Everyone has a special holiday memory that epitomizes the feeling they associate with the most wonderful time of the year. For some, it could be unwrapping presents as a child on Christmas morning. Some may have fond memories of spending time at the mall and shopping for friends and family. For those who experience the McAllen Holiday Parade, the massive spectacle is likely one of the closest associations to the magical season. With iconic holiday characters such as Rudolph, Frosty the Snowman, and Santa, along with marching bands, trains, cars, and abundant cheer, the tradition has become synonymous with holiday joy for Valley residents.
The McAllen Holiday Parade is now in its 11th year and has become a beloved tradition in the Valley. Whether watching the parade along Bicentennial Street with hundreds of thousands of people, in the packed McAllen High Stadium, or on television with host Mario Lopez, residents eagerly anticipate the event as a yearly tradition. Many Valley residents also participate in the parade by marching with bands, working as balloon handlers, or carrying banners. Anyone can volunteer for the parade on the city’s website. While the parade has had various themes over the years, this year’s theme, “Noche Magica” or Magical Night, promises to be the most captivating yet. As any parade viewer will attest, the magic of the experience is truly something that must be seen to be believed.
The idea for a holiday parade originated during a retreat for city officials in 2013. Hilda Salinas, a new city commissioner at the time, suggested organizing a Macy’s Day-style parade in McAllen. The 2013 parade was relatively small in scale, as it was put together in just 90 days. In contrast, preparations for the parade begin well in advance, with planning for the next year’s event starting before the current year’s parade even takes place. The parade’s preparation and production are fully self-sustaining, thanks to the support of generous sponsors such as HEB and The Bert Ogden Auto Group. Over time, the parade has evolved into an award-winning event. It has even been recognized as the best parade in Texas!
Many people might be surprised to learn that most floats are built in the city at the McAllen Float Studio, a Parks and Recreation Department division. The studio has employees who work on the massive balloons year-round. The sponsors choose the floats after deciding on a theme.
TV star Mario Lopez, known for his role in Saved by the Bell, has been hosting the television broadcast of the event as a tradition. Assistant City Manager Joe Vera mentioned that Lopez attended the parade as a spectator in 2013 and was then asked to host the following year. Since then, he has become a staple at the event and is expected to host annually. In 2024, he will share hosting duties with Latin movie and television superstar Julian Gil. The duo is expected to deliver an unforgettable show.
The Shoe Box Float Contest is a popular addition to the festivities. Children from across the Valley submit their ideas for next year’s theme. The winners receive prizes, including having their miniature shoebox-sized float turned into a massive thirty-foot float that will kick off next year’s festivities and VIP seating in the stadium.
The parade is widely popular, with approximately 267,000 attendees last year. This year, even higher attendance is anticipated. Spectators can purchase seats in the stadium, including VIP and upper-level seating, for optimal views. Alternatively, they can watch the parade for free from bleacher seating along Bicentennial Street. The McAllen Holiday Parade is known for its holiday magic and is a memorable event for attendees.
