The City of Brownsville is ushering in the 2025 holiday season with a festive lineup of events for families, visitors, and residents to enjoy throughout the month of December. From tree-lighting ceremonies to holiday parades and glowing experiences at the Gladys Porter Zoo, the community is invited to take part in a variety of celebrations happening across the city.
Holiday festivities begin on November 24 as Holiday Village at Dean Porter Park opens its whimsical displays to the public. The Holiday Village runs through January 1, transforms the park into a walk-through wonderland featuring handcrafted cottages, lights, and family-friendly photo spots.
On December 1st, the City hosts the Washington Park Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony from 6:00 PM to 9 00PM followed by the 4th Annual La Plaza Terminal Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony on December 4th at 6:30 PM. Residents can also enjoy a third celebration on December 5 at 6:00 PM, when the Market Square Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony brings holiday cheer to historic Downtown Brownsville.
The holiday fun continues with the return of one of the community’s favorite traditions, Zoo Nights & Lights at Gladys Porter Zoo. The event will run December 5, 6, and 7 from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM, and expands later in the month with Zoo Nights & Lights Holiday Express on December 12–14 and again December 19–21 with showings at 6:00 PM, 7:00 PM, and 8 PM.
Rounding out the festivities, the Charro Days Fiesta Association Annual Christmas Parade will take place on December 6 at 7:00 PM, bringing lights, music, and festive floats to Elizabeth Street.
City officials encourage families to mark their calendars and celebrate the season together at any of these holiday events. With activities stretching from late November into the new year, Brownsville residents have plenty of opportunities to enjoy the magic of the holidays close to home.
