Everything is bigger in Texas, including our Christmas celebrations, and the parades that mark the beginning of the Holiday events in each city are no exception. The Christmas Parades in Texas, filled with dazzling lights, illuminating festive floats, live entertainment, and joyous music, is a cherished traditions that unite communities to celebrate the most beautiful time of the year.
With so many cities hosting their own holiday parades, it can be hard to choose. As your Texas Travel Expert, I’ve rounded up the best Christmas parades in Texas from my own visits.
Boerne
Weihnachts Parade 2024
The 37th annual 2024 Weihnachts Parade will be the only night parade in town! This year’s theme is UGLY CHRISTMAS SWEATER. Parade fees are $25 for nonprofit organizations and $40 for for-profit businesses. Be sure to check out the parade rules before registration.
December 7, 2024, at 6 PM. In case of bad weather, it will be held on December 8, 2024.
Brownwood
16th Annual Lighted Christmas Parade in Downtown Brownwood
The 16th Annual Lighted Christmas Parade is a cherished tradition to kick off the holiday season in town that draws thousands of eager residents and visitors to the heart of Downtown Brownwood. As twilight descends, the streets come alive with a dazzling display of festive lights, holiday cheer, and vibrant colors, transforming the area into a winter wonderland.
December 5, 2024, from 6 PM to 8 PM.
Bryan
Downtown Bryan Holiday Stroll & Lighted Parade
The Downtown Bryan Holiday Stroll & Lighted Parade is a free, family-friendly holiday parade, stroll, and shopping event in Bryan, Texas. Starting at 5:00 PM, you can stroll through Historic Downtown Bryan and experience holiday cheer. This is a great time to finish holiday shopping, as local shops will stay open later than usual. Watch the Lighted Parade where floats compete for prizes. The judges will choose the best-themed decorations based on the theme of this year’s event: Holiday Movie Magic!
December 12, 2024. The Holiday Stroll will begin at 5 PM, and the Lighted Parade will start at 7 PM.
Canton
The Canton Chamber of Commerce Christmas Parade
Canton Ford is excited to host the Annual Lighted Christmas Parade in Canton. This year’s festive celebration is titled “Cowboy Christmas” and will kick off at 6:30 PM. It will illuminate the streets with vibrant lights and the holiday spirit. Before the parade, don’t miss the Canton Main Street Snow Day Festival, a delightful celebration featuring family-friendly seasonal activities and entertainment from 3:00 to 6:30 PM.
December 7, 2024, from 6:30 PM to 8:15 PM.
Clifton
2024 Lighted Christmas Parade
Join the 32nd annual Norwegian Country Christmas Tour with the Lighted Christmas Parade in downtown Clifton. Everyone is welcome to participate, including floats, singers, riders, and more. There is no entry fee to participate in the parade. Parade participants and vehicles must be lit up. Please note that no one can dress as Santa since Santa Claus himself will be right by your side throughout the parade route.
December 6, 2024, at 6:30 PM.
College Station
College Station Christmas Parade
The College Station Christmas Parade is a wonderful celebration uniting the community to celebrate the Christmas season. Decorated floats illuminated with twinkling lights, uplifting music, and festive decorations will definitely lift your spirits high until the parade begins at 4:00 PM and culminates with Santa’s arrival in Central Park on the final float. The sounds of the season will fill your heart as local marching bands grace the event with beloved Christmas carols. Don’t miss the highlight of the evening—Santa’s grand entrance, as the community comes together for this joyful celebration!
December 7, 2024, at 4 PM.
Comfort
38th Annual Christmas in Comfort Celebration
The 38th Annual Christmas Celebration in Comfort is a time-honored tradition of holiday extravaganza, renowned for its holiday shopping and family-friendly activities. It has grown from humble beginnings to over 130 vendors showcasing arts, crafts, and delightful food offerings. The festivities will go on from 10 AM to 9 PM, offering a full day of family fun and ending with a lighted night parade that steals the show at 7 PM.
November 30, 2024, from 10 AM to 9 PM.
Corpus Christi
Illuminated Boat Parade
The Illuminated Boat Parade is a breathtaking showcase of illuminated boats gracing Corpus Christi’s coastal waters. A spectacular testament to creativity and community spirit comes alive as boats adorned with vibrant lights sail through the waves. Bring your family and friends to unite along the shoreline and be inspired by this mesmerizing display that highlights local craftsmanship and artistic passion. The festive atmosphere will be further elevated by music while you admire the beautiful sight of boats gliding past the port. Don’t miss out on the after-party to keep the night fun, enjoying delicious food and great company.
December 7, 2024.
