An all-ages event celebrating the spooky Halloween season is returning to the sandy beaches of South Padre Island, with a tropical twist. Gulf Guardians is bringing back the Ohana-Ween Surf Costume Contest to Barry’s Beach Bar on Saturday, Nov. 2, 2024. “This fun-filled event is free for all participants and attendees, and it promises to bring joy and excitement to the South Padre Island community,” stated Event Coordinator Aarin Hartwell. This “Ohana” or “family” centered event creates a welcoming environment for everyone – children, adults, locals and visitors. This is no ordinary surf contest, as competitors will be scored on the costumes they sport as they ride the waves. “Surfers that are able to utilize their costume and/or props in the waves will score significantly higher than surfers that might remove costuming,” stated Hartwell. Surfers will also be scored by the length of the wave, size of the wave, maneuvers and maneuvers in critical sections of the wave. There are four spooky divisions to compete in: Goughley Groms (ages two to four), Rebellious Riders (ages 11 to 25), Midlife Monsters (ages 25-40) and Salty Bones (ages 40 and up). Each division’s first through third place winners will be awarded trophies and surf gear and all participants will receive a participation bag, t-shirt and fun swag! All attendees are eligible for giveaways during the “Plastic Free Q&A” sessions. “Beyond the fun and festive atmosphere, the Ohana-Ween Costume Surf Contest also serves as a platform to give back to the environment, with proceeds benefiting Gulf Guardians, a local education-based 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to educating and promoting environmental awareness among the island’s residents, youth and general public,” stated Hartwell.

Just days after Halloween and on Día De Los Muertos, join us on Saturday, November 2nd for the opening of our newest show, WHIMSY. Step into a world where dreams become reality and marvel at the wonder and creativity that covers the walls.

Aging gracefully is the final frontier in this musical about those facing a host of mid-life crises. Boasting a four-person cast, the show takes a humorous and heartfelt look at the day-today concerns of he over-fifty “empty-nester” crowd, including everything from retirement to divorce, AARP to dating, and plastic surgery to grand parenting.

Get ready to Run/Walk the most scenic course in Texas at the South Padre Island Annual Marathon! With breathtaking views of turquoise waters and the best race swag around, this event is more than just a race—it's an experience. Join us in supporting Sea Turtle Inc. as we embark on this yearly tradition. The marathon weekend kicks off on November 8th with packet pickup from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM. On November 9th, lace up for the 5K/1M Turtle Trot at 7:00 AM, with another packet pickup session from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM. The main event takes place on November 10th, featuring the Half Marathon & Relay at 6:45 AM. Run by Port Isabel and enjoy the stunning scenery overlooking South Padre Island. Whether you're participating in the Turtle Trot or tackling the Half Marathon, this event offers an unforgettable experience for all. Don’t miss out on this incredible weekend—get your running shoes ready and join us at South Padre Island!