88.9 F
McAllen, US
Friday, May 10, 2024
Home Blog Page 2

Valentine’s Day Gift Guide from these McAllen Stores

0

Whether you’re searching for a token of affection for a longtime partner or a thoughtful gesture for a new flame, our curated Valentine’s Day shopping guide has you covered. From chic fashion boutiques showcasing the latest trends to cozy local date night ideas, embrace the spirit of love through these McAllen stores.

Fun Things to Do in McAllen

Splurge on a date night like no other, and try something new at these perfect spots for adults!

  • Kicking Axes
  • MadHouse Rage Rooms
  • Viva Kandle Bar making
  • Dancing at Rhythm Room
  • McAllen Stained Glass
  • Craft Social at Mercado District
  • National Laser Tag at La Plaza Mall

McAllen Performing Arts Center

Surprise your lover with tickets to an upcoming show at the MPAC. You can enjoy a night on the town from concerts, musicals, and more! Upcoming shows include:

Shop the Mercado District

4400 N 23rd St.

Tuesday – Thursday 11 AM – 10 PM | 

Friday & Saturday 11 AM – 11 PM | Sunday 11 AM – 5 PM

Walking around the shops and grabbing a bite to eat is the perfect date idea for sweethearts. Enjoy stores that sell savory desserts, jewelry, fashion stores, and crafting experiences!

Surprise Your Sweetheart with Flowers at These McAllen Stores

Bonita’s Flowers and Gifts

610 N 10th St

Monday – Friday 9 AM – 6 PM | Saturday 9 AM – 12 PM

From the freshest flowers to the most gorgeous gift baskets, you can find plenty of custom or unique bouquets and gifts for your special someone here at Bonita’s!

Photo courtesy of Facebook

Edible Arrangements

Edible Arrangements

612 N 10th St

Monday – Saturday 9 AM – 7 PM | Sunday 9 AM – 3 PM

You can’t go wrong with chocolate-covered fruits, strawberries, or sweet streets wrapped together in love! Edible arrangements create wonderful and edible bouquets and gift baskets that can be anything from fruit to cookie platters and bouquets.

Photo courtesy of Instagram.

Flower Hut

Flower Hut

808 N 10th St

Monday – Friday 8 AM – 6 PM | Saturday 10 AM – 4 PM

Here, you can customize your bouquet or pick your favorite flower for the people you love just in time for Valentine’s Day!

Photo courtesy of Facebook.

Gloria's EC Flower Shop

Gloria’s EC Flower Shop

3700 Dove Ave West Ste 400 C

Monday – Friday 10 AM – 6 PM | Saturday 10 AM – 4 PM | Sunday 10 AM – 3 PM

For elegant bouquets catered to your taste or style, visit Gloria’s! Be sure to grab a bouquet and order soon!

Photo courtesy of Instagram

Barn White

Barn White

4317 N 10th St

Monday – Saturday 10 AM – 6 PM

Are you looking for the right gift for your loved ones this year from one of our McAllen stores? Barn White has you covered with tremendous, beautifully crafted gifts that appeal to anyone’s tastes.

Photo courtesy of Facebook

Oralia Flowers and Gifts

Oralia Flowers and Gifts

2412 Pecan Blvd

Monday – Saturday 8 AM – 6 PM | Sunday 11 AM – 4 PM

If you’re looking for the most incredible bouquets just in time for Valentine’s, Oralia Flowers and Gifts will be your next best thing! You’ll find bouquets and tremendous gifts that will captivate your loved ones here!

Southern Roots Market

1407 N. Main St.

McAllen’s only flower market not only offers a stunning array of blooms but also serves as an educational hub, fostering awareness on flowers, plants, and earth conservation, with a heartfelt commitment to the bee preservation movement!

Shop at these McAllen Stores and Follow Us on TikTok!

Discover even more hidden gems on TikTok, and give us a follow!

Explore McAllen Market 2024: Celebrating History, Culture, and Community Spirit

0

Hello McAllen Enthusiasts! Get ready for some thrilling news – Explore McAllen is gearing up to host a series of local vendor markets at the iconic Archer Park. Brace yourselves for an unforgettable event that promises excitement, community spirit, and highlights some of our local businesses! It’s a day out with family and friends, soaking in the best of McAllen’s culture.

