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.
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.
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, enjoy 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!
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.
A few miles outside San Antonio in the Hill Country, visit the Old West Christmas Light Fest in Boerne.
Enjoy a festive holiday experience with a variety of activities:
Other activities:
Purchase tickets online, with discounts for military and first responders.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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. Enjoy Christmas Carols from the Merry Mariachis, take a photo with the Nutcracker Stilt Walkers, and enjoy 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.