VBR

Pharr Winter Wonderland
2023-12-01 18:00 - 23:00 (America/Chicago) | Pharr Downtown Park, 118 S. Cage Blvd., Pharr, United States
The City of Pharr hosts its inaugural Winter Wonderland celebration on Dec. 1, transforming Downtown Park into a festive holiday spectacle for the entire community.
This free event takes place from 6-11 p.m. Downtown Park and includes the annual lighting of the Christmas tree with a countdown starting promptly at 7 p.m.
Other highlights include festive activities hosted by City of Pharr employees, live music, food and market vendors, photo opportunities, a carnival, snow sledding, Elf on the Shelf giveaways, and of course the arrival of Santa Claus.
The City of Pharr extends a warm invitation to the entire community.

McAllen Holiday Parade & Christmas in the Park 2023
2023-12-02 15:00 - 23:00 | McAllen Municipal Park, 1921 North Bicentennial Blvd., McAllen, TX, United States
The 2023 McAllen Holiday Parade returns live on Dec. 2 with the largest holiday and helium balloon parade in Texas returning.
Events include:

1.5 Mile stadium and street parade route
Cheer to twirl your favorite giant character
Balloons in the new “Vuelta Zones”
Illuminated floats and surprises
Celebrity hosts and guest appearances
Marching bands and dance teams
Christmas in the Park

For more information, visit mcallenholidayparade.com.

Port Isabel Christmas Tree Lighting & Holiday Street Parade
2023-12-02 18:00 - 19:00 | Beulah Lee Park, 213 N. Yturria Street, Port Isabel, United States
Port Isabel Mayor Cantu Jr. and the Port Isabel City Commissioners invite the community to attend and participate in a Port Isabel holiday tradition, the lighting of the Community Christmas Tree in Beulah Lee Park on Dec. 2. Starting at 7 p.m., the event will feature performances, vendors, Santa Claus and a bigger and brighter Christmas tree. The event is open to the public.
The City of Port Isabel’s Public Works Department will also be decorating the Highway 100 medians with festive holiday lights and more.

RGVHCC Ugly Sweater Christmas Mixer
2023-12-04 17:30 - 19:30 | Legacy Event Center, 4610 S. Jackson Road, Edinburg, TX, United States
The RGV Hispanic Chamber of Commerce hosts its Ugly Sweater Christmas Mixer on Dec. 4. Embrace the “so bad it’s good” fashion and celebrate the holiday season in style while making a positive impact in the community. The evening includes an ugly sweater contest for the ugliest, tackiest and most eye-catching Christmas sweater.
Admission is unwrapped toys to be donated to Operation Christmas RGV.
Register online in advance.

All About Women “A Christmas Affair”
2023-12-07 17:30 - 20:00 | McAllen Chamber of Commerce, 1200 Ash Ave., McAllen, TX, 78501, United States
The 17th annual All About Women “A Christmas Affair” shopping and networking event takes place Dec. 7 with door prizes, a holiday photo backdrop, hot beverages from Uncommonly Rossina Fine Treats, live entertainment and plenty of shopping.
The PNC Bank and the McAllen Chamber of Commerce event begins with a cocktail and hors d’oeuvres reception from 5:30-6 p.m. with Macaroni Grill, Tacocean and Azucar & Sal.
“This is an excellent opportunity for women entrepreneurs and small business owners to showcase their products, services and unique gifts – just in time for Christmas Holiday shopping,” said Gerry Garcia, McAllen Chamber director of Special Projects and Events. “It’s also the perfect occasion to get together with friends for a girl’s night out and provides a great opportunity to network and build relationships.”
Guests can shop from 30 vendors who will be on site with gift-giving ideas and entrance to the event is free.

For more information or to RSVP, contact Gerry Garcia at 956-682-2871.

Weslaco Santa Dash 5k
2023-12-09 17:00 - 18:00 | Downtown Weslaco, Texas Blvd., Weslaco, United States
The Weslaco Chamber of Commerce and RGV Theme Runs come together to host the return of the annual Santa Dash 5K on Dec. 9 with participants kicking off the Weslaco Christmas Parade at 5 p.m.
Each 5K runner will receiving a five-piece Santa Suit, medal and a bib.
Register online.

