UK-based BP and Anglo-Dutch behemoth Shell each boasted parade floats overflowing with scores of celebrants tossing out beads and glow sticks along the 1.3-kilometre route on Westheimer Road.

The 40-strong Shell contingent made its way through the Houston “gaybourhood” of Montrose amid a sea of rainbow-coloured balloon bunches, heavy on Shell yellow.

Several floats later, BP’s small army of prideful paraders strode the streets decked out in green T-shirts with the words “BP Yourself” emblazoned on the back.