Looking for a destination that delivers vibrant culture, food, music, and family fun in one place? A road trip to McAllen for festivals and events is the perfect way to experience the soul of South Texas. From dazzling holiday parades to taco throwdowns, McAllen hosts unforgettable events year-round that celebrate community, heritage, and creativity.
Whether you’re a foodie, music lover, or curious traveler, McAllen’s festival calendar will give you dozens of reasons to visit—and even more reasons to come back.
Why McAllen’s Festivals Are Road Trip Worthy
McAllen sits at the cultural crossroads of Texas and Mexico, and its events reflect that unique blend. You’ll find traditional folklórico dancers performing next to food trucks serving modern Tex-Mex fusion, or mariachi bands sharing stages with indie musicians. The city’s commitment to public art, family-friendly events, and affordable entertainment makes it ideal for road trippers looking to immerse themselves in a vibrant, welcoming community.
Best of all, many of these festivals are free or low-cost, making it easy to turn a weekend getaway into a cultural adventure. Whether you’re road tripping solo, with your partner, or the whole family, McAllen has an event to match your vibe.
7 Must-Attend Festivals and Events in McAllen
1. McAllen Holiday Parade
Held every December, this nationally recognized parade features over 50 illuminated floats, celebrity guests, giant helium balloons, and festive performances. It’s one of the largest holiday parades in the U.S. and attracts road trippers from across the region.
Address: Starts at Veterans Memorial Stadium, McAllen, TX
Time: Early December (annually)
Approx Cost: Free general viewing (ticketed stadium seating available)
Famous For: Lighted floats and star-studded performances
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Arrive early or reserve stadium seats for the best view and parking options.
2. Fiesta de Palmas
This massive cultural celebration in October brings together Latin music, global food, artisan vendors, carnival rides, and traditional performances. It’s one of the most inclusive festivals in South Texas.
Address: McAllen Convention Center, 700 Convention Center Blvd
Time: October (annually)
Approx Cost: $5 entry (children under 5 free)
Famous For: Live music, artisan markets, and multicultural showcases
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Don’t miss the international food court—each booth highlights cuisine from different cultures.
3. MXLAN Festival
This five-day summer celebration is a next-gen Latinx art and music festival featuring pop-up markets, urban street art, lucha libre wrestling, and concerts. It’s perfect for content creators, artists, and young travelers.
Address: Downtown McAllen (Main St & Business 83)
Time: Late July
Approx Cost: Free (concerts and special events ticketed)
Famous For: Street art installations and modern Latino culture
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Bring your camera—the festival’s murals and interactive exhibits are perfect for Instagram.
4. McAllen Food Truck Festival
Held each spring, this event brings together over 50 food trucks from across Texas. You’ll find everything from gourmet burgers and tacos to craft desserts and fusion dishes, all in one place with live entertainment and family fun.
Address: McAllen Convention Center Oval Park
Time: March or April
Approx Cost: Free entry; pay per vendor
Famous For: Street food variety and culinary creativity
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Go early to beat the crowd and grab limited-edition menu items before they sell out.
5. McAllen Marathon & FitFest
This January event includes a Boston-qualifying marathon, 10K, 5K, and fun run. FitFest adds wellness vendors, live music, and fitness workshops, making it a full weekend of health-focused excitement.
Address: Starts and ends at McAllen Convention Center
Time: Mid-January
Approx Cost: Free to attend; registration for races
Famous For: Scenic race routes and wellness fair
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Even if you’re not racing, join the FitFest expo for fitness classes and giveaways.
6. Sunset Live Outdoor Concert Series
Hosted at the McAllen Convention Center lawn, these seasonal concerts feature local musicians, craft vendors, and food trucks. They’re casual, community-focused, and great for an evening chill.
Address: 700 Convention Center Blvd
Time: Spring and fall (monthly shows)
Approx Cost: Free
Famous For: Laid-back outdoor music with a local vibe
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Bring a lawn chair or blanket and enjoy sunset tunes with your road trip crew.
7. Día de los Muertos Festival
Held in November, this family-friendly celebration of life includes altars (ofrendas), face painting, live mariachis, sugar skulls, and a stunning community parade. It beautifully honors Mexican tradition with modern flair.
Address: McAllen Creative Incubator & Downtown
Time: Early November
Approx Cost: Free
Famous For: Cultural traditions and community participation
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Dress in festive colors and join the parade—it’s open to all ages and incredibly welcoming.
Where to Stay for a Festival Road Trip
1. Casa De Palmas
This historic boutique hotel offers Spanish Revival charm, elegant rooms, and a prime downtown location that puts you close to most festival sites.
Address: 101 N Main St, McAllen, TX
Hours: 24/7
Approx Cost: $120–$180
Famous For: Historic ambiance and downtown access
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Book early for major festival weekends—rooms fill fast.
2. Radisson Hotel McAllen Airport
Convenient for travelers flying in or road tripping from other cities. Offers shuttle service and clean, modern rooms at a great value.
Address: 2721 S 10th St, McAllen, TX
Hours: 24/7
Approx Cost: $100–$140
Famous For: Proximity to McAllen International Airport and comfort
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Ideal for Fiesta de Palmas or Holiday Parade travelers needing easy access.
3. Smart iStay Hotel
Located just minutes from major event venues, this hotel offers comfort, free breakfast, and budget-friendly rates—great for families attending events.
Address: 1921 S 10th St, McAllen, TX
Hours: 24/7
Approx Cost: $90–$120
Famous For: Value and proximity to convention events
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Ask about festival weekend specials or early check-in options.
Packing Tips for a McAllen Festival Road Trip
Lightweight, breathable clothing
Comfortable walking shoes or sandals
Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses
Reusable water bottle
Portable phone charger or power bank
Backpack or crossbody bag
Small umbrella or poncho for unexpected weather
Cash for vendors and parking
Travel-size hand sanitizer
Festival schedule printed or saved offline
Local Tips and Seasonal Advice
Visit in spring or fall for cooler temps and frequent events
Parking fills quickly—consider rideshare or shuttle services
McAllen’s downtown is walkable—park once and explore on foot
Book hotels 4–6 weeks in advance for major festivals
Most festivals are family-friendly with designated kids’ zones
Many events are free, but food, drink, and VIP seating may require tickets
Follow city pages on social media for last-minute schedule changes or weather updates
Conclusion: Celebrate Culture the South Texas Way
From the glow of the McAllen Holiday Parade to the creative flair of MXLAN, festivals in McAllen offer more than just fun—they offer connection. Whether you’re dancing to Latin beats, tasting gourmet street tacos, or walking alongside candle-lit ofrendas, a road trip to McAllen during festival season is a cultural immersion worth experiencing.
With year-round events for every kind of traveler, McAllen doesn’t just throw parties—it invites you into a community. So fuel up, turn up the music, and let McAllen’s colorful festivals light the way.
