McAllen city and community leaders gathered at the Quinta Mazatlan this Tuesday to reveal “Wild Christmas” as the theme for the 13th annual McAllen Holiday Parade happening December 5, 2026.

McAllen has received national attention for its holiday parade. Last year, they attracted more than 265,000 spectators and earned Best Parade in the World honors from the International Festivals & Events Association for the ninth consecutive year. That’s no easy feat.

For the “Wild Christmas” theme, we can’t wait to see how this is presented. We don’t have many details but can expect to see the floats and decorations all following a jungle-like theme and maybe some nods to specific nature from the area.

The South Pole Illuminated Festival, opening on Nov. 28 near the McAllen Convention Center will also have a nature focused theme. Here visitors can expect to see a skating rink and a carnival with a Ferris wheel, train rides, petting zoo, gingerbread-themed attractions and what some are calling America’s largest animated Christmas tree.

While still early, we can’t wait to enjoy the valley’s crisp winter weather alongside some great fun, food and refreshments.

The parade will be presented by H-E-B and powered by the Bert Ogden Auto Group. Other major sponsors include McAllen International Airport, South Padre Island Convention and Visitors Bureau, Reliant and Lone Star National Bank, along with dozens of additional organizations, educational institutions and local businesses.