Cedar Park Earns Music Friendly Texas Certification, Celebrates Local Culture

Cedar Park Recognized for Commitment to Music Industry Growth

The City of Cedar Park has officially been designated as a Music Friendly Texas Certified Community, a recognition awarded by the Texas Music Office (TMO). Governor Greg Abbott announced the news on April 25, 2025, highlighting Cedar Park's efforts to foster a supportive environment for musicians, venues, and music-related businesses. Cedar Park becomes the 81st city to join the growing network of certified communities across Texas.

The certification process, overseen by the TMO—the first state music office of its kind in the nation—aims to drive music business development and job creation at the local level. City officials, including Mayor Jim Penniman-Morin and City Manager Brenda Eivens, celebrated the achievement as a major step toward expanding Cedar Park’s vibrant cultural and economic landscape.

Upcoming Celebration at Lakeline Park

To commemorate the milestone, a Music Friendly Texas Community Certification Ceremony will be held during the city’s "Live @ Lakeline Concert Series" on Friday, May 2, 2025, at Lakeline Park, located at 1510 Alexis Drive, Cedar Park, TX 78613. The ceremony will begin at 7:00 PM and feature remarks from city officials and representatives from the Governor’s Texas Economic Development & Tourism Office.

Janie Havel, Community Relations Specialist, will formally present the designation to Cedar Park leaders during the evening’s festivities. Residents are encouraged to attend the free concert event, which will also showcase local musical talent and celebrate Cedar Park's growing reputation as a destination for live music.

Strengthening Cedar Park’s Cultural Identity

Leaders across the city and state praised Cedar Park’s commitment to cultivating a dynamic music scene. Governor Abbott emphasized music's importance to Texas’s brand and economy, noting that the statewide music industry supports 196,000 direct and indirect jobs and generates over $31 billion annually. Similarly, Senator Pete Flores and Representative Ellen Troxclair highlighted how Cedar Park’s designation will not only enrich the local arts community but also contribute to broader economic development.

Mayor Jim Penniman-Morin noted that the recognition reflects the city’s broader vision of being a creative hub where artists can thrive. City Manager Brenda Eivens added that Cedar Park’s inclusion among Music Friendly Texas Communities strengthens its position as a welcoming place for both emerging and established musicians.

Community Impact and Resources

The Music Friendly Texas program offers communities a variety of resources to help promote local talent, attract music businesses, and host successful events. Through this certification, Cedar Park gains access to the TMO’s network and support services, aiding its efforts to continue building a thriving music ecosystem.

For more information about Cedar Park’s music initiatives or to get involved, residents can contact April Walker-Davis, Tourism Marketing Manager for the City of Cedar Park, at 512-401-5070 or [email protected].

Learn more about the Music Friendly Texas program by visiting the Texas Music Office’s official website.

Link to full press release: Governor Abbott Announces Cedar Park Designated Music Friendly Texas Certified Community