Volunteer
Experience the holiday magic like never before
In thirteen short years, the City of McAllen has created a ONE-OF-A-KIND
nighttime parade.
ILLUMINATED
FLOATS
GIANT
BALLOONS
SCHOOL
BANDS
BAND
MEMBERS
TOP
CELEBRITIES
"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.”
The South Padre Island Vuelta Zone and McAllen International Airport Skybox Experience offer guests exciting, elevated parade experiences. The South Padre Island Vuelta Zone brings the energy of the parade up close, while the McAllen International Airport Skybox Experience features an exclusive parade stop with a special host, live DJ, and illuminated LED stage with the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders. Skybox guests will receive great gifts from McAllen International Airport, including 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 volunteers, City of McAllen employees, sponsors bring the McAllen Holiday Parade presented by H-E-B and powered by Bert Ogden Auto Group to life. On December 5, 2026, we are proud to announce the 13th Annual McAllen Holiday Parade presented by H-E-B.
To make the magic happen, we need your help as a volunteer in the following categories:
BALLOON HANDLER – Handlers must be 18 and over and must weigh no less than 120 pounds. Handlers will help put balloons in place and assist in getting them ready for the parade. Handlers 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 5th.
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 Yoko Gomez at ygomez@mcallen.net, pardvolunteers@mcallen.net, or call 956.681.3350!
