Celebrate the season’s most magical holiday light experience. Experience the magic of the holidays like never before – where twinkling lights, towering lanterns, and joyful moments come together to celebrate the season. Step into McAllen’s most dazzling tradition and make memories that shine all winter long.

The South Pole Illuminated Festival, presented by H-E-B Helping Here, brings the community together to celebrate the joy of Christmas with spectacular lights, festive entertainment, and exciting new attractions for 2025.

The festival’s signature Tree Lighting Ceremony on Friday will once again mark the start of the holiday season in McAllen, officially transforming the city into the South Pole of Texas.

Towering over Oval Park, McAllen’s digital Christmas tree shines brighter than ever – over 100 feet of music, motion, and mesmerizing color. Gather with family and friends as the lights pulse in perfect harmony, creating a one-of-a-kind holiday show that defines the spirit of the South Pole Illuminated Festival.

During a recent press event, Mayor Javier Villalobos expressed his excitement for the festival’s return. “This is one of the largest and most anticipated events we host all year, and it just keeps getting bigger and better,” said Mayor Villalobos. “The weather in South Texas is perfect for enjoying the holidays outdoors, clear nights and bright lights set the best backdrop to bring Santa from the North Pole to our very own South Pole!”

City Manager Isaac “Ike” J. Tawil recognized the teamwork behind the event and the sense of community it brings. “The South Pole Illuminated Festival and McAllen Holiday Parade have become some of McAllen’s brightest symbols of unity and imagination,” said Tawil. “This event transforms our Convention Center District into a winter wonderland that rivals any in the nation, with millions of lights, world-class attractions, and experiences that give people a true sense of place and belonging.”

This year’s festival highlights include the New “Christmas Across America” Lantern Displays featuring the Golden Gate Bridge, Mount Rushmore, Main Street USA, and the Statue of Liberty; weekend fireworks (Friday-Sunday) featuring the Electric Parade; a giant Ferris wheel; and A South Pole Experience – McAllen’s own real ice-skating rink.

There will be free admission on Community Day, which is December 16, courtesy of HEB.

Opening day for the South Pole Illuminated Festival is Thursday, November 28 at 5:30 p.m. Events begin at 6 p.m. with free admission before 7 p.m.

The festival will be open from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Thursday, and Sunday; and open a little later, until 10:30 p.m., on Fridays and Saturdays.

Admission starts at $15 for adults. Children under six are free. Children 12 and under enjoy free admission on Wednesdays and Thursdays through December 18.

The festival will run through December 28.

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.southpoleoftexas.com/. The festival is located at the McAllen Convention Center, 700 Convention Center Blvd.