'Tis the Season for Holiday Family Fun
Unforgettable Holy Jolly Memories are in San Antonio
Looking for the best family holiday activities in San Antonio? You've come to the right place!
The Alamo City offers endless ways for families to celebrate Christmas and the holiday season together, from sparkling River Walk lights to Six Flags Fiesta Texas’ Holiday in the Park, SeaWorld San Antonio’s Christmas Celebration, Zoo Lights at the San Antonio Zoo, and more!
Your 2025 Family-Fun Holiday Checklist
- SeaWorld San Antonio's Christmas Celebration
- San Antonio Zoo's Zoo Lights
- San Pedro Playhouse Presents Disney’s “Frozen”
- San Antonio Botanical Garden's Illuminate
- Holidays at The Rock
- The Magik Theatre Presents “A Charlie Brown Christmas”
- Six Flags Fiesta Texas' Holiday in the Park
- Ford Holiday River Parade
- River Walk Holiday Lights
- Coca-Cola Classic Christmas San Antonio at Toyota Field
- Natural Bridge Caverns' Christmas at the Caverns
- Hotels Going Big for Holiday Celebrations
SeaWorld San Antonio's Christmas Celebration
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Catch Santa at SeaWorld San Antonio's Christmas Celebration
When to Experience: Select dates, November 13, 2025 – January 4, 2026
Get ready for Texas-sized holiday fun at SeaWorld San Antonio, home to the Christmas celebrations bigger than Texas!
The park transforms into a dazzling winter wonderland filled with millions of lights, festive foods, heartwarming holiday shows, and, of course, Santa Claus. Your kids are sure to enjoy meeting their favorite characters, sipping hot cocoa, and taking in the joy of the season.
And there’s even more to celebrate this year! Don’t miss the brand-new Christmas parade debut, the return of Clyde and Seamore’s Countdown to Christmas featuring the park’s beloved sea lions, all-new food and drink menus, refreshed specialty-themed areas, a VIP New Year’s Eve fireworks watch party, and more holiday magic throughout the park!
San Antonio Zoo's Zoo Lights
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Wild Jolly Fun at the San Antonio Zoo's Zoo Lights
When to Experience: Select dates, November 16 – December 31, 2024
Get ready to step into a wild winter wonderland as the San Antonio Zoo lights up the night with Zoo Lights, the most magical holiday celebration in the zoo’s 110-year history!
Wander through miles of dazzling lights, festive music, and larger-than-life displays that transform the zoo into a glowing dreamland. Then, hop aboard the Holiday Express Train for a jolly ride filled with seasonal tunes, or catch the NEW Lakeside Lightshow sparkling over Big Lake, a mesmerizing addition that’s sure to become a family favorite.
As you explore, discover themed realms that bring the holiday spirit to life, like the colorful Peppermint Path, Candy Lane, Fa La La Flamingos, Starry Safari, and Polar Playground!
San Pedro Playhouse Presents Disney’s “Frozen”
Back to Top of ListJoin Anna, Elsa, and an unforgettable cast of characters on a breathtaking adventure in the regional premiere of Disney’s Frozen. This magical production brings Arendelle to life with stunning visuals, soaring music, and an empowering story of love, self-discovery, and the unbreakable bond between sisters. Featuring beloved songs like “Let It Go” and “Do You…
San Antonio Botanical Garden's Illuminate
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Let it Glow at Illuminate at the San Antonio Botanical Garden
When to Experience: Select days, November 21, 2025 – January 11, 2026
Back for year two, catch Illuminate at the San Antonio Botanical Garden.
Shining brighter and even more breathtaking than ever, you'll find all-new handcrafted lanterns, glowing trails that wind through the Garden’s natural beauty, and larger-than-life sculptures that transform the night into pure enchantment.
Your family will enjoy exploring dazzling displays that blend art, culture, and nature in a one-of-a-kind holiday experience unique to San Antonio.
Holidays at The Rock
Back to Top of ListIce Skating, Movies, and Holiday Adventures at Holidays at The Rock
When to Experience: November 22, 2025 – January 3, 2026
Celebrate the season at Holidays at The Rock at La Cantera, a festive winter celebration packed with family fun. Enjoy ice-skating under the stars, outdoor holiday movie nights, and cheerful holiday markets filled with gifts and treats.
