Issue No. 5
Souldies, fireworks, and a grounded Starship walk into the 956
June 4, 2026 · Weekend of June 5 – 7
Hey 956 👋
We're rolling into the first weekend of June and the Valley is heating up. South Padre Island is bringing back Friday and Saturday night fireworks, McAllen is kicking off summer with a Renaissance Faire and an LA souldies concert, and Brownsville is throwing a block party. Meanwhile, things are quiet at Starbase as SpaceX regroups after Flight 12. Here's everything worth doing this weekend, June 5–7.
🚀 SpaceX Update — Flight 13 Grounded
Starship Flight 13 is officially grounded pending an FAA mishap investigation. While Flight 12 (the first V3 megarocket) successfully splashed Ship 39 in the Indian Ocean, Booster 19 suffered an engine failure and a hard splashdown in the Gulf. The FAA declared it a mishap on May 27 — meaning SpaceX must complete an investigation before Flight 13 can fly. Boca Chica is quiet for now, but hardware for the next flight is already in flow. The next chapter is being written. Grab the free RGV viewing guide here so you're ready when it is.
☀️ Friday, June 5
Enjoy South Padre's vibrant art scene every First Friday of the month. Pick up a map at Quinn Gallery and explore 7–10 different venues showcasing local art across the island. It's a great way to start the weekend before hitting the beach bars.
The Brownsville Parks and Recreation Mobile Recreation Unit is kicking off their summer block party series at Monte Bella Trails Park. Bring the family for inflatables, games, snacks, and splashes — all free, all outdoors.
The Historic Stillman House Museum opens its doors after hours for First Friday. Free admission, evening hours, and a chance to explore relics from the early days of Brownsville in a completely different light.
Summer is officially here, which means Friday night fireworks are back on the bay. Grab a spot anywhere from Palm St. to Amberjack St. for the best view. Before the show, catch Southern Blend at LongBoard Bar & Grill from 5–8 PM, or the Dr. Zog Band at Wanna Wanna from 7–10 PM.
🌴 Saturday, June 6
The McAllen Public Library is kicking off their Summer Reading Challenge with a full-blown Renaissance Faire. Expect a play by The Player's Studio, crafts, games, snacks, and a costume contest. Perfect for the kids — and a great excuse to dress up.
Los Angeles-based souldies group The Altons are making their deep South Texas debut at the Historic Cine El Rey Theatre. They're bringing special guests Introverted Funk and the RGV chapter of Chulita Vinyl Club. This is going to be a special night of music — don't sleep on it.
If you missed the fireworks on Friday, SPI runs them back on Saturday night. LongBoard Bar & Grill has live music all day — Enlace at noon, Chris Rivera at 4:30 PM, and Buckn Crazy taking over at 9 PM. Over at Wanna Wanna, Emilio and Border Soul play from 7–10 PM.
🌿 Sunday, June 7
Get up early and cheer on the athletes at the Tri-Girl Sprint Triathlon at Pendleton Pool. The course includes a 300-yard swim, 10-mile bike ride, and a 2-mile run — hosted by Athlete Guild and Bicycle World RGV.
Spend your Sunday morning hunting for treasures at the Port Isabel Antique & Flea Market. Held on the first Sunday of every month at Beulah Lee Park — packed with local vendors and great deals just a bridge away from SPI.
Close out the weekend on the water. LongBoard Bar & Grill keeps the music going all Sunday — Longtrain at noon, Southern Blend at 4:30 PM, and Bobby Sanchez wrapping up the night from 8 PM to midnight.
That's your weekend, 956. Get out there and make it count. 🤘
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