Annual Ford Holiday River Parade and River Walk Lights | The Official Kick Off to San Antonio's Holiday Season

November 28, 2025

San Antonio kicks off the holiday season with the Ford Holiday River Parade, a beloved tradition that illuminates the River Walk each year on the day after Thanksgiving.

Countless colorfully lit floats drift down the San Antonio River, each carrying festive performers, music, and even Santa Claus himself. The parade also marks the official lighting of the River Walk, transforming downtown into a glowing wonderland of 200,000 lights that remain up through early January.

It’s a dazzling start to a season full of uniquely San Antonio holiday traditions.

Holidays on Houston Street | Downtown Magic for Everyone

December 5-14, 2025

Every year, one of downtown San Antonio’s most festive corridors magically captures the holiday spirit at Holidays on Houston Street, where twinkling lights, live performances, and holiday charm fill the historic stretch between Navarro and North St. Mary’s streets.

This celebration brings a fresh energy to one of the city’s most walkable areas, offering seasonal fun for both locals and visitors in the heart of downtown. Check out these events as part of the Holidays on Houston Street Celebrations:

• SATX 5K, the newest event to join the Holidays on Houston Street lineup, kicks off marathon weekend with a festive fun run through downtown. Open to runners, walkers, and holiday enthusiasts alike, this high-energy event adds even more excitement to the season’s growing lineup.

• A Taste of Holidays on Houston Street invites guests to enjoy an open-air dining experience under the glow of Houston Street’s enhanced holiday lights. Now in its third year, this culinary evening brings together local restaurants and holiday cheer for a one-night-only celebration that feels both elegant and inviting.

• Holidays on Houston Street Market Weekend joins more than 50 vendors offering handcrafted goods, locally made gifts, sweet treats, and holiday surprises. It’s the perfect place to shop small, sip something warm, and soak in the spirit of the season surrounded by music, lights, and the magic of San Antonio’s historic downtown.

La Gran Tamalada | San Antonio's Tamale-Making Tradition

December 13-24, 2025

Every December, Historic Market Square becomes the heart of San Antonio's tamale season when La Gran Tamalada returns, offering workshops, food vendors, live music, and tamales to sample throughout the weekend.  

A timeless San Antonio tradition for over 12 years, La Gran Tamalada is a celebration of heritage and hands‑on culture. Families, foodies, and visitors alike can learn more about tamale-making, including how masa is made and how to fold the husks. Live music, artistic booths, and food vendors are also on-site throughout this event.

Even if you can't make it during La Gran Tamalada, you'll love a festive weekend stroll through the beautifully decorated, largest Mexican market in the country. 

BONUS: Las Nuevas Tamaleras

December 4-7, 2025

If you don't know who Las Nuevas Tamaleras are, let's change that this year! 

Las Nuevas Tamaleras has become a beloved holiday tradition in San Antonio, entertaining audiences since 1993 with its heartwarming humor and cultural authenticity. This locally written play has earned a spot on the city's festive calendar, with families returning year after year to laugh, reflect, and celebrate.

The story follows three friends, Silvia, Josie, and Patsy, as they attempt their first tamalada, only to be joined by the spirited ghosts of Doña Mercedes and Doña Juanita, who hilariously clash over which recipe is best.

What unfolds is a touching, comical journey through friendship, family, and the emotional layers that come with keeping traditions alive. You can catch this year's performance at Jo Long Theatre at the Carver Community Cultural Center. Tickets are on sale now!

Los Posadas in San Antonio | Candelit Processions and Heritage Celebrations

Dates Vary by Event

What exactly is Las Posadas? Las Posadas, meaning “the inns,” is a Mexican tradition and has been lovingly preserved in San Antonio’s historic missions and churches. Traditionally celebrated over nine days leading up to Christmas Eve, the event now typically takes place on select evenings in December at various iconic locations.

Participants walk along a designated route, stopping at symbolic “inns” where they sing traditional songs and ask for shelter or “posada.” The group is turned away until they reach the final destination, where they are welcomed inside with joy, symbolizing the spirit of Christmas and community.

In San Antonio, Las Posadas has evolved from a religious observance to a vibrant community celebration, uniting people of all backgrounds to honor this treasured tradition. You can find events celebrating Las Posadas at Little Flower Basilica, Esperanza Peace and Justice Center, San Fernando Cathedral, San Antonio Missions National Historical Park, and more.