Explore McAllen's artsy side with a quick look at all it has to offer – theater, festivals, museums and more.

Neighboring the U.S.-Mexico border, this progressive city offers some of the best cultural activities in the state.

Entertainment in McAllen

McAllen's downtown 17th Street Entertainment District is filled with lounges, restaurants, nightclubs and more. Located at its center is the historic Cine El Rey Theater, which opened in 1947 and operated for 40 years before functioning as it does today as a music and performance venue and screening Spanish and English language independent features.

McAllen’s diverse culture is what influences much of the music performed by the Valley Symphony Orchestra & Chorale, which was established in 1952 – with the Chorale joining later in 1984. Similarly, the South Texas Lyric Opera brings the fine art of opera to the Rio Grande Valley with a yearly slate of productions and an annual opera gala, and Rio Grande Valley Broadway brings the most popular shows to town.

Visual Arts and Festivals

The International Museum of Art & Science, founded in 1969, promotes a deeper appreciation for the arts and sciences through its exhibitions, cultural events and many educational programs. IMAS is located at 1900 Nolana Ave.

McAllen Art Walk is a self-guided tour that gives art lovers the opportunity to explore the many art offerings in one of the most historic parts of the city. It’s held every first Friday from September through May and is free to the public. In October, the city presents the Green Living Festival to encourage environmentally friendly lifestyles. 

Two months later, folks enjoy the Candlelight Posada, offering food booths, luminaries, a parade, live entertainment, caroling and a live nativity scene the first Friday and Saturday nights in December.

Chamber of Commerce Support

The McAllen Chamber of Commerce shows its love for the arts by managing the McAllen Arts Council, which publishes a quarterly magazine, produces an annual fine arts exhibition and offers grants to local artists. The Chamber also offers a free outdoor music concert series, manages the Creative Incubator for emerging artists and coordinates the Public Art Committee programs. 

Historic Sites

The Museum of South Texas History and McAllen Heritage Center are just two locations to learn about the rich history of this bicultural city as well as other nearby areas.

Quinta Mazatlan, a 1930s hacienda, embodies the Spanish Colonial Revival architecture of arches, adobe and beams, and provides an intimate look into South Texas history. Set in formal tropical landscaping‚ this 10,000-square-foot mansion sits on a 15-acre plot hosting a mix of native and exotic plants and wildlife, making up McAllen's wing of the popular World Birding Center.