new book Black Bears: New Neighbors in the Big Bend at Front Street Books in Downtown Alpine. The event features a panel of regional bear experts interviewed for the book and live artwork of animals by the author. All book and drawing sale proceeds will aid the general fire relief efforts.
5 p.m. to 10 p.m. — “Save the Arts in Alpine” Fajita Dinner Fundraiser
Join the community at the American Legion for a fajita dinner, silent auction and live music, sponsored by Alpine’s Gallery Night, Inc. Performances by local music legends include headliner Doug Moreland and Friends to keep you moving on the dancefloor. The silent auction runs from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. featuring items like tools from McCoy’s, a battery-powered blower and weed eater from In& Out Rental, a print from celebrated local artist Tom Curry and an aoudad hunt worth $5,000.
General information
- The events at Granada Theatre and Alcove Social will support the general relief fund. All proceeds from the American Legion event will support the 28 Gallery on the Square artists affected by the fire.
- Wristbands for the American Legion event (Saturday, June 29) are $20 and available at Forever West Texas in Alpine (308 E. Ave E) and during the events at Granada Theatre and Alcove Social on June 28. Limited wristbands are available, so get yours while you can.
- Volunteers are needed for various roles prior to and during the event. Positions include silent auction helpers, promoters, servers and donation collectors. For more information, contact Kerri Blackmon at [email protected] or by phone at 432-294-1071.
- People who would like to donate to the general relief fund via the web can find a donation button on the Historic Alpine website. For direct donations to the Gallery on the Square artists, contact [email protected].
- For those with small children, child care will be available during both evenings’ events. Contact [email protected] for details.
