While Christmas time in the Valley does not necessarily look like the picturesque, snow-covered holiday season we see in movies, there is always plenty of cheer and festivities to go around! Take advantage of the holiday season by planning fun activities for your family to do and enjoy the local festivities. Make sure to scan the QR code to learn more about the events.
1. McAllen Holiday Parade
Did you know McAllen is the official South Pole of Texas? Join in the fun at the City of McAllen’s Annual Holiday Parade. Linda Tovar and Celebrity Guest, Mario Lopez, will be hosting the event. The parade, which is the largest illuminated holiday and helium balloon parade in Texas, will also feature special guests from the Dallas Cowboys, such as the Dallas Cowboy Cheerleaders, Rowdy the Mascot, and more. The parade will be held on Saturday, December 3, at 6:00 pm. The carnival will be open to the public from Thursday, December 1, through Saturday, December 3. To reserve your tickets, make sure to scan the QR code in the December issue.
2. Hidalgo Festival of Lights
The Hidalgo Festival of Lights is back at the Payne Arena this year for the entire month of December. Stop by Santa’s Village to take photos with Santa, travel through the Christmas maze, enjoy some carnival games, and more! After visiting the village, hop in your car and enjoy the Illuminated trail, which has two miles of lights and displays. You can purchase your tickets ahead of time or purchase them at the event. Looking for a holiday date night? Check out the Christmas Dining Experience, which takes place in the VIP Lounge and includes reserved seating on the Santa Express Narrated Train Tour. There is plenty of holiday fun to go around, so don’t miss out on this great, month-long event.
Courtesy of Sara Cardenas
3. Brownsville Holiday Village
Visit Dean Porter Park during the month of December to get in the Christmas spirit! The event is free to the public, and activities include free photos with Santa, live entertainment, and food and drink vendor booths. There will be fun for the entire family, so make sure to stop by for a visit. Go to their website to learn more about the festivities as they are announced.
4. The Nutcracker by RGV Ballet
This year marks the 50th anniversary of the Rio Grande Valley Ballet’s annual performance of The Nutcracker, a classic holiday special. Performances are open to the public on Saturday, December 10, and Sunday, December 11. Don’t miss out on your chance to watch a classic tale beautifully told by local performers.
5. 5th Annual Weslaco Chamber Santa Dash Fun Run
Ready to do a fun run, holiday style? The Santa Dash 5k Fun Run is a great way to be active with the whole family. Each runner will be given a Santa suit to run in! There will be festivities for you to enjoy such as vendor booths, music, and much more. The registration fee covers a medal, bib, and 5-piece Santa suit. Bring your friends and family out for an evening of holiday cheer. The Fun Run will be held on Saturday, December 10, at 5:00 pm. Unable to attend in person? The 5k will also be hosted virtually. Scan the QR code to register.
To learn more about the upcoming events in the RGV, please scan the QR code.
