The City of San Antonio is honored to host the 43rd Annual Ford Holiday River Parade. We are excited to carry on this cherished tradition, and to celebrate another magical holiday season here in San Antonio. We hope that visitors and locals alike get to experience the joy and enchantment our River Walk lights bring.
The Ford Holiday River Parade is a standout event and a perfect start to the holiday season. This year’s theme, “Toy Box Adventures,” features 27 illuminated floats, over 100,000 holiday lights, and is guaranteed to be a breathtaking experience for all ages.
For those of you visiting, I hope that you get to experience San Antonio’s rich culture, gracious nature and holiday spirit during your time here. From my family to yours, we invite you to create your own holiday memories and wish you peace, love and joy this season.
Sincerely,
Ron Nirenberg Mayor
Each year, the South Texas Ford Dealers enjoy bringing the magic of the holidays to you and your family through the Ford Holiday River Parade. The parade is a San Antonio tradition that brings happiness to so many, and we are proud to be a part of it.
Ford is dedicated to building great products — to strengthening our business to the benefit of our communities. This is the foundation of Ford’s success, which helped us become a global automotive industry leader on six continents.
The South Texas Ford Dealers are independent dealerships that join together to bring you this and other events on the River Walk — San Antonio’s happy place. We encourage you to come back this holiday season to enjoy the Ford Holiday Boat Caroling and the Ford Fiesta de las Luminarias. Do not miss our other River Walk events throughout the year, such as the Ford Mariachi Festival.
This time of year, we like to think of ourselves as Santa’s Elves helping to bring the holiday spirit into your life.
At Ford, we go further to make our vehicles better, our employees happier and our planet a better place to live in.
Best wishes for a safe and happy Holiday Season.
- Your South Texas Ford Dealers
FORD HOLIDAY RIVER PARADE AND RIVER LIGHTING CEREMONY
Friday, November 29, 2024, 6:00 to 9:00pm
Welcome to the 43rd Annual Ford Holiday River Parade and River Lighting Ceremony, a beloved and time-honored tradition, where families, friends and guests gather to officially ring in the holiday season!
This year’s parade theme is “Toy Box Adventures,” which promises a nostalgic and magical experience for all ages. Highlighting timeless toys from years past, 27 beautifully decorated floats will cruise along the River Walk while holiday music fills the air. With Grand Marshal Tobin Center for the Performing Arts, represented by Board Chair Phil D. Green, the Ford Holiday River Parade celebrates the holidays with style.
At 7:00pm, experience the lighting of the Downtown River Walk, where more than 100,000 brilliant and colorful lights turn on before your eyes. It’s a spectacular sight that continues upriver through the Museum Reach, where illuminated trees line the walkways. Lights stay on from 5:30pm until sunrise, through January 12, 2025.
FORD HOLIDAY RIVER PARADE SCHEDULE
4:00pm – River Walk closes to the general public.
5:00pm – River Walk gates open for ticket holder access at the Arneson River Theatre and along the 2.5-mile parade route.
6:00pm – The parade begins at the Tobin Center. See the map for the parade route and approximate viewing times per area.
6:00 to 7:00pm – The preparade show starts at the Arneson River Theatre.
7:00pm – The official Lighting of the River Walk ceremony commences, and the televised parade begins at the Arneson River Theatre.
Special thanks to the Visit San Antonio River Walk Operations Team!
2024 GRAND MARSHAL 2024 GRAND MARSHAL
Tobin center for the performing arts
This year, we celebrate a decade of extraordinary artistry and culture as we honor the Tobin Center for the Performing Arts as our Grand Marshal! Marking their 10th Anniversary, the Tobin Center has become a cornerstone of San Antonio’s vibrant art scene, hosting world-class performances and enriching the community with unforgettable experiences.
Leading the parade is Board Chair Phil D. Green, proudly representing this iconic institution. The Tobin Center continues to inspire, innovate and connect, bringing the transformative power of performance to all.
Adding to the festivities, the entertainment boats will feature Tobin Center residents: Orchestra San Antonio, Youth Orchestras of San Antonio, Opera San Antonio, Ballet San Antonio, and the Classical Music Institute.
Join us in cheering for the Tobin Center and Phil D. Green as they light up the parade route with the same passion and brilliance that define their mission!
