Take a winter tour of downtown Harlingen

HARLINGEN — Harsh temperatures and chilly winds have been keeping residents inside most of the new year, but tomorrow the city could be seeing some sun and what better way to celebrate than with a walking tour of downtown.

Downtown Harlingen and the Harlingen Downtown Social Committee will be hosting a free walking tour tomorrow.

Downtown Harlingen Manager Edward Meza said the tour showcases the city’s history, art and architecture.

“It’s a wonderful introduction to the history of Harlingen,” Meza said.

Tours began five years ago and were created by former Downtown Harlingen manager, Cheryl LaBerge.

“It was a great way for her to tell the history of the downtown area,” Meza said.

Tours are free and occur every Saturday except the first Saturday of the month when Market Days is held.

Participants wanting to take a tour meet outside of J&B’s Café before the tour begins.

Tours typically last an hour and a half and trained tour guides notify walkers when they have reached their half way point in case they no longer wish to continue.

Meza said some people are not able to make the whole tour but attending the first half provides them with enough historical information and beautiful sites to enjoy.

“We have a wonderful collection of murals and buildings with architectural details,” Meza said.

According to Meza, tours can contain as few as two people or as many as a large group.

“We get families visiting from different parts of the regions and we get students who come with a class,” Meza said.

If You Go

WHAT: Downtown Harlingen Walking Tour

WHEN: Tomorrow

WHERE: J&B’s Café, 204 E Jackson St., Harlingen

TIME: 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.