Texas Rangers to serve as grand marshal for Fort Worth annual parade of lights
September 27,2024
See full Fort Worth Star-Telegram article by Brayden Garcia here.
The reigning World Series champion Texas Rangers will help ring in the holidays in Fort Worth this fall.
In its 42nd year, the GM Financial Parade of Lights is returning to downtown Fort Worth on Nov. 24. The parade was started in 1983 as a way for Fort Worth to celebrate family and togetherness, and the event has grown in scope ever since.
Just one season removed from their first World Series championship, the Rangers organization will serve as the parade’s grand marshal. TCU head football coach Sonny Dykes had the same parade honor last year.
A mix of to-be-announced Rangers players and coaches will ride on the grand marshal float, parade officials announced this week. The full list of participants will be revealed in early November.
“The Texas Rangers organization is honored to serve as the grand marshal for the upcoming Parade of Lights in downtown Fort Worth,” said Travis Dillon, Rangers senior vice president of marketing. “We think of it as just a small token of appreciation for the unwavering support and love that the Fort Worth community has given us over the past six decades.“
Over 100 floats will participate in this year’s parade, which is “Holiday Wishes” themed. Here’s what to know about tickets, parade route and more:
WHEN IS THE PARADE OF LIGHTS IN FORT WORTH?
The parade doesn’t begin until early evening, but organizers are encouraging folks to spend the day in downtown Fort Worth:
All day — Businesses and restaurants will be open.
4:30 p.m. — Come early to grab a seat and hot chocolate.
6 p.m. — Parade begins.
7:20 p.m. — Santa Claus will begin his trip around the parade
WHAT IS THE FORT WORTH PARADE OF LIGHTS ROUTE?
The 1.59 mile parade route starts near the Tarrant County Courthouse and finishes near the Aloft Hotel in downtown.
Parade starts on Weatherford Street at Throckmorton Street.
Moves east on Weatherford Street past the Tarrant County Courthouse and turns south on Commerce Street.
Proceeds south on Commerce Street and turns west on Ninth Street.
Moves west on Ninth Street past the Fort Worth Convention Center, then turns north on Houston Street.
From there, the parade moves north on Houston Street to Second Street.
Turns west on Second Street to Throckmorton Street, then turns south.
Parade ends at Third Street and Throckmorton Street.
A full map from parade organizers can be found here.
IS THE PARADE OF LIGHTS FREE TO ATTEND?
Yes, the parade is free to watch from the sidewalk, but street-side seats are also available for those who want a closer look.
Street-side seats are available in sections along most of the parade route. All paid seating areas consist of chairs, so people can sit while the floats pass by.
Ticket prices vary according to seating, but start at $17.50 for adults and $15 for children and seniors. There’s also family fun packs that bundle four tickets together for around $25 a piece.
Hundreds of parade volunteers are needed this year for merchandise sales, hospitality and seating attendants. To be a volunteer, apply here.
The GM Financial Parade of Lights is on Nov. 24.