TobinCenter.org
Mario Bass, Executive Vice President & Chief Strategy Officer, VSA; Phillip D. Green, Board Chair, Tobin Center for the Performing Arts; Michael J. Fresher, President and Chief Executive Officer, Tobin Center for the Performing Arts; Marc Cross, Dealer Principle, Jordan Ford; Roslyn Castaneda, Director of River Walk Operations, VSA
The 43rd Annual Ford Holiday River Parade and Lighting Ceremony is a San Antonio tradition that officially rings in the holiday season. This year’s parade theme is "Toy Box Adventures," and begins with pre-parade entertainment at Arneson River Theatre, followed by 27 colorful floats. We love sharing the beauty of the River Walk, and we wish you and your family peace and joy during this special time of year.
2024 FORD HOLIDAY RIVER PARADE FLOATS
GRAND MARSHAL GRAND MARSHAL
LITE BRITE
Tobin Center for the Performing Arts
Celebrating 10 years of artistry and cultural impact, the Tobin Center for the Performing Arts leads as Parade Grand Marshal. Represented by Board Chair Phil D. Green, this iconic institution has enriched San Antonio with word-class performances, fostered creativity, and inspired connections that resonate throughout the community. TobinCenter.org
LOTERIA
Tobin Center for the Performing Arts
The Tobin Center for the Performing Arts is a cultural landmark that offers diverse artistic experiences. The word-class venue features state-of-the-art facilities and exceptional acoustics. Home to five resident companies, we engage the public through education initiatives and free community outreach programs, enriching the city’s cultural landscape and quality of life. TobinCenter.org
LINCOLN LOGS
Cavender Cares
Cavender Cares, established in 2021, is the charitable arm of Cavender Auto Group devoted to supporting the San Antonio area. With over a million dollars donated and partnerships with over 200 local organizations, we’re proud to join the Ford Holiday River Parade and celebrate the spirit of the season. CavenderCares.com
EASY BAKE OVEN
City of San Antonio Mayor and City Council Representing the City of San Antonio are Mayor Ron Nirenburg and members of the City Council. San Antonio is a global city with a dynamic economy and workforce, a deep cultural heritage and diverse communities that are resilient and welcoming. As one of the nation’s fastest growing cities, San Antonio has the 7th largest population in the United States. SanAntonio.gov
ANIMALS, BOOKS AND DOLLS
JW Marriott Resort & Spa
JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa debuts ICE!, an immersive visit to Who-ville featuring “How the Grinch Stole Christmas!” Journey through tunnels and arches, zip down two-story ice slides, and see your favorite characters all intricately carved out of 2 million pounds of ice! This float features everyone’s favorite storybook character, the Grinch! JWHillCountryChristmas.com
TINKER TOYS
Perry Homes
Since 1967, Perry Homes has been Texas’ largest and most trusted luxury home builder, with 29 communities in San Antonio and surrounding areas. Our commitment to quality, superior design and exceptional customer service allows you to enjoy every moment in a home that you love. Join us now through December 10, 2024, for our year-end sales event. PerryHomes.com
CHESS
Royal Public Schools
Royal Public schools is a tuition-free college prep charter school located on the south side of downtown San Antonio. Royal offers an innovative and next generation of the STEM school model called STREAMS-360 — a whole child approach to education. Currently, Royal is accepting applications for students in grades K-9 while adding one grade each year until serving K-12. RoyalTX.org
MALIBU BARBIE
Fiesta San Antonio Commission
The Fiesta® San Antonio Commission is a non-profit, volunteer, self-supporting organization that plans, promotes and coordinates Fiesta San Antonio. Through the support of its 100-plus non-profit participating member organizations, it presents a safe, educational, annual celebration of the diverse heritage, culture and spirit of San Antonio. Celebrate Fiesta 2025 – April 24-May 4. ¡Viva Fiesta! FiestaSanAntonio.org
ART KIT
Hampton Inn & Suites
Experience all the magic of the River Walk while enjoying a complimentary hot breakfast, balcony suites and views from the rooftop-heated pool. Whether you are looking for the perfect suite to catch up on work, a spot for the family to come together, a place to accommodate your four-legged family members or somewhere to unwind after a night on the town, we have got all the amenities you need. Hilton.com
MONOPOLY
Drury Plaza San Antonio Riverwalk
Drury Hotels is the official hotel for the 2024 Ford Holiday River Parade. The Drury family started Drury Hotels 51 years ago, and it remains family owned and operated. Recognized as best in customer service satisfaction for 18 years by JD Power, Drury Hotels invites you to “Travel Happy” at any of our 10 hotels in San Antonio or 150 throughout the United States. DruryHotels.com
CANDYLAND
