McAllen is once again gearing up for its South Pole Illuminated Festival 2023, presented by H-E-B, which takes place Nov. 29 through Dec. 30. Kicking off the festival is the official McAllen Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony on Nov. 29 at 6 p.m.
In an announcement this week, dignitaries, sponsors and community partners revealed the “festive magic” that will soon take over the McAllen Convention Center grounds.
A multitude of attractions will be part of this year’s festival, including illuminated lanterns, a fully illuminated Oval Park, photos with Santa, train rides, gingerbread house crafting, hot cocoa, a food court, artisan market, holiday carnival, petting zoo and more. The South Pole fireworks spectacular will also take place on weekends.
A Community Event
McAllen’s District 5 Commissioner Victor “Seby” Haddad emphasized the transformative power of the McAllen Convention Center, the McAllen Performing Arts Center and Oval Park.
“For many years, we have been honored to partner with one special organization to bring smiles to thousands of families each year at the world’s best parade and now we have one of the top holiday traditions in Texas,” said Haddad.
McAllen Assistant City Manager Joe Vera expressed gratitude to H-E-B, the presenting sponsor, for their role in making the South Pole Illuminated Festival a reality. The event also recognized other partners who will play a vital role in the festival. These partners include McAllen International Airport, Sames Auto Group, Metro McAllen, Reliant Energy, South Texas ISD, Martinez Power Sports, and announced a new partner in Lone Star National Bank.
Linda Tovar, senior manager of Public Affairs at H-E-B, expressed H-E-B’s pride in partnering with the City of McAllen to illuminate the South Pole of Texas. H-E-B introduced special community days and the return of the H-E-B Helping Here, Days of Giving program, which will honor non-profit organizations from the Rio Grande Valley.