Texas Border Business
Texas Border Business
McALLEN, Texas — Lone Star National Bank (LSNB) is continuing a holiday tradition that began in 2023, returning for a fourth consecutive year to provide free admission for children at McAllen’s South Pole Illuminated Festival, now renamed Wild Bright for the 2026 season.
The bank announced its renewed participation during an October 8 presentation at its corporate headquarters, where McAllen officials introduced the festival’s new theme and attractions.
Beginning November 30, LSNB Free Kids Days will provide complimentary admission to children ages 12 and under every Wednesday and Thursday through December 18. The program is part of the bank’s continuing partnership with the City of McAllen.
The initiative dates to 2023, when Lone Star National Bank President David Deanda and Board Chairman Alonzo Cantu worked with city officials to establish a program that allows children to attend the festival for free on designated weekdays.
As Texas Border Business reported in November 2023, the arrangement followed discussions initiated by then-Assistant City Manager Joe Vera. Deanda and Cantu supported the proposal while seeking changes that would expand access for families.
At the time, Deanda emphasized the bank’s commitment to helping less fortunate families and giving back to the community.
The program continued in 2024 and 2025, with the bank sponsoring free admission days for children. Previous coverage by Texas Border Business confirms the bank’s recurring participation and its emphasis on making holiday activities accessible to Rio Grande Valley families.
For 2026, Lone Star National Bank will also return Santa’s Mailbox to the festival grounds, allowing children to send letters to Santa.
Another addition will be the bank’s new Cowboy Cash balloon, scheduled to debut during the McAllen Holiday Parade on December 5 before joining the Wild Bright experience.
Wild Bright opens November 27 at the McAllen Convention Center, featuring millions of lights, hundreds of illuminated wildlife lanterns and attractions inspired by the parade’s Wild Christmas theme.
The festival will begin with the lighting of what organizers describe as America’s tallest digital Christmas tree, standing more than 100 feet tall.
Visitors will also find an 80-foot real-ice skating rink, Santa’s South Pole Castle, the South Pole Express, a holiday carnival, artisan market, weekend fireworks, and the Driscoll Electric Parade.
The celebration is connected to McAllen’s internationally recognized Holiday Parade, which city officials have described as the world’s best parade eight times. The parade has become a major regional attraction, drawing visitors and supporting local tourism.
“Wild Bright is set to be magical; we will celebrate the holidays with an experience that brings families together, welcomes visitors, supports local businesses, and strengthens our community,” City Manager Isaac J. Tawil said.
For Lone Star National Bank, the fourth consecutive sponsorship continues a program established to give South Texas children opportunities to participate in McAllen’s annual holiday celebrations.
