CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — It's like clockwork -- crews setting up all three stages at Heritage Park the 63rd Texas Jazz Festival, which is expected to welcome more than 25,000 spectators.
While all eyes will be on the performances, CCPD will be keeping a close watch on the crowds, making sure everyone stays safe.
Crews spent Wednesday afternoon doing last-minute touches like adding risers.
Jazz Festival president Nick Martinez said spectators can expect to be entertained by over 50 bands from across the United States.
He said once again, safety will be a top priority.
"We hire our own security, we also have CCPD working, but we won't have the Texas (National) Guard this year,” Martinez said. “They won't be able to come."
The National Guard often providing spectators that extra sense of security.
Despite their absence, there won't be a lack of police officers.
CCPD said it will have an additional 60 officers working this weekend to accommodate the increased activity happening in this part of the city.
Country singer Willie Nelson also has a concert planned Saturday night at Concrete Street Amphitheater which is in the same vicinity as Heritage Park.
"Anywhere from traffic, to drone operators, crossing guard duty," said CCPD Sr. Ofc. Jennifer Collier.
She said they'll be looking for any troublemakers who might get out of hand in the crowd, but there is also a big focus on traffic-related issues.
"There's going to be a designated crossing area at Resaca and Chaparral," she said.
And while they want people to come out and enjoy themselves, if you choose to drink.
"Make sure you are responsible,” she said. “Get a designated driver to drive you home or use a taxi or rideshare."
An effort to make sure everyone gets home safe.
The police department said to allow yourself plenty of time to get to where you need to be and expect traffic.
The CCRTA will be providing a free park-and-ride shuttle Friday through Sunday to Heritage Park.
Parking areas include City Hall, the Nueces County Courthouse, and Texas A&M-Corpus Christi.