San Angelo's Concho Christmas Celebration Turns 30

SAN ANGELO, TX — The 30th Anniversary Concho Christmas Celebration in San Angelo, is a highly anticipated annual event that starts the holiday season in early December. This year, 2023, marks the thirtieth anniversary of the Concho Christmas Celebration’s Annual Tour of Lights, a spectacular display with over 3 million lights, ranking it among the largest Christmas light displays in Texas.

The event offers a 2.5-mile walking or driving tour, beginning behind the Main Post Office at the corner of Abe Street and 1st Street, and concluding at El Paseo de Santa Angela. This engaging tour features a breathtaking display of lights along the Concho River, enhancing the festive atmosphere.

A crucial aspect of this celebration is the involvement of hundreds of community volunteers who greet guests. Additionally, inmates from the Department of Corrections and the Tom Green County Sheriff’s Office Community Work Detail contribute by assisting in the installation of the Christmas scenes. Their efforts are supported by the San Angelo Restaurant Association, which provides meals to the inmates.

A central event is the Community Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, scheduled for Saturday, December 2, 2023, at 5:15 p.m. at the corner of South Chadbourne and West Concho Avenue. The ceremony will feature performances by the San Angelo Community Band, conducted by Dr. Constance Kelley of Angelo State University, and the Twin Mountain Tonesmen, directed by Mark Clark.

Following the tree lighting, the 21st annual Lights of Christmas Parade will commence at 6:00 p.m. The parade route spans Chadbourne, between 4th Street and Concho Avenue, on Concho Avenue, between Chadbourne & Oakes, and on Oakes back to 2nd Street, offering various viewpoints for spectators.

The Tour of Lights is available Sunday through Thursday from 6:00 to 10:00 p.m., and each Friday and Saturday from 6 p.m. until Midnight, starting December 2 through December 31, 2023. This annual celebration not only illuminates San Angelo with festive lights but also highlights the community's commitment to bringing joy and holiday spirit to both residents and visitors.

At the Tuesday, Nov. 21, 2023 San Angelo City Council Meeting, Mayor Brenda Gunter will introduce a proclamation praising the efforts of the community for this 30-year tradition.