Sugar Land officials gathered at the rescheduled Sounds of Summer finale Oct. 26 to celebrate the city’s designation as the 68th Music Friendly Texas Certified Community.

The overview

The designation amplifies the city’s commitment to foster a vibrant and inclusive music community, Communications Director Doug Adolph said in an email.

Additionally, the designation brings access to state music resources and industry connection to support local musicians in the community.

Why it matters


Adolph said the music-friendly community designation helps to meet the broader initiative of enhancing Sugar Land’s identity as a cultural and economic hub by:
  • Supporting and recognizing creative industries
  • Elevating the quality of life for residents
  • Increasing tourism with attractions and talents
“We want Sugar Land to be known as a place where music, art, innovation and community come together, creating a dynamic environment for locals and visitors alike,” he said. “This designation aligns with the city’s vision of growth and sustainability, where culture and business both play key roles.”

What they’re saying

In an Oct. 21 state news release, Gov. Greg Abbott congratulated city officials on the designation by joining the Music Friendly Texas program, which launched in 2016.

“Music is key to the Texas brand and is deeply rooted in the cultural traditions of our great state,” Abbott said in the release. “Music Friendly Texas Communities work tirelessly to attract and develop the local music industry to boost local job creation and economic growth.”


Additionally, Mayor Joe Zimmerman said the city has celebrated art and culture for some time but adding the Music Friendly Texas Community certification shows the dedication and passion of the city.

“We are proud of the hard work from our Civic Arts Division over the past year and a half to bring this to fruition,” he said in the release. “This certification not only highlights Sugar Land’s thriving music scene, but it also opens the door for future growth, creativity and economic opportunities for our musicians and local businesses.”

What else?

The city is also a part of the Texas Craft Brewers Guild, a nonprofit trade association for the state’s craft breweries. The guild’s Brew City program aims to foster economic development and further the state as a beer destination, Community Impact reported.


The program has two options for cities and municipalities to join, including:
  • Craft beer destinations: cities known for their craft beer scenes
  • Emerging brewscapes: small communities looking to stimulate economic development by attracting their first brewery
Sugar Land joined the program as an emerging brewscape in March and evolved to a craft beer destination in October with the opening of Talyard Brewing Co., according to an Oct. 11 release from the city.

What’s next?

Although the city is not pursuing any specific designations at the time, Adolph said city staff is always exploring ways to elevate the city’s profile while offering more opportunities to residents.

“Future initiatives, whether designations or city-led programs, will continue to prioritize the interests of our residents, fostering spaces for creativity and collaboration,” he said. “We encourage residents to participate in these celebrations, attend events, and support local artists, businesses, and initiatives that make Sugar Land a unique and inspiring place.”