Houston Thanksgiving Parade 2024

Houston Thanksgiving Parade 2024

Houston Thanksgiving Parade 2024

Participants

Map

More Information


The most anticipated 75th Annual H-E-B Thanksgiving Day Parade is coming your way on Thursday, November 28, 2024, at 9 am and I can’t wait!

This annual parade, one of the oldest Thanksgiving Day parades in the country, is a proud tradition that Houstonians showcase each year. The Houston Thanksgiving Parade 2024 promises to be a spectacular event.

Expect several hundred thousand Houstonians to line the streets to cheer on participants as elaborate floats, colorful marching bands, high-flying balloons, and other unique float entries join the H-E-B Houston Parade.


Editor’s Note: Our staff works hard to bring you the most up-to-date information. However, all information presented is subject to change. Please confirm with the organizers/businesses before you make plans to head out! 
 
 
 

Houston Thanksgiving Parade 2024 – Participants

Houston Thanksgiving Parade 2024

Image credit: Downtown Houston Facebook

This year, many nationally notable Houstonians, Santa Claus, Tom Turckey, marching bands, 19 floats, towering inflatables, community groups, and more will participate in the annual Thanksgiving Day Parade Houston.

Nine-time Olympic gold medalist Carl Lewis will be leading the parade as its grand marshall.

Carl Lewis won nine gold medals and attended four Olympic Games during his career in track and field, earning international respect as one of the greatest athletes of all time. Included in his many accolades are “World Athlete of the Century” by the International Association of Athletics Federations, “Sportsman of the Century” by the International Olympic Committee, “Olympian of the Century” by Sports Illustrated, and “Athlete of the Year” by Track & Field News in 1982, 1983, and 1984. 

Since retiring in 1997, Carl Lewis has devoted much of his time and energy to charity, particularly founding The Carl Lewis Foundation, which supports many charities, like the Best Buddies organization, The Wendy Marx Foundation, and many youth fitness groups. He is also the head coach of track and field at the University of Houston.

Here’s a list of other key participants:

  • Mayor John Whitmire
  • Theatre Under the Stars (TUTS)
  • Hayden Baker
  • 2xclusive Performing Arts
  • Adams Davy AXS
  • Amor Dance Creations
  • Apache Belles
  • Ballet Folklorico TAMIU
  • Bellville Brahmadoras
  • Dynamo Diesel
  • H-E-B Cart
  • Houston Drill Team

For a complete list of who you can see during the Houston Thanksgiving Parade 2024, check here.


Houston Thanksgiving Parade 2024 – Route, Map

Houston Thanksgiving 2024 Parade Route

Image credit: houstontx.gov

According to Houston stories, when Santa landed at Union Station in 1949 and drove his sleigh to downtown Houston’s Foley’s department store, the city’s first-ever Thanksgiving Day Parade Houston happened.

The Mayor’s Office of Special Events now puts on the yearly HEB Thanksgiving Parade. It will start on Smith at Lamar, travel north to Walker, east to Milam, south to Pease, west to Louisiana, north to Clay, west to Smith, and north to end at Smith and Dallas.


Houston Thanksgiving Parade 2024 – Start time, Reservations, and More!

Houston Thanksgiving Parade 2024

Image credit: Visit Houston Facebook

The public is welcome to attend the 75th H-E-B Thanksgiving Day Parade for FREE. If you wish to avail of premium, seated admission, you can purchase tickets online! Honestly, I’ve found this is the easiest way to get tickets.

Seating opens at 7 am and entertainment begins at 8 am. Organizers insist visitors must be seated by 8:15 am. Purchased tickets allow buyers to sit anywhere in the selected section.

Regardless, there will be plenty of curbside space along the route where you can set up your lawn chairs and blankets. Along the route, parking is conveniently located, and Metro buses will operate on a holiday schedule.

When: Thursday, November 28, 2024, at 9 am
Where: 
Heart of downtown Houston
How Much:
Free; $28.25 for seating area admission, including service fee

As the Houston Thanksgiving Parade 2024 approaches, excitement builds for what is sure to be a vibrant and memorable celebration. The H-E-B Thanksgiving Parade Houston promises to bring together the community in a display of color, music, and festivities, reflecting the city’s rich cultural heritage. Don’t miss the opportunity to be part of this historic event, the Thanksgiving Day Parade Houston, a highlight of the city’s annual celebrations. Mark your calendars and join us in downtown Houston for an unforgettable experience!


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Natalie Dulaney