2024 Vendor Market Extravaganza

Curated by Explore McAllen. Brace yourselves for a showcase of local talent, as we bring you handpicked vendors and artisans with unique and live music. From handmade crafts to artsy wonders, you’re sure to find treasures that reflect the vibrant spirit of McAllen.

INFORMATION: 

1 | Explore McAllen

May 11th – Archer Park: 10AM – 3PM

Sign up for May’s Market here!

*vendor process*

Emails have gone out to the first wave of vendors. Next wave of emails will go out April 29th.

 

 

Show Your Small-Business Love

But here’s the real scoop – this isn’t just about shopping; it’s about celebrating our community. Explore McAllen is all about promoting small businesses and fostering a sense of togetherness. By supporting local vendors, you’re not just buying products; you’re investing in the dreams and passions of your neighbors. It’s a win-win for everyone!

Archer Park: Where History Takes Center Stage

The backdrop – Archer Park. Did you know it’s the oldest park in McAllen and a living testament to the city’s history? Named after McAllen’s very first mayor, this park is one of the few remaining historic landmarks, and at its heart stands a gazebo that’s been a focal point since 1918 when it was originally dedicated as a bandstand. It’s a stroll through history while you shop and explore!

See You There

Celebrate our city’s rich history, champion local businesses, and build stronger community bonds. Explore McAllen’s pop-up markets go well beyond a simple event; they’re celebrations of our collective identity.

The Explore McAllen Team

signup 1 | Explore McAllen

A New Year and Healthier You: 10 McAllen Restaurants to Stay Healthy

0
A New Year and Healthier You: Places in McAllen to Eat and Drink Healthy

One of the most popular New Year’s resolutions is to live healthier, and McAllen has everything you need to make that possible in 2024! With numerous gyms in the city like the ones we listed here, we also want to help with a list of places that serve healthy meals and delicious shakes and juices!

Healing Juice Factory

314 S 16th St | (956) 595-1539

Click here to visit their website!

Healing Juice Factory offers a refreshing blend of nutritious beverages, providing a rejuvenating experience for health-conscious diners.

Earth Born

3400 W. Expressway 83 | (956) 800-5111

4135 N. 10th St. | (956) 668-8000

Click here to visit their website!

Serving up a delectable fusion of nourishing juices, wholesome sandwiches, invigorating smoothies, and vibrant bowls to satisfy every palate with a burst of natural flavors.

Fork to Fit

7001 N. 10th St. | (956) 627-3284

Click here to visit their website!

At Fork to Fit, savor the perfect blend of health and indulgence with protein-packed cafe drinks, convenient meal preps, and refreshing smoothies, catering to a fit and flavorful lifestyle.

Health Nut

1701 W. Dove Ave. | (956) 664-1724

Click here to visit their website!

Relish in a guilt-free feast with a tempting array of fruit shakes, wholesome snack bowls, and indulgent yet healthy chocolate shakes, where every sip at this McAllen restaurant.

Shake Express

6308 N. 10th St. | (956) 627-0728

Click here to visit their Facebook!

At Shake Express, protein takes center stage in every sip as they blend together a menu of power-packed shakes, ensuring a delicious and nourishing experience for fitness enthusiasts and flavor enthusiasts alike. Also enjoy overnight oats, acai bowls, and more!

Juicy Fresh

1200 N. 10th St. | (956) 878-1220

Click here to visit their Facebook!

Juicy Fresh, nestled in McAllen, is a haven for health enthusiasts, offering an invigorating selection of fresh juices, shakes, acai bowls, nutritious savory breakfast options, and wellness coffees, promising a vibrant start to your day.

Protein House

5800 N. 10th St. | (956) 800-4313

Click here to visit their website!

Protein House caters to fitness enthusiasts with a menu brimming with robust options, from protein-infused salads and hearty bowls to rejuvenating shakes, ensuring a satisfying and health-conscious dining experience.

Foodamed Vegan Restaurant and Emporium

4108 N. 10th St. | (956) 731-4484

Click here to visit their website!

Embrace the delicious world of plant-based cuisine where every dish is a celebration of flavor and compassion, offering a diverse menu of exquisite vegan delights that redefine the art of conscious dining.

Mi Tierra Vegana

723 Dove Ave W, | (956) 800-4001

Click here to visit their Facebook!

