McAllen festival renamed Wild Bright, set to open Nov. 27

McAllen’s annual South Pole Illuminated Festival will use the name Wild Bright for its 2026 season and is scheduled to open Nov. 27 at the McAllen Convention Center.

McAllen city leaders unveiled the new name Oct. 8, KRGV reported. The venue is at 700 Convention Center Blvd. in McAllen.

Announced attractions include an 80-foot real-ice skating rink, wildlife-themed lanterns, a food court, the Driscoll Electric Parade and a digital Christmas tree more than 100 feet tall, according to KRGV.

KRGV reported that admission is free before 7 p.m. and that children 12 and under will have free admission on designated Wednesdays and Thursdays during part of the season. Tickets are on sale, KRGV reported. A July report listed Nov. 28 as the opening date; October reports list Nov. 27. The reports do not establish whether the schedule changed or the earlier date was incorrect.