Dallas
The 2024 Dallas Holiday Parade
With a rich history that began in 1988, The Dallas Holiday Parade stands as the City’s largest one-day, outdoor event, uniting communities in celebration. More than 350 television stations in 159 markets have shared the magic of the parade, transforming it into a cherished holiday tradition that brings joy to thousands of families across North Texas and beyond. Tickets range from $30 to $100 and are available online.
December 7, 2024, at 9 AM.
Denison
90th Annual Denison Christmas Parade
Bluepeak Fiber is thrilled to announce the 90th Annual Denison Christmas Parade, a cherished tradition that lights up Downtown Denison Main Street with festive cheer. All participating floats and trucks will be illuminated with dazzling Christmas lights, creating a magical atmosphere for everyone to enjoy. Don’t miss the fun at the Hot Cocoa Competition beginning at 4 PM in Heritage Park, where you can warm up with delicious cocoa while soaking in the holiday spirit! $20 ENTRY FEE, valid for 2 VEHICLES. Fill out the online application here.
December 5, 2024, from 7 PM to 8:30 PM.
Ennis
Lights of Ennis Parade, Block Party, and Christmas Bluebonnet Market
Join the Ennis Chamber of Commerce in celebrating the holiday season with a magical Christmas Parade of Lights, a vibrant Block Party, and a charming Christmas Market! This is a festive experience that promises joy and wonder. Don’t miss the chance to be part of the Lights of Ennis Parade; the parade entry form is available on the Greater Ennis Chamber of Commerce website here.
December 5, 2024, from 5 PM to 9 PM.
Fort Worth
2024 Parade of Lights
The Fort Worth GM Financial Parade of Lights, featuring over 100 dazzling illuminated entries, will kick off at 6:00 PM on Sunday, November 24, at the intersection of Weatherford and Throckmorton Streets. Join in as Santa embarks on his magical journey around the parade route on a specially designed float at 7:20 PM. Gather your family early in the day to secure a front-row seat, savor hot chocolate, delight in a meal from one of Downtown restaurants, seize the opportunity for early bird shopping at the Downtown retailers, and dance to the vibrant pre-parade music and displays.
November 24, 2024, from 4 PM to 8 PM.
Fredericksburg
Light the Night Christmas Parade
Witness the historic Main Street lit with holiday cheer to celebrate the Light the Night Christmas Parade in Fredericksburg. The parade will kick off at 6:30 p.m., winding its way from Washington St. to Edison St. Don’t forget to bring your folding chairs and cozy blankets to enjoy this delightful spectacle. After the parade, gather at the Peppermint Platz in the Adelsverein Halle for a memorable meet-and-greet with Santa and Mrs. Claus, starting at 8 PM. Little ones will definitely love a dedicated children’s activity area, ensuring fun for all ages! And the best part? Free seating along the parade route means everyone is welcome to join the festive celebration.
December 6, 2024, at 6:30 PM.
Galveston
Galveston Municipal Police Association Christmas Parade
The 2024 Christmas Parade, a proud initiative of the Galveston Municipal Police Association that showcases community creativity through colorful floats, will illuminate the streets on December 14 at 6:30 PM. Each entry will reflect the spirit of giving, requiring at least one unwrapped toy for the cherished Blue Santa program. Fill out your form here while they are still accepting entries to attend this event.
December 14, 2024, at 6:30 PM.
Grapevine
45th Annual Grapevine Parade of Lights
Since its inception in 1979, the Parade of Lights has illuminated the spirit of the season, taking place on the first Thursday of December each year. This year, the festive celebrations embrace the theme of: “Toys, Trains & Candy Canes.” The collaboration between the Grapevine Chamber, the City of Grapevine, and the support of Grapevine-Colleyville ISD brings to life the Annual Grapevine Parade of Lights, celebrated as the largest lighted Christmas parade in North Texas.
December 5, 2024, at 7 PM.
Hico
Hico Christmas Market & Light Parade 2024
The Hico Chamber of Commerce has proudly announced its Annual Christmas Market & Light Parade in Downtown Hico! Starting at 11 AM, the festivities kick off with a vibrant street market showcasing vendors from across Texas. Discover unique handcrafted gifts, delicious treats, and seasonal delights as you stroll along the bustling stalls. After enjoying the market, make your way to Peppermint Park from 3 PM to 5 PM for a magical experience—FREE pictures with SANTA!
As the sun sets, prepare for a spectacular highlight of the day at 6 PM: the annual light parade! Watch as shimmering floats and twinkling lights illuminate the streets, creating a dazzling display that will fill your heart with holiday cheer.
December 7, 2024, from 11 AM to 7 PM.
