CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — Several businesses are looking forward to the Buc Days Rally Night Parade to return to it's traditional route on Leopard Street on May 4.
The construction on Leopard Street has impacted many businesses especially Frank's Spaghetti House. Owner Vanessa Moody said since the construction began in 2019, her restaurant has taken a hit.
"It improved for a little bit but it slowed down again, it's just a rollercoaster down here," Moody said. "Construction has been taken up a lot of the area and rerouting people."
She's glad the parade route's return to Leopard Street will bring in customers.
"It's a great opportunity to see the community and tell them we're still here after 70 something years," Moody said.
President and CEO of Buccaneer Commission Johnny Philipello said Buc Days not only attracts locals but many out-of-towners.
"You know the economy during Buc Days is really a stimulator we have and we're really proud to bring this event to town," Philipello said.
Estrella de Jalisco Mexican Restaurant employee Celia Molina is excited because she'll be able to enjoy the parade with her family while she works.
"When my children were young I would take them every year to the parade," Molina said.
Philipello said this year's Buc Days parade is special, not only will business enjoy the economic boost but families will be able to enjoy old traditions and make new memories.
"The tradition is back to what it used to be," Philipello said. "That's what's important to us, is how do we have those memories that families growing up had that they can now pass along their next generation of children to have a fun day with the whole community."
Several businesses along Leopard Street like Frank's Spaghetti House will have special menus on Parade Day.
The Buc Days Rally Night Parade will begin at 7 p.m. with a parade pre-show at Buc Stadium. Then the parade will go down Leopard Street and end at Cole Park.
Tickets for the pre-show at Buc Stadium will be $10 or $15.