Come and Take It Parade to follow updated route in 2025

The legendary Come and Take It Parade returns to Gonzales on Saturday, Oct. 4 at 10:30 a.m. with float judging beginning at 9 a.m.

Parade Chair Renee Rathmann is proudly serving her second consecutive year in this role, bringing valuable insight from her many previous years on the Come and Take It Celebration Committee. A Gonzales High School graduate and proud Texas A&M University alumna, Renee is deeply rooted in this community. In addition to her work with the parade, she’s actively involved with the Gonzales County Youth Show Association Board, GCYSA Bucket Calf Program, Green Clover 4-H Club, and the Gonzales Elks Lodge. She is a positive, dedicated contributor whose love for Gonzales is reflected in her service and leadership.

This year, the parade will feature an updated route designed to enhance safety and improve the overall experience for both participants and spectators. After reviewing the previous path, the committee identified concerns at the intersection of Saint Joseph and Saint George Streets, where tight turns and ongoing construction near the Randall Rather Building presented potential hazards, particularly for larger floats and vehicles.

To address these concerns and create a safer, smoother flow, the new parade route will
• Begin at Saint Louis Street
• Continue to Saint James Street
• Turn right one block to Saint Lawrence Street
• Then turn left onto Saint Joseph Street

Check-in will be held at the corner of Saint Lawrence and College Streets, near the Junior High office.

The community continues to rally around this cherished tradition. Local businesses like Laurel Ridge Antiques are already planning parade viewing parties along the new route, showcasing the warm support and excitement that makes the Come and Take It Celebration such a beloved event.

Parade entry is now open
• FREE – Entries submitted by August 8
• $10 – August 11 to 22
• $30 – August 25 to September 5
• $50 – September 8 to 19
• $100 – September 22 to 26

Entry deadline: September 26. No exceptions.
Spots are limited and first come, first served.

Register online or in person at the Gonzales Chamber of Commerce & Agriculture / Visitor Center, 304 Saint Louis St., or call (830) 672-6532

All accepted entries will receive parade numbers, a route map, and additional information by email by Sept. 29, 2025.

Stay tuned as we will be announcing our 2025 Parade Marshal soon. Each year, this honor is reserved for a beloved local celebrity who represents the heart and spirit of our community.

Mark your calendar and plan ahead for one of Texas' most iconic small-town parades. This year's parade promises to be fun, safe, and full of tradition.