PuroClean of San Antonio Northwest PuroClean of San Antonio Northwest specializes in water, fire, biohazard cleanup, mold remediation and reconstruction for both residential and commercial properties. With a dedicated team available 24/7, we provide rapid, reliable and compassionate service. In 2020, our location was named PuroClean’s franchise of the year out of over 350 franchisees. Contact us for a free estimate. PuroClean.com
PADDINGTON BEAR
Eva's Heroes
Eva’s Heroes enriches the lives of teens and adults with intellectual special needs through a variety of programs. Participants can socialize and create lasting memories with their peers while enjoying the unique experiences San Antonio has to offer. From Art Night to Broadway shows, summer camps and dancing with friends, there is something for everyone! EvasHeroes.org
VINTAGE TOYS
Longhorn® Steakhouse
Longhorn Steakhouse has grown to become the undisputed home for great steak done right. Come on in for our cut-above Texan experience and legendary steak. Don’t forget about the bold flavors from our everchanging seasonal menu or one of over 30 different lunch combinations, and top it off with one of our signature margaritas. Catering, take-out and call-ahead seating are available. LonghornSteakhouse.com
TETRIS
Fiesta Flambeau® Parade
The Fiesta Flambeau Parade, a highlight of Fiesta® San Antonio, originated as a unique night event illuminated by torches and candles. It was conceptualized by engineer Reynolds Andricks, and later expanded with the help of festival impresario William Petmecky. Today, it is a celebrated spectacle with 200+ entries, drawing 750,000 spectators and over 1.5 million viewers via broadcast and live stream. Flambeau.org
LIGHTSABERS
Margaritaville®
Margaritaville and its related brands are among the most unique and exciting restaurant, bar, merchandise and entertainment destinations in the world! They offer more than food, drinks and t-shirts, and are committed to creating the Margaritaville Experience for every one of their guests, every time they visit. Margaritaville.com
BARREL OF MONKEYS
Dance & Drum con Orgullo
Dance & Drum con Orgullo, established in 2024 by John Nunez, is a group of diverse individuals of all ages who, when not performing, provide volunteer community outreach to local non-profits. We dance and drum with pride, not only for our community, but to express pride for our city as a whole.
TOY SOLDIERS
Texas Cavaliers
Founded in 1926, the Texas Cavaliers has been an organization of 600 business, civic and community leaders dedicating their time and talents to support San Antonio area charities. Over the past 35 years, King Antonio, the Cavaliers and their generous supporters have donated over $17.5 million to local children’s charities in San Antonio through the Texas Cavaliers Charitable Foundation. TexasCavaliers.org
DOMINOES
Rey Feo Scholarship Foundation
The mission of the Rey Feo Scholarship Foundation is to financially support the aspiration of deserving high school seniors to obtain a college/university/ trade education regardless of race, color, religion or gender. The Rey Feo Scholarship Foundation is a 501(c)3 non-profit, nonpolitical organization established in 1947. ReyFeoScholarship.com
G.I. JOE
Landry’s Group
Get festive and celebrate the holiday season with a collection of fun, familyfriendly restaurants and attractions! Savor the best of the San Antonio River Walk and beyond. Dine at Saltgrass Steak House, Brenner’s on the River Walk, Landry’s Seafood House, Rainforest Café, Joe’s Crab Shack, Bubba Gump Shrimp Company and Chart House Restaurant inside Tower of the Americas. Great food. Great service. Great holidays. LandrysInc.com
BABY TOYS
SeaWorld San Antonio
SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration returns with millions of lights, special holiday festivities and more! Experience “Oh Wondrous Night,” a show starring a cast of singers, puppets and live animals that tells the story of the Nativity as seen through the eyes of the animals who experienced it! Included in park admission, SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration runs select nights through January 5. SeaWorldSanAntonio.com
DECK OF CARDS
San Antonio Hospitality Foundation
As the official non-profit arm of Visit San Antonio, the San Antonio Hospitality Foundation is dedicated to shaping the future of San Antonio’s hospitality industry, a cornerstone of the local economy. By investing in the people who power this vital sector, the Foundation provides scholarships, educational programs and career development opportunities. Through these efforts, the Foundation ensures a thriving workforce prepared to drive the industry’s success and contribute to the city’s continued growth. VisitSanAntonio.com
BATTLESHIP
San Antonio River Walk
The River Walk is the heart and vibrant centerpiece of San Antonio, offering a unique blend of history, culture and entertainment. With more than 30 events year-round, a diverse selection of riverside dining and stunning scenery along the historic walkways, it’s a must-visit destination for locals and visitors alike, and offers something for everyone to enjoy. Discover the many happenings on the River Walk. TheSanAntonioRiverWalk.com.
