The H-E-B Thanksgiving Day Parade returns on Nov. 28 for its 75th year.
It is expected to draw thousands of spectators who will line the streets of downtown Houston in hopes of catching a glimpse of the enormous balloons, marching bands, star performers, and Santa Claus.
Recommended Videos
Typically hundreds of people come together to work on the parade, which will follow a route through downtown Houston, starting on Smith and Lamar and ending on Smith and Dallas. Those who’d like to volunteer for the event can do so here.
Who will be in the parade?
For the first parade of Mayor John Whitmire’s administration, nine-time Gold medalist Carl Lewis was selected to serve as the grand marshal for the parade. The parade will honor Houstonians who competed in the Paris 2024 Olympics and Paralympics.
“I invite all Houstonians to start their Thanksgiving Day with us as we honor a 75-year parade tradition and celebrate the spirit of the Olympics,” said Mayor Whitmire. “I look forward to sharing the experience with family, friends, and all the wonderful supporters who have made it possible for the City to start the holiday season with thanks, joy, and gratitude.”
The parade will kick off with a salute to the Houston area Paris Olympians and Paralympians with a performance of songs from Bring it On: The Musical by Lin-Manuel Miranda performed by Theatre Under the Stars (TUTS). The parade will also feature additional performances including a vocal duet from the Broadway musical, Frozen, 21 HIGH-FLYING BALLOONS and 19 COLORFUL AND UNIQUE FLOATS including the famous Tom Turkey and Santa Claus.
The parade will feature several local and regional marching bands, drill teams, dance companies, and more.
What’s new?
The 2024 parade will feature new tributes to the parade’s 75th Anniversary, Houston’s Olympians, Caring For Our Coast, and a salute to non-profits.
How to watch the parade
The parade is free and open to the public. A limited number of premium seats are available and can be purchased at houstonthanksgivingparade.org for $25 each.
Curbside space along the route for lawn chairs and blankets will be plentiful. Easy access parking is available along the route, and Metro buses will be running on a holiday schedule. For route and schedule information, visit www.ridemetro.org.
For more information, visit houstonthanksgivingparade.org.