(This article was written by Lisa Campos and appeared in the March 2024 issue of Explore Harlingen Magazine.)
The month of March means spring break to most, which, this year, occurs March 11-15 for Harlingen Consolidated Independent School District students. Whether you are a college student looking for beachside concerts or a family looking for something to do together, the lower Rio Grande Valley has something for you.
Spring Break in Harlingen
If you plan on celebrating spring break close to home, you should consider attending events at the Harlingen Public Library at 410 ’76 Drive. The library has free reoccurring events throughout the year and has a great spring break full of fun activities planned for kids. Popular events include Roblox Play Date (March 11, 1-3 pm); Lego Day (March 13, 2 to 4 pm); and Family Movie Date (Transformers: Rise of the Beasts on March 16, 2 pm). My daughter and I have attended each of these events in the past and have thoroughly enjoyed them all. Additionally, they will feature a sleepover for stuffed animals, face painting, sketch drawing, story time, board game bonanza, crafts, and an interactive program to strengthen family relationships.
If you don’t have kids and are looking for something fun to do locally with your community, try the St. Patrick’s Day Festival and Lager Jogger on March 15, from 6 pm to 10 pm, hosted by Harlingen Parks and Recreation. It will be held at Harlingen Field, 1216 Fair Park Blvd. Health-minded individuals can sign up for the 5K. But you do not have to participate in the 5K to enjoy the festivities. Entertainment includes live music from Audio Escape and Wally Garza & Texas Blood Band. This event also features free beer for everyone of age.
Spring Break at South Padre
South Padre Island (SPI), less than an hour’s drive from Harlingen, is a huge attraction during spring break. Visitors from all over the state and beyond come to SPI to enjoy the beach, attend concerts, and have a good time. Clayton’s Beach Bar at 6900 Padre Blvd., touted as the “largest beach bar on the Texas coast,” hosts several concerts throughout the week. This year’s concert lineup kicks off with Myke Towers on March 9 and ends with Moneybagg Yo on March 16. Tickets are available at claytonsbeachbar.com.
Other more family-friendly options at SPI include water park fun at Beach Park; the Sandcastle Village exhibit that is updated seasonally; Ferris wheel, reverse bungee, miniature golf, go karts, and more at Gravity Park; Sugar Kingdom (a candy lover’s paradise); Sea Turtle Inc.; and Island Arcade SPI.
Livestock Show and Rodeo
About a 15-minute drive from Harlingen, the 85th Annual Rio Grande Valley Livestock Show and Rodeo (RGVLS) at the Mercedes Livestock Show Grounds will occur March 7-17.
This year’s RGVLS will feature a combination of ticketed and free events including PRCA Xtreme bull riding, rodeo, carnival, parade, food, shopping, entertainment, live music, and a Lil’ Miss Cowgirl Pageant for girls ages 5/6 and 7/8.
Tickets are available online at www.rgvls.com. Discount day ($5 gate admission for senior citizens, law enforcement, and all military) is March 10. Carnival midway discounts include Dollar Day on March 7, “buddy day” on March 8, “cantastic” day where you get a megapass (all you can ride) wristband for $20 (normally $30) if you donate five cans of food, and last blast Sunday on March 17.
Discounted carnival megapass bracelets ($20 instead of $30) can be purchased in person at participating Little Caesar’s Pizza locations.
Whether you decide to stay in Harlingen, venture to SPI, or take a short trip to Merecedes for the livestock show, make this spring break one to remember.