Irving
Holidays at Heritage: Parade and Tree Lighting 2024
Kick off the holiday season in Irving with the Annual Parade and Tree Lighting as part of the Holidays at Heritage series! This year’s “Winter Wonderland” parade will bring lights and cheer to the Heritage District streets. The parade will begin at 6 PM, followed by a traditional Tree Lighting Ceremony, a live holiday performance from Midnight Soul Band at 7: 15 PM, and lots of other family-friendly activities, including photos with Santa, holiday crafts, seasonal photo stations, live music, and local food vendors at Heritage Park. The celebration will culminate in a spectacular drone light show starting at 8:30 PM.
December 7, 2024, from 6 PM to 9: 30 PM.
Jacksonville
Annual Christmas Parade 2024
The 2024 Annual Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce Christmas Parade will be held in Downtown Jacksonville under the theme of Candy Lane Christmas. Only a limited number of parade entries will be entertained this year with one driven vehicle with or without an attached trailer per entry. The parade line-up will be at 5:00 PM, while the parade will begin at 6:00 PM. Early Bird Entry Fee is $30 per vehicle for chamber members and $40 per vehicle for Prospective Members. After December 1, 2024, a $50 entry fee per vehicle will be applicable to attend the parade. Register here to attend this event.
December 5, 2024, from 6 PM to 7 PM.
Kerrville
Holiday Lighted Parade
The Holiday Lighted Parade will joyfully usher in the holiday season in Kerrville, celebrating the much-anticipated arrival of Santa Claus in his iconic fire truck. Gather your hot cocoa and go to Downtown Kerrville to be part of this cherished annual community tradition. After the parade, embrace the spirit of the season at Tranquility Island, where the beauty of the lights will illuminate the night.
November 23, 2024, at 6 PM.
Marble Falls
Light Up Parade
The 2024 Light Up Parade is returning to the heart of Downtown Marble Falls and there’s definitely no better way to ring in the holiday season than with this dazzling event. The parade will showcase beautifully decorated floats adorned with vibrant lights of every hue, illuminating Main Street Marble Falls in a magical display of festive decorations.
December 6, 2024.
McAllen
McAllen Holiday Parade
If there’s only one parade you must experience in Texas, this is it! With a vibrant 1.5-mile stadium and street parade route, and marching bands & dance teams, it’s the largest holiday and helium balloon parade in the state. Celebrate as you twirl alongside your favorite giant character, discover balloons in the new “Vuelta Zones,” and marvel at the illuminated floats and delightful surprises. There will be celebrity hosts and guest appearances throughout the event.
December 7, 2024
Marshall
Wonderland of Lights Parade
2024 Wonderland of Lights Christmas Parade in Historic Downtown Marshall, TX. Get your costumes ready, fluff those bows, illuminate your lights, and celebrate one of the most anticipated events of the year in Historic Downtown Marshall! $25.00 Entry Fee $5.00 Per Additional Entry. Register here.
December 7, 2024, at 6 PM.
McKinney
Mckinney Rotary Club Christmas Parade of Lights
The 25th annual McKinney Rotary Christmas Parade of Lights is a spectacular celebration brought to you by the McKinney Rotary Club. This cherished event not only lights up the neighborhood but also fuels the mission to create positive change through donations raised with a focus on promoting peace, preventing diseases, providing access to clean water and sanitation, enhancing maternal and child health, improving basic education and literacy, and empowering communities to thrive. Enjoy free trolley service, running approximately every 15 minutes from First Baptist Church, 1615 W Louisiana St, McKinney, TX 75069. Registrations are available online.
December 14, 2024.
Palestine
Parade of Lights
Join in for Palestine’s only nighttime parade, where the Main Street district transforms into a dazzling display of colorful lights, gorgeous floats, and joyful smiles! After the parade, join Santa at the Rotary Park Gazebo to share your heartfelt Christmas wishes. At approximately 8:30 PM, gather your loved ones in lawn chairs and blankets to enjoy a classic Christmas movie under the stars, complemented by delicious cookies and hot chocolate generously provided by the Palestine Area Chamber of Commerce. Take advantage of extended shopping hours in downtown until 9 PM and enjoy the Walk of Lights until 10 PM, featuring stunning holiday lights and decorations. Parade application for registration is available online.
December 7, 2024, from 7 PM to 10 PM.
Paris
Christmas Parade of Lights
Join in for a magical evening as troops gather to line up at the courthouse for the 2024 Christmas parade in Paris under the theme of “Christmas at the Movies.” Be sure to participate by submitting all forms before Thursday, December 5. Each float, for $40.00, brings your creative vision to life, with a $1 credit card processing fee adding to the excitement. Registrations are available online.
December 7 at 4 PM.
Port Arthur
Groves Lighted Christmas Parade
Celebrate the Groves Lighted Christmas Parade, where the holiday spirit shines in this vibrant town near Port Arthur. This free-to-attend Christmas parade will start at 39th Street and Cleveland Avenue, go west on 39th Street, and continue to Gulf Avenue.
