Major Texas event
Ford Holiday River Parade and Lighting Ceremony
November 27, 2026 · San Antonio, Texas · Bexar County
Why plan around Ford Holiday River Parade and Lighting Ceremony?
The Ford Holiday River Parade is San Antonio's signature start to the Christmas season, combining illuminated river floats, live entertainment and the River Walk lighting ceremony in one of Texas's most recognizable visitor districts.
Verified event details
Organizer: Visit San Antonio ↗
Official-source details checked 2026-09-02. Ticket prices and lineups can change; confirm the linked official source before purchasing or traveling.
Plan the visit
Use November 27 as the confirmed 2026 parade date
The official River Walk organizer publishes the 45th annual parade and lighting ceremony for Friday, November 27, 2026. The parade begins at 6 p.m. at the Tobin Center, with the televised portion beginning later from the Arneson River Theatre.
Choose ticketed or free viewing deliberately
The organizer sells reserved viewing sections and also publishes a limited free viewing area on the east side of the River Walk between Pecan Street and Richmond Avenue. Free space is first come, first served, so arrival timing matters.
Expect special River Walk access rules
The event has restrictions on strollers, ice chests and carriers in the viewing area and publishes dedicated ADA sections. Review the current event rules before committing to a particular part of the parade route.
Keep exploring
- Explore Bexar County — Build more San Antonio and Bexar County stops around the parade.
- Texas events calendar — Compare other holiday and seasonal events across Texas.