City of McAllen announces upcoming fall events

MCALLEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Fall is here and the City of McAllen has several events lined up to celebrate the new season.

The city announced upcoming events on behalf of its Fall for the Arts program.

Symphony in the Park

McAllen is launching Symphony in the Park this fall, a night of live music performed by the Valley Symphony Orchestra.

"These type of programs are a measure of a strong and thriving community," said David Lobel, Executive Director of the Valley Symphony Orchestra. "One that provides opportunities to its citizens to have memorable and lasting experiences."

The orchestra program is said to feature hits from The Beatles, Santana, Prince and anime themes.

"South Texas Comic-Con Anime Fiesta will be happening at the same time in the convention center so it'll bring those folks and bridging the gap in that community," Lobel continued.

The free outdoor event will be from 6 to 10 p.m., Saturday, October 5 at the McAllen Convention Center Oval Park.

Fiesta de Palmas

McAllen's annual Fiesta de Palmas three-day event is returning to the McAllen Convention Center.

This year's event will feature fan favorites including art displays, a pumpkin patch presented by H-E-B, Beer Around the World, a large ofrenda, an artisan market, Edufiesta and live entertainment.

For the first time, McAllen is bringing the Alebrije Music Festival as part of the three-day fiesta.

The Alebrije Music Festival will bring performances by Xavi, Siddhartha and La Adictiva.

"Our mission is to be able to expand the arts to everybody and to make sure we are inclusive," said Yajaira Flores, Director of Convention Facilities.

McAllen Wind Ensemble

The McAllen Wind Ensemble, a non-profit group composed of volunteer musicians, will have a fall event that is free to the public.

"We do it because we just love to play music," said Roy Contreras, President of the McAllen Wind Ensemble.

This fall, the ensemble will have a free concert in observance of Veterans' Day in November.

The free salute concert will happen Tuesday, November 12 at the McAllen Performing Arts Center.

"We are pleased to continue and to provide beautiful and high quality music to the public," Contreras said.