Volunteer

Experience the holiday magic like never before

In nine short years, the City of McAllen has created a one-of-a-kind night time holiday parade that features over 60 illuminated floats, 34 larger-than-life character balloons inflated with 34,000 cubic feet of helium, 13 school bands with over 3,000 members, 16 top celebrities and sports figures and the original “Vuelta” experience.

The phenomenon known as “Vuelta,” or “turn” in Spanish has become a McAllen tradition, where hundreds of balloon handlers spin giant helium balloons throughout the 1.5 mile parade route as the crowds chant “Vuelta”.

This year, we are also introducing the McAllen International Airport Sky Box Experience. The Skybox experience is an exclusive parade stop with a special host, live DJ, and illuminated LED stage with the Dallas Cowboys cheerleaders. Skybox guests will receive a complimentary t-shirt, noisemaker, and LED surprise.

Rich in Hispanic culture, the energy and excitement is a legendary sight to see that only happens at the McAllen Holiday Parade presented by H-E-B. Each year a dedicated community of over 1,000 volunteers, 1,000 City of McAllen employees, 48 sponsors and a year round float studio bring the McAllen Holiday Parade presented by H-E-B to life. On December 2, 2023, we are proud to announce the 9th Annual McAllen Holiday Parade presented by H-E-B.

To make the magic happen, we need your help as volunteer in the following categories:

BALLOON HANDLER – Handlers must be 18 and over and must weigh no less than 120 pounds. Handler will help put balloons in place and assist in getting them ready for the parade. Handler will work with a team to carry the giant cold-air helium inflatable balloons down the parade route. This position requires attending a volunteer training session on Saturday, December 1st.

BANNER CARRIER – Banner Carriers must be 16 and over. Banner Carriers march in the parade carrying a banner for a float, sponsor or other parade element.

To learn about how you can become a volunteer, contact Sarah Canizales at scanizales@mcallen.net or call 956.681.3350!