We Checked This List Twice, and It Has Everything Nice!

‘Tis the season for festive fun! San Antonio’s list of holiday events might just be longer than Santa’s shopping list. (Well, almost!) We checked it twice and found 7 of the most magical, kid-friendly holiday experiences that can’t be missed. These events are fun for the whole family, whether you’re a kid or a kid at heart. So, grab your sleigh (or hop in the car), and let’s go!

Elf-Approved Kid-Friendly Holiday Experiences

Look no further for family fun in San Antonio for the holidays. These are 7 of the most festive, kid-friendly holiday events around.

ICE! featuring Dr. Seuss’ “How The Grinch Stole Christmas!” at JW Marriott

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Christmas decorations featuring "How the Grinch Stole Christmas" at JW Marriott Hill Country San Antonio
Photo by JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa

November 23, 2024 - January 5, 2025

The Grinch didn’t steal Christmas this year. Instead, he brought a whole lot of ice. ICE! at the JW Marriott is an immersive winter wonderland. This year, the event is recreating your favorite scenes from Who-ville. Take a journey through captivating ice tunnels, zip down two-story ice slides, and see your favorite Grinchy characters intricately carved out of 2 million pounds of ice!

Winterfest at The Rock at La Cantera

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Winterfest at The Rock
Graphic by The Rock at La Cantera

November 25 - January 6

The first-ever Winterfest at The Rock celebrates the season with festive holiday markets, ice skating, and a sparkling Christmas tree that will light up the winter nights. Plus, Santa is making appearances on select evenings, so you have a chance to meet the big man himself! This event is free to attend and the perfect way to get into the holiday spirit.

Coca-Cola Classic Christmas at Toyota Field

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Two girls running toward large holiday light displays.
Photo by Coca-Cola

November 22, 2024 - December 29, 2025

Are you ready for some real holiday magic? Coca-Cola Classic Christmas is transforming Toyota Field into a winter wonderland. Explore 55,000 square feet of dazzling light sculptures, the enchanting market square, ice skating, a snow slide, and the World’s Largest Christmas Light Maze. There will be parties for hosting, marshmallows for toasting, and visits from Mr. and Mrs. Claus.

The Velveteen Rabbit at Magik Theatre

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The Velveteen Rabbit Graphic
Graphic by The Magik Theatre

November 23 - December 29, 2024 (Select Days)

San Antonio’s Magik Theatre is where classic children’s stories hit the stage. For the holidays, they’re putting on a production of The Velveteen Rabbit, a tale where toys come to life when humans leave the room. This little rabbit has a lot to learn about being real, and its journey will melt your heart this holiday season.

Winter Wonderlands at Top Attractions

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Christmas celebrations at San Antonio Attractions
Photos by SeaWorld San Antonio, San Antonio Zoo, Six Flags Fiesta Texas, and Natural Bridge Caverns

SeaWorld San Antonio Christmas Celebration (Select Days)

November 14, 2024 – January 5, 2025

You’ll also want to check out SeaWorld San Antonio’s SeaWorld Christmas Celebration with one of the largest light displays in Texas. Catch Christmas shows, festive food, Santa Claus, and more! Don’t forget to grab a cup of hot chocolate as you and your family take in the sights!

 

Zoo Lights at the San Antonio Zoo

November 16 – December 31, 2024 (Select Days)

Wander through miles of dazzling lights, festive music, and whimsical displays that will fill your heart with holiday cheer at the San Antonio Zoo’s Zoo Lights. Hop aboard the Holiday Express for a musical journey that will surround you with the joyful sounds of the season.

 

Holiday in the Park at Six Flags Fiesta Texas

November 23 - December 23, 2024 (Select Days)

Six Flags Fiesta Texas’ for brightest celebration, Holiday in the Park, brings holiday magic for the whole family, including magical musical, colorful twinkling lights, and special appearances by Santa.

 

Christmas at the Caverns at Natural Bridge Caverns

December 7-8, 14-15, 20-23, 2024

At Natural Bridge Caverns’ Christmas at the Caverns you’ll find yourself surrounded by beautiful Hill Country, a 30-foot Christmas tree, trail of lights, Santa’s reindeer and more! You can also treat the family to caroling in the caverns, a campfire with roasted marshmallows, and more!

Feasting with Holiday A-Listers

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Breakfast with Santa Experiences
Graphics by Dave & Busters & Westin Riverwalk San Antonio

Giant Gingerbread Decorating

Select Saturdays November 30 - December 28, 2024

Get into the holiday spirit with a gingerbread decorating experience perfect for the whole family! Enjoy crafting oversized edible masterpieces and sipping hot chocolate. Adults can enjoy indulging in mimosas while light bites keep the creativity flowing. Bring canned goods to support the SA Food Bank and help spread cheer to those in need this season. *Please note, tickets must be purchased at least 2 weeks in advance*

 

Marshmallows & Squishmallows: A High Hot Chocolate Experience

Select Sundays December 1-29, 2024

Enjoy a whimsical twist on high tea with the Marshmallows and Squishmallows experience, featuring tea sandwiches, colorful macarons, and gourmet marshmallows for kids -  plus mulled wine for adults. This family-friendly event also includes a heartfelt cause—donate a Squishmallow stuffed animal to benefit the Children’s Hospital this Christmas! *Please note, tickets must be purchased at least 2 weeks in advance*

 

Breakfast with Santa at Dave & Busters

December 7, 2024

If you want even more time with Mr. Christmas, you can join him for breakfast! Breakfast with Santa at Dave & Busters features Santa’s buffet of morning favorites, gameplay, and, of course, pictures with Santa. Can you think of a more magical way to start the day? 

 

North Pole Breakfast with Santa & His North Pole Elves

December 14, 2024

Make sure your holiday season includes a magical breakfast alongside Santa and his cheerful elves! Families can enjoy festive holiday music, story time with Santa, and fun activities like holiday coloring and letter writing to the North Pole. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture these special moments and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Holiday Cocoa Cruise with GO RIO River Cruises

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Family on Go Rio boat during Christmas Time
Photo by Go Rio River Cruises

December 3 - December 21, 2024 (Tuesdays - Saturdays)

Why go walking through a winter wonderland when you can go floating? Hop on a GO RIO cruise boat for a Holiday Cocoa Cruise down the Riverwalk! This 50-minute ride is the best way to take in the Riverwalk Holiday Lights. Take a ride under 100,000 twinkling lights as you enjoy hot cocoa, carols, and time with the family.