Texas Border Business
The South Pole Illuminated Festival, presented by H-E-B and the City of McAllen, announced Lone Star National Bank (LSNB) as a premier sponsor for this year’s event. Through this partnership, the bank is helping ensure that holiday joy remains accessible to families across the Rio Grande Valley.
As part of their commitment, children under 12 will receive free admission to the South Pole Illuminated Festival every Wednesday and Thursday with the purchase of an adult ticket. This initiative reflects LSNB’s longstanding dedication to uplifting families, supporting underserved communities, and spreading the spirit of giving throughout the holiday season.
“At Lone Star National Bank, our mission has always been to stand beside the families who make our communities strong. During the holiday season, that responsibility feels even more profound. We know many parents are working hard just to make ends meet, yet they still want their children to feel the magic of Christmas. By opening the gates of the South Pole Illuminated Festival to kids free of charge, we hope to lift a little weight off their shoulders and brighten a child’s holiday with memories they will carry forever. Giving back is who we are, and we are honored to help bring joy, light, and hope to families across the Valley,” said S. David Deanda, Jr., LSNB President.
City Manager Isaac “Ike” J. Tawil added, “When we first brought this event to the LSNB executive team, their response was visionary. Their top priority was clear: to create lasting memories for children while ensuring the festival is accessible and affordable for all families.”
Running through December 28, 2025, the South Pole Illuminated Festival offers a wide range of attractions to ensure a memorable experience for all attendees, including photos with Santa (individual pictures or a Holiday Picture Bundle for $40, which includes one Santa photo and one Selfie Station ticket for up to six guests), a Selfie Station, gingerbread house crafting, a Dash Pass for unlimited rides at $30, and ice skating sessions available in 30-minute intervals for $15.
• Illuminated Displays & Lanterns: Fully illuminated Oval Park with our 30-foot-tall Santa’s South Pole Castle entrance, Enchanted Sea exhibit, Interactive Butterfly Selfie Station, 65-foot Holiday Forest, 18-foot Snow Tunnel, and the Magic Forest with 26-foot illuminated trees.
• Holiday Experiences: Photos with Santa in Santa’s Workshop (Nov. 28–Dec. 23), train rides on the South Pole Express, gingerbread house crafting, hot cocoa at the s’mores station, food court favorites, and artisan market shopping.
• Carnival Fun: Giant Ferris wheel, merry-go-round, rollercoaster, and other rides.
• Live Entertainment: Holiday concerts under the stars, Spirit Nights, and weekend fireworks spectacular.
• Exhibits & Shows: Giant illuminated float showcase from the McAllen Holiday Parade, and a series of holiday-themed movies including Elf, Christmas with the Kranks, and The Nightmare Before Christmas.
• Electric Parade happens every Friday–Sunday at 8:30 p.m., followed by Fireworks: Friday–Sunday at approximately 8:45/9 p.m. Families are invited to stroll through millions of lights, take photos with new giant illuminated lanterns, and enjoy a festive, family-friendly holiday experience unlike any other.
Hours of Operation:
• Wednesday, Thursday & Sunday: 5:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.
• Friday & Saturday: 5:30 p.m. – 10:30 p.m.
Admission prices range between $15-$18 at the gate and online for adults and children.
Children under 6 get in free through December 28. The LSNB promotion ends December 18 for children under 12 and again does not include weekends.
The South Pole Illuminated Festival is presented by H-E-B Helping Here and proudly sponsored by Driscoll Children’s Hospital & Driscoll Health Plan, Sames Auto Group, Lone Star National Bank, McAllen International Airport, Reliant, and Metro McAllen.
For tickets and more information, visit www.southpoleoftexas.com and follow us on social media @southpoleoftexas and @cityofmcallen
The park is also available for private holiday events, meetings, and corporate gatherings. To reserve your space, call (956) 681-3800.