Real Fit Nutrition

1111 S 10th St Suite 1 A | (956) 627-3415

Click here to visit their website!

Mi Tierra Vegana brings the vibrant flavors of beloved Mexican cuisine to the plant-based table, offering a delectable array of everyone’s favorite dishes crafted with wholesome, plant-powered ingredients.

The Green Owl Deli

2901 N. 10th St. | (956) 800-4616

Click here to visit their website!

Green Owl Deli is a haven for health-conscious foodies, serving up a delightful menu of fresh and wholesome options that cater to gluten-free, vegan, vegetarian, and organic items.

Did We Miss Your Favorite McAllen Restaurant?

This is a growing list, so be sure to reach out to us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter if we left anything out!

Let’s Get Physical in 2022 at these 7 Gyms in McAllen!

0

It’s not too late to get strong or healthy in 2024? Bring a friend, enjoy a free class or trial, and meet your fitness goals this year. Here are seven gyms in McAllen that will help you to work up a sweat today.

Picture courtesy of Facebook.

PlanetFitness | Explore McAllen

Planet Fitness

2901 N. 23rd St. | (956) 683-6865

Work up a sweat at Planet Fitness with their state-of-the-art cardio and weight training equipment! Planet Fitness is open and staffed 24 hours a day, Monday – Thursday, and prides itself as a judgment-free zone! Enjoy low-cost membership, which you are free to cancel at any time.

Orangetheory Fitness

5800 N. 10th St. #110 | (956) 331-2181

Orangetheory Fitness is currently offering the 2024 Transformation Challenge. Stop by this January 20 to:

  • Get your in-body pictures taken to kickoff the challenge
  • Choose between muscle gain or fat loss goal.
  • Grab a coach consultation, enjoy vendors, raffles and more!

Picture courtesy of Facebook.

9Round | Explore McAllen

9Round Fitness

5113 N. 10th St. Suite B | (956) 800-4411

Get into the fight with a complimentary kickboxing session at 9Round Fitness!

Picture courtesy of Facebook.

TruFit | Explore McAllen

TruFit Athletic Clubs

5300 N. 23rd St. | (956) 668-7325

900 S 10th St. | (956) 627-0381

4037 E Expressway 83 | 956-627-6631

One of the several TruFit gyms in McAllen, you can apply for cardio, strength training, fitness classes, and more!

 

Picture courtesy of Facebook.

GoldsGym | Explore McAllen

Gold’s Gym

1601 W. Dove Ave. | (956) 630-4653

Start the year right and apply for a membership to Gold’s Gym! You can join the following programs:

  • Group Exercise
  • Personal Training
  • Cardio and Strength Areas

Arri Fitness

1220 W. Trenton Rd. #180 | (956) 540-7088

Enjoy a free week pass at Arri Fitness. Afterwards, apply for a membership and take one of their fitness classes! Their hours of operation include:

Fit Boxing Club

4108 N. 10th St. Suite 150 | (956) 738-7808

Let out your frustrations through punches, kicks, and jabs at Fit Boxing Club in McAllen!

Find Fun Things to Do in McAllen!

Make sure to tag us in your fitness and workout photos on Instagram and Facebook! Use #ExploreMcAllen!

8 McAllen Restaurants to Try in 2024

0
things to do in mcallen

Craving new foodie destinations? From hidden gems to chic hotspots, check out 8 McAllen restaurants known for their diverse flavors, trendy vibes, and the ultimate dining experiences in the new year! 

Photos courtesy of Malandra’s Facebook.

Malandra – Picadera Bar

5921 N 23rd

Monday – Friday 5 PM – 2 AM | Saturday & Sunday 12 PM – 2 AM

If you and your friend cannot agree on food or drinks for Friday night, head to Malandra! This fine dining experience offers incredible cocktails, whiskey, tequila PLUS the perfect bite-sized pairings from artisan sushi and savory tacos.

Noodles & Dumplings

1400 E Expwy 83 Suite 100

Sunday – Thursday 11 AM – 9:30 PM | Friday – Saturday 11 AM – 10 PM

If you are in the mood for authentic Chinese cuisine, or vegetarian-friendly dishes, Noodles & Dumplings is your spot. Enjoy bowls of tonkatsu broth, fluffy bao buns, and dumplings with savory fillings!

