The biggest draw to South Padre Island is Spring Break which generally takes place in mid-March of each year. During this time, college-age tourists flock to the area and take it over with parties and active nightlife. More information about Spring Break activities is online at http://www.springbreak.sopadre.com/.
Summer holidays also see an influx of people in the area, with Memorial Day kicking off the beach activities and Labor Day marking their end for the year. Fourth of July is a huge holiday on the island and includes parades and fireworks along with entertainment and other activities.
Other annual events include:
- Annual Longest Causeway Run and Wellness Walk which is enjoyed by participants and spectators alike each January.
- Easter is a time for enjoying egg hunts and picnics in the area.
- October finds not only Halloween activities in the area but also Day of the Dead celebrations which give visitors insight into the nearby Mexican culture.
- BikeFest - Roar by the Shore is every middle weekend in October.
- Sandcastle Days is the 3rd weekend in October.
- South Padre Island Splash takes place at the end of April each year & again the 1st weekend in October, and is considered a major tourist draw. More information: www.upperdeckhotel.com.
- The annual chili cook-off in February is a favorite of locals in the area.
- The Texas International Fishing Tournament may not sound like a big deal, but with a history spanning more than sixty years, this annual August event is sure to draw a crowd.
- There is a surfing competition in the area each April. More information is at www.tgsa.org.
- This year is to be the First Annual SPI Music Festival - November 2 - 4. Performers are to be announced soon.
