Hey there, folks! Now that Halloween’s wrapped up, the holiday buzz is kicking in—TV ads are all about the festive season! With the mention of “Holiday Events,” you won’t believe how quickly the spooky stuff vanished, replaced by twinkling lights and Santa magic in stores. It’s like a snap of the fingers! Naturally, the anticipation for upcoming Holiday Events is adding an extra sparkle to the air.
But hold onto your hats if you’re not quite feeling the cheer yet. We’ve got your back! Over the next couple of months, San Antonio’s cooking up some incredible holiday events to rev up your festive spirit.
We’ve gathered up a bunch of the coolest Christmas happenings in and around the Alamo city just for you.
So, picture this: don your ugliest Christmas sweater, stock up on cookies (y’know, for energy!), and dive into an event that’ll light up your season! Here’s to spreading holiday cheer in San Antonio!
Oh, and if you’re a fan of twinkling lights, we’ve got the inside scoop on the best spots to catch the festive glow in SA. Check out our map of San Antonio Christmas lights! Think Zoo Lights at the San Antonio Zoo, the magical Lightscape at the Botanical Gardens, and tons more!
Holiday Events In San Antonio
Ford Holiday River Parade and Lighting Ceremony
One of San Antonio’s BIGGEST holiday bashes is right around the corner! Every year, the Friday after Thanksgiving marks the start of the city’s festive season with a bang—the legendary river parade and River Walk lighting. Get ready for the 42nd Ford Holiday River Parade, starring 28 dazzling, decked-out riverboats!
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At 6 pm, the parade sets sail, and at 7 pm, brace yourself for the magical moment: the River Walk lights up with over 100,000 twinkling lights, transforming it into a dazzling display that even Clark Griswold would envy. It’s a spectacle you won’t want to miss, though spotting it from space might be a stretch!
This event’s a crowd-puller, so if you’re planning to join in, a little prep goes a long way. Here are the basics:
- River Walk Closure: Gates shut for the public at 4 pm before the parade kicks off.
- Ticket Options: Grab seats online for $12.50-$40, or snag a free spot along the river (BYOC—Bring Your Own Chair!). Arrive EARLY to secure your free spot before closure. Website has maps and ticket info.
- Restaurant Specials: Many eateries on the River Walk offer special dining deals with parade views. Check the website for details.
- Parking Woes: Expect challenges. Early birds might find spaces in garages or lots but brace for high prices. Also, anticipate closed streets, leading to longer travel times downtown.
- TV Broadcast: Can’t handle the hassle? No worries! Catch the parade on local TV from 7 pm to 8 pm. Perfect for a cozy evening in your Christmas jammies with hot chocolate!
Holiday Boat Caroling Along the River Walk
Ford Holiday Boat Caroling: Spread the Christmas cheer in true Buddy the Elf style! From November 30 to December 23, groups of up to 15 can rent a river boat for caroling along downtown San Antonio’s serene river.
- Pricing and Inclusions: Rent a boat for $125-$175 for a one-hour private ride. Included are a lighted boat, driver, songbook folders, and a USB loaded with popular holiday tunes. Alternatively, bring your own music and connect to the onboard Bluetooth speaker. Advance online reservations required.
- Individual Tickets: Not part of a group? No worries! Individual caroling tickets range from $15-$25. This event is quintessentially “San Antonio” as it’s set on the iconic River Walk—a definite must-do during the holidays.
SeaWorld Christmas Celebration
Starting November 9, SeaWorld transforms its South Texas aquatic park into a winter wonderland—a fantastic Christmas event in San Antonio! Alongside the usual SeaWorld attractions, visitors can dive into holiday-themed events, shows, and attractions. Plus, get ready for what’s said to be the biggest light display in Texas!
Starting November 9, SeaWorld transforms its South Texas aquatic park into a winter wonderland—a fantastic Christmas event in San Antonio! Alongside the usual SeaWorld attractions, visitors can dive into holiday-themed events, shows, and attractions. Plus, get ready for what’s said to be the biggest light display in Texas!
The park gets split into 12 unique holiday lands, each showcasing its own dazzling light displays and delicious festive foods. Don’t skip the Merry Mariachis, O Wondrous Night, or the Elves Christmas Story shows! You can grab tickets online or at the gate.
