Generations of El Pasoans lined Montana Avenue on Thanksgiving morning to watch the 89th annual Glasheen, Valles & Inderman Injury Lawyers Sun Bowl Parade.
Children tossed footballs and played with bubble machines as they waited Thursday, Nov. 27, for the colorful characters and mascots to appear.
Floats, marching bands and drum lines from area schools made their way down Montana Avenue from Ochoa Street to Copia Street as crowds cheered and waved.
Award-winning chef Aarón Sánchez served as Grand Marshal, calling the honor “a dream come true” and reflecting on his deep ties to El Paso. This year’s theme was “Childhood Is Where Dreams Are Born.”
Bianca Martinez, a UTEP sophomore and clarinet player, performed in the parade for the first time. Her mother played years ago as an Austin High School student, making the moment special for the family.
“It’s super exciting. Getting to see my family, my number one supporters here,” Martinez said.
For Vianey Reyes, the parade is a tradition. She and her family camped out since 9 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 26, braving cold and wind with heaters, food like posole and champurrado, and even a projector for movies. “Seeing our kids enjoy what we enjoyed as kids is very meaningful to us,” Reyes said.
Reyes and her family enjoyed watching their children’s reactions to the floats and mascots as the parade rolled by.
Sánchez said being home for the parade was an honor and a joy. He noted how much El Paso has grown and how exciting it is to see young faces looking toward the future. “This parade represents that spirit,” he said. “It’s a chance to reflect, celebrate both new and older generations, and give thanks.”
Gaby Velasquez may be reached at gavelasquez@elpasotimes.com; @gabyavelasquez on Instagram.