Washington's Birthday Celebration

Tribute to First President Draws 400,000 to Laredo Annually

Most folks probably could never guess where the largest celebration of George Washington’s birthday is held. Believe it or not, it is staged each year in the border city of Laredo, Texas. True enough, Laredo is hardly the first thing that comes to mind when Americans think of their first president. However, it is Laredo that throws the largest and oldest Washington Birthday Celebration.

Founded in 1898, this month-long celebration attracts over 400,000 visitors each year. Over the years, the event has grown to include a variety of entertainment and activities. This year’s celebration is scheduled to include parades, concerts, fireworks displays, a carnival, fun run, BBQ cookoff and more. In short, there really is something for everyone at this “international celebration of a traditionally American holiday.”

The 2009 Washington’s Birthday Celebration is set to kick off Jan. 22 with the Commander’s Reception and will conclude Feb. 22 with the HEB Fireworks Extravaganza. Some of the highlights sandwiched in between include: American Historical Theatre George Washington Performance (Feb. 11), Founding Fathers’ 5K Fun Run & Health Fair (Feb. 14), WBCA Stars and Stripes Air Show Spectacular (Feb. 15), Jalapeno Festival (Feb. 21), and the Anheuser-Busch Washington’s Birthday Parade (Feb. 21).

Contact wbca@wbcalaredo.org for ticket information.