HOT WHEELS®
San Antonio Zoo
San Antonio Zoo, operating since 1914, is a non-profit zoological facility committed to securing a future for wildlife. Through our passion and expertise in animal care, conservation and education, the Zoo’s mission is to inspire its community to love, engage with, act for and protect animals and the places they live. The Zoo welcomes more than a million visitors annually and is open year-round. SAZoo.org
ROCK ‘EM SOCK ‘EM ROBOTS
Go Rio Cruises
Go Rio Cruises offers a one-of-a-kind way to explore San Antonio’s iconic River Walk. With colorful, eco-friendly boats, engaging tours and special themed cruises, you’ll discover the history, culture and beauty of this beloved destination from a unique perspective. Perfect for locals and visitors, Go Rio Cruises is your gateway to the heart of San Antonio. GoRioCruises.com
PETER PAN
Majestic Theatre
The Majestic Theatre is one of the city's most iconic and historic landmarks. Located in the heart of downtown, it first opened its doors in 1929 as a lavish movie palace known for its beautiful, ornate Spanish Colonial Revival architecture. Today, it continues to serve as a premier venue for a wide range of performances, including Broadway shows, concerts, comedy acts and other live events. MajesticEmpire.com
LEGOS®
Legoland® Discovery Center
LEGOLAND® Discovery Center is a world of color, creativity and fun for children aged 3 to 10, offering a wealth of attractions, two rides, a 4D cinema and more. Legoland is located at the Shops at Rivercenter, right next door to SEA LIFE San Antonio Aquarium, where you can discover thousands of sea creatures including sharks, rays and jellyfish. LegolandDiscoveryCenter.com
RUDOLPH & SANTA’S WORKSHOP
South Texas Ford Dealers
Ford is dedicated to building great products — to strengthening our business to the benefit of our communities. This is the foundation of Ford’s success, which helped us become a global automotive industry leader on six continents. The South Texas Ford Dealers are honored to join together and bring this event to you, and we hope you and your family have a happy holiday season. TexasFord.com
DISCOVER THE MANY HOLIDAY TRADITIONS ON THE RIVER WALK
The San Antonio River Walk is a special place to celebrate year-round, but when the lights come on during the holiday season, it becomes a magical wonderland where treasured memories are made. Families and friends return year after year to experience the splendor of San Antonio’s most iconic lighting extravaganza and holiday-themed events.
The World-Famous Holiday Lights on the River Walk
November 29 to January 12 5:30pm to 8:00am, nightly
The River Lighting Ceremony on November 29 during the Ford Holiday River Parade marks the beginning of one of the largest free, dazzling holiday light displays in America. From dusk 'til dawn, you can stroll along the banks of the River Walk and take in the glow of more than 100,000 holiday lights dripping from the cypress trees. It is a gorgeous sight you can enjoy from plenty of outdoor dining spots, and complements other spectacular installations such as colorful uplighting on cypress trees, underwater lights that illuminate footbridges, and giant lighted flowers and whimsical butterflies on the island in the grotto at the end of the Convention Center extension. Free to attend. TheSanAntonioRiverWalk.com
Ford Holiday Boat Caroling
December 4-23
Monday – Thursday, 6:00 to 8:15pm Friday – Sunday, 6:00 to 9:30pm
“Jingle Bells” and other songs of the season drift through the air and down the river with the annual Ford Holiday Boat Caroling. Beginning and ending at the International Center Building, each boat makes a lap around downtown. You can either book a boat for your whole family, friends or colleagues, or purchase an individual ticket. Carolers get creative with mariachi groups, bell ringers and full bands, so sing and dance along from a table at one of the riverside restaurants — it will surely get you in the holiday spirit! For ticket purchases, visit TheSanAntonioRiverWalk.com.
