Reynosa holiday celebration draws a surge of cross-border visitors to historic downtown

Thousands of people from both sides of the border gathered in Reynosa, Mexico’s historic downtown on Friday as the city welcomed cross-border visitors and returning families for its annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony.

The event, held at the Miguel Hidalgo Main Square, drew about 7,000 people from both sides of the border, according to Sandra Elizabeth Garza Faz, Reynosa’s director of tourism and commerce.

Among those crossing for the festivities were Ailín and Eduardo Lara of Houston, who visited family in the region and spent the day shopping and enjoying the holiday market.

“We crossed in about 15 minutes — very quick,” Ailín said. “We came to buy medication and enjoy the day with family, and we did some shopping at the Christmas market set up in the main square.”