Rich in south-of-the-border flavor, city is the major international crossing along U.S. – Mexican border. Established by Spanish land grant 1755; became county seat when Webb...

Rich in south-of-the-border flavor, city is the major international crossing along U.S. – Mexican border. Established by Spanish land grant 1755; became county seat when Webb County organized in 1848. City has served under seven flags and in 1840 declared itself the Republic of the Rio Grande. Today, Laredo is largest inland port in the southern U.S. Named an All-American City in 2007, features a diverse economy with growth in the retail, hospitality, manufacturing, importing and exporting, petroleum and natural gas industries in the Gateway to Mexico. Educational institutions include Laredo Community College and Texas A&M International Univ.

Since 1898, the Washington’s Birthday Celebration has honored George Washington as first Western Hemisphere leader to free a New World country from the dominion of European rule; 16-day February fiesta celebrated on both sides of the border includes parades, fireworks, dances and jalapenos galore! The 112th edition of this red, white and blue fiesta hits the border in February 2008.

Laredo Convention and Visitors Bureau: 800/361-3360. www.visitlaredo.com.