December 7, 2024 at 6 PM.
San Antonio
Ford Holiday River Parade and Lighting Ceremony
The 43rd Annual Ford Holiday River Parade is a beloved San Antonio tradition that celebrates the season along the River Walk. This year’s theme, Toy Box Adventures, promises a magical experience for everyone. The event features 27 illuminated floats, 5 entertainment floats, and over 100,000 holiday lights not to mention Santa and Mrs. Claus. Enjoy the parade from sundown to sunrise until the weekend after New Year’s Day. A free viewing area is available on a first-come, first-served basis on the east side of the River Walk between Pecan Street and Richmond Ave. Bring your own chair! Tickets range from $12.50 to $40 and are sold online.
November 29, 2024, from 6 PM to 9 PM.
Taylor
The City of Taylor Christmas Parade
The City of Taylor Christmas Parade will kick off at 6 p.m. along Main Street, stretching from 12th to 3rd Street. The parade will culminate with a delightful turn west onto 3rd Street, leading to Vance. If you’re interested in participating, parade registration is open. Be sure to submit your applications by Friday, November 29, 2024, at 5 p.m. Don’t miss out on the chance to be part of this joyful event!
December 7, 2024, at 6 PM.
Tyler
Rotary Club Christmas Parade
Get ready for the festive spirit as the Rose City Rotary Club presents its annual Christmas Parade, set to take place in the heart of Downtown Tyler. Following the parade, the magic continues with the enchanting Christmas Tree Lighting on the Square.
December 5, 2024, from 6:30 PM to 8 PM.
Victoria
City of Victoria Lighted Christmas Parade
The Bicentennial Lighted Christmas Parade is set to return to DeLeon Plaza Pavilion in Victoria this year. You are welcome to join in a festive evening filled with radiant lights, uplifting holiday music, and a strong sense of community as we honor 200 years of history!
December 7, 2024, from 6 PM to 9 PM.
Waco
12th Annual Waco Wonderland Parade
The 12th Annual Waco Wonderland Parade will start at 11th St and go down Austin Avenue to 3rd St. Enjoy the holiday spirit with festive floats, bright displays, and favorite holiday characters. This year’s parade will be bigger and brighter than ever. Bring your whole family to make lasting memories! Register online to attend this holiday event.
December 7, 2024, at 10 AM.
Weatherford
Weatherford Lights the Night Parade
Embrace the festive spirit as we transition into the evening with the award-winning Weatherford Lights the Night Parade. Beginning at 6:30 pm, the parade launches from the Ninth Grade Center, elegantly weaving down South Main, around the magnificent Courthouse, and concluding on Waco St. Prepare to be captivated by over 70 brilliantly illuminated entries, featuring bands, drill teams, and stunning displays. Gather your loved ones and experience the magic as Weatherford sparkles with twinkling lights and holiday cheer.
December 7, 2024, 6:30 PM to 8 PM.
Other Christmas Things to Do in Texas
The Christmas Parade kicks off the holiday fun in Texas, where the celebrations continue with pop-ups, shopping, Santa visits, and more. Enjoy festive events like the River Walk Holiday Lights in San Antonio, a magical ride on the Polar Express in Grapevine, or the stunning Zoo Lights in Dallas—Texas knows how to celebrate the season!
For more festive fun, check out out comprehensive guide to Christmas Things to Do in Texas this Year.
Christmas Parades in Texas: FAQs
What time is the Christmas parade in Dallas?
The Dallas Holiday Parade occurs on the first Saturday in December every year. This year’s parade on December 7, 2024, will start at 9 AM and last about 2 hours. There will also be pre and post-parade vendors, captivating entertainment, and the joyous holiday atmosphere at the Downtown Main Street.
What day is the Christmas parade in Fredericksburg, Texas?
This year’s illuminated Light the Night Christmas Parade in Fredericksburg will be held on Friday, December 6, 2024, at 6:30 PM on Washington St. and make its way to Edison St.
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Christmas Parades in Texas: Final Thoughts
With all that said and all that seen, I can say that there’s nothing quite like the magic of a Texan Christmas especially when it comes to a Texas Christmas Parade across our magnificent Lone Star State. Whether you’re standing in the glow of a big city spectacle or cozying up in a small town celebration, the joy and excitement are simply irresistible.
These parades are more than just festive events; they’re beloved traditions that bring people together, creating memories that last a lifetime. So, grab your hot cocoa, bundle up, and dive into festive fun. Texas Christmas parades welcome you with open arms and plenty of holiday cheer. Happy holidays!
Last Updated 1 week ago by Jessica Serna | Published: December 1, 2024
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