The River of Lights on the Museum Reach
November 22 – January 8, 5:30pm to 8:30am, nightly
Thanks to the San Antonio River Authority, the famous Holiday Lights continue upriver through the Museum Reach and
Ford Fiesta de las Luminarias
December 6-8, December 13-15 & December 20-22
More than 2,000 Mexican Christmas lanterns light up the night during three weekends in December along the River Walk. Traditional luminarias, candles set in sand inside small bags, date back to 16th century Spain where they signified lighting the way for the Christian Holy Family’s journey to Bethlehem. These beautiful luminarias, combined with the colorful glow from the holiday lights overhead, create a picture-perfect display along the Downtown River Walk. Free to attend.
TheSanAntonioRiverWalk.com
on to the Pearl District, a quiet stretch of the river. You will find enchanting displays of illuminated trees, and the Pixel Tree Light Show at the Lock and Dam, located at 510 Brooklyn Avenue, comes alive every night on the half hour with dancing lights synced to your favorite holiday tunes.
The River of Lights Kickoff at Lock and Dam
December 14, 4:00 to 8:00pm This free family-friendly evening brings food trucks, holiday vendors and more! SARiverAuthority.org.
Holly Jolly Kayaking
December 4 & 11, 6:00 to 8:00pm
Santa is known for his sleigh, but in the River City, he likes to kayak! Join the fun and paddle the Museum Reach to experience a truly unique night on the river. Registration is required through the San Antonio River Authority. Rent a kayak or bring your own and enjoy the glorious view of the holiday lights from the water. SARiverAuthority.org.
Holiday Cocoa Cruises
December 1-31, See website for hours and tickets
These special GO RIO Cruises wind through the main loop of the Downtown Reach of the river, or you can choose the
Museum Reach tour for more holiday lights and art installations. Downtown Cocoa Cruises take place Tuesdays to Saturdays, December 3-31, and depart from Zocca in the Westin Riverwalk Hotel. Museum Reach Cocoa Cruises run Sundays and Mondays, December 1-29, and depart from Thompson San Antonio Hotel. GoRioCruises.com
River Walk Holiday Artisan Show
December 12 – 14
Friday-Saturday, 11:00am to 11:00pm Sunday, 11:00am to 8:00pm Looking for some unique holiday gifts? Head to the River Walk Extension near the Chamber of Commerce and Shops at Rivercenter to browse over 40 artisan booths. Free to attend. TheSanAntonioRiverWalk.com
Holidays on Houston Street
November 29 – January 2
The return of the second annual Holidays on Houston Street provides a joyful ex-
perience set against the backdrop of one of the city’s most historic and charming promenades. The stretch will glisten with twinkling lights, bustle with entertainers and family-friendly activities, and include themed offerings from restaurants and shops. VisitSanAntonio.com.
Taste of Houston Street and Houston Street Holiday Lighting
December 3
Watch the Houston Street lights come alive and grab a seat at the blocks-long table for a truly festive dinner experience.
Holidays
on Houston Street Market
December 13-15
This is San Antonio’s take on a European holiday market, with curated artisan crafts and delicious holiday eats.
Holidays on Houston Street Fun Run 5k
December 17
Walk or run your way along the scenic streets of downtown San Antonio.
Homemade Christmas at the Alamo
December 7, 9:00am to 4:00pm Learn what life was like during the holidays in 19th-century Texas. Discover period crafts for all ages, including yarn dolls, Victorian greeting cards and pomander balls. There will be living history demonstrations such as Christmas storytelling, carol singers, candy making, blacksmithing, leatherworking and more. TheAlamo.org
Rotary Ice Rink at Travis Park
November 15 – January 5, See website for hours and tickets
Nothing screams heartwarming holiday activities like an open-air ice rink! Bundle up, sip some hot cocoa and take a few spins around the ice rink. Timed tickets must be purchased in advance. RotaryIceRink.com
See what events the San Antonio River Walk has in store for 2025.
