As the crisp autumn air settles over North Texas, the holiday season begins to sparkle with festive lights, cheerful floats, and the joyous sounds of marching bands. Holiday parades are a beloved tradition in the region, offering families a chance to gather, celebrate, and kick off the holiday season together. Whether you're a longtime resident or a newcomer, these parades provide a delightful way to enjoy the season's spirit without straying far from home.
Here are some of the top holiday parades within a 30-minute drive of North Texas that are open to the public:
Dallas Holiday Parade
The Dallas Holiday Parade is the city's largest one-day outdoor event and a holiday tradition for thousands of families throughout Dallas and beyond. This annual extravaganza transforms the city's heart into a winter wonderland, igniting the spirit of the holiday season.
The parade starts at 9 a.m. and lasts about two hours. Main Street Gardens and Civic Gardens also have pre- and post-parade vendors, entertainment, and holiday fun.
Dallas Holiday Parade
Fort Worth Parade of Lights
The Fort Worth Parade of Lights officially kicks off Fort Worth’s holiday season with more than 100 festive floats and over half a million lights. You'll see marching bands, antique cars, equestrian units, horse-drawn carriages, and carolers spreading Christmas cheer along the parade route. The night concludes with Santa and Mrs. Claus appearing on the specially designed, LED-lit, grand finale float.
The parade will proceed east along Weatherford Street, turning south on Commerce to 9th Street. At 9th Street, the parade turns west, past the Convention Center, to Houston Street, and north on Houston Street to 2nd Street. The final turns for the parade are west on 2nd Street to Throckmorton Street and south to 3rd Street, where the parade ends.
Fort Worth Parade of Lights
Arlington Holiday Lights Parade
The Arlington Holiday Lights Parade is a cherished tradition that brings the community together to celebrate the season. The parade features dozens of floats, marching bands, and festive displays, all illuminated by thousands of twinkling lights. The event culminates with the lighting of the city's Christmas tree, creating a magical atmosphere for attendees of all ages.
Pre-parade entertainment begins at 2 p.m., and the parade kicks off at 6 p.m. The festivities continue with a tree-lighting ceremony at Founders Plaza.
Plano Holiday Parade
The Rotary Clubs of Plano organize the Plano Holiday Parade and bring festive holiday cheer to all our neighbors and visitors in Plano.
The parade will return to Downtown Plano on Saturday, Dec. 14, 2024, beginning at 2 p.m.
Garland Christmas Parade
The Garland Christmas Parade is a festive event featuring a variety of holiday-themed floats, marching bands, and community groups. It showcases the spirit of the season and the vibrant community of Garland. The event is free to the public and offers a family-friendly atmosphere for all attendees.
The parade typically begins in the afternoon and winds through the city's downtown area, providing a scenic route for spectators to enjoy the holiday displays.
McKinney Christmas Parade
The McKinney Christmas Parade is a beloved tradition featuring beautifully decorated floats, marching bands, and local organizations. The parade showcases the community's holiday spirit and brings together families and friends to celebrate the season.
The parade usually takes place in the evening, with the route winding through McKinney's historic downtown area. Spectators can enjoy the festive atmosphere and the twinkling lights that adorn the floats and the surrounding area.
Denton Holiday Lighting Festival
The Denton Holiday Lighting Festival is a festive event that marks the beginning of the holiday season in Denton. The festival features a parade with decorated floats, marching bands, and community groups. The event culminates with the lighting of the city's Christmas tree, creating a magical atmosphere for attendees.
The parade typically begins in the afternoon and winds through the downtown area, providing a scenic route for spectators to enjoy the holiday displays.
Lewisville Western Days Parade
The Lewisville Western Days Parade celebrates the city's western heritage and features a variety of floats, marching bands, and community groups. It showcases the spirit of the season and the vibrant community of Lewisville.
The parade typically begins in the morning and winds through the city's downtown area, providing a scenic route for spectators to enjoy the holiday displays.
Mesquite Christmas Parade
The Mesquite Christmas Parade is a festive event featuring a variety of holiday-themed floats, marching bands, and community groups. It showcases the spirit of the season and the vibrant community of Mesquite.
The event is free to the public and offers a family-friendly atmosphere for all attendees.
Flower Mound Christmas Parade
The Flower Mound Christmas Parade is a beloved tradition featuring beautifully decorated floats, marching bands, and local organizations. The parade showcases the community's holiday spirit and brings together families and friends to celebrate the season.
The parade usually takes place in the evening, with the route winding through Flower Mound's historic downtown area. Spectators can enjoy the festive atmosphere and the twinkling lights that adorn the floats and the surrounding area.
Wrap-Up: Celebrate Local, Celebrate Together
As you can see, North Texas is brimming with festive parades that bring communities together to celebrate the season. From the dazzling lights of Fort Worth to the spirited floats in Dallas, there's something for everyone to enjoy. So, grab your loved ones, bundle up, and head out to one of these extraordinary events to kick off your holiday season with joy and cheer.
If you're looking for a reliable vehicle to get you to these festivities, consider visiting Huffines Chevrolet Lewisville. We offer a wide selection of vehicles to suit your needs and ensure a comfortable ride to all your holiday events.
Happy holidays, North Texas!