Mission- For 82 years, the Texas Citrus Fiesta has been showcasing the bountiful citrus industry of the Rio Grande Valley.
Due to the it’s warm climate, the Rio Grande Valley is considered to be Texas’ premiere citrus region.
Saturday’s event began at the Leo Peña Placita park with an all-day fun fair featuring food, games and entertainment.
Later in the afternoon, the fiesta’s most-awaited event, the Parade of Oranges, made its way down Conway Avenue where spectators set up tent covers to watch and stay dry.
Several of the floats included blockbuster characters to embody this year’s theme of, “Citrus Celebrates Hollywood Movies.”
Locals look forward to representing their school or business by taking part of the celebration, whether it’s by walking in the parade or supporting those who do.
“The Citrus Fiesta is a big deal to this small town,” said Victoria Lopez, owner of The Tea Room. “As you can see it’s cold and it’s raining and we still have a big crowd. Everybody came out to support the city of Mission.”
Despite the rain, thousands made their way out to continue celebrating one of Mission’s longest traditions.
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