A Parade Goers Guide to the GM Financial Parade of Lights 2025

November 17,2025

The GM Financial Fort Worth Parade of Lights is Sunday, November 23! Here's our list of things to know before you go:

Downtown Fort Worth is about to Sparkle, Dazzle, Shine! as the 43rd Annual GM Financial Parade of Lights returns on Sunday, November 23, kicking off the holiday season in spectacular style. Here’s everything you need to know before you head downtown.

1. Parade Start Time

The parade begins at 6:00 PM sharp. Thousands are expected, so plan to arrive early for the best experience.

2. Pre-Parade Fun (2–5 PM)

Before the lights roll in, enjoy:

Free Family Day at the Sid Richardson Museum
Creative activities with KERA
Photos with Xavier Riddle from PBS
Holiday décor and festive music

3. Meet the 2025 Grand Marshal

This year’s Grand Marshal is Chris Cassidy — retired U.S. Navy SEAL, former NASA astronaut, and President/CEO of the National Medal of Honor Museum Foundation.

4. This Year’s Theme: “Sparkle, Dazzle, Shine!”

Expect more than 100 illuminated floats, marching bands, horse-drawn carriages, and Santa & Mrs. Claus closing the show.

5. Want Guaranteed Seating?

The parade is free, but reserved “Street Seats” ensure prime viewing.

Adults: $19.50
Kids: $15.75
Purchase online: fortworthparadeoflights.org/parade-information/street-seats/

6. Watch from Home

Can’t make it? Catch the parade:

Live on KTXA-TV / TXA-21
Streaming on CBSDFW.com
On the Parade of Lights Facebook page

7. Parade Route Overview

The 1.59-mile route winds through Downtown:

Starts at Weatherford & Throckmorton
East on Weatherford → South on Commerce → West on 9th → North on Houston → West on 2nd → South on Throckmorton
Full map: fortworthparadeoflights.org/parade-information/

8. Major Street Closures

Closures begin as early as 6 AM, including:

Taylor, Lamar, Burnett, Cherry
Portions of 1st, 2nd, 3rd, Weatherford & Florence
Primary parade-route streets close at 3:30 PM.
Roads that stay open: Belknap, Lancaster & North Main.
Full list: fortworthparadeoflights.org/parade-information/street-closures/

9. Getting Downtown (Transit & Parking)

Plan ahead — closures will affect routes in and out of Downtown.

TEXRail
Runs regular Sunday service to Fort Worth Central Station, only a few blocks from the parade.

Driving?
Enter downtown from the same direction as your planned viewing area to avoid cross-traffic issues.

Parking guide:
fortworthparadeoflights.org/parade-information/parking-and-access/

10. Follow the Parade Online

Stay updated and share your experience using #ParadeOfLights2025

11. About the Parade

Founded in 1983 by Downtown Fort Worth Initiatives, Inc., the Parade of Lights has grown into one of the largest illuminated parades in the U.S., attracting thousands each year and featuring 100+ glowing entries along a festive downtown route.

12. Sponsors

A big thanks to 2025 sponsors, including:
GM Financial, Tarrant County College, TCU, Texas A&M Fort Worth, UTA West, YMCA of Metropolitan Fort Worth, Fort Worth Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, Frost Bank, Karen and Larry Anfin, Dr. Marie A. Holliday, and media sponsors 95.9 The Ranch and 92.1 Hank FM.

Downtown Dining options

You can’t watch the parade on an empty stomach! Come early to get a great seat, enjoy some hot chocolate or delicious fare, visit the shops of Downtown or enjoy a leisurely meal in any of our Downtown restaurants.

Check out our list of Downtown restaurants here.