GM Financial Parade of Lights to celebrate 44th year in downtown Fort Worth on Nov. 22, 2026

The GM Financial Parade of Lights will illuminate the streets of downtown Fort Worth for its 44th year at 6 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 22, marking the city’s official kickoff to the holiday season. Bringing together thousands of families, friends and visitors, this long-standing tradition transforms the heart of Fort Worth into a vibrant celebration filled with holiday magic and community spirit. While Texas’ largest illuminated holiday parade remains free and open to the public, attendees looking for prime viewing can purchase reserved “Street Seats”, starting at $15.75 for children and $19.50 for adults.

Embracing this year’s theme, “A Legacy of Lights,” the 2026 parade will honor more than four decades of community tradition while looking forward to a bright future. The 1.59-mile route will feature more than 100 professionally designed illuminated floats, energetic marching bands, uniquely decorated antique cars, festive horse-drawn carriages and carolers spreading holiday cheer. The spectacle will culminate in the eagerly anticipated grand finale: the arrival of Santa and Mrs. Claus on their specially illuminated float.

Leading this year’s festivities as grand marshal is Kyle Birch, president of North American Operations for GM Financial. Birch, who will retire at the end of 2026 after more than 28 years with the General Motors subsidiary, has played an integral role in driving the company’s growth as a leading auto finance provider and one of downtown Fort Worth’s largest corporate employers. Throughout his career, Birch has served as a respected voice across the industry, notably as chairman of the board for the American Financial Services Association. His leadership, community service and lasting contributions make him an ideal leader for this year’s “A Legacy of Lights” celebration.

“Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to be part of some truly special moments, but being asked to serve as Grand Marshal of the GM Financial Parade of Lights is an honor I’ll always cherish,” Birch said. “Fort Worth has meant so much to me throughout my professional career, and I’m looking forward to celebrating the holiday season with the people and community that make this city such a wonderful place.”

How to participate

• Reserve “Street Seats”: Attendees can secure premium viewing along the route by purchasing reserved seats in advance. Tickets start at $15.75 for children and $19.50 for adults and are available at fortworthparadeoflights.org.
• Parade participation: Organizations, businesses and community groups are invited to submit applications to enter floats, vehicles, marching bands or walking units. The entry deadline is Sept. 30, and forms are available on the parade’s participation page.
• Volunteer opportunities: The parade relies on hundreds of volunteers to support hospitality, check-in, seating, staging and merchandise sales. Sign up online.
• Sponsorships: As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, Downtown Fort Worth Initiatives Inc. depends on corporate sponsors to keep the parade free and accessible. Explore sponsorship opportunities.

2026 sponsors

Current sponsors include title sponsor GM Financial, as well as Karen and Larry Anfin; Tarleton State University; Texas Christian University; Texas A&M Fort Worth at the Switchyard Innovation District; UTA West; Frost Bank; Dr. Marie A. Holliday and Adair Eyewear; Thomas J. Henry Law; and media sponsors 95.9 The Ranch and 92.1 Hank FM.