Celebration kicks off on Fri., Nov 29 with tallest digital Christmas tree in U.S. and inaugural Driscoll Electric Parade

The holiday season shines brighter in McAllen as the South Pole Illuminated Festival, presented by H-E-B, officially opens on November 29, 2024, with a night filled with awe-inspiring festivities.

The evening kicks off with the lighting of the tallest digital Christmas tree in the United States, standing over 100 feet tall and dazzling with state-of-the-art LED technology. This incredible holiday centerpiece will be unveiled during a free community tree lighting ceremony that promises to deliver unforgettable moments of joy.

Following the tree lighting, guests will experience a breathtaking “The Concert in the Sky” fireworks show, presented by McAllen International Airport. The spectacle will illuminate the night, providing a stunning backdrop to the holiday celebrations.

Thanks to H-E-B Helping Here, families arriving before 6:00 p.m. will receive complimentary entry tickets to the South Pole Illuminated Festival, ensuring everyone has the opportunity to enjoy the magic of the season.

“H-E-B is honored to bring the spirit of the holidays to McAllen through the South Pole Illuminated Festival,” said H-E-B Public Affairs Director, Linda Tovar. “Our goal is to create cherished memories for families and friends across the community.”

After the ceremony, the festival will resume ticketed entry, inviting guests to explore a winter wonderland filled with sparkling lights, holiday attractions, and festive cheer.

Adding even more magic to the evening, the Driscoll Electric Parade will make its inaugural appearance. Sponsored by Driscoll Children’s Hospital and Driscoll Health Plan, this Main Street-style illuminated parade will captivate audiences with vibrant floats, synchronized performers, and festive music.

As part of its dedication to the children of South Texas, the parade will make a special stop at the newly opened Driscoll Children’s Hospital Rio Grande Valley, brightening the season for children who are currently hospitalized.

Don’t miss McAllen’s most spectacular holiday celebration:

• - Event Date: November 29, 2024
• - Time: Christmas Tree Lighting at 6:00 p.m.; festival opens immediately after
• - Location: South Pole Illuminated Festival, McAllen Convention Center Grounds, 700 Convention Center Blvd.

The tree lighting ceremony is free, and complimentary tickets to the festival are available for guests arriving before 6:00 p.m., courtesy of H-E-B Helping Here.

This year’s South Pole Illuminated Festival is made possible by the generous support of:

• - H-E-B
• - Driscoll Children’s Hospital and Driscoll Health Plan
• - Lone Star National Bank
• - Sames Auto Group
• - McAllen International Airport
• - Metro McAllen
• - Reliant
• - SpawGlass
• - Rodeo Dental

For more information, visit SouthPoleOfTexas.com

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