A couple huddles close to watch the annual Rose City Christmas Parade in Downtown Tyler. (Jennifer Scott/Tyler Morning Telegraph)

After a year of waiting due to a weather-related cancellation in 2023, the Rose City Christmas Parade returned Thursday night, spreading joy and holiday spirit across downtown Tyler.

With a brand-new route, the festive procession began at West Gentry Parkway, traveled south on N. Broadway Avenue, and took a scenic path through W. Locust Street, N. Bonner Avenue, and W. Ferguson Street. The parade ultimately concluded at the intersection of N. Spring Avenue and E. Ferguson Street. The changes offered paradegoers a fresh and scenic vantage point and plenty of opportunities to enjoy the magic.

A beloved tradition, the Rose City Christmas Parade has been entertaining Tylerites for more than 30 years. This year’s theme, “The Magic of Rotary”, highlighted the parade’s community roots. Organized and sponsored by the three Tyler Rotary International clubs: South Tyler Rotary, Sunrise Rotary, and The Rotary Club of Tyler, the parade brought together the spirit of togetherness and giving.

Southside Bank added an extra touch of warmth by handing out hot chocolate to paradegoers a welcome treat to a chilly evening.

The crowds were delighted by a colorful lineup of enchanting floats, creative performances, and familiar faces waving and wishing all good cheer. Local law enforcement agencies, including the U.S. Marshal and police departments, as well as emergency responders, joined the parade. The lineup also included many local organizations, marching bands, and stylish vehicles.

Adding a playful twist, several Grinches made appearances to stir up some lighthearted mischief up and down the streets. Last, and certainly not least, Santa Claus brought the evening to a heartwarming close, greeting an adoring crowd with white-gloved waves and hearty ho-ho-hos.

An evening filled with laughter and huddling close under fleece blankets, the Rose City Christmas Parade proved once again the magic and last memories it holds to the community.

After the parade, the City of Tyler’s annual Tree Lighting Ceremony was held. The 2025 Children’s Hospital Network Miracle Child Luna Cruz, 9, of Mineola, had the special honor of lighting the tree alongside Tyler Mayor Don Warren.

Next, an drone light show, which was privately funded, entertained the audience with holiday-related images in the sky.