Ford Holiday River Parade and River Lighting Ceremony

Fiesta holiday parade

The 42st Annual Ford Holiday River Parade is a San Antonio tradition that offers an amazing one-hour parade along the San Antonio River Walk. This year’s theme, Tastes & Traditions Around the World, will kick off the San Antonio tradition of ringing in the holiday season. This year’s theme, Holiday Stories will kick off the San Antonio tradition of ringing in the holiday season. 

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

Price: Ticket prices range from $15-$40 and sold online. The majority of River Walk restaurants offer dinner packages.

This ticketed parade begins Friday, November 25, 2022 at 6 p.m. and is broadcast live at 7 p.m. at the Arneson River Theatre.

Several free viewing areas are offered on the parade route (bring your own chair). This space is available on a first-come 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.

Tickets are non-refundable/non-exchangeable.

Schedule:

  • 4 p.m. - River Walk closes to general public
  • 5 p.m. - River Walk gates open for ticket holder access
  • 6 p.m. - Parade begins at the Tobin Center
  • 6-7 p.m. - Pre-parade show for ticket holders in the Arneson
  • 7 p.m. - Lighting of the River Walk
  • 7-8 p.m. - Televised Parade-Santa on last float!

 

When

  • Friday, November 24, 2023 | 06:00 PM - 09:00 PM

Location

Arneson River Theatre, 418 Villita St, San Antonio, TX, 78205, View Map