Once again, volunteers from San Jacinto College will help commemorate the victory at the Battle of San Jacinto that took place April 21, 1836, by taking part in the annual festival on April 22.

The San Jacinto Day Festival and Battle Reenactment celebrates the pivotal win that gave Texas its independence from Mexico 181 years ago.

Eddie Weller, a history professor at the South Campus and the honors program director, is a volunteer coordinator for the festival and is now in his seventh year as an event participant.

Although the day-long celebration is meant to be entertaining, Weller said it highlights a local event of great historical significance, and he hopes it helps visitors “come to understand its importance.”

“That’s what this is for,” he added, “and for recognition for what has happened here.”

According to the event sponsor, the San Jacinto Museum of History Association, “The festival is a full day of entertainment, vendors, food, family activities, cultural exhibitors, games, and fun set amidst living history.” Musical entertainment includes country-western bands, flamenco dancers, Native American presentations, and square dancers.

Weller said little can stop the Texas-size reenactment that claims the title of largest battle reenactment in the state, but the outdoor event does have one unstoppable foe.

“The biggest obstacle for the whole thing is rain,” Weller said. “That’s a real bad obstacle.”

The San Jacinto Day Festival and Battle Reenactment takes place from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on April 22, on the grounds surrounding the San Jacinto Monument. Admission is free. Further information is available at www.sanjacinto-museum.org.

*Chance Koch contributed to this report