The South Pole Illuminated Festival is returning to McAllen with a new name and new experiences. With a backdrop of holiday cheer, city leaders gathered at Lone Star National Bank’s (LSNB) Corporate headquarters today to unveil the Wild Bright event inspired by the McAllen Holiday Parade’s new Wild Christmas theme. Wild Bright opens November 27 at the McAllen Convention Center, bringing millions of lights, illuminated wildlife and family-friendly attractions to the South Pole of Texas.
The season will once again kick off with the annual lighting of the tallest digital Christmas tree in America, standing more than 100 feet tall. Guests can enjoy free admission before 7 p.m., followed by a fireworks celebration. Guests can also enjoy an 80-foot real-ice skating rink, Santa’s South Pole Castle, the South Pole Express by METRO McAllen, holiday carnival, artisan market, visits with Santa and the Grinch, weekend fireworks and more.
LSNB is returning as a South Pole partner for a fourth consecutive year. Beginning November 30, LSNB Free Kids Days will offer free admission to children 12 and under every Wednesday and Thursday through December 18. LSNB will also bring back Santa’s Mailbox to festival grounds where kids can send off their letters. Bank executives are excited to also introduce the new Cowboy Cash balloon, which will debut at the McAllen Holiday Parade on December 5 before joining the Wild Bright experience.
“Wild Bright is set to be magical, we will celebrate the holidays with an experience that brings families together, welcomes visitors, supports local businesses and strengthens our community,” said City Manager Isaac J. Tawil. “We’re proud to build upon the South Pole of Texas tradition and create another reason for families across Texas to visit McAllen.”
Wild Bright will also feature hundreds of giant wildlife-themed lanterns, a food court, and the Driscoll Electric Parade. Tickets are on sale now at southpoleoftexas.com and Ticketmaster. For more information and event updates, follow the South Pole of Texas on social media.
