It’s been an amazing week. We were able to be at the Ron Hoover Open House last week and met some wonderful Winter Texans. We also had drawings for Valley Star Awards tickets at the event. I was so happy to see y’all out there enjoying the sun, food and entertainment.
The community is invited to “Exploring the Olmecs” on Saturday, January 17, at International Museum of Art & Science (IMAS) to learn about Olmec civilization and celebrate the sweet sixteenth birthday of the Olmec Head sculpture found on museum grounds, Colossal Head 8 (Cabeza Olmeca).
The Kansas Day Celebration for the Rio Grande Valley will be held on Tuesday, January 27. The event will again be held at Peter Piper Pizza, 3101 E. Expressway 83, Weslaco. This is for all Kansans – former or current residents.
The Rio Grande Valley Red Hat Queens Council presents the Festival of Tables on Wednesday, February 4, 2026. All ladies are welcome. Red Hats and purple on the shoulders are appreciated. Groups are invited to purchase seats and decorate a table. Tickets are $25 per person and must be purchased before January 28.
The Mission Historical Museum invites the public to experience the tradition of quilting at an upcoming quilt exhibit featuring works by talented local quilters. The exhibit will be on view from now through February 27, offering visitors a unique opportunity to appreciate quilting as both an art form and a cultural expression.
Read more: MHM presents quilt exhibit showcasing local quilters
Tim Hadler will be bringing his George Strait show – Strait to Branson – from Branson to South Padre Island with the full band. He will be at Louie’s Backyard on Saturday, January 17, Friday, January 23, and Saturday, January 24.
Read more: Tim Hadler brings 'Strait to Branson' to the Island
The 30th annual SPI Market Days returns to the South Padre Island Convention Centre on January 23-25 and February 20-22, offering two exciting weekends of shopping, discovery, and community fun. The event takes place from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday at the South Padre Island Convention Centre, located at 7355 Padre Boulevard.
For John Raschilla (JR) Pickleball on Padre is more than just a tournament, and he hopes it is for all of those that attend as well. It’s a week-long celebration of the sport and the island. The event includes free open play at the SPI Convention Center, clinics and lessons for beginners, daily social mixers, vendor booths, and giveaways. Whether you’re a competitive player or just looking to try something new, there’s something for everyone – especially Winter Texans.
Read more: Pickleball on Padre – More than just a tournament
It's winter and the South Padre Island Indoor Kite Performances are back! That means it's time to head to South Padre Island and watch kitefliers from across the country as they 'tie one on' for two fun-filled nights of amazing performances.
Read more: Largest indoor kite fest in US returns to South Padre Island
The 15th Annual Valley Star Awards will be held at Mission Bell Resort on Wednesday, February 11. The show will be held from 1 to 4 p.m. with an intermission. Mission Bell will have lunch available for attendees for a small price before the show at 12 p.m. or just get there early to have a seat up front. They will also provide drinks and snacks during intermission for a small fee.
