San Antonio Christmas Guide › San Antonio Christmas Lights 2026
The Ford Holiday River Parade is the night the San Antonio River Walk lights up. Decorated, illuminated floats and entertainment floats glide along the river, Santa and Mrs. Claus make an appearance, and the river lighting ceremony switches on 200,000 holiday lights along the banks.
You have three ways to watch: reserved seating, the free viewing area, or a dinner package at a participating riverfront restaurant. The free 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.
Leave the stroller and the cooler at home, since strollers, ice chests, and carriers aren't allowed on the River Walk for the parade. Children aged 2 and older need a ticket. ADA tickets are sold in several areas along the route, including the Tobin Center, Main Plaza, and Arneson River Theatre. For parking, downtown has city garages, surface lots, and metered street parking, and the street meters are free in the evening.
Questions
Is there a free place to watch?
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.
Do kids need tickets?
Yes. According to the organizers, children aged 2 or older need a ticket.
Can you 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?
Yes. ADA tickets are sold in several areas along the route, including the Tobin Center, Hotel Valencia, Main Plaza, Hugman's Oasis, and Arneson River Theatre.