1. Cities & Towns

Discuss in my forum

Houston Holiday Parade 2011

By , About.com Guide

Houston's annual Holiday Parade will celebrate its 62nd year in existence on November 24, 2011. With brilliant floats and electric traveling performances, the HEB sponsored event attracts live crowds of over 400,000 as well as nearly 2 million television viewers. Proceeds from the Houston Holiday Parade benefit Houston Festival Foundation, Inc. Here you'll learn more about this Houston Thanksgiving Day tradition.

When and where is the Houston Holiday Parade?
The Houston Holiday Parade will take place on (Thanksgiving) Thursday, November 24, 2011at 9 a.m. in Downtown Houston

How much do tickets cost?
General admission tickets are free. Reserved seated tickets are available and range from $12 (Turkey Seating, folding chairs) to $75 (VIP Reserved Box Seating). Grand Stand tickets are $19 and are located in front of Minute Maid Park. Performances will stop in these reserved seated areas for better viewing.

Tickets can be purchased online.

What is the parade route?
The parade route is bordered by Texas, Fannin and Dallas. It begins at Minute Maid Park and ends at LaBranch and Dallas.

Will the Houston Holiday Parade be broadcasted?
Yes. KHOU-TV channel 11 will broadcast the parade live on Thanksgiving day at 9 a.m., 10 a.m. and noon and syndicate until Christmas day.

Who can participate?
All participant entries must meet certain criteria. Previous parade experience is preferred. Ample material including photos, music samples, videos and any accolades your group has received are required.

If you are participating as a band, you must wear uniforms that do not include t-shirts or sweat suits. Drill teams, dance teams and cheerleaders must have 25 members, dress in uniform and perform while traveling forward (i.e., must do more than walk).

Equestrian units must have 10 or more horses and previous parade experience. And don't hold back on the costumes: the more pizzazz, the better.

How can I volunteer?
Volunteer shift is from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. and duties include seating ushers, ticket takers, balloon carriers, costume characters and parade marshal (adult only). Volunteers are also needed the evening prior to Thanksgiving for parade set-up.

Volunteers will receive a free t-shirt, free parking and a free McDonald's breakfast. Costume and parade marshal volunteers must attend a training session.
See Other Ways to Volunteer in Houston

Who should I contact for more information?
Holiday Parade
5373 W. Alabama, Ste. 235
Houston, TX 77056
713.654.8808

©2012 About.com. All rights reserved.

A part of The New York Times Company.