By Herb Moering
The majority of visitors to the Clayton Homes of Donna 34th annual open house on January 24 had a pleasant time with free corn dogs, soft drinks and lots of door prizes before the mid-afternoon cold front breezed in.
The Texas Citrus Fiesta is excited to invite the public to join in a series of vibrant, family-friendly events celebrating one of Mission’s most cherished traditions this month.
Read more: Texas Citrus Fiesta invites community to celebrate tradition
For improved physical function, joint and bone health and mental well-being, it’s essential to maintain a healthy weight.
The Mission Historical Museum (MHM) gladly presents a special screening of the 1979 western film: She Came to the Valley. The film is based on the novel written by local author, Cleo Dawson.
Quinta Mazatlán invites the community to explore the hidden world of one of South Texas’s most fascinating and threatened species during a special Thursday Night Live presentation, “Texas Tortoise Ecology in the Rio Grande Valley,” with wildlife scientist Camryn Kiel, on Thursday, January 29, from 6 to 7 p.m.
The Native Plant Project is pleased to welcome Bradley Christoffersen, Ph.D., as its featured guest speaker for this month’s meeting. Dr. Christoffersen is a professor at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley and a leading researcher of the Tamaulipan thorn forest.
Read more: Native Plant Project kicks off spring speaker series
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 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
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
The Greater Mission Chamber of Commerce (GMCC) will host its Annual Community Health and Wellness Fair, scheduled for Tuesday and Wednesday, January 13 and 14, from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the Mission Event Center, 200 N. Shary Rd., Mission.
Ron Hoover will host their 19th Annual Open House next week, Thursday, January 15 and Friday, January 16. The event will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on both days. The annual open house is a very popular event in the Rio Grande Valley, drawing in thousands of people each year.
Every January for the past 40 years the Rio Grande Valley Woodcarvers has sponsored the premier woodcarving show in South Texas. The Show was held in several locations over the years. From the old McAllen Civic Center to the Pharr Civic Center, then to the Nomad Shrine Club. Last year it was held at the Brookhaven Event Center.
The Food Bank of the Rio Grande Valley will host its annual Farm Dinner on Friday, January 23, from 6 to 9 p.m., at the Food Bank RGV, located at 724 N. Cage Blvd. in Pharr.
Read more: Food Bank RGV seeks sponsors and silent auction donations
