Ford Holiday River Parade and Lighting Ceremony

Friday, November 29, 2024

Santa and Mrs. Claus are back in 2024 with more glitter, glee, and toys to carry on this wonderful tradition of turning on the holidays!

The 43rd Annual Ford Holiday River Parade is a San Antonio tradition that offers a spectacular one-hour parade along the San Antonio River Walk. 

Always held the day after Thanksgiving, the parade and river lighting ceremony will feature 28 illuminated floats and over 100,000 lights (2,250 strands) illuminating the River Walk. The lights turn on from sundown to sunrise every day until the weekend following New Year’s Day.

This ticketed parade begins Friday, November 29, 2024, at 6 PM at the Tobin Center and arrives later in other areas (check map). It is broadcast live at 7 PM at the Arneson River Theatre. 

Tickets

Ticket sales are coming soon. Tickets range from $12.50 to $40 and are sold online. The majority of River Walk restaurants offer dinner packages.

Tickets are non-refundable and non-exchangeable. 

Several free viewing areas are offered on the parade route (bring your own chair). This space is available on a first-come, first-served basis: East side of the River Walk between Pecan Street and Richmond Ave. 

• Children 2 years of age or older will need a ticket.

• Strollers, ice chests, and carriers are NOT allowed on the River Walk for this event.

• ADA tickets are available in certain areas of the parade.

Schedule of Events

6:00 PM-9:00 PM

Seating at Arneson River Theatre & on a 4-mile route on the River Walk  

4 PM – River Walk closes to the general public

5 PM – River Walk gates open for ticket holder access

6 PM – Parade begins at the Tobin Center and arrives later in other areas (check map for times)

6-7 PM – Pre-parade show for ticket holders in the Arneson  

7 PM – Lighting of the River Walk 

7-8 PM – Televised Parade – Santa on the last float!   

Parade on the River Walk is ticketed