76th Annual H-E-B Thanksgiving Day Parade in Downtown Houston

One of the most beloved holiday events in the Bayou City returns for its 76th year—the H-E-B Thanksgiving Day Parade, taking place Thursday, November 27, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. in downtown Houston. This long-standing tradition draws over 200,000 spectators annually and remains one of the oldest Thanksgiving Day parades in the United States, a celebration rooted in Houston’s rich cultural identity and spirit of gratitude since its inception in 1949.

2025 Theme: “Houston on Parade”

This year’s theme honors the diversity, talent, and resilience of Houston, featuring a curated mix of local stars and community pride. From Grammy-worthy singers to school marching bands, this family-friendly event showcases the best of Houston—on stage and on the street.

Parade Details

• Location: Downtown Houston parade route
• Date: Thursday, November 27, 2025 (Thanksgiving Day)
• Time: Parade begins at 9:00 a.m.
• Reserved seating available – Starting at 7:00 a.m., entertainment begins at 8:00 a.m.

Star-Studded Performances

Houston’s hometown talent and special guests will headline the event with a mix of music, dance, and theatrical performances:

• Christina Wells – America’s Got Talent semifinalist
• Danny Gokey – Presented by KSBJ
• Payton Howie – Presented by the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo
• Gloria Prince, Bridgjette Jackson, and Kam Franklin
• Theatre Under The Stars musical performers
• SoReal Dance Crew and Apache Belles
• Adams Davy, Houston vocalist

Marching Bands Bringing the Beat

Watch Houston’s finest high school bands set the rhythm for the morning:

• Westbury High School Marching Band
• Klein Forest Golden Eagle Marching Band
• Stephen F. Austin Sonic Boom
• Milby High School Marching Thunder
• Stratford Spartan Band
• Waltrip Ram Band

Expect electric energy, school spirit, and Houston pride as they take to the streets with bold sound and synchronized steps.

Reserved Seating Details

To get the best view of the parade floats and performers, guests can purchase reserved seating along the parade route.

Ticket Prices

• East or West Seating: $33
• Floor or Bleacher Seating: $38

Tickets are general admission within each section. Children need a ticket unless seated on an adult’s lap. No tickets will be sold onsite — purchase early at etix.com.

• Entry Points: Louisiana & McKinney / Smith & Walker
• Note: Expect street closures and allow extra time for parking.

Volunteer for the Parade

Help bring the magic of Thanksgiving to life by volunteering! Open to individuals 16 years and older (18+ for some roles), volunteers are needed on Thanksgiving morning from 6:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Mandatory training sessions will be held in advance at City Hall's Legacy Room. Refreshments will be provided.

Volunteer Roles Include: Balloon Handlers, Banner Carriers, Parade Marshals, Seating & ADA Ushers, and Back Lot Crew.

• Sign up to volunteer
• Contact: Cheri Hinkle at cherihinkle@gmail.com or 713-253-6373 

Celebrate the Holiday the Houston Way

From the heartbeat of marching bands to the sparkle of city floats, the 2025 H-E-B Thanksgiving Day Parade is a can’t-miss Houston tradition. Whether you're watching from the curb with coffee in hand or walking the route as a volunteer, this event is a joyful kickoff to the holiday season—all heart, all Houston.