Hidalgo Festival of Lights 2024-2025 in Texas

Hidalgo’s Festival of Lights turns the town into a magical winter wonderland throughout December at Payne Arena. After dark, visitors can experience the stunning 2-mile (3-km) display by car or enjoy a festive ride aboard the Santa Express Train. The festival also offers unique dining options paired with live musical entertainment, adding to the holiday cheer. Despite being a small town in South Texas, Hidalgo hosts one of the largest holiday events in the state, lighting up its historic downtown with over a million lights for 31 days.

Events

At the Hidalgo Festival of Lights, guests can enjoy a variety of activities, including carnival rides, photo opportunities with Santa, live Christmas performances, and a journey through an illuminated maze, offering an unforgettable experience for the entire family. The 2025 theme, "Under the Sea," invites visitors to immerse themselves in a holiday adventure with giant illuminated displays, lighted tunnels, and a spectacular Festival Christmas tree, perfect for photos with loved ones. Don't miss the festival rides, including a variety of food and kid-friendly attractions at the Santa Village. Visitors can purchase All-You-Can-Ride Santa Bands for unlimited fun. Santa Photo Days are scheduled for December 13, 14, 15, 20, 21, 22, and 23.

Christmas Dining Experience

The Christmas Dining Experience at the Festival of Lights offers a special holiday treat for $35 on select nights. This exclusive experience includes a 3-course dinner, reserved seating for the Santa Express Train Tour, access to Christmas performances, and admission to the Illuminated Christmas Maze, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the holiday magic fully. Additionally, the Pizza Party Dining Experience is another festive dining option, where guests can enjoy a fun and delicious meal as part of the holiday celebration.

Schedule & Derections

The Hidalgo Festival of Lights operates daily from 6 pm to 10 pm; Friday and Saturday hours are extended to 11 pm. Entry is through 23rd St. and Arena Drive. ASH PASS CAR ENTRY: 10th St. and Arena Drive. Free parking is available, and there is no charge to visit Santa Village, where the carnival activities take place.

Tickets

Guests can explore the 2-mile trail at the Festival of Lights by car for $30 or take a ride on the Santa Express Train for $15 per adult and $5 per child (children ages three and under are free). Special "Christmas Super Saver Days" are available from December 7-12 and December 16-18, offering discounted rates of $18 for car access and $8 for the Santa Express Train ride. For those looking to skip the lines, the Illuminated Trail Dash Pass is available for $60. The Illuminated Christmas Maze can be enjoyed for $10, with children entering for free.