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.
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Plan Your Visit
Website / Tickets
When
Tickets
The page identifies a free viewing area and says children aged 2 years or older require a ticket.
Hours
The parade and river lighting ceremony begin at 6 PM; the live broadcast is at 7:05 PM.
Ages
Children aged 2 years or older require a ticket.
Neighborhood
River Walk
Food & Drink
Most River Walk restaurants offer dinner packages for parade-goers.
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.
Going?
Location
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
Links & Contact
Run by Visit San Antonio
Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their contact page.
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.
Browse Christmas in 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. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.