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Editor's Note

Hey Valley fam — happy New Year 💫

There’s something special about the first weekend of the year in the 956. No pressure. No resolutions already broken. Just community, fresh calendars, and that quiet feeling that something good is coming.

This weekend’s lineup says it all: markets that bring neighbors together, live music that keeps local stages alive, a 5K that supports our four-legged friends, and events that remind us why we love where we live. The Valley doesn’t rush into the new year — we ease in, together.

Here’s your reminder that growth doesn’t always mean “bigger.” Sometimes it means showing up, supporting local, and starting the year grounded in community.

Let’s do 2026 the Valley way. 🌴

📊 Quick Poll

What’s your New Year weekend vibe?

• 🎶 Live music

• 🛍️ Markets & pop-ups

• 🐾 Giving back / community events

👉 Vote here

January Boots & Bling First Friday🤠✨
Fri, Jan 2 | 7 PM | Brownsville
Market Square lights up with live music, western flair, and First Friday energy.

Give a Bark 5K 2026🐾🏃‍♀️
Sat, Jan 3 | 7 AM | McAllen
Kick off the new year with a morning run supporting local pets at Firemen’s Park.

New Year’s Market🎉🛍️
Sun, Jan 4 | 2–7 PM | Brownsville
Start 2026 fresh with local vendors, handmade goods, and community vibes.

Together We Thrive Market🌱
Sat, Jan 3 | 5–9 PM | McAllen
An evening market bringing small businesses and neighbors together at Ace’s BBQ.

XDR 1st Annual Bike Show Competition🏍️
Sat, Jan 3 | 4 PM | Donna
Custom bikes, chrome details, and Valley creativity on display at Backyard Eatery.

Upper Valley (Mission • McAllen • Edinburg)

Christmas Bird Count
Jan 2 | 6 AM | Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park, Mission | Free

Mariachi Night at Nana's Taqueria
Jan 2 | 8 PM–9:30 PM | 1802 S International Blvd, Weslaco

Give a Bark 5k 2026
Jan 3 | 7 AM | Firemen’s Park, 201 N 1st St, McAllen | Sign Up

Together We Thrive Market
Jan 3 | 5 PM–9 PM | Ace’s BBQ, 111 E Nolana Ave, McAllen

Mid Valley (Weslaco • Donna • Mercedes)

Southern Ashes & Ricky Guzman III LIVE
Jan 2 | 8 PM | Mustang Lounge Night Club, Weslaco | 🎟️ $15

XDR 1st Annual Bike Show Competition
Jan 3 | 4 PM | Backyard Eatery, Donna | Free for spectators

Jaime DeAnda LIVE
Jan 3 | 8 PM | Mustang Lounge Night Club, Weslaco | 🎟️ $25

Lower Valley (Harlingen • Brownsville • SPI)

Department 56 Miniature Holiday Village Exhibit
Jan 2 | 10 AM–4 PM | Historic Brownsville Museum | Exhibit is included with paid museum admission | Check admission price here

Friday Crafternoon: Dot Art
Jan 2 | 3 PM–4:30 PM | Harlingen Public Library

January Boots & Bling First Friday
Jan 2 | 7 PM | Market Square St, Brownsville | Free

Fireworks every Friday
Jan 2 | 9:20 PM–9:28 PM | LongBoard Bar & Grill and Henrietta’s Bayfront Restaurant, SPI

New Year's Market
Jan 4 | 2 PM–7 PM | Julieta Event Center, 524 W Elizabeth St, Brownsville

DHR Health Named "Large Employer of the Year"

Big win for the Valley. The Texas Workforce Commission recognized DHR Health as “Large Employer of the Year” in late December, spotlighting its role in creating jobs and investing in local talent. Another reminder that healthcare careers — and impact — live right here at home. Read More→

Image Source: Facebook | DHR Health

Spirit of Christmas Campaign Assists Record 59 Families

The annual Spirit of Christmas campaign wrapped up its biggest year yet. Thanks to a partnership between United Way of South Texas and local media, 59 families received support this season — the most ever. Community members stepped up in a new way this year, directly “adopting” families and helping raise more than $18,000 for neighbors facing medical and financial hardships. Read More→

Michael Irvin Plays Santa for Edinburg Kids

Cowboys legend Michael Irvin stopped by a hospital in Edinburg on December 22 to spread some holiday joy. From handing out gifts to sharing encouragement, the visit brought smiles to young patients and showed once again how much moments like these matter to Valley families. Read More→

Image Source: Website | myRGV

Meet Wanda Lambert Boush

Wanda Lambert Boush, a 103-year-old pillar of the South Texas community, was celebrated in mid-December for a full century of "quiet generosity." Her lifelong support of education and healthcare has helped shape the Valley in ways that don’t always make headlines — but absolutely make a difference. A true example of service done with heart and humility. Read More→

Image Source: Website | UTRGV's The Newsroom

Meet Samuel— a57-lb, 2-year-old Terrier (American Pit Bull) / Plott Hound mix currently in a foster home with Palm Valley Animal Society.

Samuel is at that perfect age where he’s past the puppy stage and ready to settle into a routine with someone of his own. He’s already in a home setting, which makes meeting him a great way to see how he fits into everyday life.

📍Currently in Foster Care through Palm Valley Animal Society | Adopt, Donate, or Share→

Brought to you by Hexapaws💚
Smart ramps & comfy gear made for happy, wagging tails!

Vermillion Restaurant and Watering Hole (Brownsville)

Serving the Valley since 1934, The Vermillion is pure Brownsville nostalgia. From its famous fajita nachos to frosty mugs of beer, this is the kind of place where stories are shared, traditions stick, and the menu doesn’t chase trends — it is the tradition. 🍺

🕐 Mon–Sun, 11 AM–10 PM
📍115 Paredes Line Rd, Brownsville, TX 78521

🔗Check out Fork It’s review below.

🧠Local Laugh

RGV winters be like: jacket at 8 AM, shorts by noon.

🌱 Quote

“Wherever you go, go with all your heart.”

— Confucius

✅ Life Hack

Create a “Valley Errands” note in your phone and pin it. Add stores, addresses, or quick reminders — that way when you’re already out in McAllen, Brownsville, or Harlingen, you don’t forget the one stop you always remember on the drive home.

THIS WEEK'S EDITION IS PROUDLY PRESENTED BY

Built for local business owners who take their reputation seriously, Reputation Room is a small, intentional networking community focused on trust, credibility, and long-term growth — not pitch decks or speed networking. Each gathering is designed to feel grounded, human, and purposeful, with thoughtful introductions and space for real conversation.

If your business depends on reputation, relationships, and word-of-mouth that actually matters, this room was built for you.

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