The Washington’s Birthday Celebration Association (WBCA) has selected outstanding community leaders to lead two of the Washington’s Birthday Celebration’s most traditional and time-honored events; the IBC/Commerce Bank Youth Parade Under the Stars and the Anheuser-Busch Washington’s Birthday Parade.
The WBCA is proud to announce that “Laredo Police Department will serve as the 2025 Parade Marshals for the Anheuser-Busch Washington’s Birthday Parade. Receiving the honor for the IBC/Commerce Bank Youth Parade Under the Stars will be “Smiles From Heaven”.
“We are honored to be celebrating the contributions of these two organizations to our community. Their commitment to the City of Laredo and Webb County exemplifies the spirit of WBCA. They are true heroes of our community, and we could not have thought of two more well deserving recipients to have as our parade marshals for 127th WBCA celebration,”
WBCA President Fernando Montemayor said.
The IBC/Commerce Bank Youth Parade Under the Stars, takes place Thursday, Feb. 20, at 6 p.m. The Anheuser-Busch Washington’s Birthday Parade, will be held Saturday, Feb. 22, at 9 a.m. Both follow a route South on San Bernardo Avenue, to the heart of Laredo’s historic downtown district.
As Parade Marshals, the designated representatives will serve as official “WBCA Ambassadors”. On the day of the Parades, the Parade Marshals, and their respective groups, will lead more than 200 entries that participate in these grand events each year.
“IBC and Commerce Bank are proud to continue as sponsors of the WBCA Youth Parade Under the Stars. This event serves not only to showcase our young people, but to nurture their learning of all the great leaders who built and shaped this nation. Equally important is showcasing our parade marshals who diligently dedicate their time to serve our City and Webb County,”
said, Gabriel Castillo, Sr. Vice President of Corporate Marketing.
The IBC/Commerce Bank Youth Parade Under the Stars is scheduled to take place on Thursday, February 20, 2025. This illuminated evening parade highlights talented youth as they promenade over the streets of Downtown Laredo and entertain the crowds with their dance routines, marching units and fully decorated floats.
Smiles from Heaven is a local 501c(3) non-profit organization founded in 2019 to support children and families affected by cancer. Inspired by the late Bella Sanchez, the organization spreads hope and kindness, hosting over 10 annual events to raise funds for fuel cards, lodging, and hospital parties for pediatric cancer patients. Founded by Bella’s father, Ray Sanchez, Smiles from Heaven collaborates with other nonprofits to offer community support and resources. For more information, visit www.smilesfromheaventx.org or contact Ray Sanchez at 956-337-8967.
“It is an absolute honor to be chosen as the Parade Marshals for the 2025 Youth Parade. We are humbled and grateful to accept this opportunity. In a nutshell, Smiles From Heaven is a local 501c(3) non-profit organization who assists local children and families affected by pediatric cancer and blood disorders. You can learn more about our programs and how we have impacted our community”
Ray Sanchez Founder and President said.
The Anheuser-Busch Washington’s Birthday Parade will take place on Saturday, February 22, 2025. Referred to as the “crown jewel” of the Celebration, this international parade is led by the ever-popular Anheuser-Busch Clydesdales and features dazzling floats from all over South Texas. During this parade, Princess Pocahontas is presented with a key to the City by the Mayor of Laredo; the Society of Martha Washington debutantes display their beautifully beaded, gowns; and bands, marching units, clowns and dance teams perform for the crowds making this a truly unforgettable event.
“The grand marshal is usually someone who represents the community, upholds its values and makes a positive impact,” said Steve LaMantia, Partner of L&F Distributors. “Who better than our heroes at the Laredo Police Department, who are also celebrating their 175th Anniversary this year.”
Steve LaMantia, Vice President of L&F Distributors said.
The Laredo Police Department is poised to celebrate a milestone in 2025: its 175th anniversary. As one of the oldest police departments in the United States, Laredo PD has a rich history steeped in tradition and community service. Since its founding in 1850, the department has evolved with the city, adapting to new challenges and growing alongside Laredo’s vibrant community.
The department’s history is a testament to its commitment to protecting and serving the people of Laredo. Over the years, officers have faced numerous challenges, from early law enforcement in the rugged frontier to modern policing in a growing, modern city. Through it all, the Laredo Police Department has maintained its dedication to upholding the law and ensuring the safety of its residents.
In recognition of this momentous anniversary, the Laredo Police Department has been named the Grand Marshals for the 2025 Anheuser-Busch Washington’s Birthday Parade. This prestigious honor is a highlight of the city’s year-long celebrations, recognizing the department’s significant contributions to the community over the past 175 years.
As the department prepares for this milestone, plans are underway to commemorate the anniversary with various events and activities. These will include historical exhibitions, and special ceremonies to honor the legacy of the Laredo Police Department. The celebrations will serve as a reminder of the department’s enduring presence and its vital role in shaping the city of Laredo.
” On behalf of the Laredo Police Department, I am deeply honored and grateful to accept the role of Parade Marshals for the 2025 Washington’s Birthday Celebration. This recognition is particularly meaningful as it coincides with our department’s 175th anniversary. This esteemed recognition is an immense honor for our entire department. I extend my heartfelt thanks to the President, Fernando Montemayor Jr., and the Board of Directors of the Washington’s Birthday Celebration Association for this prestigious honor. We look forward to leading the parade and celebrating our rich history and unwavering commitment to serving the Laredo community. Thank you for this incredible opportunity.” – Chief of Police, Miguel A. Rodriguez
Throughout the years, the Celebration has grown to be over a month long and consists of parades, dazzling pageants, fireworks, a carnival, an air show, a sizzling jalapeño festival and much more. Combined, WBCA events attract nearly 500,000 residents and visitors, and contributes an estimated $14 million every year to the local economy.
The 127th Washington’s Birthday Celebration takes place January 11 – February 28, 2025.
