We’re just connecting the dots
WINTER TEXAN
Volume 11 • Issue 11 January 14, 2026
The Expo is Coming!
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FREE ADMISSION ENTERTAINMENT LIVE MUSIC DOOR PRIZES
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Winter has officially arrived in the Rio Grande Valley--at least according to the TRUE experts: Winter Texans. As parks fill with familiar faces, dances return, and day trips hit the road again, the 2026 season is taking shape in that familiar way we’ve come to love--steady, joyful, and full of possibility. It’s hard to believe this marks my 19th season. Nineteen years of handshakes, hugs, coffee conversations, and park gatherings. Nineteen years of watching people discover new friends, new hobbies, and--sometimes--even new chapters of your lives. As much as things have changed over the years, so much has stayed the same--the warmth, the community, the stories that make this winter tradition so special. This season, I’ve spent more time out of the office than in it, and it has been a gift. Being welcomed into your parks and catching up face-to-face has reminded me why we do what we do. These connections are the heart of it all. January also brings the Winter Texan Expos, our chance to bring everything and everyone together under one roof. With destinations, health-care partners, vendors, entertainers, and old friends side by side, it’s one big celebration of life in South Texas! I want to personally invite you to join us at one or both shows this year. Discover what’s new, say hello, and share in the excitement of another season in the RGV!
Thank You
SEASON SPONSORS 2025-2026
MCALLEN CONVENTION CENTER BROWNSVILLE E Find the JANUARY 20 & 21, 2026 JANUARY 2 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM Winter10:00 AM 700 CONVENTION CENTER BLVD 1 EVENT CENTER, PA Texan Expo
guide inside!
(CORNER OF WARE & EXPRESSWAY 83) (BROWNSVIL for more information call or visit us online! 956-687-5115 * www.wEL
Y’all are Invited! W
by Eryn Reddell Wingert
elcome Home RGV is kicking off the new year with a three-day party: the 33rd annual Winter Texan Expo. “This year’s Winter Texan Expo will highlight tours and travel,” says Kristi Collier, owner of Welcome Home RGV. “But amped way up!” Collier is referring to the addition of on-site presentations expanding on travel and tour opportunities. Visitors will receive insight into trips to Ireland, Royal Caribbean cruises, MSC Cruises, Margaritaville at Sea and a wide variety of destinations across the state and country. “Our travel booth will be hopping,” says Welcome Home RGV Tour Director Sarah Denzer. “We have so many fun things to offer not only winter visitors but anyone in the area interested in travel.” “We have worked so hard to make this Expo something
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