Here's How to Have a Wonderful Thanksgiving in San Antonio

Friendsgiving at Zocca

November 20, 2025

This year, The Westin Riverwalk, San Antonio, is setting the table for a Friendsgiving to remember. One week before Thanksgiving, Zocca Cuisine D’Italia will host a candlelit, chef-driven Friendsgiving dinner in partnership with The Prisoner Wine Company.

Enjoy a four-course menu created by Executive Chef Ron Mays, paired with expressive vintages, introduced by a brand ambassador who shares the story behind each pour. Dishes like lump crab croquette, ancho-spiced octopus, smoked veal roulade, and strawberry panzanella make it a feast for the senses!

Where to Eat Thanksgiving Dinner in San Antonio

Looking for the perfect Thanksgiving dinner in San Antonio? The city’s culinary scene makes the holiday even more special, with restaurants serving festive menus that blend classic comfort food with bold Texas flavors.

Picture tender turkey, savory stuffing, and cranberry sauce paired with San Antonio favorites like smoked brisket, tamales, and spicy Tex-Mex dishes. It’s a feast that celebrates tradition with a local twist. Be sure to make reservations early, as enjoying the best Thanksgiving dinner in San Antonio is a popular tradition you won’t want to miss.

The following restaurants are currently accepting Thanksgiving reservations. Make your reservations now!

Special Thanksgiving Dining Events 

This is not an exhaustive list of places to dine on Thanksgiving by any means. Whether you're looking for more unique food options or a complete, traditional feast, San Antonio has you covered in the culinary department.

Remember to call ahead, as hours can fluctuate, and reservations are limited.

Kick Off the Holidays with the Ford Holiday River Parade

November 28, 2025

Mark your calendar for the day after Thanksgiving. It’s time for the Ford Holiday River Parade. This event is one of the city’s most beloved Thanksgiving weekend traditions, and this year’s theme, “Merry Movie Magic,” brings the silver screen to life as illuminated floats drift down the San Antonio River, each celebrating a classic holiday film.

Grab a seat along the River Walk as more than 100,000 sparkling lights set the scene. Music, laughter, and the scent of festive treats fill the air while families and friends line the riverbanks or enjoy the show from riverside restaurants. The parade transforms downtown into a scene straight out of a holiday movie.

Even after the final float passes, the magic continues. The River Walk remains aglow throughout the season, inviting visitors to stroll beneath twinkling trees, take a river cruise, and soak in the joy that makes the holidays in San Antonio unforgettable.

View the complete guide to this year's Ford Holiday River Parade.

Shop Small Thanksgiving Weekend

Head to the  Pearl for unique local boutiques, and nearby, you can find Pullman Market, where you can fuel up on delicious restaurants and quick bites as you continue your shopping adventures.

La Villita Historic Arts Village offers a variety of options for finding unique handmade gifts and one-of-a-kind items that reflect the city’s rich cultural heritage. While you’re there, be sure to check out Scentchips for incredible fragrances of wax melts, Yolix Luna Fine Art for artwork by Mexican artist Yolix Luna, and Capistrano Soap Company for handcrafted body care.

Historic Market Square, the largest Mexican market in the country, also offers one-of-a-kind shopping. Stop by Little Mexico Imports for handmade pottery, embroidered clothing, and more, or by Plaza Taxco for incredible silver jewelry.

SeaWorld San Antonio Christmas Celebration

November 13, 2025 - January 4, 2026

If you’re looking to jump-start the holiday festivities during Thanksgiving, SeaWorld San Antonio invites you to a Christmas Celebration for cozy adventures with hot chocolate, carolers, Santa, holiday-themed shows, and more!

Zoo Lights

November 15, 2025 - January 4, 2026

The San Antonio Zoo is always an incredible visit, but if you haven’t paid a visit during Zoo Lights, you’re in for a real treat! Stroll the grounds and admire festive displays, twinkling holiday lights, photo ops, special snacks and drink options, and more!

Coca-Cola Classic Christmas at Toyota Field

November 28 - December 28, 2025

Classic Christmas is a magical winter wonderland is a must-see experience with 55,000 square feet of dazzling light displays, an ice-skating rink, a thrilling snow slide, and a holiday market filled with local vendors, this event truly captures the spirit of the season.

Six Flags Fiesta Texas Holiday in the Park

November 22 - December 23, 2025

Festive shows, the man in red himself, special holiday menus, twinkling lights, and a whole lot of fun and thrills. Get your holiday spirit on at Six Flags Fiesta Texas‘ Holiday in the Park.

ICE! Featuring “Frosty the Snowman”

November 22, 2025 - January 4, 2026

For a unique and frosty adventure, head over to the JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country for ICE! Featuring “Frosty the Snowman”. This immersive experience transports you back to this beloved classic story, where you can walk through whimsical scenes from the movie, intricately carved from millions of pounds of ice.

H-E-B Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony at Travis Park

November 28, 2025

The 2025 Christmas tree lighting ceremony at Travis Park will feature a 50-foot tree decorated with over 10,000 lights and custom ornaments. This event kicks off the day after Thanksgiving with live entertainment, food trucks, and more!

Stroll or Ride Under the River Walk Holiday Lights

November 28, 2025 - Early January 2026

The River Walk is home to one of the largest free holiday light displays in the world. The day after Thanksgiving, the River Walk shines with over 100,000 holiday lights twinkling from the towering cypress trees.

This is the perfect time to stroll the river or grab a ride on a GO RIO cruise boat.