Downtown Houston lit up with festive energy this morning as the city marked the 75th Annual H-E-B Thanksgiving Day Parade. Thousands of Houstonians gathered along the route to enjoy the beloved tradition, which officially kicks off the holiday season. This year, the parade honored the spirit of the Olympics, with nine-time Olympic gold medalist Carl Lewis serving as the Grand Marshal.

One of the standout moments of the parade was a vibrant float dedicated to Desi Americans, led by community leader Saeed Sheikh and joined by Congressman Al Green. Participants donned stunning traditional South Asian attire, bringing vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and the rich sounds of Desi music to the celebration. This float was a testament to the significant contributions of the Desi community in Houston and was met with cheers and pride from the crowd.

“It’s a proud moment for the Desi community to be part of this iconic parade,” said Saeed Sheikh. “Our float represents the diversity of Houston and showcases how our culture enriches this city.”

The morning began with a tribute to Houston’s Olympians and Paralympians who competed in the Paris 2024 Games, followed by an energetic performance from Theatre Under the Stars, featuring songs from Bring It On The Musical. The parade featured an impressive lineup, including 21 high-flying balloons, 19 intricately designed floats, local marching bands, and appearances by Tom Turkey, Santa Claus, and the iconic Apache Belles.

Carl Lewis, now the Head Coach of Track and Field at the University of Houston, expressed his pride in leading the event. “Houston has always been my home, and being part of this parade is an honor,” he said. “It’s a celebration of our city’s diversity, strength, and community spirit.”

Mayor John Whitmire echoed the sentiment. “This parade reflects Houston’s heart—our shared traditions, diversity, and the incredible achievements of our community members,” he said.

The 75th Annual H-E-B Thanksgiving Day Parade was a joyful reminder of Houston’s vibrant cultural tapestry. From the Desi float to the many performances celebrating the city’s unique heritage, the event showcased how every community adds its own color to the city’s story. For those who braved the chilly morning with lawn chairs and blankets, it was a perfect start to Thanksgiving Day—a celebration of gratitude, connection, and unity.