Many of us will make traditional resolutions, like exercising more, reading more, losing weight, learning a new language, or perhaps taking up a new hobby. But if you really want to spice things up, then consider making one of the following 7 resolutions that only RGV residents can enjoy. While they may not necessarily give you those perfect abs you’ve been dying for, they are guaranteed to make your life a bit more adventurous, and 2017 a year to remember.
Resolution #1 – Visit South Padre Island more.
It’s quite easy to forget about this local luxury. But remember, hundreds (if not thousands) of out-of-towners from Texas and other northern states, come down to pay our beautiful SPI a visit. Whether it’s for the sunny weather, the spectacular waves, the amazing fishing opportunities, or any one of the hundred other entertainment options, SPI is definitely the place to be. And it’s only an hours drive for most of us.
Resolution #2 – Take advantage of the newly built McAllen Performance Art Center.
The McAllen PAC is brand new, so I wouldn’t expect many of you to have enjoyed the shows yet. But let’s make 2017 memorable by attending a few events at the most advanced performing arts center south of San Antonio. The 1800 seats means there’s more than enough room to enjoy nationally recognized music, dance, and theater productions that the RGV hasn’t seen yet. Plus, the rooftop terrace overlooking Oval Park and the McAllen Convention Center offers a view that’ll leave you astonished. Visit TicketMaster to get a glimpse of upcoming shows.
Resolution #3 – Festivals galore.
If you don’t think the RGV has anything to do, you’re just not getting out enough. From January through December, the region is full of fun and interesting festivals to attend. From Charro Days in Brownsville to Borderfest, and on to the RGV Livestock Show, there’s a never-ending lineup of festivities. Whether it’s the Weslaco Onion Fest, Harlingen’s Blues on the Hill monthly events, or the Cinesol Festival that takes place all throughout the Valley, 2017 is going to be one heck of a ride.
Resolution #4 – Go exploring in the RGV.
Did you know the RGV is home to some of the country’s best state parks for birding? That’s right, our backyard is home to some of the greatest site-seeing locations around, where you can catch a glimpse of some of the most unique species you won’t find anywhere else. From the 9 unique World Birding Center locations, to kayaking at Anzalduas Park, on down to the Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge, there’s more than enough things to do for outdoor adventurers.
Resolution #5 – Let’s learn a little.
Do you love art? Are you interested in history? Are you tired of having your kids just staring at their IPads? Well then make 2017 the year you start visiting all the local museums. If you’re an art aficionado, then take a trip to the Brownsville Museum of Fine Art or visit the International Museum of Art and Science in McAllen. For all of our history buffs there’s the McAllen Heritage Center, the Harlingen Arts & Heritage Museum, and Mission Historical Museum. And don’t worry, there’s more than enough to keep the kids entertained at the Children’s Museum of Brownsville and the Museum of South Texas History – from hands on activities to huge skeletons of extinct animals – these museums are the perfect place to make learning fun (and the kids won’t even know it).
Resolution #6 – Support the local teams.
From high school to professional, the RGV has more sports teams than you can shake a stick at. The RGV Vipers are a great NBADL team that have already won several league titles. There’s also the RGV FC Toros, who are members of the United Soccer League and the development affiliate of Major League Soccer’s Houston Dynamo. And let’s not forget about our very own UTRGV Athletics with collegiate teams that span from volleyball to baseball, track and field, and even golf. I think it’s safe to say there’s more than enough local teams for all you sports fanatics.
Resolution #7 – Just get out of the house.
I know that home is where the heart is. And while it can be a relaxing experience to stay inside all day, in our pajamas, catching up on the latest shows, the RGV has so much more to offer. With riveting parks, wonderful shopping centers, award-winning public libraries, theaters galore, scrumptious eateries, awesome neighborhood bars, and dozens of bands playing across numerous stages, the RGV really does have some amazing secrets to explore in 2017. So let’s make this upcoming New Year one for the record books.
