McAllen, Texas - November 7, 2023 - The holiday season is right around the corner, and McAllen is once again ready to shine as it unveiled details of the highly anticipated South Pole Illuminated Festival 2023, presented by H-E-B. In a grand announcement held at the McAllen Convention Center, an array of dignitaries, sponsors, and community partners gathered to reveal the festive magic that will soon take over the McAllen Convention Center grounds, starting on November 29, 2023 and running through December 30, 2023.  The official McAllen Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony will light up the illuminated festivities, scheduled for Monday, November 29, 2023 at 6:00 p.m.

The press conference kicked off with a warm welcome, celebrating the spirit of unity, tradition, and community support by presenting sponsor, H-E-B.

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 and the events held there, especially the holiday festivities which help create traditions and memories by bringing families from across the Rio Grande Valley together. “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. Today, we are proud to announce the return of the South Pole Illuminated Festival presented by H-E-B,” shared Haddad.

In an exciting moment, City of McAllen officials and sponsors unveiled this year's South Pole Illuminated Festival logo, with a captivating countdown.

McAllen Assistant City Manager Joe Vera expressed heartfelt gratitude to H-E-B, the presenting sponsor, for their significant role in making the South Pole Illuminated Festival a reality. He acknowledged the support of other key partners and their contributions to the event. The event also recognized other valued partners who will play a vital role in bringing joy to countless families during this holiday season. These partners included 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. She shared the excitement about the South Pole Illuminated Festival. 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.

A multitude of attractions were unveiled for the South Pole Illuminated Festival, ensuring a memorable experience for all attendees. These attractions include 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 much more. Weekend visitors will also enjoy the South Pole fireworks spectacular.

Tickets are available at ticketmaster.com and at the website www.southpoleoftexas.com.

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