Teriyaki Madness

7600 N 10th St Suite 800D

Monday – Sunday 11 AM to 9 PM

Enjoy Asian-style cuisine and enjoy the famous teriyaki sauce made from premium ingredients to create mouthwatering dishes, including yakisoba noodles, salmon and spicy chicken teriyaki! 

Chubby’s

Chubby Raccoon Burgers and Cravings

3400 W Expy 83 Suite F01A

Sunday – Thursday 12 PM – 10 PM | Friday – Saturday 12 PM – 11 PM 

Ever heard of a raccoon burger? Try some out here at Chubby Raccoon where you can dine in and feast on burgers and other food cravings! 

 

salseados | Explore McAllen

Los Salseados

4905 N 10th St 

Monday – Thursday 11:30 AM – 8 PM | Friday & Saturday 11:30 AM – 9 PM | Sunday 11:30 AM to 5 PM 

Your next go-to place for buttery and grilled seafood in McAllen! Enjoy a heaping botana for you and friends or try fine-dining experiences such as seafood pate, carpaccio, classic ceviche, tacos and sweet conchas!

The Human Bean

1124 E Nolana Ave

Monday – Sunday 5 AM – 10:30 PM 

This drive-through coffee place is a must if you’re looking for something on the go. Try cool spins on frozen hot-chocolate, teas, and a delicious chocolate-covered espresso bean with every purchase! 

Taj Mahal

5281 N 23rd St

Monday – Saturday 11:30 AM – 9:30 PM | Sunday 12:30 PM – 8:30 PM

Visit this new McAllen restaurant for your fix of Bangladesh and Indian food! Taj Mahal boasts their 100% halal food, so you can enjoy their savory beef, egg, or lamb burgers; sink your teeth into a warm bowl of curry or masala, or their tandoori chicken and kababs!

Tacocean

8025 N 10th St Suite #140

Monday – Thursday 11 Am – 10 PM | Friday & Saturday 11 AM – 12 AM

Previously opened in 2023, Tacocean is your fresh seafood taqueria! Enjoy tostadas, authentic ceviche, Ribeye, and more!

Try these New McAllen Restaurants!

Get insider access to the newest McAllen restaurants, stores, and events happening in our city. Follow us on TikTok!

11 McAllen Restaurants to Ring in the New Year

0
restaurants in McAllen | bars in McAllen

Celebrate the dawn of a new year in style as we unravel the top-notch, indulgent culinary destinations that redefine the meaning of luxurious dining. Elevate your taste buds with extravagant ingredients, innovative dishes, and the sheer opulence that these trendy McAllen restaurants bring to the table.

Utopia

1200 Auburn Ave suite 320 

Monday – Sunday 8 PM to 2 AM

One of the hottest new bars in McAllen, this glamorous bar adds the jungle flare to bring out your inner animal. Add this spot to your night after new year celebrations! 

Suerte Bar & Grill

400 W Nolana Ave

Monday – Sunday 12 PM to 2 AM

Which ever location you choose in McAllen, enjoy live music performances, karaoke, outdoor seating, and dancing for the perfect moment to ring in the New Year! 

Oak Texas Bar & Grill

7001 N 10th St suite C

Sunday – Saturday 11 AM to 2 AM

Got a soft spot for electric music and great drinks? This bar and grill is the perfect place to hang out after the holidays! 

Pausa Cocina de Autor

920 N Main St suite 100

Sunday – Thursday 5 PM to 10 PM

Friday – Saturday 5 PM to 11 PM 

If you are looking for a fine dining experience, with elite savory entrees from around the world, then Pausa Cocina de Autor is your place. Call ahead to ensure a reservation for New Year’s Eve.

Photo courtesy of Instagram.

Toloa Rooftop Bar | bars in mcallen | mcallen restaurants

Toloa Rooftop Bar

1200 Auburn Ave suite 360

Sunday 11 AM – 3 PM 

Monday – Saturday 6 PM to 2 AM

With incredible views, cozy corners, and delicious bites and drinks, this atmosphere is perfect to have cocktails while hanging out with your friends and family. 

Rosmani

1600 N 10th St

Monday – Thursday 5 PM to 1 AM

Friday – Saturday 1 PM to 2 AM

Nothing is tastier than authentic fine Mexican dining. Call in advance to make reservations to try chef-curated recipes from the heart of Mexico. 

