City of McAllen, TX » Visitors » Special Events

Special Events

Local attractions, experience McAllen like the locals do

McAllen ArtWalk

The McAllen ArtWalk is a self-guided tour of art galleries and art hosts in one of the oldest areas of McAllen. Guests can start their tour at any location and proceed at their own pace. The McAllen ArtWalk begins the first Friday of each month starting September through May. The evening exhibits begin at 6 p.m. and last until 10 p.m.

This is all free and open to the public in attempt to highlight the culture of our community. It is a wonderful opportunity to mingle, meet a variety of different people and create new neighbors who might share in your passion for art.

Palm Fest

PalmFest is an annual festival that celebrates the culture and history of Deep South Texas. The festival is held the first weekend in October and is host to cultural entertainment, children’s activities, ethnic foods and music. The City of McAllen, the McAllen Heritage Center, the Fajita Cook-off, McAllen South Rotary and the McAllen Chamber of Commerce host the event.

4th of July Celebration

The City of McAllen hosts a special lineup of festivities to honor our nation’s birthday. A Patriotic Program kicks off the celebration with a heartwarming ceremony that celebrates Independence with the help of local dignitaries, elected officials and veterans. Following the program is a Parade down Main Street with entries from across the valley. The Parks and Recreation Department hosts the annual Aquafest Water Show, which features clown acts, trick diving, swimming and diving exhibitions and special guests Gus and Goldie. Finally, don’t miss the “Concert in the Sky” Fireworks Display for a delight of sight and sound.

International Friendship Run

The International Friendship Run, a 6.2-mile race is certified by USA Track and Field and offers runners an opportunity to test their abilities and compete in a truly unique international event. Along the race route, festive aid stations and enthusiastic spectators cheer the runners on as they pass through the town of Granjeno, Texas and head towards the finish line at to one of McAllen’s newest parks. Hundreds of spectators are expected at the start line and all along the race route, to cheer on runners from across Texas, the U.S. and Mexico.

Candlelight Posada

Usually the first weekend of December in Archer Park.Christmas entertainment both evenings, food booths, luminaries, twinkling lights, caroling, traditional Mexican Posada, parade and live nativity.

McAllen Street Festival

Once a month during January, February and March, the streets of downtown McAllen come alive with the sound of great music and the aroma of tasty foods.

The McAllen Street Market event is great family entertainment and highlights the enchantment and culture of the border. People leisurely stroll closed streets of downtown McAllen on Sunday afternoons buying handmade goods and eating delicious food from over 60 vendors, entertainers and merchants.

Street Market showcases South Texas Charm and the warm winter sun.