EP20 - Johnny Philipello - Captain of the Buc Days Pirate Ship

Welcome to Episode 20 of the HECHO Corpus Christi Podcast, the podcast featuring Corpus Christi’s creators, makers, doers, and builders. On this episode, we visit with Johnny Philipelo, the President and CEO of Buc Days, the city-wide celebration that includes a rodeo, parades, a carnival, a debutante presentation, and other events. Johnny and I were introduced by a mutual friend, and we sat down for a conversation shortly after Buc Days made the exciting announcement that the Wings over South Texas airshow is now going to be a part of Buc Days! Johnny walks us through his Corpus story, including how he met his wife, Katia Uriarte, through Buc Days and mutton busting. Johnny also discusses the history and leadership of Buc Days and the tremendous effort it takes from hundreds of people to make it the super successful event that it is. We also learn what is at the heart of Buc Days – providing substantial scholarship and leadership opportunities for local students while giving Corpus Christi and the Coastal Bend a celebration for the whole family. This year, Buc Days runs April 29 – May 9, 2021, with the Wings over South Texas show presented on May 1st and 2nd.

I always enjoy getting the behind the scenes look at festivals and celebrations, especially those like Buc Days, and Fiesta in San Antonio, because the scale of what it takes to make these events successful is massive. Johnny ably coordinates the volunteers, staff, and leadership to year after year create a better and more exciting Buc Days celebration. You can follow Buc Days on Instagram @bucdays or check them out online at bucdays.com. This year’s celebration is April 29 – May 9. Thank you, Johnny, for coming on the show. Thank you to our infrastructure partners, Clint Tucker Homes, Sawyer Audiology, and the Sound Guys. And thank you for taking time to listen!