Weslaco Lighted Christmas Parade
2023-12-09 18:00 | Downtown Weslaco, Texas Blvd., Weslaco, United States
Celebrate the holidays on Dec. 9 with the Weslaco Lighted Christmas Parade, featuring a variety of floats and a special appearance from Santa himself.
Featuring more than 100 float entries, music and fun, the parade features Christmas Movie themed floats. Route runs down Texas Boulevard from Pike Street to 6th Street.
Parking spaces are available down the parade route.

State of the State Luncheon
2023-12-12 11:30 - 13:30 | TSTC Cultural Arts Center, 1902 N. Loop 499, Harlingen, 78550, United States
The Harlingen Area Chamber of Commerce hosts the State of the State Luncheon on Dec. 12. The insightful gathering discusses the latest developments and future prospects. Attending are state representatives Oscar Longoria (District 35), Janie Lopez State Representative (District 37) and Erin Gamez (District 38). Special guest Senator Morgan LaMantia (District 27) will also be in attendance.
For more information about table and sponsorship opportunities, email amarez@harlingen.com or call 956-423-5440.

Market Mastery: Strategies for Effective Small Business Marketing
2023-12-12 11:30 - 13:30 | UTRGV Small Business Development Center, 1407 E Freddy Gonzalez Drive, Edinburg, TX, 78542, United States
“Strategies for Effective Small Business Marketing” on Dec. 12 equips small business owners with the knowledge and tools to excel in their marketing efforts. Participants will explore key marketing principles, including market research, target audience identification, branding, digital marketing and customer acquisition.
Limited seats available.
For registration and more information, call 956-928-0060 or register online.

Flamingo & Mingle Membership Holiday Mixer
2023-12-14 17:00 - 19:30 | Gladys Porter Zoo, 500 Ringgold Street, Brownsville, TX, United States
Join the Brownsville Chamber of Commerce for an evening of cheer at the Gladys Porter Zoo on Dec. 14 with the Flamingo & Mingle Membership Holiday Mixer.
The evening also supports the Brownsville Police Department’s “Christmas for Kids” project. Attendees are encouraged to contribute donations and toys to make this holiday season extra special for the lives of the youngest community members.
For more information or assistance registering for the event, contact the Brownsville Chamber of Commerce.

Business & Tamales Holiday Open House
2023-12-15 11:30 - 13:30 | McAllen Chamber of Commerce, 1200 Ash Ave., McAllen, TX, 78501, United States
Connect with fellow McAllen Chamber of Commerce members on Dec. 15 with the Business & Tamales Holiday Open House. Tamales are provided by Delia’s Tamales.
RSVP with Gerry Garcia.

Historical Happy Hour: Ugly Christmas Sweater Contest
2023-12-15 17:00 - 19:00 | Brownsville Heritage Museum, 1325 E. Washington Street, Brownsville, United States
The Brownsville Historical Association is having a party on Dec. 15 and things are going to get UGLY. Wear a Ho-Ho-Horrible Holiday sweater with a prize going to the person wearing the ugliest sweater.
BHA will also toast to the holidays with friends and good cheer. This month’s happy hour is sponsored by L&F Distributors. Attendees must be 21 years and older.
This event is free for BHA members, $15 if you RSVP and pay before the event, $20 at the door. No refunds.
For more information, call 956-541-5560.

Manic Monday Mixer
2024-01-08 17:30 - 19:30 | Suerte Bar & Grill, 2001 South 10th, McAllen, United States
The RGV Hispanic Chamber of Commerce hosts its Manic Monday Mixer on Jan. 8, providing an evening of mingling and creating new business leads. The Manic Monday Mixers have helped the RGVHCC members create many business contacts from throughout the Rio Grande Valley.
Anyone donating a door prize gets an extra opportunity to talk about their business.
Register online.

EmpowHer Series: SBA Funding Options for Women Entrepreneurs
2024-01-09 09:00 - 11:00 | SBA Lower Rio Grande Valley District Office , 2422 E. Tyler Ave., Suite E, Harlingen, TX, 78550, United States
Ladies, are you looking to start a business, or expand your current business but need funding? The Small Business Administration works with approved lenders and community development organizations to offer SBA-guaranteed loans to help your businesses start, grow, expand and recover.
The SBA helps small businesses get funding by setting guidelines for loans and reducing lender risk. These SBA-backed loans make it easier for small businesses to get the funding they need.
The benefits of SBA-guaranteed loans include:

Competitive terms: SBA-guaranteed loans generally have rates and fees that are comparable to non-guaranteed loans.
Unique benefits: Lower down payments, flexible overhead requirements, and no collateral needed for some loans.
Counseling and education: Some loans come with continued support to help you start and run your business.

