The City of McAllen Planning Department celebrates World Heritage Day April 18 with a free virtual session featuring local speakers who will be presenting on various topics highlighting the importance of and economic impact of preserving historic landmarks in McAllen. The session takes place from 9-10 a.m. and is open to the public.

The International Day for Monuments and Sites, also known as World Heritage Day, is an international observance which takes place on April 18 each year around the world.  According to the Global Development Research Center, World Heritage is the shared wealth of humankind. Protecting and preserving this valuable asset demands the collective efforts of the international community.

“This special day offers an opportunity to raise the public’s awareness about the diversity of cultural heritage and the efforts that are required to protect and conserve it, as well as draw attention to its vulnerability,” said Edgar Garcia, director of the City of McAllen Planning Department. “The idea behind this is to engage the public on what McAllen offers and find value in the historical landmarks and sites within the city, as well as to promote the services that the City of McAllen Planning Department provides.”

Featured speakers include Jacklyn Miller, assistant professor of History and Program Coordinator-Interdisciplinary Studies at South Texas College, and Alex Arevalo, interim director of the McAllen Chamber of Commerce. Various planners from the McAllen Planning Department will also participate.

Historical sites in McAllen include Quinta Mazatlán and Las Palmas Hotel.

Participants may register on Eventbrite.