Patio on La Guerra

116 S 17th St

Monday – Sunday 5 PM to 10 PM

A defined and laid-back atmosphere to spend some time with your friends and family after the celebrations while also enjoying some drinks and live entertainment

Photo courtesy of Instagram

5 a Ronda

500 E Nolana Ave

Wednesday – Saturday 5 PM to 2 AM

Sunday 2 PM to 12 AM 

Dive into the electrifying beats and vibrant ambiance at 5a Ronda in McAllen, where the night comes alive with wild energy and non-stop excitement. 

MKz’s Nightclub

2021 Orchid Ave

Thursday – Sunday 9 PM to 2 AM 

The ultimate destination for an unforgettable club experience, join the club festivities this New Year’s Eve with live Latin music and great cocktails!

 

AMBRA

1200 Auburn Ave

NYE: 5pm – 1am

Indulge in a unique fine-dinning experience featuring a 4 course meal, welcome toast, DJ, party favors, photo area, fortune teller, dancefloor, and midnight countdown.

MULA CANTINA

4901 W. Expy 83

NYE: 12pm – 2am

Enjoy music, live entertainment, open menu and specialty items, photo opps, and  complimentary champagne countdown.

 

Follow Us Online for More McAllen Restaurants

From culinary delights to family-friendly fun, McAllen offers a dynamic blend of experiences for everyone to enjoy. Follow us online and TikTok to find even more fun things to do in McAllen.

New McAllen Stores Coming to La Plaza Mall!

0
New McAllen Stores coming to La Plaza Mall

New Year, New places to Shop! Check out these upcoming McAllen stores coming to La Plaza Mall! 

Miniso

2200 S 10th St.

Exciting news awaits shoppers at La Plaza Mall as the much-anticipated arrival of Miniso draws near. Soon, visitors will have the opportunity to explore a diverse range of adorable and unique items, from your favorite brands worldwide!

Be on the lookout for

  • Top-brand cosmetics
  • Plushes, toys, and more
  • Aesthetic kitchenware

With Miniso’s imminent presence, the mall is set to become a one-stop destination for stylish, practical, and innovative products.

Sweet Paris Creperie and Cafe

2200 S 10th St.

Indulge your taste buds at Sweet Paris Creperie & Cafe, a charming haven that promises a delectable fusion of French-inspired crepes and delightful café offerings. Nestled in the La Plaza Mall, this enchanting eatery invites patrons to savor an extensive menu boasting:

  • Sweet and savory crepe creations
  • meticulously crafted confections 
  • Deliciously-made beverages

With its cozy ambiance and a menu that caters to diverse palates, Sweet Paris Creperie & Cafe emerges as the perfect destination.

It’s Sugar

2200 S 10th St.

Coming in 2024, let your inner-kid run wild at the newest and one of the sweetest McAllen Stores! It’s Sugar is a candy-paradise that will leave you wanting to come back (without the kids)! Opening in La Plaza Mall, enjoy your:

  • Favorite classic candy favorite
  • Trendy new sweets
  • The wackiest and wildest flavor combinations

Step into a colorful wonderland and indulge in the joy of discovering delightful sweets, making it a must-visit destination for anyone with a sweet tooth.

TOUS

2200 S 10th St.

The epitome of sophistication in the world of high-end jewelry and accessories. TOUS is a luxurious boutique that invites trendy shoppers to explore the latest collection of meticulously crafted pieces. 

  • Rings
  • Piercings
  • Bracelets
  • Pendants
  • Watches
  • Handbags
  • Necklaces

With its fusion of modern design and traditional craftsmanship, TOUS stands as a premier destination where individuals can adorn themselves with the finest jewelry and accessories, making a bold statement of enduring glamor.

Ben & Jerry’s

2200 S 10th St.

Exciting news for McAllen’s ice cream lovers! Ben & Jerry’s is coming to La Plaza Mall’s expansion wing, right next to Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory. Get ready for:

  • Wide array of innovative ice cream flavors
  • Fun and vibrant atmosphere
  • Perfect location for a quick sweet fix during your shopping spree

Step into a colorful wonderland and indulge in the joy of discovering delightful sweets, making it a must-visit destination for anyone with a sweet tooth.