Workshop Topics:

Preparing for a Loan (the 5c’ of credit)
Microloans
7(a) Loan Guarantee, SBA’s most common loan program
504 Loans, long-term, fixed rate financing of up to $5 million for major fixed assets
SBA’s online tool, Lender Match (get matched with lenders)
SBA Disaster Loan Programs

Register online or contact Veronica Chavez.

Brownsville Chamber Connect +
2024-01-09 14:00 - 15:00 | Brownsville Chamber of Commerce, 1600 University Blvd., Brownsville, TX, 78520, United States
Join the Brownsville Chamber of Commerce team on Jan. 9 for Chamber Connect + to learn more about what the chamber can do for you. The hour includes a deeper understanding of how the Brownsville Chamber can elevate your business and a refresher on membership benefits.
Chamber Connect + Covers:

History of the Chamber of Commerce in Brownsville:

Explore the rich legacy of the Brownsville Chamber of Commerce, spanning 86 years, as a driving force for local businesses.
Understand how the Brownsville Chamber has been instrumental in shaping Brownsville’s economic landscape, fostering growth and creating a thriving business community.

Membership Benefits Overview:

Gain insight into the extensive array of exclusive advantages accessible to members, ranging from networking opportunities and marketing exposure to advocacy efforts.
Learn about specialized programs tailored to cater to diverse business needs, including workshops, seminars and access to valuable resources.

Maximizing Your Membership:

Discover practical strategies for making the most of your chamber membership, from leveraging networking events to accessing tailored resources for business growth.
Uncover tips on staying actively engaged with the chamber’s initiatives, committees and events to ensure a continuous flow of benefits and opportunities.

For more information, contact the Brownsville Chamber of Commerce.

1 Million Cups
2024-01-10 09:00 - 10:00 | McAllen Creative Incubator, 601 N Main Street, McAllen, TX, 78504, United States
One Million Cups takes place at the McAllen Creative Incubator on Jan. 10, providing a supportive, inclusive space for entrepreneurs and the community to gather and connect. Attendees can work through business challenges and identify opportunities.
This month, Frook will talk about their innovative app which allows you to find food trucks, and Grandma Cookie, a children’s book author who will discuss her books, stories and inspirations.
1MC is FREE and open to the public.

Coffee & Conversation
2024-01-11 09:00 | Padre Island Brewing Company, 3400 Padre Blvd., South Padre Island, TX, 78597, United States
Join the South Padre Island Chamber of Commerce at Coffee & Conversation on Jan. 11 to hear about the services provided by Make-A-Wish Foundation from President/CEO Rebecca Ramirez Gearhart. Gearhart will also speak on how the public can help or participate when a request for a wish involves the community.

How to Really Start Your Own Business - Let's Talk Business Series
2024-01-12 09:00 - 11:00 | SBA Lower Rio Grande Valley District Office , 2422 E. Tyler Ave., Suite E, Harlingen, TX, 78550, United States
SCORE RGV kicks off the “Let’s Talk Business Series” on Jan. 12 with “How to Really Start Your Own Business,” a session developed to help participants better understand small business ownership.
While starting a business is an exciting venture, it can be intimidating and overwhelming without proper planning, knowledge and execution.
If you’re considering starting a small business, this session will help you understand the process of getting started the confidence to move forward with your idea.
Session 1 Topics:

Myths and Realities of Entrepreneurship
Do you have what it takes?
Components of Business Ownership
Making it Legal
Business Plan Basics

Register online.
About the Series – Organized by the SBA Lower Rio Grande Valley District Office
Introducing the “Let’s Talk Business Series,” a 12-part program connecting entrepreneurs with federal, state and local small business resources. Whether you’re a budding entrepreneur or want to grow your business, this series presents essential business topics, provides a forum for networking and promotes success in today’s dynamic business environment. Participants may attend one, two, six or all sessions.

