This year, the McAllen Holiday Parade will honor local essential workers and organizers are asking the public to nominate their favorite frontline hero to be parade grand marshals. Entry deadline is Nov. 30 at 11:59 p.m.

 “This year has been a difficult year for everyone,”  said McAllen Mayor Jim Darling.  “As we learned to navigate through the challenges of wearing a mask, curbside delivery, Zoom meetings and Google classrooms, others still had to go to work, exposing themselves and their families to COVID-19.  Deemed essential workers, they did not have the luxury to work virtually. While Santa Claus has always brought us joy during the holidays, our essential frontline works delivered so much more to us all. That is why, our essential frontline workers will have their place of honor next to good ol’ St. Nick at the 2020 McAllen Holiday Parade, presented by H-E-B and powered by Bert Ogden & Fiesta Dealerships. In this small way, we hope that we can repay them for their daily sacrifice and acknowledge them for the true hometown heroes that they are.”

To nominate someone, visit McAllenHolidayParade.com and share their story. Explain why they represent the kind of extraordinary heroism that deserves recognition. Submissions may include photos. Winners will receive invitations to be a part of the parade on any one of the 40 floats in the parade.

Text to Win

The McAllen Holiday Parade is also holding another promotion via text-to-win opportunities. Prizes will be given away every Friday leading up to the McAllen Holiday Parade. Text the word SOUTHPOLE to 474747 to register to win. Prizes include a PS5, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, Yeezys and a $1,000-cash prize. Experiences in the promotion include an official Parade Watch Party and a chance to ride on Santa’s Sleigh during the parade and more.