CUT! By Cinemark

2200 S 10th St.

Excitement is building in McAllen, Texas, as the highly anticipated CUT! By Cinemark movie theatre takes shape at La Plaza Mall. Currently under construction, this state-of-the-art cinema promises to deliver an unparalleled cinematic experience to the community. Moviegoers can look forward to a cutting-edge venue that combines the latest in technology with the comfort and entertainment that Cinemark is renowned for.

New McAllen Stores Coming in 2024!

Stay in the know and experience the latest happenings in 2023 by following Explore McAllen online for a glimpse into the city’s exciting new developments and events.

Check Out These 7 Locations for Unforgettable Sweets During the Holidays in McAllen!

0

Whether you’re looking to enjoy a cupcake, milkshake, or croissant, McAllen is your sweet tooth destination! Read on for a few locations in the city to enjoy a delicious pastry! If your favorite holiday treat location is missing below, leave a reply so we can let others know!

Photo Courtesy of RGV Cupcake Factory

RGV Cupcake Factory

They have a selection of holiday-themed cupcakes available daily. Their seasonal flavors include the Abuelita, the Matthew Pecanaghey, a chocolate mint cupcake, a banana nut cupcake, the Charlie Brown, and a new vegan chocolate option. Place your orders as soon as possible to assure availability during the holidays.

  • It’s open Monday through Saturday from 11:00 AM until 9:00 PM and Sunday from 11:00 AM until 6:00 PM.
  • Located at 3300 Expressway 83 Ste. 1260.
  • Order online or call (956) 618-9979.

Bonhomia | Explore McAllen

Photo Courtesy of Bonhomia

Bonhomia

This high-end pastry shop serves a variety of desserts daily. Bonhomia offers tarts, cake in a jar, mousse cakes, mini eclairs, cronuts, and croissants.

  • It’s closed on Monday but open Tuesday through Friday from 8:00 AM until 3:00 PM and Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 AM until 3:00 PM.
  • Located at 920 N. Main St. Ste. 160.
  • Call (956) 627-0594 for more info.

Photo Courtesy of CC’s Sweets & Tweets

CC’s Sweets & Tweets

Choose from a variety of cupcakes like Gingerbread, Eggnog, Elf Spaghetti, Candy Cane Forest, and more! Christmas platters, Pumpkin Rolls, Christmas-Shaped Macarons, and more are available online for pre-order. Please allow 72 hours of advanced notice for pre-orders.

  • Located at 5401 N. 10th Ste. 117.
  • Order online or call (956) 627-2420.

Photo Courtesy of Birdie Bistro

Birdie Bistro

Taste Birdie Bistro’s delicious brownie a la mode, cakes du jour, and mostachon. They offer different desserts daily, call ahead to see what’s on their menu.

  • It’s open Monday through Thursday from 8:30 AM until 9:00 PM, Friday from 8:30 AM until 11:00 PM, and Saturday from 10:00 AM until 3:00 PM and 6:00 PM until 11:00 PM. It’s closed on Sunday.
  • Located at 301 N. Main St. Ste. 2.
  • Call (956) 627-3205 for more info.

Los Pasteles Caseros de Gaby

Los Pasteles Caseros de Gaby offers cakes, cupcakes, pies, and more. They’re known for their specialty cakes like Snickers, Ferrero, Milky Way, Kisses, Oreo, and many more flavors. Visit their location to see what’s available or call ahead to place an order. They will stop taking orders one week before Christmas Day.

  • It’s open Monday through Saturday from 9:00 AM until 8:00 PM and Sunday from 12:00 PM until 4:00 PM.
  • Located at 1001 S. 10th
  • Call (956) 627-4099 to place your order.

Photo Courtesy of Philly77

Philly 77

Do you like milkshakes? Philly 77 has different daily options like Strawberry Cheesecake, Chocolate Brownie Shake, and Red Velvet Shake. Try their Ginger Shake, which features a mini gingerbread house on top of the milkshake, available for a limited time.

  • It’s open Monday through Wednesday from 11:00 AM until 9:00 PM, Thursday through Saturday from 11:00 AM until 11:00 PM, and Sunday from 11:00 AM until 9:00 PM.
  • Located at 1123 U.S. Highway 83.
  • Call (956) 627-2577 for more info.

