GM Financial Parade of Lights
Spectators gather along the streets of Downtown Fort Worth to watch a large evening procession. The lineup features high school marching bands, cheer and dance teams, vintage and specialty car clubs, and colorful community floats. The procession culminates with a special appearance by Santa and Mrs. Claus.
What to Expect
Illuminated holiday parade through Downtown Fort Worth featuring Santa and festive floats.
Event Details
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Downtown Fort Worth
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
Downtown Fort Worth Initiatives, Inc.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families and holiday parade fans
Vibe
Bright and festive
Energy Level
Moderate
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
High
Location
Know Before You Go
- Hours: 6:00 pm.
- Parking: Downtown parking is available, including some free garages and low-cost lots. Visitors are advised to plan for street closures and traffic.
Tips & Advice
- Take TEXRail from the North Side or T&P station park-and-ride, since parking is free at most stations and trains run every 30 minutes that Sunday.
- Arrive downtown early, because streets along the route start closing in the morning and highway ramps, including Spur 280, close in the afternoon.
- Pick your viewing spot before you leave home, then enter downtown from that side instead of trying to drive across the parade zone.
- Skip the Trinity Railway Express, which won't run at all on Sunday, and expect buses to get stuck in traffic before the parade.
- Never park at a bagged meter; use one of the garages or lots in each quadrant of the parade zone instead.
Special Events & Promotions
- The 43rd parade's theme is "A Legacy in Lights."
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
What's this year's theme?
The 43rd GM Financial Parade of Lights has the theme "A Legacy in Lights."
What route does the parade take?
It starts at Weatherford and Throckmorton, heads east on Weatherford, then south on Commerce to 9th Street. It turns west on 9th, goes north on Houston to 2nd, moves over to Throckmorton, and ends at 3rd Street.
What's the best way to get downtown?
TEXRail. Park-and-ride lots are at North Side Station and Fort Worth T&P Station, parking is free at most stations, and trains run every 30 minutes that Sunday. The Trinity Railway Express won't run on Sunday.
Where should I park?
Each quadrant of the parade zone has parking areas, some downtown garages are free, and there are many low-cost lots. Don't park at bagged meters.
How should I drive in?
Pick your viewing spot first, then come into downtown from that side. Don't drive through downtown to reach it. You don't have to use Spur 280, since plenty of other streets lead in.
More Christmas Events Near Fort Worth
More Christmas Events near Fort Worth
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.