In Corpus Christi, Buc Days is the king of community celebrations

   Festival includes an 11-day carnival, coronation, Cinco de Mayo concert and a grand night parade

   From its simple beginning in 1938, Buccaneer Days has grown into the premier community event in Corpus Christi.
   In addition to the big carnival and the spectacular Illuminated Night Parade, the festivities now include a coronation, music festival, stadium show, senior dance and Cinco de Mayo concert.
   Here are some highlights of the Buccaneer Days festivities that you and your family won't want to miss:

    Buc Days Carnival. Dates: April 26-May 6. Location: Corpus Christi bayfront and Memorial Coliseum area (402 S. Shoreline Blvd.).
   The carnival brings more than 33 thrilling rides to the Corpus Christi bayfront. This year an "extreme" ride promises to bring a rush to the brave souls willing to ride it. Pay Once Price Bracelet Night ($12 each) will be Thursday, May 3rd, sponsored by KRIS TV 6; and on Saturday, May 5th, all rides from noon to 4 p.m. will be $1.00 for "Buck Days," sponsored by KORO TV 28. Information: 882-3242.

   Buc Days Ramp Jam. Dates: April 29-30. Location: Memorial Coliseum, 402 S. Shoreline Blvd.
   This event was especially designed by the Buccaneer Commission with skateboarders and in-liners in mind. It offers them an opportunity to safely hone their skills in a controlled environment and to showcase their abilities to the general public. For information, call the Millennium Skate Park and Cafe, 814-3667.

    Buccaneer Days Coronation. Date: May 3. Location: Bayfront Plaza Convention Center, 1901 N. Shoreline Blvd.
   Color and splendor come to light as the annual Buc Days Coronation celebrates the "Court of Musical Broadway." Featuring bejeweled gowns that weigh more than the duchesses who wear them, this annual event will sparkle with glamour and glitz. It is a preamble to the Illuminated Night Parade where the duchesses will be showcased on beautiful floats. Information: 882-3242.












   Buc Days Cinco de Mayo - La Fiesta 2001. Date: May 4. Location: Texas Sky Festival Park, 6925 Jurica Road.
   Begun last year, this cultural celebration promotes the independence battle cry of Mexico from France, Spain and England. Highlighting all aspects of the Mexican culture in a festival setting, the event features music, dance and a market. For information, contact Anna Mercado-Flores at 241-6120.

    Buc Days International Handball Tournament. Dates: May 4-6. Location: Omni Hotel Handball Courts, 900 N. Shoreline Blvd.
   One of the oldest auxiliary events in the Buccaneer Days Celebration calendar, this tournament hosts 175 players, with many of the top handball players in the country participating. Part of the U. S. Handball Association, the tournament draws players from as far away as Australia and Canada. For information, contact Steve Jones at 993-1466.

   Buccaneer Classic Music Festival. Dates: May 4-6. Location: Del Mar College, 101 Baldwin Blvd.
   Thousands of choir students from across the nation converge on Corpus Christi for this annual competition. Spectators are invited to attend the free event. Information: 1-800-733-8384.

   Buc Days Multiple Sclerosis Walk. Date: May 5. Location: Heritage Park to the Corpus Christi bayfront.
   In support of a cure for Multiple Sclerosis, enthusiasts gather at Heritage Park to walk 4.2 miles of the beautiful Corpus Christi bayfront. The event supports families afflicted by the deadly disease. Registration is available through the day of the walk. To register, call 1-800-683-1627.

   Buc Days Pre-Parade Stadium Show. Date: May 5. Location: Buccaneer Stadium, 1 Battlin' Buc Blvd.
   Designed to entertain parade spectators as they wait for the parade to begin, the Pre-Parade Stadium Show varies each year. One of the highlights of the show is the crowning of Miss Buccaneer Days and the awarding of a $20,000 scholarship to attend Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi. Local high school bands are also featured. Stadium show begins at 7 p.m.; parade passes through stadium at 8 p.m. Ticket prices range from $4 to $6. Information: 882-3242.

   Buc Days Illuminated Night Parade. Date: May 5. Location: Leopard Street to the downtown area.
    A true tradition for most of Corpus Christi's residents, the Buc Days Illuminated Night Parade is one of a handful of its size in the United States that are still produced at night. More than 150 units wind there way down Leopard Street to the Corpus Christi bayfront. This event, televised by local ABC affiliate KIII TV 3, draws between 150,000 and 200,000 spectators. Information: 882-3242.

   Buc Days Big Band Dance & Concert. Date: May 6. Location: Omni Bayfront Hotel, Nueces Ballroom, 900 N. Shoreline Blvd.
   Especially popular among the golden community of the city, citizens who enjoy dancing to the sounds of Big Band and orchestra are encouraged to attend this free event. The sounds of the Senior Orchestra will be featured during the ballroom event, sponsored by Homewood Residence and Omni Hotels. Information: 882-3242.