If you’re stationed at Joint Base San Antonio or traveling to the San Antonio area over the holidays, start planning your calendar now. With all the events and attractions, the Alamo City may just overwhelm you with all the things to see, do, and taste.
All of the following activities and events are in San Antonio or a short drive away. Of course, we can’t cover all the holiday happenings in the San Antonio area, but you can start with these 12 events to get you into the holiday spirit. Your very own 12 Days of Christmas, Texas style!
*Before heading out, double check info and dates.
1) Holiday Lights on the San Antonio River Walk
November 30, 2024 - January 12, 2025
It’s not the holidays without a visit to the River Walk. A tradition since 1975, you’ll be treated to a spectacular light display of over 100,000 lights. Enjoy dinner at one of the Riverwalk restaurants and cafes, stroll along the walkway, and take in the beautiful sights from downtown to the Pearl District one mile north.
Photo from Canva
2) Christmas at the Caverns
Dates throughout December 2024
Not your typical Christmas! At Natural Bridge Caverns, you’ll hear carols echoing through the vast caverns, listen to live music, visit with Santa Claus, wander along an expanded trail of lights, and find your way through a 5,000-square-foot "Reindeer Roundup" outdoor maze. There's even an ice skating rink!
3) San Antonio Botanical Garden "Illuminate"
November 29, 2024 to January 1, 2025
Tianyu Arts & Culture presents Illuminate, a dazzling exhibition featuring hundreds of handcrafted lanterns. This exhibition merges art, nature, and culture in a celebration of light. Explore sculptures and captivating scenes with the entire family.
Food and drink are available for purchase. This event sells out at times, so it's recommended to buy tickets online before you go.
4) Old West Christmas Light Fest at Enchanted Springs Ranch
November 29 to December 1, December 6 to 8, and daily from December 13 to 23, 2024, operating from 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
A few miles outside San Antonio in the Hill Country, visit the Old West Christmas Light Fest in Boerne.
The whole family will have a festive holiday experience with a variety of activities:
- Light displays: Millions of twinkling lights illuminate the rustic Old West town.
- Live music: Holiday tunes performed by musicians each night.
- Santa Claus: Meet Santa every evening for free photo opportunities.
- Food and drinks: Savor holiday treats from food trucks and snack stands, with options for adults as well.
Other activities:
- Laser Tag in the Lights (additional cost)
- Mechanical Bull Rides (additional cost)
- Children's Scavenger Hunt
- Petting zoo
- Face painting
- Cookie decorating for children
Purchase tickets online, with discounts for military and first responders.
5) The South Pole Holiday Lights Drive-Through
November 22, 2024 to January 4, 2025
Located on Loop 1604 and Judson Road, bring the whole family for this drive-through light experience, which features traditional light displays as well as the latest technology. Tune into the special holiday playlist to enhance the journey.
Photo from Canva
6) Holidays on Houston Street
November 29, 2024 to January 2, 2025
Now in its second year, San Antonio's Holidays on Houston Street transforms over five blocks of Houston Street, from Legacy Park to the Alamo, with holiday lights, decorations, and special offerings from local businesses.
Some highlights: 400,000 mini-LED lights, curated artisan crafts, and candles and clothing by local artists. On December 7, the San Antonio Coffee Festival presents an evening event featuring warm seasonal beverages, holiday lights, and festive fun.
7) Gruene, Texas, Holiday Events
Events from November 16, 2024 to January 5, 2025
Just about thirty minutes north of San Antonio lies the historic town of Gruene. November and December are packed with festive events, like the Gruene town lighting, Gruene Ice Rink, the Annual Pony Express Ride, and Gruene Market Days. And don’t miss Cowboy Kringle!
8) Ford Fiesta de las Luminarias
December 6-9, December 13-15, and December 20-22, 2024
The Fiesta de las Luminarias takes place along the River Walk, where the riverbank comes alive with two thousand luminarias each night in an enchanting display. These traditional Mexican lanterns add a touch of magic to the holiday season.
9) The Alamo Lights of Tribute
December 23 to December 25, 2024
The Lights of Tribute at the Alamo provides an opportunity to honor or remember your loved ones during the holiday season. Luminarias will be displayed in front of the Alamo Church. For a donation of $10 or more to the Remember the Alamo Foundation, purchase a luminaria in honor or memory of an individual.
The Alamo Plaza Live Cam provides a way to view the luminarias online for those unable to visit in person.
10) Holiday Events at the Tobin Center
November through December, 2024
Visit the Tobin Center for the Performing Arts this holiday season, and you'll find concerts, ballet, and a Holiday Art Market. Other events and performers slated for 2024 include The Nutcracker Ballet, Christmas Baroque Brilliance, Merry-Achi Christmas, The Illusionists, and more.
Check out these holiday markets near military bases.
Photo from Canva
11) Six Flags Holiday in the Park
Select dates, November 23 to December 23, 2024
Holiday in the Park is back! Six Flags Fiesta Texas will don its winter apparel and feature millions of lights, holiday entertainment and shows, the Holiday Express Train, and themed holiday zones.
12) SeaWorld San Antonio Christmas Celebration
November 14, 2024 to January 5, 2025
This Christmas, SeaWorld San Antonio becomes a winter wonderland with dazzling lights, festive shows, and themed areas. Enjoy attractions like the Sesame Street Christmas Parade, meet Santa Claus, and indulge in holiday foods and beverages. Join in singing Christmas carols with the Merry Mariachis, snap a photo with the Nutcracker Stilt Walkers, and visit the variety of pathway shows like Rudolph’s Misfit Brass Band.
Making a military move to San Antonio? Download MilitaryByOwner's free guide to your military life at Joint Base San Antonio.
