This weekend in Southeast Texas promises non-stop action and fun for all ages.

Valentine's Day lands on Saturday, but the spotlight shines brightest on Mardi Gras Southeast Texas at Ford Park, running February 13–15.

Expect nine free parades, high-energy live music, and family-friendly entertainment such as wiener dog races and fire eaters.

Kidzland features giant inflatables, a petting zoo, and magic shows, with free entry for kids under 12 on Saturday and Sunday.

Don't miss the delicious eats—gumbo, king cakes, funnel cakes—and the special Character Brunch on Sunday.

Parking and parade access are free.

Tickets are only needed for the Party on the Plaza concerts and vendor events, and can be snagged at the box office to avoid extra fees.

Catch the parade excitement live at 6 p.m. Saturday on 12News+.

Valentine’s Day isn’t just for couples — it’s a moment to celebrate all kinds of love in Beaumont.

Whether your heart rests with friends, family, or yourself, there are welcoming options across town to make Saturday special.

Round up friends for a whiskey flight at J. Wilson’s or laugh your way through cook-your-own BBQ at KO Korean Grill.

Raise a glass at a local brewery or seek out a quiet table for one at Koi Japanese Sushi Bar for some well-deserved solo time. 

Families can skip the couples-only vibes — most spots embrace everyone ready to celebrate the people who matter most.

If you’d rather stay in, order your favorite takeout and unwind just the way you need to.

Remember, love is the check-in text from a friend, a family dinner, or simply caring for yourself. 

However you honor it, let love in your life take the spotlight this weekend.

Billions are pouring into Southeast Texas, but many in Beaumont wonder what it means for them.

The massive investments—like Golden Triangle Polymers in Orange County and new LNG plants in Port Arthur—are region-wide, but Beaumont is emerging as the hub.

The Port of Beaumont’s trade has doubled since 2020, and construction employment is rising as workers and companies flood the city.

If you own a business, now is the time to tap into demand for services, from food and housing to entertainment.

Events like the Industry Advancement Expo are helping locals connect with major industry players.

While retail has softened, overall employment and the Port remain strong.

Beaumont’s future belongs to businesses and workers willing to adapt and seize new opportunities amid the economic shift.

Port Arthur, Nederland, Groves, Port Neches, Vidor, and Lumberton all have strict ordinances limiting where registered sex offenders can live in relation to schools and playgrounds.

But in Beaumont, there are no such local laws—meaning nearly 900 registered offenders can live near schools after parole or probation ends.

At places like Pathways Learning Center and King Collegiate Academy, dozens of registered offenders live within a mile, and some even across from school buildings.

Officials like Mayor Roy West admit the city has only followed state rules, while advocates such as Bonnie Spotts demand tougher action to protect children.

Local leaders are now reviewing neighboring cities' ordinances, but community voices are crucial for real change.

As neighboring cities enforce tighter restrictions, offenders appear to be relocating to Beaumont, leaving residents to ask: Should Beaumont do more?

The city’s next steps depend on public input—residents are urged to speak out.

Young adult novels have always held a special place in my heart, continuing to resonate long after my teen years.

The intense drama and emotion of these stories once felt monumental — and the themes of self-discovery and growing up still feel surprisingly relevant.

These five YA books deliver all the feelings, making them perfect choices for teens and adults seeking a nostalgic boost or a heartfelt read.

Favorites include To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before by Jenny Han, Twenty Boy Summer by Sarah Ockler, and Inside the Mind of Gideon Rayburn by Sarah Miller.

For a witty adventure, try How Opal Mehta Got Kissed, Got Wild, and Got a Life by Kaavya Viswanathan.

Or dive into the emotional depths of Dreamland by Sarah Dessen for an unforgettable YA journey.