Former Mayor Betty Ann Matthies to serve posthumously as grand marshal

(Seguin) — Downtown Seguin is set to come alive tonight as the city officially launches its three-day Holiday Stroll, beginning with the 2025 Holiday Stroll Parade and the annual lighting of Central Park.

A total of 116 illuminated floats will roll through downtown this evening, marking one of the largest parade lineups in recent years. The parade begins at 6:30 p.m. at College and Austin Streets, then travels south along Austin Street before ending at the Seguin Coliseum parking lot. Families are encouraged to remain downtown after the parade for the lighting of Central Park, as well as to hear the announcement of the parade winners and the Christmas Tree Decorating Contest.

City officials say this year’s parade also carries a special tribute. Former Mayor Betty Ann Matthies, who passed away in August, has been selected posthumously by Mayor Donna Dodgen to serve as the Grand Marshal.

Dodgen says the decision reflects the deep impact Matthies made on Seguin.

“Betty Ann had a heart for Seguin that was unmatched,” said Mayor Dodgen. “She led with grace, with strength, and with a spirit that lifted everyone around her. Our city is better because of her—its people are better because of her. Choosing her as Grand Marshal is a way to celebrate a legacy that continues to shine brightly, especially during a season that brings our community together.”

Matthies served as mayor from 2004 to 2012. Dodgen says her leadership helped guide the city toward new opportunities. Dodgen says she was also remembered for her warm, humble approach and her ability to make residents feel valued.

Her family will lead the parade in her honor. Dodgen says among those members will be her grandchildren – the same ones who rode with her in a carriage years ago in the same parade.

Tonight’s celebration again marks Day One of Seguin’s Holiday Stroll. Friday is the popular Sip n’ Stroll which will have some much-needed elbow room thanks to the closure of Austin Street. Saturday features the North Pole Stroll, a day of kid-friendly holiday fun and activities. And new this year, all three days include the Stable Stroll — featuring dozens and dozens of nativity scenes located inside the former Wells Fargo Bank building.

For more details about the parade and all Holiday Stroll events, visit the City of Seguin website:

https://www.seguintexas.gov/255/Holiday-Stroll