Texas Citrus Fiesta

In the 1920s John H. Shary, citrus grower and local developer, began plans to promote locally grown citrus crops on a large scale. The first Texas Citrus Fiesta, with the theme "Coronation and Pageant of Citrus" was held in 1932 with the same promotional purpose. Among the events in the one-day celebration were a coronation ceremony for Fiesta royalty, citrus exhibits, fruit packing contests, a flying circus, a football game, and a parade. Two years later the Fiesta was a four-day event held in Lions Park, and the fiesta style show was introduced. Over the years the Fiesta has grown into a two-week event, with added events such as an outdoor festival, barbeques, and a carnival. The product costume style show, for which costumes are made from local agricultural products, has become one of the most popular annual events. The Texas Citrus Fiesta has evolved into a notable cultural event in the Rio Grande Valley. Many prominent citizens have served as Fiesta royalty over the years. The purpose of the annual event has remained that of John H. Shary's vision-to promote the area's citrus industry on a large scale. (1989)

Texas Citrus Fiesta is a historical marker in Mission, Hidalgo County, dedicated in 1989. It is one of 138 historical markers documented in Hidalgo County in the Texas Historical Commission Atlas, among 236 historic sites cataloged across the county.

The site sits at 26.2200, -98.3184 near Mission. The nearest cataloged historic site is Oblate Park (historical marker), about 0.2 miles away. Others within a short drive include Gregg Wood Home, Shary Building, and Shary, John, Building.

This record corresponds to Texas Historical Commission Atlas #5215005255. Use the map below for its exact position and turn-by-turn directions.