Good morning, McAllen.

The city of McAllen announced additional celebrity guests for its 10th annual Holiday Parade during a Tuesday ceremony—these include former Dallas Cowboys players Leon Lett and Tony Hill, the UTRGV Marching Band and a SpongeBob SquarePants balloon, joining earlier announced acts like host Julian Gil, The Cavinder Twins, Ronald McDonald and Garfield. The parade, themed 'Christmas Across America,' will be held on Saturday, Dec. 6 at Veterans Memorial Stadium.

In this week’s TribCast, Matthew talks with Tribune reporter Sneha Dey and Bridget Worley (Commit Partnership) about Texas replacing the STAAR test (focusing on a new education plan).

The discussion explains how the change may affect students and teachers.

McAllen ISD will hold a town hall meeting today at 5 p.m. at McAllen High School Auditorium—district leaders and a consulting firm seek public input on building conditions and future capital improvement priorities.

The final report will be presented in October as board members decide if they will move forward with a May 2026 bond election.

Governor Greg Abbott on Wednesday ordered state agencies to ban the sale of THC products to minors and to review existing rules for stricter labeling, testing, record-keeping, and licensing fee increases—an action taken after the Legislature ended its second special session without imposing tighter controls.

Buena Vista Orchestra Performance

7-9:30 p.m. — McAllen Performing Arts Center — Tickets from $57 — Experience the vibrant and authentic sounds of Cuba with the Buena Vista Orchestra led by Jesus 'Aguaje' Ramos.

Platanito Comedy Show

8:00-9:30 p.m. — McAllen Performing Arts Center — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a lively comedy show in Spanish, perfect for adults 18 and older.

Object-Oriented Programming in C# Rev. 6.1 Training Class

9 a.m. - 5 p.m. — McAllen Flight Academy — $1750 — Dive into comprehensive C# programming with hands-on training led by experts.

Makeup Blowout Sale Event

10 AM - 5 PM — Wyndham Garden McAllen At La Plaza Mall — Free entry — Enjoy massive discounts on makeup, skincare, and hair care during this exciting clearance event.

Bingo Night with Bingo Players

8 PM - 2 AM — Cine El Rey — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a thrilling night of bingo games and entertainment in McAllen.

Diles Que No Me Maten Concert

7-11:30 p.m. — The Gremlin — All ages — Experience the eclectic sounds of the Mexico City band Diles Que No Me Maten live in McAllen this fall.

Anime Fiesta - Friday

12:00 – 1:30 PM — McAllen Convention Center — Entry Fees Apply — Celebrate Japanese animation and pop culture with guests, panels, and cosplay contests.

MS Community Program

10 AM – 3 PM — Edinburg Conference Center at Renaissance — Free entry — Engage in informative discussions with MS professionals and fellow warriors about living with Multiple Sclerosis.

Chezile Concert

7-11 p.m. — Cine El Rey — All ages — Rising indie artist Chezile makes his Rio Grande Valley debut with special guest Alex Banin.

Alicia Villarreal Concert

8:00 – 9:30 p.m. — McAllen Performing Arts Center — Ticket info available — Experience the electrifying performance of Alicia Villarreal on her Donde Todo Comenzó 2.0 Tour 2025.