Last November, I was thrilled to see the Texas Rangers bring home the “W” in the 2023 World Series. And like many a North Texan, I was also chomping at the bit to celebrate this victory with the team when they did their proverbial victory parade in Arlington. But, alas, work deadlines kept me from joining the over half a million people that jammed the streets of Arlington to catch a view of the champs in all of their victorious glory.
With that day now past, I realized my chances of reliving an event like this were slim to none. The moment was gone forever. We even had the World Series Trophy brought by our office to take pictures next to it and revel in this first-ever victory. But still, it wasn’t the same.
My hopes quickly reversed when I was alerted to fact that the Texas Rangers would be in yet another parade, this time a holiday themed one hosted in Fort Worth for 42 years – the GM Financial Parade of Lights. Not only will the Rangers be there, but they’re going to serve as the parade’s Grand Marshal.
Kicking off at 6 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 24, the GM Financial Parade of Lights marks the official start of the holiday season here in Fort Worth. With a sold-out crowd expected for this year’s parade, reserved seating is key to making sure you don’t have any regrets when the Rangers come strolling through. Reserved “Street Seats” start at $15 for kids and $17.50 for adults.
“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, senior vice president of marketing for the Texas Rangers. “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.”
The Texas Rangers, along with many non-profit organizations, businesses, schools, and more will join expertly crafted floats, sparkling vintage cars, festive horse-drawn carriages, marching bands, and carolers as they parade along the 1.59-mile route. The theme for this year’s parade is “Holiday Wishes,” which will conclude with a special appearance from Santa and Mrs. Claus on a specially designed, LED-lit, grand finale float.
“Serving as title sponsor of the 42nd annual GM Financial Parade of Lights is a unique and special way to give back to Downtown Fort Worth and the surrounding communities,” said Dan Berce, president and CEO of GM Financial. “Fort Worth is such a huge part of our company’s story and success over the past 34 years, and this amazing event is a token of our appreciation to this city and its people. We can't wait to see the streets sparkle with ‘holiday wishes’ on November 24.”
There are many opportunities to participate in the 2024 GM Financial Parade of Lights, including:
Reserve “Street Seats”: While the parade is free and open-to-the-public, attendees can get the most illuminating experience by purchasing reserved tickets, or “Street Seats,” in advance. Tickets start at $15 for children and $17.50 for adults, and are available for purchase now. Visit https://fortworthparadeoflights.org/parade-information/street-seats/ to view all reserved seating options and discounted packaged ticket prices.
Enter a Float, Unit, or Group: Applications are open until September 27 for individuals, groups and organizations interested in entering a float, vehicle, marching band, musical group, equestrian or walking unit in the 2024 parade. Entry forms and rates can be found at https://fortworthparadeoflights.org/participate/.
Volunteer: Hundreds of volunteers are what make the parade a success year-after-year, with opportunities available in hospitality, merchandise sales, stand and seating attendants, staging areas, entry check-in, and more. Volunteers can sign up online here: https://fortworthparadeoflights.org/participate/volunteer/.
Become a Sponsor: As a 501c (3) non-profit organization, Downtown Fort Worth Initiatives, Inc. seeks the support of corporate sponsors and partners to help maintain the free and high-quality production of the parade for the Fort Worth community. Sponsorship opportunities, levels, and benefits can be found online, here: https://fortworthparadeoflights.org/sponsors/.