South Padre Island Lights Up the Holiday Season with Island Style Events

From Tree Lightings to a Dazzling Boat Parade, The Island is the Place to Be This December

South Padre Island, TX — The magic of the holiday season is setting sail—literally! South Padre Island invites locals and visitors to experience a tropical twist on classic holiday cheer with five festive events taking place from December 4 to 7, 2025. Whether it’s glittering floats on the boulevard, boats aglow under the stars, or a breakfast date with Santa himself, this year’s lineup is sure to make spirits bright.

“South Padre Island truly transforms into a coastal Christmas paradise this time of year,” said April Romero, Director of Communications, Visit South Padre Island. “From festive floats to boats wrapped in lights on the Laguna Madre, our Island knows how to create a one-of-a-kind way to celebrate the holidays by the sea.”

🎄 Tree Lighting Ceremony

December 4 | 5:30 PM | SPI Visitors and Transit Center
Event Details
Kick off the most wonderful time of the year with the annual Tree Lighting Ceremony! Gather with the community as the Island’s holiday tree comes to life in a burst of color and joy. Bonus: music and refreshments for all to enjoy.

🎉 SPI Christmas Street Parade

December 5 | 6:00 PM | Padre Boulevard
Event Details
The holiday magic continues with the beloved Christmas Street Parade! Join the festive fun as illuminated floats, music, and costumed characters light up Padre Boulevard in a night parade that delights all ages. Cash prizes will be awarded to the top four floats. (Rain date: December 13)

🚤🌟 Lighted Boat Parade

December 6 | 6:00 PM | Entertainment District
Event Details
Don’t miss South Padre Island’s most unique holiday spectacle! The Lighted Boat Parade transforms the Laguna Madre Bay into a sparkling sea of lights as boats of all sizes cruise by decked out in full holiday décor. Bundle up, bring a blanket, and enjoy a cool coastal breeze as the show sails by the Entertainment District. Stick around for a fireworks finale that will light up the sky.

❄️ Winter Wonderland at The Green

December 6 | All Evening | The Green
Celebrate the magic of the holidays at Winter Wonderland, where Santa makes a special appearance! Enjoy local vendors, festive rides, music, and more family-friendly fun in a whimsical outdoor setting.

🎅 🍽️ Breakfast with Santa

December 7 | 9:00 AM | SPI Convention Center
Event Details
Wrap up the weekend with a cozy and magical Breakfast with Santa. Enjoy a delicious breakfast, holiday-themed activities, and snap a photo with the big guy himself. It’s a heartwarming way to make holiday memories that will last all year.

Those looking to visit and stay on the Island for the weekend can find additional things to do, restaurants, and accommodation information at www.visitsouthpadreisland.com.

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About South Padre Island

With miles of pristine shoreline and clear emerald water, South Padre Island is Texas' only tropical island paradise. Calm weather and more than 300 days of sunshine make South Padre Island a year-round destination offering a variety of nature tourism attractions, water sports, and activities for the entire family. For more information, visit www.visitsouthpadreisland.com.

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