Anheuser-Busch Washington's Birthday Parade

The Laredo community came together this past Feb. 23, along the San Bernardo Avenue and at downtown Laredo to enjoy the annual Anheuser-Busch Washington's Birthday Parade. About 200 cars were decorated to pay tribute to their organization and link to this year's theme, "Stars of Freedom."

Every year, Laredoans gather and are prepared with food, beverages, and chairs where they reserve their perfect space to watch the parade. Since very early in the morning, people started arriving to delight in this annual event. At exactly 9 a.m., the parade began through the streets of Laredo up to mid day finishing in downtown Laredo.

About 200 allegorical transportations were decorated to represent many organizations from Laredo. This typically include the high school's bands, cheerleader squads, colorguard, as well as Laredo Community College Jazz band. Texas A&M International University students were in attendance with the Queen and King and other students. From shiny cars to shiny costumes, dance studios, radio and tv stations, everyone had lots of energy around the streets. People danced along and shouted to those whom they knew or admired. Private schools, non-profit organizations, and more provided the public with necklaces, candy, balls, t-shirts, and other objects. Kids were the most excited and, as always, the first in line to get some of these objects that will be kept as mementos.

What could not be missed in this traditional event were the pocahontas, whose wardrobes are exhibited at Mall del Norte before the parade and the gala cocktails. People may appreciate the many ornaments their costumes have. The Marthas also paraded along with their partners, who were very energized this year dancing along and pumping up the public. All kinds of different slippers were shown this year, which the audience expected to see when screaming "Shoe, Shoe!!" Alzafar and their fast cars, public officials, Mexican Bandas de Guerra, and the Budweiser horses, were also seen in this year's parade.

Even though parking was a hassle, Laredoans did not hesitate to look for available spaces wherever they could find them in order to enjoy this event with their family. The trace was left after the parade was done and many children left happy because of all the objects they were able to obtain. Not only kids, but adults also expressed their joy for this event that brings the community together.

This event is organized with months in advance. Once the celebration is over, the WBCA staff starts planning the next year's celebration. This celebration is possible thanks to all the volunteers, the committee, and members of the WBCA.

For more information, you may visit http://www.wbcalaredo.org

(Sandy Lugo may be reached at sandylugoespinoza@dusty.tamiu.edu)