General Questions
Why doesn’t WBCA support individual candidates?
As a community-based nonprofit, WBCA must remain neutral. Supporting one candidate would require equal support for all candidates in a given race, which is not feasible. Neutrality ensures fairness and inclusivity
What is considered political campaigning?
Political campaigning includes, but is not limited to campaign signs, banners, flags, distribution of political materials, vote solicitation, campaign advocacy, and campaign apparel intended for promotion.
How is this policy enforced?
WBCA reserves the right to enforce this policy and may require the removal of prohibited materials or activities during events to maintain neutrality.
The granddaddy of all questions that we get “Why do you celebrate George Washington in Laredo, TX.”?
Well, besides being proud citizens of this great nation and there being many deserving men and women in our history -- The WBCA™ decided that Celebrating George Washington was as good a cause as any. Also, with the unique geographical location of Laredo and its predominantly Hispanic community, the city wanted to do something to remind the nation, just how proud the citizens of South Texas are to be a part of the United States of America.
Parade Question
WBCA Parade Participation Notice
The Washington’s Birthday Celebration Association (WBCA) is a nonpartisan organization. To maintain neutrality and ensure a welcoming environment for all participants and spectators, WBCA does not endorse or support any political candidate, party, or campaign.
Active political campaigning is strictly prohibited during WBCA parades and events. This includes, but is not limited to:
• Campaign signs, banners, flags, or placards
• Distribution of political or campaign materials
• Campaign apparel intended for promotion
• Solicitation of votes or campaign advocacy
Political candidates may participate or attend as members of the general public only, provided they comply fully with this policy and all parade rules.
WBCA reserves the right to enforce this policy and may require the removal of any prohibited materials or activities to ensure compliance.
Are motorcycles allowed?
No, unless they are on a float as a prop. Any motorcycle on a float cannot be turned on at any time on parade route or while in staging area.
Can items be thrown from a float?
No, items may NOT be thrown from a moving vehicle. Walkers along side the float (18 years or older) can hand out approved items. All items must be approved by the WBCA Parade Committees. WBCA™ has a corporate sponsor for this event and any item that is in competition with our sponsor will automatically be rejected.
Who has to pay the fire department fee?
All floats must pay the fee and have the tagged and licensed fire extinguisher as required by the City Fire Department. Additionally, any non-float that has a generator (i.e. trucks with generator for a sound system) must pay the fee and have the tagged and licensed fire extinguisher as required by the City Fire Department. The Fire Department will be on site and will NOT make any exceptions to these rules.
Can political signs, shirts, balloons or any other campaign item be used on my float or worn by participants?
No, WBCA™ is a non-political organization and does not promote any particular candidate running for office. Therefore, any campaign signage on a float or entry will not be allowed in the parade. Participants wearing political campaign shirts will be asked to remove the shirts in order to be allowed to participate. Sitting elected officials are allowed to participate and represent their respective office but would not be allowed to wear campaign shirts or use campaign signage. All policies and guidelines set by WBCA™ are established to make our parades safe and enjoyable for the community. Another goal is to keep the parades at a reasonable and enjoyable length. Therefore, we must keep the number of entries limited.
Can anybody sell food at the Parades?
The City of Laredo Environmental Health Department is in charge of all vendors along parade route. The Health Department will cite food vendors who sell food without permits and/or vendors who are in violation of City Food Sanitation Ordinances. Laredo Municipal Court fines could range up to $2,000. The rules of food preparation and personal hygiene apply to all food service workers, whether they are paid professionals or volunteers. For more information please contact the City of Laredo Environmental Health Division at (956) 795-4904.
Jalapeño Festival
To ensure the safety and enjoyment of all guests, the following clear bag policy will be enforced at The Jalapeño Festival
Bag Size and Type:
Only clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC bags will be permitted.
Bags must not exceed 12" x 6" x 12".
Small clutch purses no larger than 4.5" x 6.5" are allowed.
One-gallon clear plastic freezer bags (e.g., Ziploc) are acceptable.
Prohibited Bags:
Backpacks, diaper bags, fanny packs, and other non-clear bags are not permitted.
Oversized bags exceeding the approved dimensions are prohibited.
Prohibited Items:
Outside food, beverages, and containers are not allowed.
No outside cups, including reusable tumblers, YETIs, or similar drinkware.
Glass containers, thermoses, and other drinkware are strictly prohibited.
