Washington’s Birthday in Laredo

The largest George Washington Birthday Celebration in the country takes place in Laredo. It started 123 years ago when some settlers wanted to promote Americanism. They staged a mock battle in 1897 on the Laredo Square between Colonial Troops and Native Americans. The event has grown and grown over the years and has become Laredo’s largest single event. National media including the New York Times, CNN and others, have covered it. It begins with tequila tasting in mid-January sponsored by the local Bar Association and goes for 47 days with 37 events. Posters and program books become valuable historic souvenirs.