**120+ Vehicles Join the El Florido Holiday Light Parade**
The holiday spirit came alive in Tijuana as over 120 vehicles participated in the 2024 Holiday Light Parade organized by El Florido. The festive procession brightened the streets, spreading cheer and magic throughout various neighborhoods.
Starting at El Florido’s Zona Río location, the parade made its way to Morelos Park around 5 PM on December 8, 2024. This joyful event featured a public fair at the park organized by El Florido, where families enjoyed food, carols, dances, and other surprises.
Decked out in festive costumes, Floridín and Cristian Orozco, the ambassador for El Florido, led the parade from a brightly decorated sled. With candy canes and a gingerbread house backdrop, they waved to onlookers, repeating the signature catchphrase, “Ahh ¡Qué barato!” The parade route included Sánchez Taboada, Agua Caliente, and Insurgentes boulevards.
Behind the lead sled, a vibrant convoy of over 120 Volkswagen cars, including the iconic Beetles and Kombis, followed. These vehicles were all adorned with festive decorations such as lights, Christmas trees, and inflatable ornaments.
“This marks the second year of the Holiday Light Parade in Tijuana,” said Cristian Orozco. “We’re expecting double the attendance from last year, when approximately 3,500 people joined. El Florido has gifts prepared for all the children,” he added, inviting everyone along the route to honk and attend the fair, which continued until 9 PM.
The event also featured the culmination of a contest by El Florido and Nestlé, offering attendees a chance to win a car, with the winner to be announced on December 9, and the keys handed over at the subsequent parade in Ensenada on December 14.
Among the participants was Sergio, dressed as Jack Skellington, with a sack of sweets for children. “Last year, I dressed as the Grinch and decided to change it up this year,” he said, noting the challenge of decorating his blue Beetle with the number 50 and bright lights.
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**Secondary Article: Growing Popularity of Holiday Light Parades**
Holiday light parades have become a beloved tradition across the globe, and Tijuana is no exception. As communities gather to celebrate the festive season, these parades provide not just entertainment but also a sense of community and joy.
In recent years, there has been a noticeable increase in participation and spectator numbers at such events. Cities across Mexico and the world have seen an uptick in creative entries, as participants go all out with dazzling decorations and themed outfits.
These parades serve as an opportunity for local groups, businesses, and families to come together, often supporting charitable causes and fostering community spirit. As more people engage with these events, they are evolving into significant cultural fixtures, marking the holiday season with light, music, and diverse celebrations.
With Tijuana’s Holiday Light Parade now in its second year, it’s clear that such traditions will only continue to grow, bringing even more light and joy to the winter nights.