Six Flags Fiesta Texas Holiday in the Park
Every November, Six Flags Fiesta Texas turns into a Christmas wonderland! Brace yourself for stunning lights, a lineup of holiday shows, festive food tents, and a revamped Holiday Express Train.
Don’t miss the Majesty of Christmas show, a local favorite featuring a live Nativity with animals, soaring angels, and incredible vocal performances. Your regular Fiesta Texas ticket grants access to both the holiday festivities and the thrilling roller coasters.
Bonus tip: Skip the usual Six Flags eateries and head straight to the food tents for amazing holiday specialties. You’ll find better prices and a whopping 1000% better quality than the standard fare.
Photos with Santa Claus
In San Antonio, a Christmas isn’t complete without capturing that perfect photo of your kid having a total sobbing meltdown on Santa’s lap. There are several spots around the city to meet Santa and ask for that special gift. Some of our favorites include the SA Bass Pro Shop, North Star Mall, and the Shops at La Cantera.
Christmas at the Caverns
Join the festive spirit at a unique San Antonio Christmas event that takes place both above and below ground! At Natural Bridge Caverns, the holidays come alive in a special way.
Grab your tickets for “**Caroling in the Caverns**” and venture below the surface, where traditional Christmas tunes echo through the cave formations, crafting a uniquely cheerful holiday vibe. Above ground, delight in a 30 ft. Christmas tree, wander along illuminated trails, toast some s’mores, catch tales with Mrs. Claus, and much more!
Dickens on Main
Just 17 miles northwest of San Antonio, you’ll find the charming town of Boerne, TX. Every year, right after Thanksgiving, Boerne transforms into a magical scene for Dickens on Main—a grand holiday celebration that engulfs the entire town. Lights, photo ops, delicious food, parades, and top-notch entertainment—it’s all part of the Dickens on Main experience!
As the festivities unfold along Main Street in Boerne, please note that Main Street will be closed to traffic on November 24 and 25, from 4 pm to 10 pm. Parking options include a few small public lots and street parking in nearby neighborhoods and business parks. However, spaces fill up fast, so plan to arrive early or be prepared for a bit of a walk.
Gruene Christmas Market Days
Make your way to charming Gruene, TX on December 2 and 3 for their yearly Christmas Market Days. It’s a perfect opportunity to tackle your holiday shopping while exploring nearly 100 street vendors offering unique gifts, decorations, and crafts along the main road in Gruene.
Apart from the market, visitors can catch the 22nd annual Gruene Pony Express Ride and enjoy a one-man performance of the Christmas Carol. Plus, don’t miss the chance to snag a photo with Cowboy Kringle (reservation required online).
Elf in Concert!
Join in for an epic screening of everyone’s favorite holiday movie, Elf, in a larger-than-life experience! Picture this: a live symphony playing the movie’s score while you soak in all of Buddy the elf’s festive antics.
Head over to the Majestic Theatre on December 1 and 2 for these unique performances. Secure your tickets through the Majestic Theatre’s website for this memorable holiday treat!
The Nutcracker Ballet
Tchaikovsky’s magnificent Nutcracker suite is a modern holiday gem. Just a few notes from the “Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy” can whisk most people into an instant state of Christmas cheer. Given its widespread appeal, it’s no surprise that the Nutcracker Ballet ranks among the world’s most performed ballets, and it’s a beloved holiday tradition in San Antonio.
For ballet enthusiasts in San Antonio, there are several options to catch a performance of the Nutcracker. The renowned Ballet San Antonio stages an annual show at the Tobin Center for the Performing Arts from December 1 to 10.
Additional performances are scheduled at the Brauntex Theatre, the Lila Cockrell Theatre, and the Majestic Theatre.
Cirque du Soleil
This year, San Antonio welcomes a Magical Cirque Christmas by Cirque du Soleil. This show blends acrobatics and classic circus acts with stunning lights and music to craft a one-of-a-kind holiday circus extravaganza. Catch the show at the Majestic Theatre for an unforgettable experience!
Trans-Siberian Orchestra
The renowned Trans-Siberian Orchestra is back in San Antonio to stage their acclaimed Christmas rock opera. Prepare for a spectacular show featuring TSO’s “The Ghosts of Christmas Eve,” accompanied by an impressive laser lights display that’s a treat for both the eyes and ears. Catch the magic with two performances scheduled on December 9 at the Frost Bank Center (formerly the AT&T Center).
