MIDLAND, Texas (KMID/KPEJ)- Midland has become the first community in the state to simultaneously hold both the Music Friendly Texas and Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community designations.

Administered by the Texas Music Office and Travel Texas, the certifications recognize cities that use local culture, music, and hospitality as core economic development strategies to attract tourism, film production, and business investment.

“Congratulations to the City of Midland on earning a simultaneous double designation as a Music Friendly Texas and Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community,” said Governor Greg Abbott. “Texas partners with our communities and provides the tools and resources they need to attract new business investments, create good-paying jobs for Texans, draw visitors to every region of the state, and attract and retain a skilled workforce. I invite all Texas communities, large and small, to fully leverage the opportunities provided by all of our ‘Friendly Texas’ certified community programs.”

As Midland continues to grow, the designations are said to provide additional tools and resources to support tourism, special events, film projects, and economic development initiatives that benefit the entire community.

Several leaders and officials issued statements in response to the designations, including Senator Kevin Sparks, Midland Mayor Lori Blong, and Wagner Noel General Manager.

Those statements can be read below:

Senator Kevin Sparks: “West Texans have never been easy to put in a box. Midland may be known for our energy resources, but our community has always been rich in music, art, and the kind of hospitality that turns visitors into friends. These designations recognize what residents and visitors already know: Midland is a place where people come together to create, experience, and share something meaningful. This achievement reflects the talent, hospitality, and entrepreneurial spirit that continue to shape our city’s future.”

Representative Tom Craddick: “I am excited for the City of Midland to join other West Texas cities in being recognized as both a Tourism Friendly Texas and Music Friendly Texas Certified Community. Midland is the heartbeat of West Texas, and I hope more people will come spend time here! These designations will attract more visitors and businesses to the great city we all know as Midland.” 

Midland Mayor Lori Blong: “Midland is proud to be recognized as a Music Friendly Texas and Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community. These designations reflect the work already happening across our community to support artists, venues, events, and entertainment opportunities, while continuing to grow Midland as a destination for both residents and visitors alike. Midland has a strong tradition of local musical talent and community support for the arts, while also continuing to attract major touring acts and performances. Our West Texas hospitality shows up every day through the experiences we offer and the partnerships that continue to grow our community. Midland is proud to be a place people want to visit, and we look forward to welcoming even more visitors as a Music Friendly Texas and Tourism Friendly Texas community.”

Wagner Noël Performing Arts Center General Manager Stephanie Rivas: “The City of Midland’s designation as a Music Friendly Texas Certified Community is a meaningful recognition of the vital role live music plays in shaping our region’s identity and growth. As Wagner Noël Performing Arts Center celebrates 15 years of bringing live entertainment to the Permian Basin, we see the impact of live music every time someone steps into the venue. I’m proud to be part of a community that continues to celebrate the power of live entertainment.”

Midland Chamber of Commerce President & CEO Evan Thomas: “Whether you’re visiting for sports tourism or business travel, or discovering family-friendly experiences, cultural attractions, and a vibrant downtown, Midland offers something for every interest…And we’re just getting started. Tourism is a powerful economic driver that benefits both our residents and our business community. Thank you to our Visit Midland team and our community and business partners for making this recognition as a Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community possible.”

The community will also be able to celebrate these milestones with two upcoming ceremonies featuring local leaders and state officials:

Music Friendly Texas Ceremony: Wednesday, June 10, 2026, at 12 pm at the Wagner Noel Performing Arts Center, 1310 Farm to Market 1788, Midland, TX.

Tourism Friendly Texas Ceremony: Tuesday, June 16, 2026, at 10:00 AM, at 105 N Main St, Midland, TX 79701, USA.

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