Washington’s Birthday Celebration 2025

The 2025 theme, 'Love Letter to the Border," for Washington's Birthday Celebration invites you to embrace the spirit of America and Mexico!

The Washington Birthday Celebration in Laredo, Texas, started in 1898 with a heartfelt purpose: to honor George Washington while celebrating the incredible culture and friendship that connect the United States and Mexico. It all kicked off with the Improvement Society of Laredo, which organized a charming parade filled with patriotic festivities, turning it into a delightful community event.

Over the years, the event has become a cherished community highlight. In 1923, the Society of Martha Washington was founded. With its colonial pageant and ball, it added elegance and tradition. This occasion offers a chance to witness historical practices as attendees wear stunning 18th-century costumes. In the 1970s, the celebration blossomed with the introduction of the Jalapeño Festival, a wonderful tribute to Laredo’s vibrant Tex-Mex heritage.

Today, Washington’s Birthday Celebration lasts several weeks and attracts over 400,000 visitors annually. It's one of the largest and most diverse celebrations in America.

The Celebration will last from January 16 to February 28; get ready for a one-of-a-kind experience!

What to Expect When Attending Washington's Birthday Celebration 2025

The events will occur at various venues, including Life Downs for the WBCA Carnival and rodeo activities. Sames Auto Arena hosts concerts, the Jalapeño Festival, and large gatherings. Downtown Laredo features the Grand Parade and Youth Parade. San Agustin Plaza presents cultural reenactments, while the International Bridge No. 1 hosts the Abrazo Ceremony, which symbolizes the unity between the U.S. and Mexico.

Get ready for an exciting celebration featuring over 30 delightful events spread across 44 days! From a thrilling air show and a lively carnival to captivating pageants that display the country's early history, there’s something for everyone.

Key events you should not miss include the Grand Parade, the highlight of the celebration with spectacular floats, marching bands, and lively performances. The Jalapeño Festival, sponsored by La Costeña, offers a spicy atmosphere filled with jalapeño-eating contests, live music, and food vendors. The Princess Pocahontas Pageant and Ball presents a glamorous evening that celebrates Princess Pocahontas, who is depicted as a peacemaker and symbolizes harmony between Native Americans and the early settlers. The Abrazo Ceremony takes place at the U.S.-Mexico border. It symbolizes the friendship between the two nations through a heartfelt “embrace.”

The WBCA Air Show, sponsored by Miller Lite, will feature an awe-inspiring display of aerial acrobatics and military aircraft. The Youth Parade will be a lively event presenting the talents of local students and youth organizations.

The Washington’s Birthday Celebration Association (WBCA) has appointed distinguished community leaders to oversee two of the celebration’s most beloved and longstanding events: the IBC/Commerce Bank Youth Parade Under the Stars and the Anheuser-Busch Washington’s Birthday Parade. The Parade Under the Stars is scheduled for Thursday, February 20, at 6 PM. Meanwhile, Washington’s Birthday Parade occurs on Saturday, February 22, at 9 AM. Both parades will proceed south along San Bernardo Avenue, leading to the center of Laredo’s historic downtown district.

In January, expect daytime highs of 70 F to 75 F (21 C to 24 C) and nighttime lows in the low 50s F (10 C to 12 C). February follows with daytime temperatures of 72 F to 77 F (22 C to 25 C), and nighttime drops to about 55 F (12 C). To stay comfortable, dress in layers, with light jackets for evenings and comfortable outfits for the daytime!

Tickets

The Washington's Birthday Celebration in Laredo includes both free and ticketed events. Many parades, community gatherings, and cultural ceremonies, like the Grand Parade or the Abrazo Ceremony, are free to attend. However, some events, like the Princess Pocahontas Pageant and Ball, require tickets. Check the events and see the prices.

Security Protocols

The event features standard event security protocols to ensure safety throughout its diverse activities, such as parades, festivals, and galas. You can expect typical measures, including bag checks at entry points, designated security personnel, and monitoring by local law enforcement. Additionally, certain venues or events within the celebration will have specific rules, such as restrictions on the size of bags or prohibited items like alcohol, weapons, or large banners.

How to Get To or From the Event

You can reach the event by car or public transport:

• Car: Laredo is located along Interstate 35, which connects to major cities like San Antonio (2.5 hours away) and Austin (4 hours away). Highways 59 and 83 also provide access from nearby regions. Event organizers provide designated parking areas, especially for major events like the Grand Parade.
• Bus: Laredo has a Greyhound station and other regional bus services offering routes to and from nearby cities. Check the Greyhound website for schedules and the best route.
• Local bus: Laredo's El Metro Transit provides a bus network to access Washington’s Birthday Celebration events. The system includes 25 bus lines serving over 1,000 stops throughout the city. Major routes like Santa Maria, San Bernardo, and Springfield can help you navigate popular locations during the festival.

Washington's Birthday Celebration 2025 Bag Policy

Remember, it's best to travel light to the event, as all clear bags will be checked, and larger bags won't be allowed.

The venues don’t have a luggage storage option available. But don’t worry—just reach out to Bounce, and we’ll take care of you!

Bounce is the largest luggage storage network globally, with 15,000+ locations in over 4,000 cities. Partnering with local businesses, Bounce allows people to explore freely. The app or website lets you quickly find and book storage, drop off bags, and enjoy your day hands-free.

Washington's Birthday Celebration 2025 Bag Storage

Store Your Luggage With Bounce and Join the Party

Once you identify the ideal location, reach out to us, and we'll find a perfect space for your belongings.

The daily price is just $4.60, and there's no cancellation fee if you need to make changes to plans, and we offer you 24/7 support!

How to Stow Your Bag at Washington's Birthday Celebration 2025 With Bounce

• Find a suitable location, book, and pay online.
• Go to the chosen location, bring your confirmation, and leave your luggage.
• Head to the celebration and have fun!

How to Make the Most Out of Washington's Birthday Celebration 2025

• Plan your visit: With over a month of festivities, including parades, festivals, and pageants, review the official event schedule for details to prioritize your favorites. Must-attend events include the Grand Parade, Jalapeño Festival, and the Princess Pocahontas Pageant and Ball.
• Get to know the local culture: Explore cultural elements, including the Abrazo Ceremony, and enjoy the vibrant food stalls offering Tex-Mex cuisine. For an authentic Laredo experience, don’t miss the live music, carnival rides, and folkloric performances.

Store your luggage with Bounce while in Laredo! Visit Washington's Birthday Celebration to have a great time!