Mission a continuously growing city within Hidalgo County that has a population of about 84,827. Mission, while smaller in size, shares the same economic growth that neighboring city McAllen is experiencing. Mission has become a hot spot for popular shopping stores and restaurants to call home. The city has been deemed as the Home of the Ruby Red Grapefruit since 1921 due to the fruit being commonly grown I the area. Mission is also home to the Texas Citrus Exchange and holds the annual Texas Citrus Fiesta Parade that features fruit decorated floats, local school bands, law enforcement agencies, fire departments, city government and local officials as well as city residents. Mission is home to the National Butterfly Center which provides locals and visitors a wonderful way to experience butterflies, birds, and so much more.