McAllen was named the South Pole of Texas because we take the holiday spirit seriously. While the holidays might be celebrated a bit differently this year, it hasn’t slowed down our cheer! Whether you’re shopping for that special someone or are looking to enjoy an explosion of Christmas lights, McAllen is in full swing with holiday spirit.
*These events have been reimagined and molded to adhere to safety protocols.
The South Pole Illuminated Drive
Opens December 1st
McAllen Convention Center
Millions of lights, snow, and magical lanterns? Enjoy a journey through all of this along with the 280 ft. drive through Radiant Tunnel, the 40 ft. tall Santa’s Castle, and 50 unique Christmas trees including the 60 ft. South Pole Special!
You’ll enjoy a full mile of safe, immersive fun while visiting larger-than-life attractions like the Enchanted Forest, your favorite movie characters, and a dancing piano choreographed to your favorite holiday music.
End your night enjoying ‘smores and hot cocoa while taking in a movie at the South Pole Drive-In Theatre! The price is $10 per vehicle and includes the Illuminated Drive and Holiday Drive-In Theatre. It opens December 1st at the McAllen Convention Center.
McAllen Holiday Parade
December 5th at 6:00 PM
Will be held virtually
The largest illuminated holiday and helium balloon parade in Texas is back and reimagined for 2020! This year’s event will recognize frontline heroes who’ve made a difference in the community. Complete with giant balloons, amazingly decorated floats, and interactive giveaways, the McAllen Holiday Parade will be something you don’t want to miss!
Toy Drive at the Courtyard
December 12th from 6:00 PM until 9:00 PM
Art Village on Main
5401 N. 10th St.
7th Annual “A Season of Hope ArtsFestival”
December 12th from 10:00 AM until 5:00 PM
Art Village on Main
800 N. Main St.
Come and support your local artists and creators at the seventh annual “A Season of Hope ArtsFestival!” You’ll find unique gifts for everyone on your shopping list including jewelry, sculptures, mixed media, and more. Enjoy art demonstrations, food, and music!
Christmas Bazaar & Toy Drive
December 13th from 1:00 PM until 6:00 PM
Art Village on Main
800 N. Main St.
The Mercadito will be showcasing over 30 vendors at the Christmas Bazaar & Toy Drive! You’ll find food, drinks, jewelry, paintings, cosmetics, floral decorations, and more. Plus, you won’t have to shop alone because this event is also pet-friendly!
Quinta Mazatlán’s Illumina Fest
December 16th through the 19th
Quinta Mazatlán
Quinta Mazatlán has a number of great trails enriched with South Texas history. Imagine those trails illuminated with over 2,000 luminaries, great selfie spots, art installations, performers, and more! It’s a great place to enjoy the outdoors with your family while still practicing safety measures.
Click here to purchase tickets!
A Touch of Frost – the VSO Holiday Tradition
December 18th via Facebook at 7:00 PM
December 20th on KRGV Channel 5 at 11:00 AM
Enjoy the magical tones of The Valley Symphony this holiday season. Playing all of your favorites, including Sleigh Ride, Feliz Navidad, and Let it Snow, you’ll be tapping your toes and maybe even singing out loud!
Are there any other events we should know about? Reach out to us so we can add it to the list!