Photo Courtesy of Smallcakes Cupcakery & Creamery

Small Cakes Cupcakery & Creamery

Every Thursday in December, they will have their Reindeer Chow Cupcake, which is a chocolate cupcake with chocolate buttercream and garnished with M&M’s. They will offer custom orders on their cupcakes and cakes until December 22nd. Call to place your order.

  • It’s open every day from 11:00 AM until 9:00 PM.
  • Located at 3400 Expressway 83.
  • Call (956) 800-5220 to place your order.

Treat Yourself, Explorers!

Snap a photo of your holiday treats and tag us or use #exploremcallen and #mcalleneats for your chance to be featured on our social media accounts!

McAllen Christmas Light & Holiday Map

0

McAllen kicked off the Holiday season with the largest holiday and helium balloon parade in Texas, the McAllen Holiday Parade. And if you’re ready to immerse yourself even more with all the holiday jingle-jangle, we’re sharing our new McAllen Christmas Light & Holiday Map! 

Explore the enchanting world of lights and Christmas trees that adorn the city. From  dazzling displays on residential streets to festive installations in public spaces, the city is aglow with the warmth and joy of the holidays.

art village | Explore McAllen

Interactive McAllen Christmas Light Map

This interactive map guides you through the city’s most dazzling displays, ensuring you don’t miss out on any of the festive magic. With just a click, you can discover the must-see spots, plan your route, and immerse yourself in the glow of McAllen’s holiday spirit. The map is a testament to the community’s commitment to spreading joy and fostering a sense of togetherness during this special time of the year.

Map and Link For Lights

https://www.google.com/maps/d/viewer?mid=1sMhSQf6m7SDoE2iRsAhk-wlm1uPyt9g&femb=1&ll=26.2464751231237%2C-98.23910365&z=12

Share the Magic

One of the most heartwarming aspects of the holiday season in McAllen is the spirit of community and sharing. If you stumble upon a hidden gem of a display or a street that seems to have transformed into a Christmas wonderland, don’t keep it to yourself! 

Take a picture, note the street intersection, and share it with us, the Explore McAllen team! Your contribution could lead fellow festive explorers to a magical spot they might have otherwise missed.

FB | https://www.facebook.com/ExploreMcAllen

IG | https://www.instagram.com/exploremcallen

TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@exploremcallen

Email | info@exploremcallen.com

 

The Ultimate Christmas Light Display Illuminate at the McAllen Convention Center

South Pole Illuminated Festival

That’s right, McAllen was officially named the South Pole of the Texas making McAllen one of your top destination to get you in the festive spirit!

And the MUST VISIT Holiday experience is the South Pole Illuminated Festival at the McAllen Convention Center. 

@exploremcallen

✨☃️Step into the enchanting world of the South Pole Illuminated Festival at the McAllen Convention Center.🎁 Celebrate the holiday spirit with the ones you love, and experience a winter wonderland filled with: 🚂 Train Rides  ❄️Recreated Snowfall 🎆 Fireworks ✨ Texas Light Show 🎶 Live Music 🛍 Vendors 🎠 Carnival Rides & millions of dazzling lights! 🌟 Admission: Weekdays: $12 Adults | $7 kids 12 & under Weekends: $15 Adults | $10 kids 12 & under 🎅🏽 KIDS ENTER FREE: Tuesday-Thursday until December 14th thanks to Lone Star National Bank Hours: Sunday – Thursday 5:30 pm – 9:30 pm Friday & Saturday 5:30 pm – 10:30 pm CLOSED – Dec. 24   The illuminated magic is made possible by ❤️ Sames Lincoln McAllen , Lone Star National Bank  , McAllen International Airport , Martinez Powersports , South Texas ISD , Metro McAllen  & Reliant Energy ®! . . . #mcallen #mcallentx #rgv956 #956valley #956rgv #southtexas #mcallenconventioncenter #thingstodoinmcallentx #mcallentexas #funthingstodo #downtownmcallen #nearme #southpole #southpoleoftexas #santapictures #picswithsanta #foodvendors #christmastree #smores #carnivalrides #carnival #holidayevents

♬ original sound – Explore McAllen

Experience activities including: 

  • Train Rides
  • Recreated Snowfall
  • Fireworks
  • Texas Light Show
  • Live Music
  • Vendors
  • Carnival Rides
  • & did we mention millions of lights! 

