Arlington Holiday Lights Parade—and More!—Light Up Downtown Arlington

The Holiday Lights Parade in Downtown Arlington is one of city's biggest Christmas celebrations! But it's way more than a parade. Here's a guide to all the fun planned for Saturday, Dec. 10, 2022.

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Reindeer Games/Pictures with Santa

2 p.m. – 5 p.m. at the George W. Hawkes Downtown Library

The Downtown Library is the place to be before the parade. There will be guest story time readers and crafts for the entire family. Bring your camera for a chance to get your picture taken with Santa in front of the Vandergriff Poinsettia Tree in the library lobby between 3:30 p.m. and 5 p.m. Visitors can also sign up for a library card. The Downtown Library is located at 100 S. Center Street just north of Arlington City Hall.

Pre-Parade Entertainment

3:45 p.m. - 6 p.m. at Founders Plaza

Celebrations also start at 3:45 p.m. at Founders Plaza near the Levitt Pavilion just south of City Hall with activities coordinated by Levitt Pavilion Arlington. The schedule includes the Miss Persis Elf Show and performances by The Hankins Band and September Moon.

Holiday Lights Parade

6 p.m. - 7 p.m. throughout Downtown Arlington

The parade kicks off at 6 p.m. at the intersection of Lampe and South streets. From there, it moves through Downtown before ending at Cooper and Abram streets. Visit the Parade website for a route map. 

More than 140 entries, including floats, marching bands, equestrian teams, drum lines and classic cars, are expected. This year’s grand marshall is Jennifer Cowley, president of The University of Texas at Arlington. Also this year, a Spanish-speaking parade announcer will be located near Worthington National Bank at 200 W. Main St. Handicap parking is available in the lot at South Street and Oak Street.

Tree Lighting Ceremony

7 p.m. – 7:15 p.m. at Founders Plaza

At the conclusion of the parade, Mayor Jim Ross and Santa Claus will flip the switch to light up the Downtown Christmas Tree, a spectacular 65-foot tree designed especially for Arlington.

Pictures with Santa

7:15 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. at the Levitt Pavilion

Following the Tree Lighting, bring your camera and take pictures with Santa after the parade at the Levitt Pavilion in Founders Plaza. A special appearance will be made by Mrs. Clause and the Grinch. DJ Gurrl will perform.

Please note that all times are approximate and are subject to change. Be sure to visit the Holiday Lights Parade website, holidaylightsparade.com, and Facebook page for the most up-to-date information.

       
Shared in partnership with the City of Arlington. Original story by Susan Schrock.