Joyful. Festive. Unmistakably San Antonio.

The Best Christmas and Holiday Events, Lights, & Things to Do

Experience the holidays in San Antonio, where history, culture, and holiday spirit shine bright. The San Antonio River Walk glows with bright lights, festive music fills the air, and every street feels alive with celebration.

Explore San Antonio holiday events and markets filled with local art, seasonal treats, and unique gifts. Take a river cruise beneath the lights, sip hot cocoa at a merry café, and discover traditions that make San Antonio, Texas, the most magical winter and holiday getaway.

Joy, flavor, and community make Christmas and the holidays in San Antonio a season worth traveling for, and one you’ll never forget.

It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year in San Antonio

Houston Street in San Antonio adorned with holiday lights and wreaths.

The Best Christmas & Holiday Lights in San Antonio

Calendar of Holiday Events in San Antonio

Girl sliding down ice slide at ICE! event at JW Marriott Hill Country Resort & Spa San Antonio.

Kid-Friendly Holiday Fun for Families

Historic Market Square Christmas decorations in San Antonio.

Historic Market Square | Photo by La Familia Cortez

San Antonio's Unique Holiday Traditions

Children pointing at artificial holiday rhino adorned with lights at Zoo Lights at San Antonio Zoo.

San Antonio Zoo Lights

Exclusive Holiday Offers

View of San Antonio River Walk overlooking Stargazer sculpture.

Hotel Savings and Offers

Festive decorated float with costumed patrons at Ford Holiday River Parade.

What to Expect at the Annual Ford Holiday River Parade

Are you ready for San Antonio's official kickoff of the holiday season? Get complete details here.

Group of people waving on holiday themed float

Ford Holiday River Parade

Your Guide to San Antonio Shopping

7 Reasons Why San Antonio is the Perfect Holiday Destination

San Antonio Holidays on Houston Street Graphic

Holidays on Houston Street

December 5-14, 2025

A uniquely festive 5K, an incredible dining experience on historic Houston Street, and a weekend-long holiday street market in the Alamo City.

They’re all part of Holidays on Houston Street, and you won’t want to miss a single event!

Learn More

San Antonio Marathon, Half-Marathon, and 5K

December 5-7, 2025

Lace up for the inaugural San Antonio Marathon weekend featuring a 5K, half-marathon, and full marathon. Each route starts and finishes at Hemisfair and winds through San Antonio’s historic neighborhoods and iconic landmarks, including the Alamo and the River Walk.

Register now and come experience San Antonio’s culture, energy, and festive December atmosphere!

Register Now

Explore More Holiday Events in San Antonio

Why San Antonio is Texas’ Most Festive City During the Holidays

When it comes to holiday celebrations, few places capture the magic like San Antonio. Here, the season blends Texas warmth with deep-rooted traditions, where twinkling lights guide you throughout the city, festive feasts fill tables with joy, and locals and visitors alike bring carols to life along the River Walk.

With mild winter weather, it’s easy to wander beneath glowing Christmas lights, browse festive markets, or take a river cruise surrounded by illuminated cypress trees. Check out our complete guide to the Ford Holiday River Parade and stay for our endless holiday events, celebrations, and cozy winter weekends that make every moment in San Antonio one to remember. Find exclusive hotel deals now and make your stay extra special.

Costumed characters dressed as nutcrackers and Christmas elves at Holiday in the Park at Six Flags Fiesta texas.

Family laughing with snow falling at San Antonio Zoo's Zoo Lights.

Families looking at Frosty the Snowman exhibit.

Out Now: Your Official 2025-2026 Visitor's Guide

Your official guide to experience the best San Antonio has to offer is out now! Let us show you how to have the best experiences in the Alamo City!

Plan Your Holiday Getaway to San Antonio Today

The holidays have arrived, and San Antonio is ready to welcome you. Discover hotel offers, holiday events, and our Christmas lights guide to plan a trip that’s Joyful. Festive. Unmistakably San Antonio.

Group of people waving on holiday themed float

San Antonio Holiday FAQs

What are the best holiday events in San Antonio?

San Antonio’s most popular holiday events include the Annual Ford Holiday River Parade, Holidays on Houston Street, Six Flags Fiesta Texas' Holiday in the Park, and SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration. Visitors can also enjoy Las Posadas, light displays along the River Walk, and cultural celebrations throughout December.

Where can I see the best Christmas lights in San Antonio?

The River Walk is the city’s signature holiday light experience, featuring over 100,000 twinkling lights. Additional displays can be found at the San Antonio Zoo Lights, the University of the Incarnate Word Light the Way, and the Natural Bridge Caverns Christmas at the Caverns event.

Is the Ford Holiday River Parade free to attend?

Reserved seating for the Ford Holiday River Parade requires a paid ticket, while limited free viewing areas are available along the River Walk. Visitors are encouraged to arrive early to secure a good spot.

When does the holiday season start in San Antonio?

San Antonio’s holiday season kicks off in late November with the Ford Holiday River Parade and continues through New Year’s Day, offering festive light displays, parades, and special events across the city.