Admission:

Weekdays: $12 Adults | $7 kids 12 & under
Weekends: $15 Adults | $10 kids 12 & under
KIDS ENTER FREE: Tuesday-Thursday until December 14th thanks to Lone Star National Bank

Hours: 

Sunday – Thursday 5:30 pm – 9:30 pm
Friday & Saturday 5:30 pm – 10:30 pm
CLOSED – Dec. 24  

This experience is brought to you by partners including Sames Lincoln McAllen , Lone Star National Bank  , McAllen International Airport , Martinez Powersports , South Texas ISD , Metro McAllen  & Reliant Energy ®!

To purchase tickets, click here.

 

 

9 Savory Spots to Hit Before/After the McAllen Holiday Parade

0
10 Spots to Hit After McAllen Holiday Parade

The holidays are here, which means having fun and spending time with loved ones throughout the most festive events throughout the month! There are plenty of places to go to once you’ve experienced the McAllen holiday parade and holiday events, and here are just a few to get you started!

Photo courtesy of Instagram.

B’s In a Pod

B’s In a Pod

4119 N 10th St.

  • Monday – Thursday 12 PM to 8 PM
  • Friday – Saturday 12 PM to 8:30 PM

Looking for a place that sells boba tea and sweet creations? B’s in a pod is an excellent place to unwind after the parade and get a nice drink to celebrate!

Photo courtesy of Facebook.

Corner Bakery Cafe

Corner Bakery Cafe

4021 N 10th St. Suite C4

  • Monday – Tuesday 6:30 AM to 9 PM
  • Wednesday – Sunday 7 AM to 9 PM

If you need to satisfy your cravings for sandwiches and pasta, then Corner Bakery is the perfect place to be after the McAllen parade. Here you can enjoy a great selection of cafe goods and meal items along with delectable desserts that go well with your meals!

Cowboy Chicken

1020 W Nolana Ave.

  • Monday – Sunday 11 AM to 9 PM

Love all things chicken? Come to Cowboy Chicken for all of your chicken cuisines, featuring rotisserie chicken and other menu items that surely are top-notch in flavor!

Photo courtesy of Facebook.

Tacos Mazatlan

Tacos Mazatlan

815 Nolana Ave.

  • Sunday – Saturday 11 AM to 11 PM

Satisfy your Mexican cravings with tacos at Tacos Mazatlan! Here you can find all of your favorite tacos plus plenty of other great Mexican favorites that will appease your festive appetite!

Bourbon St Grill

4800 N 10th St.

  • Sunday – Saturday 11 AM to 2 AM

Looking for a place to relax and unwind after the holiday parade? Then consider attending Bourdon St Grill for your dinner with a nice dish and refreshing drink to finish your night!   

Krab Kingz

400 W Nolana Ave.

  • Sunday – Saturday 12 PM to 10 PM

If you’re in the mood for seafood, then coming to Krab Kingz could be the best decision you can make! Here you’ll find lots of seafood to enjoy like crab legs, fish, and cocktails that go best with your meal!

Photo courtesy of Facebook.

Fares Arabic Cuisine

Fares Arabic Cuisine

5221 N 10th St. Suite 270

  • Sunday – Saturday 11 AM to 10 PM

Looking for a great Arabian meal with great flavor and authenticity? Come and find it here at Fares! You’ll be able to experience authentic Arabic dishes that will satisfy anyone looking for a great meal!

Photo courtesy of Facebook.

semila coffee lab | Explore McAllen

Semilla Coffee Lab

4715 10th St. Suite 5

  • Monday – Friday 7 AM to 9 PM
  • Saturday – Sunday 9 AM to 9 PM

If you want to end your night with a great cup of coffee and their new line of tacos and tonics to help you finish off our night at the McAllen parade!

Kiss and Fly Sliders, Slices & Shots

5204 N 10th St.

  • Sunday – Saturday 5 PM to 2 AM

Simple food, great drinks, and a great place to unwind after the McAllen holiday parade! At Kiss and Fly, you’ll be able to find your all-time American dishes like sliders and wings. You can also get great drinks that go well with your food, making this place a great go-to for a place to relax with friends and family!

What Spot Will You Be Going to After the McAllen Holiday Parade?

If you love the great city of McAllen, then show us your favorite fan photos on our social media! View and show us your point of view on local events, food photos, and local businesses.