Tamales
This not just the Christmas season, it’s tamale season! The tradition of making tamales during Christmas traces its roots to Mexico, where these savory delights celebrate las posadas—a reenactment of Mary and Joseph’s search for shelter before Jesus’ birth.
Today, crafting Christmas tamales is a cherished tradition across San Antonio, as families come together, learning from their abuelas the art of preparing these heavenly corn husk-wrapped treats. Trust us, relishing tamales is among the BEST holiday events in San Antonio! 🙂
If making tamales seems a tad daunting (it can be time-consuming and meticulous), but you crave the joy of savoring them, fret not! Several local restaurants specialize in these holiday delights. Top picks include SA Tamale Boy, Ruben’s Homemade Tamales, Delia’s, and Delicious Tamales. Remember to order in advance and schedule a pickup to avoid the not-so-festive holiday tamale lines.
Rotary Ice Rink at Travis Park
From November 17 to January 15, visitors in San Antonio can enjoy an uncommon treat: ice skating downtown in Travis Park. Despite temperatures likely hovering around the 70s, this offers a unique holiday experience in a city not typically associated with winter sports.
While awaiting their entry time to the ice rink, guests can explore the array of holiday attractions in Travis Park. These include a 50 ft. lighted tree, captivating ice sculpting displays, live music, and tempting food vendors. Remember, tickets and reservations need to be purchased online ahead of time for this frosty festivity!
Additional December Events In San Antonio
Technically, these last two events aren’t holiday-themed, but they’re incredibly popular and fall right in the midst of the holiday season. So, they definitely deserve a mention.
San Antonio Rock N’ Roll Marathon
Scheduled for December 2-3 this year, the Rock N’ Roll Marathon offers a fantastic opportunity for fitness enthusiasts, runners, music aficionados, and anyone up for a sweat to explore downtown San Antonio and the River Walk minus the usual traffic, tourists, or crowds.
Participants can select from 4 races – 5k, 10k, half marathon, and full marathon – all while relishing live music and entertainment at each mile marker. Finishers will be greeted by the tunes of the much-loved cover band, The Motts. Race registration is currently open online.
Valero Alamo Bowl
Each year, San Antonio’s Alamodome hosts the NCAA Division I Alamo Bowl. This year’s game is locked for Thursday, December 28, starting at 8:15 pm. The Alamo Bowl brings together a leading team from the Big 12 conference and a top contender from the Pac-12, making it an always thrilling and enjoyable event.
Although the competing teams are yet to be revealed, you can grab your tickets online through Ticketmaster on the Alamo Bowl’s website.
Hill Country Christmas at the JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort and Spa
From November 11 to December 31, the JW Marriott, one of San Antonio’s most magnificent hotels, will transform into a festive Christmas wonderland. Guests can secure reservations now for special Christmas-themed suites and enjoy an array of holiday activities arranged by the hotel.
The lineup includes rare snow-based activities like tubing and snowball making, offering kids a taste of wintry fun in an area that typically lacks snow. Additionally, there’s storytime with Mrs. Claus, a Santa scavenger hunt, gingerbread decorating, and the quintessential photo op with Kris Kringle himself.
Tickets for each activity or bundled packages offering a 20%-30% discount can be purchased individually.
FAQs
Is San Antonio good for Christmas?
Yes, San Antonio is a fantastic destination during the Christmas season. The city is adorned with festive decorations, and there are numerous holiday events and activities to enjoy. The River Walk, in particular, comes alive with lights and decorations, creating a magical atmosphere. Additionally, San Antonio hosts various Christmas parades, markets, and performances, providing visitors with a memorable holiday experience.
Is San Antonio Riverwalk decorated for Christmas?
Absolutely! The San Antonio River Walk is beautifully decorated for Christmas, transforming into a dazzling spectacle of lights and festive ornaments. The iconic River Walk features stunning holiday lighting displays along its scenic route, creating a magical ambiance. Strolling along the River Walk during the Christmas season allows you to enjoy the enchanting decorations, take in the festive spirit, and partake in special events that often occur along this iconic waterway.
Hey, it’s James Wilson, the creative force driving the magic at “San Antonio Vista.” I’ve delved deep into the wonders of San Antonio’s attractions. With a rich background in exploring the city’s gems, I’m all about sharing insights, uncovering hidden gems, and fostering a collective love for the beauty of San Antonio. Come along with me on this journey, where we dive into the intricacies of the city and celebrate the charm it brings to the world of tourism!
