Visit South Padre Island is offering a lineup of fun and festive holiday events for the 2023 season. From the annual tree lighting ceremony to festive parades, the destination serves holiday cheer and rolls out the red and green carpet for locals and visitors alike.
“We’re decking the palms this holiday season and creating the ultimate Winter Warmerland paradise in South Texas,” said Blake Henry, Visit South Padre Island executive director. “As the spirit of the Holiday Season illuminates our coast, we invite locals and visitors to share in this magical experience with the warmth of South Padre Island’s festive embrace – where every holiday moment becomes a cherished masterpiece.”
The holiday season kicks off on Nov. 30 with the tree lighting ceremony at 5:30 p.m. at the South Padre Island Multi-Modal (321 Padre Blvd.). Following the tree lighting will be a musical performance.
On Dec. 1, the annual Christmas Street Parade begins at 6 p.m. and travels from Mars to Acapulco (east side of the medians only). Parade goers are encouraged to bring a beach chair to set up on the sidewalk and watch as floats pass by on Padre Boulevard.
Weekend Holiday Fun
Dec. 2 brings with it two events, the Lighted Boat Parade at 6 p.m. beginning at the Sea Ranch Marina, and Winter Wonderland from 5-10 p.m. at the Cameron County Amphitheater. Designated areas throughout the boat parade route offer free public viewing, with judging taking place at Jim’s Pier. The Winter Wonderland helps families celebrate the magic of the holidays with Santa and a kid zone featuring bounce houses, a snow machine, trackless train and more.
The weekend festivities wrap up from 9-11 a.m. with Breakfast with Santa at the South Padre Island Convention Center. Attendees can spend the morning enjoying a pancake breakfast while the children visit with Santa himself.