The Rio Grande Valley has come a long way from this time last year, when the COVID-19 pandemic stymied any attempts by communities to hold Fourth of July festivities. But as the aggressive vaccination effort continues, confidence is building in residents and local institutions to gather, and this weekend’s holiday events in the Upper Valley serve as evidence.
The cities of McAllen, Edinburg, Pharr and San Juan are among several in the region planning in-person events, beginning Friday and running through Sunday, July the Fourth.
The city of San Juan will be holding their Independence Day Celebration on Friday at the San Juan Municipal Park.
The free event, which begins at 4 p.m. and ends at 11 p.m., will consist of a car show, live music by bands like The Spazmatics, a parade and wrestling.
Event goers can also reserve VIP tables by calling (956) 516-3897.
On Saturday, the city of McAllen will be hosting their Concert in the Sky event at their Municipal Park on N Bicentennial Blvd starting at 6 p.m., which ends by 10 p.m. after their annual fireworks show that is set to launch at 9 p.m.
The McAllen event will consist of games, food, live music and other forms of entertainment.
Those who would like to participate but aren’t able to join in person, can tune into 710 KURV to enjoy the live concert over the radio.
Sunday will be jam packed with celebrations.
at the 2016 McAllen Fourth of July Parade.
The city of Pharr will be holding a free concert for its Independence Day Festival beginning at 5 p.m. at the Jones Box Park.
Consisting of four performers, the concert will feature the Hernandez Brothers as the opening act, followed by Lauren Corzine, Soledad and ending with Steve Valdez.
San Juan won’t be the only city featuring some wrestling. The city of Hidalgo will host lucha libre for its Show in the Sky event that starts at 3:30 p.m. The event is free and will also include live music from bands like Los Igualados, food vendors, kiddie rides, arts and crafts and boasts the “largest fireworks show in South Texas.”
Not to be outdone by the other cities, Edinburg will be hosting its annual Texas Cook’em event beginning at 9 a.m. and will feature a free concert by Easton Corbin at the Ebony Hills Golf Course.
Edinburg’s celebration is free and will consist of a beer garden, live music, a car show, a BMX show, carnival rides, fireworks and food vendors.
