The city of Brownsville, Texas holds several festive events each December. From holiday light shows to parades, locals and tourists alike do not have far to look for family events or just to meet new people and mingle. Brownsville's warm climate makes outdoor events a popular attraction where, even in December, people in the community can enjoy the lights and sounds of the holidays without having to face the bitter cold.
The Gladys Porter Zoo holds a yearly holiday event each December that features more than 135 lighted holiday displays. Walkways are lit by more than 800 luminary bags as guests stroll through the zoo to the sounds of various church and school choirs. The event also features several holiday-themed arts and crafts shows as well as tasty treats such as hot chocolate and authentic churros. Zoo Nights & Lights is typically held in early December of each year. As of July 2010, the event was scheduled to be held on December 3, 4 and 5 for the 2010 season and the cost for admission was $2.50 per person. Visitors may also donate a new, unwrapped toy to benefit the Toys for Tots toy drive for needy children in lieu of admission.
Gladys Porter Zoo
500 Ringgold St.
Brownsville, TX 78520
956-546-7187
gpz.org
The city of Brownsville holds an annual Christmas parade as city fire trucks, school marching bands and local businesses pass through historic downtown Brownsville starting at Elizabeth Street in celebration of the holiday season. Santa Clause himself even makes an appearance at each year's event. The Brownsville Christmas Parade is customarily held in early December of each year. As of July 2010, the 2010 parade was scheduled to be held on Friday, December 3. While traditionally there has been no fee to the public to attend the parade, you may have to pay for parking, depending on where you park.
City of Brownsville
Cultural Affairs Advisory Committee
P.O. Box 911
Brownsville, TX 78522
956-548-6006
cob.us
Nearby Port Isabel, just 12 miles from downtown Brownsville, hosts an annual tree lighting ceremony to ring in the holidays. The yearly event is typically held in early December. As of July 2010, the 2010 holiday event was scheduled to take place on Friday, December 4 in front of the historic Champion building in downtown Port Isabel. Lady Star of the Sea Catholic Church Chorus was scheduled to perform before the holiday crowd. Christmas caroling and Christmas karaoke were also scheduled for those who want to show off their talents. Special events were also planned for children, including the opportunity to make their own Christmas cards and the chance to visit one-on-one with Santa. As of July 2010, in accordance with years past, there was no cost to attend the event.
Port Isabel Chamber of Commerce
Events Planning Committee
421 E. Queen Isabella Blvd.
Port Isabel, TX 78578
956-943-2262
portisabel.org
