Located 30 miles southeast of Dallas, Mansfield is a suburban city with parts in Ellis and Johnson. It’s known for its historical significance, Munster Mansion, and extensive park system. Perhaps most of all, the city is regarded as the Pickle Capital of Texas and site of the annual Pickle Parade.
Every year for St. Patrick’s Day, Mansfield hosts a weekend-long pickle festival with floats, marching bands, fun runs, keg races, live music, and plenty of pickles. The tradition started back in 2012 and to this day, remains as the World’s Only St. Paddy’s Pickle Parade and Palooza.
From March 17-18, the free event is packed with themed activities for the whole family. Staged by the Pickled Mansfield Society – an all-volunteer non-profit group, the annual event kicks off at 5 pm on Friday with a cornhole tournament, which also coincides when vendors open, followed by a tantalizing keg race.
Throughout the weekend, a variety of artists are slated to perform. The setlist include performances from LanceBattalion, Run 4 Cover, Texas Flood, and Penny & the Flamethrowers.
Athletic visitors can sign up for either the 10k or 5k on Saturday – late sign up opens at 7 am on Saturday morning. While the main parade – presented by the revered Pickle Queens – begins at St. Jude at noon, attendees can get an early dose of cuteness at the pet parade at 11 am.
Also not to be missed are the exciting pickle juice drinking, pickle eating, and pie eating contests at the Main Stage at 3:30 pm on Saturday.
As stated, the event is completely free: “With free admission, free parking, free shuttle service, free children’s activities and free entertainment, as well as a Vendor Market, Food Court and Pickle Contests, we’re rolling out a good time for the community,” the website reads.