SBDC Smart Start
2024-01-16 14:00 - 16:00 | Harlingen Economic Development Corporation, 2424 Boxwood Street, Ste 125, Harlingen, 78550, United States
Do you have a business idea? Are you interested in starting your own business? Make plans to attend SBDC Smart Start on Jan. 16 in Harlingen.
This session will provide information and steps necessary for a smart start, plus get attendees ready for one-to-one, business advisement session for ongoing assistance.
Register online.

Lunch & Learn "Coloring the Leader Within"
2024-01-17 11:30 - 13:00 | Center for Education and Economic Development (CEED), 801 North Bryan Road, Mission, TX, 78572, United States
The Greater Mission Chamber of Commerce hosts guest speaker Sarah Hammond for “Coloring the Leader Within” during Lunch & Learn on Jan. 17.
Hammond will provide insights for improved communication, intentional leadership and enhanced team dynamics. Hammond is the president of Atlas Electrical, Air Conditioning, Refrigeration and Plumbing Services Inc.
This session and lunch are free for chamber members, $15 for non-members. Registration is required as spots are limited.
To register, email candace@missionchamber.com.

Good Morning McAllen
2024-01-18 07:30 - 09:00 | Radisson Hotel McAllen Airport, 2721 South 10th Street, McAllen, TX, 78503, United States
Join the McAllen Chamber of Commerce at Good Morning McAllen on Jan. 18 and connect with new members, or reconnect with existing ones. Leading this breakfast will be hosts Jim Darling and Joe Brown. This month’s event is sponsored by Make-A-Wish.
Every chamber member is automatically entered to win $200 cash. Along with the cash drawing, there will be numerous door prizes. Registration is $25 per person, $300 per table of eight.

Friday Informational Session - SBA Assistance to Small Business
2024-01-19 09:00 - 11:00 | SBA Lower Rio Grande Valley District Office , 2422 E. Tyler Ave., Suite E, Harlingen, TX, 78550, United States
Thinking about starting a small business, but have no idea where to start? Wondering if small business ownership is for you? Starting a business is an exciting proposition but it’s also an incredibly challenging undertaking.
Are you an existing business and is your business needing to grow? Are you needing working capital to expand? Have you considered business certifications or government contracting?
Join the SBA on Jan. 19 for “SBA Assistance to Small Business” to learn about the technical and financial resources available to help start and grow a small business.
For more information, contact Veronica Z. Ortega.
Register online.

The Challenge-RGV Kickoff!
2024-01-20 09:00 - 12:00 | Linear Park, Brownsville, TX, 78520, United States
The Challenge-RGV 2024 marks its 15th season beginning on Jan. 20 at the Brownsville Farmer’s Market, bringing another year of healthy successes to the Rio Grande Valley.
This free community wellness program is a collaboration between the UTHealth Houston School of Public Health in Brownsville, the City of Brownsville, regional municipalities, community partners and sponsors. This year brings the addition of the City of Edinburg, bringing an additional kick-off event as well as additional gym locations available to participants in the Upper Rio Grande Valley.
The Challenge-RGV provides people with the tools and opportunities to make sustainable healthy lifestyle changes and lose weight when appropriate. Over the course of three months, participants have free access to gyms, exercise classes, health screenings, cooking classes and fun runs/walks.
This year, organizers emphasize the importance of social support in overcoming obstacles and bringing mental health awareness with a theme of “interconnectedness.” Participants are encouraged to recruit their family, friends and colleagues to register as a group. Activities are free to the public, draw hundreds of families, and include significant media coverage through TV, radio, print and social media.
Online pre-registration is available.

RGVHCC Annual Membership Meeting 2024
2024-01-23 17:30 - 19:30 | Fireman’s Pumphouse, 201 North 1st Street, McAllen, 78501, United States
The Rio Grande Hispanic Chamber of Commerce hosts its annual membership meeting on Jan. 23, giving members a chance to network and discuss issues or concerns that affect their businesses such as transportation, health, immigration, taxes, education, etc.
In addition, major events for 2024 will be announced, the presentation of some By-Law changes and elections for new board members.
If you are interested, you must be a member in good standing and qualified in the position. Feel free to call the RGVHCC office to get a complete description of the position. A short letter of intent and bio is required to be submitted by no later than Jan. 21 to be eligible.
Register online.