Special Exceptions:
Medically necessary items and diaper bags will be permitted but are subject to inspection at the entry gate.
Guests may bring an empty, clear plastic water bottle to fill at designated water stations.
Inspection Process:
All bags are subject to inspection at entry points.
Guests refusing to comply with the policy may be denied entry.
Do Children Pay?
General Admission: Kids 12 and under go in free.
VIP Areas: Children 3 and under go in free.
Air Show
How do I get to the Airshow?
When arriving at the Laredo International Airport, you’ll take a left turn on Bob Bullock Loop and then a left on Jacaman Rd. Continue to Bartlett Ave and take a left, continue on Bartlett Ave. Take a left on Thomas Ave. and then a right on Hillside Rd to go into the free parking located in the El Metro Park and Ride.
Where can we stay while visiting Laredo?
There are many great lodging facilities in the Laredo Area. Click here for some of the establishments you can stay at during the Air Show weekend. Some may offer special room deals during Airshow weekend, so be sure to book early!
Is there Handicapped Parking?
Yes. You must have a handicapped plate or tag in the car. Handicapped parking is limited and is on a first-come-first-serve basis. Please arrive early to ensure yourself a parking spot. Handicap parking will be accessible at the El Metro Park and Ride parking lot. For questions pertaining to you individually, feel free to contact us.
Can I bring weapons or firearms to the show?
Firearms, weapons and concealed firearms are prohibited. For a full listing of TSA restricted items at airports, please see: https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/whatcanibring/printable
Can I bring a scooter, wheelchair or golf cart?
Motorized scooters and wheelchairs for disabled patrons are allowed in the Airshow grounds; personal golf carts are not allowed. Please be aware that the crowds may be heavy and maneuvering may be difficult, and you must bring your own charging equipment if you plan on recharging your device. Bicycles, skateboards, and roller skates are not permitted.
Can I bring my own food and drink?
You are NOT allowed to bring a cooler, alcoholic beverages or glass containers. Loose ice is prohibited. Frozen ice packs are allowed. No large bags. Any bags brought in are subject to search by security personnel at the gates and you may not be allowed in with such items. No cooking equipment is allowed. Remember that there are food and drink vendors available at the show.
Are camera devices allowed?
Yes, cameras for personal use are allowed. Your camera bags will be checked by gate security upon entry. Remember that the Airshow performance and many performers acts are copyrighted, and your photography or video cannot be used for commercial purposes.
Are drones allowed?
Drones are not allowed. A TFR (Temporary Flight Restriction) will be in effect within a 5-mile radius around the Laredo airport, restricting air traffic of all types (including drones).
Are pets allowed?
Pets are NOT allowed onto the Airshow area and should NOT be left in vehicles. Because of the festival setting with food and drink vendors, we prohibit animals, other than legally allowed guide and assistance animals. Please also understand that the loud noises and explosions can injure their sensitive hearing and/or frighten them.
Can you give me a schedule of acts?
We list our acts but cannot give a specific schedule since schedules are finalized much closer to the date of the Airshow and depend on availability and various conditions. Times are subject to change without notice.
Is there shade?
The Airshow is held under an open sky. You are encouraged to bring hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen lotion. Limited shade may be found under the wings of some static display aircraft. Preferred Seating Areas like the Afterburners Club and Flightline Chalet offer a sun and shaded seating area. Umbrellas are discouraged except at the very rear of the viewing area to insure that all visitors have a good view of the show. No tents or canopies are allowed.
Can I meet any of the pilots?
Yes! Many of the feature pilots and crew make themselves available before or after their performances to meet their audience. Many military crews are at their aircraft during static viewing times and are happy to answer questions and pose with you for photos. Airshow performers and crew may stop in before or after their performances to talk with you and answer questions.
Do I need ear plugs or other forms of hearing protection?
The Airshow strongly encourages you to bring and use proper hearing protection such as quality ear plugs, and especially so for children. The noise from the jet engines and pyrotechnic explosions may be painful or harmful for some. This is especially true if you are viewing the show from the front line. For young children who may tend to play with and/or remove the foam type plugs, a suggested alternative is sound muffs (available in the gun section of most sporting goods stores, and generally available in children’s sizes). Please make your own choices on this matter and protect your hearing.
What happens if it rains?
Unless the weather is severe, we will fly as much of the show as is safe and possible. Due to FAA permit restrictions and performer commitments, it’s not possible to reschedule the airshow for another weekend.