Texas Citrus Fiesta Parade in Mission spotlights schools, community groups and more than 150 floats

MISSION, Texas — The Texas Citrus Fiesta Parade wound down on Conway Avenue on a day of bands, youth squads, civic groups and business floats, with announcers telling the crowd the event included more than 150 entries and reminding residents about related festival activities.

Announcer 1 introduced a steady procession of participants, naming teams and individuals as they passed. "Up next, we have our Veterans Memorial volleyball team," the announcer said as the parade began with youth athletes. Later the announcer welcomed float sponsors, greeting "Jay Gonzales law firm" and thanking local businesses for their support.

Schools were prominent. Announcers highlighted Mission High School's cheer, drill team, marching band and JROTC, and introduced Mission Collegiate High School's float, which the announcer described as decorated with white flowers and citrus and noted was a TEA A-rated campus and on the AP School Honor Roll for 2025.

Community organizations and cultural delegations also participated. The parade featured a White Wing Royal Court from Benitas, a Nomad Shrine Club veterans band, Amigos Del Valle on its 51st anniversary and sister-city delegations from municipalities in Mexico. Businesses and local institutions — including Freedom Bank (float No. 100), DairyPure, Peter Piper Pizza and several automotive and service providers — were among the sponsors and entrants.

Organizers used the broadcast to make public-service announcements: the fun fair at Benson Community Park was scheduled to start at 2 p.m. (location listed as 1801 South Inspiration Road), and a Royal Ball was planned that evening at the Mission Event Center. Announcers also thanked Mission Police Department, Mission Fire Department and Mission EMS for parade safety and invited spectators to watch a full recap on the City of Mission's YouTube and Facebook channels.

The announcers invited the crowd to celebrate local youth programs and civic involvement throughout the afternoon. In closing, Announcer 1 stated, "We are proud to have all of our participants over 150 floats," and encouraged attendees to stay for additional Fiesta Week events.

The parade concluded with an invitation to participate in a final community dance led by Zumba in the Park and a reminder to travel home safely. The city said it will publish a full recap and video highlights online.