By Randy Strong

Special to the Leader

VIDOR — The 2nd annual SETX Music Jam brought two full days of music, family activity, and community spirit to Conn Park in Vidor on Friday and Saturday, drawing crowds from across Southeast Texas for a celebration that blended local talent with small‑town warmth. What began last year as a simple idea to spotlight regional musicians has already grown into one of Vidor’s most anticipated late‑summer gatherings.

Families arrived early each afternoon, settling into folding chairs and shade umbrellas as vendors opened their tents and the first notes rolled across the field. Children drifted toward the craft tables, where volunteers helped them swirl colors across metal trays and build small creations from pipe cleaners and clothespins. Nearby, a bounce house and a parked fire truck added to the festival’s family‑friendly feel. The grounds carried the easy rhythm of a community weekend: parents chatting, kids laughing, and neighbors catching up between sets.

Before taking the stage, local country music sensation Donice Morace paused to reflect on the turnout and the support surrounding the event. “It’s good to see people coming together to support live country music and that means a lot,” he said. His words matched the atmosphere on the lawn, where families and longtime fans gathered shoulder‑to‑shoulder to enjoy the show. Backed by a tight band and framed by purple and blue stage lights, Morace delivered the kind of pedal‑steel‑driven sound that has become a signature across Southeast Texas.

The festival also highlighted local businesses and craft vendors, giving attendees a chance to browse handmade goods, grab colorful drinks, and sample treats from food trucks lined along the park’s edge. Under one tent, the OCBM booth stayed busy as visitors stopped for refreshments and conversation. At another, a bright pink canopy offered fruit‑flavored drinks and a playful “lemon challenge,” adding a splash of color and energy to the vendor row.

Radio personality Kay Daye from KAYD 101.7 spent time on the grounds meeting attendees and supporting the musicians. “This is a great time for the community to come out in support of live music and local craft vendors. We couldn’t ask for more,” she said. Her sentiment echoed the festival’s purpose: to bring people together through shared experiences, local and regional talent, and the familiar comfort of Southeast Texas culture.

Behind the stage, crew members worked steadily to keep the weekend running smoothly, adjusting equipment, coordinating performers, and ensuring each transition flowed without interruption. Their efforts helped maintain the professional feel of the event while preserving its approachable, hometown character.

By Saturday night, as the final songs faded and families packed up their chairs and wagons, Conn Park felt like it had hosted more than a concert. The SETX Music Jam once again proved itself to be a gathering place for community pride, local artistry, and the simple joy of spending a summer weekend together.

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