The H-E-B Thanksgiving Day Parade returns on Nov. 23 for its 74th year, and 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, of course, Santa Claus.
Typically hundreds of people come together to work on the parade, which will follow a route through downtown Houston, starting near Wells Fargo Plaza and ending outside the One Allen Center. Those who’d like to volunteer for the event can do so here.
You can find a detailed map of the route here.
Who will be in the parade?
For the final parade of his administration, Mayor Turner was selected to serve as the grand marshal for the parade. He’ll be joined by co-grand marshals former Rockets Championship coach Rudy Tomjanovich and Hall of Fame player Calvin Murphy.
“For the past eight years I have enjoyed the H-E-B Thanksgiving Day parade as mayor of this extraordinary, vibrant, city. The parade is symbolic of our resilience as a city, and we have highlighted the most incredible talent, floats, and marching bands in the history of the parade and have taken it to a new level of excellence,” Mayor Turner said in a release. “I am thrilled to host this treasured holiday tradition and am thankful for the progress this city has made over the years. I am especially thankful for the private-sector support from our wonderful sponsors who ensure we kick-off the holiday season in proper fashion year after year.”
The Texas Southern University marching band, “Ocean of Soul” will start the parade after a special performance from Roger & Hammerstein’s “Cinderella” from Theatre Under the Stars.
The parade will feature a number of local and regional marching bands, drill teams, dance companies, and more.
What’s new?
The 2023 parade will feature a new balloons and floats, including the Recycle float. Sponsored by the City of Houston Solid Waste Department, the float will be assembled using recycled materials.
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 $28.25 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.
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