SBDC Smart Start
2024-01-24 10:00 - 12:00 | Mission EDC, 801 Bryan Road, Mission, TX, 78572, United States
Do you have a business idea? Are you interested in starting your own business? Make plans to attend SBDC Smart Start on Jan. 24 in Mission.
This session will provide information and steps necessary for a smart start, plus get attendees ready for one-to-one, business advisement session for ongoing assistance.
Register online.

Get Ready to File in 2024
2024-01-25 14:00 - 16:00 | Hidalgo Economic Development Corporation, 900 South Bridge Street, Hidalgo, United States
On Jan. 25, “Get Ready to File in 2024” will provide the information small business owners need to get ready to file in 2024.
Session highlights:

Changes affecting small businesses for 2024 tax season
Organizing and checking your records
Listing your tax deductions
Creating your tax calendar for 2024 for your business
Gathering and checking your tax forms
Prep with your accountant or tax professional

This in-person session is presented by CAS CPA, LLC and hosted by the UTRGV Small Business Development Center in partnership with Hidalgo Economic Development Corporation.
Register online.

SPI Lobo Del Mar Mixer
2024-01-25 17:00 | Lobo Del Mar, 204 West Palm Street, South Padre Island, United States
The South Padre Island Chamber of Commerce Island Ambassadors host a mixer at Lobo Del Mar Cafe on Jan. 25.
The evening includes hors d’oeuvres, soda and water, entertainment and a cash bar.

Credits, Deductions and Taxes for your Business - Let's Talk Business Series
2024-01-26 09:00 - 11:00 | SBA Lower Rio Grande Valley District Office , 2422 E. Tyler Ave., Suite E, Harlingen, TX, 78550, United States
While starting a business is an exciting venture, it can be overwhelming and daunting to navigate without proper planning, understanding and execution. Understanding your tax obligation is one key to business success. Knowing how to avoid tax mistakes is imperative to your business.
“Credits, Deductions and Taxes for your Business” on Jan. 26, presented by U.S. Internal Revenue Service, will help participants understand credits, taxes and deductions for their business.
Session Topics:

Figuring out if your business is subject to the self-employment tax, income tax or both.
The different forms of taxable and nontaxable income that come from money, property or services.
What you can and can’t deduct as a business expense
Business tax credits for your business

Register online.
For more info, contact Veronica Z. Ortega.
About the Series – Organized by the SBA Lower Rio Grande Valley District Office
Introducing the “Let’s Talk Business Series”, a 12-part program connecting entrepreneurs with federal, state, and local small business resources.  Whether you’re a budding entrepreneur or want to grow your business, this series presents essential business topics, provides a forum for networking, and promotes success in today’s dynamic business environment.  Participants may attend one, two, six, or all sessions.

Sisters On The Run 2024
2024-01-27 07:00 - 11:00 | Brownsville Event Center, 1 Event Center, Brownsville, 78526, United States
Sisters on the Run takes place on Jan. 27 for all runners, from experienced to first-timers, with a fun run and 5K. The annual fundraising campaign supports Proyecto Juan Diego’s programs and services.
Sisters on the Run started as “The Running Nun” by Daughter of Charity, Sister Liz Sjoberg in 2018 when she signed up for the Chick-fil-A Half Marathon. Her goal was to raise funds and brand awareness for Proyecto Juan Diego. Her fundraiser generated quite a buzz among her friends and family throughout social media and at the race.
Register online.

Texas Talks: A Luncheon with Comptroller Glenn Hegar – Navigating Fiscal Frontiers
2024-01-30 11:30 - 13:00 | Brownsville Events Center, 1 Events Center Blvd., Brownsville, TX, United States
The Brownsville Chamber of Commerce hosts “Texas Talks: A Luncheon with Comptroller Glenn Hegar – Navigating Fiscal Frontiers” on Jan. 30 at the Brownsville Events Center.
The luncheon features Texas State Comptroller Glenn Hegar and provides an opportunity to stay informed and network with like-minded individuals who share a passion for the growth and prosperity of the community.
Key Highlights:

Networking Opportunities: Connect with our local representatives, business leaders, and community members during the luncheon.
Luncheon: Enjoy a meal while fostering meaningful conversations.

This event is open to all individuals interested in attending. Whether you are a business owner, community advocate or concerned citizen, this luncheon provides a platform for collaboration and collective growth.
Single tickets are $50 with sponsorships available. RSVP in advance.
