McALLEN – The City of McAllen hosted a news conference Thursday, November 5 at La Plaza Mall to reveal new details and logistics regarding the McAllen Holiday Parade presented by La Plaza Mall. The parade is scheduled for Dec. 5, 2015 at 6 p.m.
City of McAllen department heads as well as city officials discussed the free Polar Express Shuttle, street closures, first aid stations, clean up and parking.
The McAllen Holiday Parade presented by La Plaza Mall is being touted as a big city event and the city is encouraging residents and visitors to wear comfortable clothing and shoes, as well as to be prepared to walk.
“This is an event that will draw thousands of people to the event site, it is important to plan ahead for congestion,” said Chief Victor Rodriguez, McAllen Police Department.
Public Works will distribute a free bag for attendees to collect trash and leave filled bags along the parade route. Crews will then sweep the streets after the event and will collect the filled bags in a Keep McAllen Beautiful effort.
With dozens of corporate sponsors signed on, Assistant City Manager Joe Vera said the goal is to make the parade one of the top 10 best parades in America.
“We are planning to raise the bar on the parade this year. We will have 36 helium balloons, 15 bands and over 50 floats in the parade,” said Vera. “We will continue to raise the bar and produce a quality event here in McAllen for our residents and those in surrounding communities.”
In order to best secure the area, traffic closures will be rolled out in three phases beginning Friday, Dec. 4 at noon. Please visit www.mcallenholidayparade.com