Ford Holiday River Parade
Visitors can view an illuminated river spectacle featuring decorated floats, entertainment floats, and an appearance by Santa and Mrs. Claus. The ceremony illuminates the riverbanks with 200,000 holiday lights. Spectators can enjoy the view from reserved seating areas, dedicated free viewing spaces, or participating riverfront restaurants offering dinner packages.
What to Expect
Illuminated holiday floats and 200,000 lights along the San Antonio River Walk.
Event Details
Ages
Children aged 2 years or older require a ticket.
Neighborhood
River Walk
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
Visit San Antonio
Food & Drink
Most River Walk restaurants offer dinner packages for parade-goers.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families and fans of festive holiday parades
Vibe
Festive and dazzling
Energy Level
Moderate
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
Moderate
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: The page identifies a free viewing area and says children aged 2 years or older require a ticket. – Get tickets
- Hours: The parade and river lighting ceremony begin at 6 PM; the live broadcast is at 7:05 PM.
- Parking: Downtown has city garages, surface lots and metered street parking. Street meters are free in the evening.
- Accessibility: Designated ADA seating tickets are available in specific sections along the parade route.
Tips & Advice
- Bring your own chair for the free viewing area on the east side between Pecan Street and Richmond Avenue, which is first-come, first-served.
- Leave strollers, ice chests and carriers at home, because none of them are allowed on the River Walk during the parade.
- Buy a ticket for every child aged two or older, and be sure of your date, since tickets can't be refunded or exchanged.
- Book a dinner and ticket package with a River Walk restaurant to combine a meal with your seat for the parade.
- If anyone in your group needs accessible seating, buy ADA tickets in sections such as the Tobin Center, Main Plaza or Arneson River Theatre.
Special Events & Promotions
- 2026 theme: "Holiday Wishes Come True"
- The Witte Museum is Grand Marshal as it celebrates its 100th birthday
- Dinner and ticket packages from most River Walk restaurants
- Private viewing parties and group tickets arranged through the event team
- Live broadcast from the Arneson River Theatre
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
Do children need tickets?
Yes. Children aged 2 or older need a ticket.
Is there anywhere to watch for free?
Yes. A free viewing area runs along the east side of the River Walk between Pecan Street and Richmond Avenue. It's first-come, first-served, so bring your own chair.
Can I bring a stroller or a cooler?
No. Strollers, ice chests and carriers are not allowed on the River Walk for the parade.
Is there accessible seating?
ADA tickets are sold in several areas along the route. These include the Tobin Center (A18), Hotel Valencia (F22), Main Plaza (G5), International Building (G2), Hugman's Oasis (G18), Homewood Suites (H8), Briscoe Western Art Museum/Venue Villita (K6, K3), Arneson River Theatre (L1) and Alamo Street Bridge (N5).
How can I get involved?
You can sign up to volunteer. Contact Makayla Robles to be a vendor along the route. Contact Melisa Sanchez for group tickets or to host a private viewing party.
More Christmas Events Near San Antonio
More Christmas Events near San Antonio
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.