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The East LA Mexican Independence Day Parade & Festival has proudly welcomed an extraordinary lineup of notable figures who represent the strength, talent, and contributions of the Mexican and Mexican-American community. Over the years, our Grand Marshals have included astronauts, athletes, actors, cultural icons, and influential media personalities who embody the spirit of East Los Angeles.

Past Grand Marshals & Co-Grand Marshals

 

YearGrand Marshal(s)Co-Grand Marshal(s)

 

• 2025 José M. Hernández (first Mexican-American astronaut)

• 2024 “El Hijo del Santo” (iconic Mexican wrestler), Diana Zermeño (voice of “Dora” in the animated series)

• 2023 Mark Consuelos (actor & talk show host)

• 2022 Fernando Valenzuela (legendary LA Dodgers pitcher), Katya Echazarreta (first Mexican-born woman in space)

• 2019 Andy Ruiz Jr. (world heavyweight boxing champion)

• 2018 Armado Silvestre (an American and Mexican actor)

• 2017 Miguel Angele Mancera ( a Mexican lawyer and politician )

• 2016 Fernando Allende (a Mexican artist and entertainer )

• 2015 Giovani dos Santos Ramírez (a Mexican former professional soccer player)

• 2014 Edward James Olmos (actor and activist), Mickey Mouse, and Minnie Mouse (honorary Grand Marshal)

• 2013 2Eric Garcetti ( former Los Angeles Mayor and diplomat)

• 2012 Graciela Beltran ( Mexican American singer)

• 2011 Carla Estrada ( executive producer of telenovelas)

 

How We Select Our Grand Marshals

Grand Marshals are chosen for their strong connection to the Mexican-American community and for the powerful example they set through their accomplishments. Honorees often represent:

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• Education & Achievement

Celebrating trailblazers whose stories inspire future generations, such as a migrant farmworker who became a NASA astronaut.

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• Community Pride

Public figures who uplift and represent the heart of our community.

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• Cultural Icons

Beloved personalities from sports, entertainment, Lucha Libre, and Mexican-American arts & culture.

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• Timely Themes

Recognizing “heroes of the pandemic,” emerging leaders, or those empowering Latina women and youth in our community.

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