43rd Annual 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 cherished San Antonio tradition that brings joy and festivity to the San Antonio River Walk. This year’s theme, Toy Box Adventures, promises a whimsical and magical experience for all ages.

Join us for our annual spectacle featuring 27 beautifully illuminated floats, 5 entertainment floats, and over 100,000 holiday lights (2,250 strands) that brighten the River Walk from sundown to sunrise until the weekend after New Year’s Day.

With Grand Marshal Phil Green, CEO of Frost Bank, the Ford Holiday River Parade kicks off the holiday season with style and laughter. Held the day after Thanksgiving, the parade and river lighting ceremony begin on Friday, November 29, 2024, at 6 PM at the Tobin Center, with a live broadcast at 7:05 PM from the Arneson River Theatre. Don’t miss this magical event that’s sure to be a highlight of your holiday season!

Purchase Your Tickets Today

TICKETS ARE NON-REFUNDABLE AND MAY NOT BE EXCHANGED. 

Tickets range from $12.50 to $40 and are sold online. 

• "Parade Plaza" includes areas R-GA, with tickets starting at $12.50. 

• Seating at Arneson River Theatre is Area L, with tickets starting at $40.00

The majority of River Walk restaurants offer dinner packages.

A free viewing area is 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 the following areas of the parade: 

  • Tobin Center for Performing Arts - SECTION A18

  • Area #F – Hotel Valencia - SECTION F22

  • Area #G – Main Plaza - SECTION G5

  • Area #G – International Building - SECTION G2

  • Area #G – Hugman’s Oasis - SECTION G18

  • Area #H – Homewood Suites - SECTION H8

  • Area #K – Briscoe Western Art Museum / Venue Villita - SECTION K6, SECTION K3

  • Area #L – Arneson River Theatre - SECTION L1

  • Area #N – Alamo Street Bridge - SECTION N5

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 for the Performing Arts (Area A) and arrives later in other areas (check map for times)

6-7 PM – Pre-parade show for ticket holders at Arneson River Theatre (Area L)

7 PM – Lighting of the River Walk 

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

Special Thank You to Our Sponsors