This is our running list of holiday events in the Rio Grande Valley for November and December 2026. It covers light shows, tree lightings, Christmas parades, holiday markets and seasonal shows like the Nutcracker, from McAllen to Brownsville to South Padre Island.
The season starts in mid to late November, when the big light displays switch on and cities light their trees. The first two weekends of December are the busiest, with parades in many towns, sometimes on the same night. Holiday markets are a good chance to shop from local makers.
Many events are free, especially tree lightings and parades. Larger festivals may charge for entry, ice skating or rides, and we note prices when organizers post them. Dates come from city and organizer pages, and we add more as they are announced, so check back through November. Each event links to a page with the address and time.
The biggest shows are in McAllen at the Convention Center area, on South Padre Island, and at Brownsville Holiday Village. City tree lightings in Edinburg, Harlingen and other towns are smaller but free.
When do RGV Christmas parades happen?
Most Valley Christmas parades are on the first two weekends of December. See the parade list on this page for exact dates and times.
Are RGV holiday light events free?
Many tree lightings, parades and city light displays are free. Bigger festivals may charge for entry or rides. Each listing says Free when entry is free.
Is this list updated?
Yes. We add holiday events as cities and organizers post them, usually through November.