Don’t miss the dazzling tree lighting, live entertainment, and seasonal bites and drinks at Santa’s Shack.
It’s the perfect spot for families to make memories, sip something warm, and celebrate the holidays San Antonio-style.
The Magik Theatre Presents “A Charlie Brown Christmas”
Back to Top of ListA Charlie Brown Christmas follows Charlie Brown as he sets out to discover the true meaning of the holiday season. Despite the decorations, presents, and cheerful spirit all around him, Charlie feels something is missing. With guidance from Lucy, Linus…
Six Flags Fiesta Texas' Holiday in the Park
Back to Top of ListFestive Fun at Six Flags Fiesta Texas' Holiday in the Park
When to Experience: Select dates, November 22 – December 23, 2025
Bundle the kids up… or not. It’s San Antonio in December, so you never really know! Whatever the weather, it's time to experience the magic of the holidays with thrilling rides, dazzling lights, and family-friendly fun at Six Flags Fiesta Texas' Holiday in the Park.
Laugh and sing through millions of sparkling lights, enjoy festive treats, and catch special seasonal shows that will have everyone caroling along. With visits from Santa and your favorite Looney Tunes friends, it’s pure holiday fun from start to finish.
Ford Holiday River Parade
Back to Top of ListGrab Your Seat for the Ford Holiday River Parade
When to Experience: November 28, 2025
Kick off the season with one of the most beloved kid-friendly holiday events in San Antonio, the Ford Holiday River Parade! This festive tradition lights up downtown as elaborately decorated floats drift down the San Antonio River Walk, featuring twinkling lights, holiday music, and cheerful appearances from costumed characters and, of course, Santa Claus himself.
Insider Tip: While joining the countless families that line the riverbanks to take in the magical sights and sounds that officially usher in the holiday season is an incredible experience in itself, make it even more magical by making your reservations now at a River Walk restaurant for the perfect dinner with a view of the parade!
River Walk Holiday Lights
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Stroll...or Float! Under the San Antonio River Walk's Twinkling Holiday Lights
When to Experience: November 28, 2025 – January 11, 2026
Once the parade ends, the San Antonio River Walk continues to shine all season long! 200,000 sparkling lights illuminate the trees and pathways every evening through the first week of January, turning this already scenic spot into a glowing holiday wonderland.
It’s the perfect place for a family stroll, a Go Rio River Cruise, or a festive treat beneath the shimmering canopy at one of the River Walk's many incredible restaurants.
Coca-Cola Classic Christmas San Antonio at Toyota Field
Back to Top of ListBeloved Christmas Cheer Returns to San Antonio with Coca-Cola's Classic Christmas
When to Experience: November 28 – December 28, 2025
Experience the magic of the holidays like never before at Coca-Cola Classic Christmas, returning to Toyota Field with an all-new trail, dazzling lights, and festive surprises. Bring the family and stroll through Memory Lane, a sparkling new light trail filled with wonder and hidden challenges that lead to a special surprise at the end.
Take a break at Refreshment Ridge to savor seasonal treats, then visit the Craft Corner or settle in for a classic movie at the Cinemark Theater.
Little ones can meet Santa and Mrs. Claus in their North Pole nook, while parents enjoy a cheerful stop at the Coca-Cola Truck Bar. With outdoor ice skating, snow slides, and holiday cheer in every direction, Coca-Cola Classic Christmas is a must-see for families looking to make lasting memories this holiday season.
Natural Bridge Caverns' Christmas at the Caverns
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Spread Cheer High and Low at Christmas at the Caverns at Natural Bridge Caverns
When to Experience: Select dates in December
Step into a subterranean holiday world at Natural Bridge Caverns’ Christmas at the Caverns, an unforgettable family experience where the magic happens both above and below ground.
As twilight falls, wander glowing trails, sip hot cocoa beside campfires, and explore themed activities throughout the night. You’ll find a Trail of Lights, a 5,000-sq. ft. Reindeer Roundup Maze, live music, s’mores stations, skating (synthetic ice), visits with Santa & Mrs. Claus, Caroling in the Caverns, and more.
Insider Tips: This one is quite the favorite among locals and travelers alike. Be sure to arrive early for the best parking and shuttle options, and dress comfortably for walking in cooler evening and underground temperatures!
Hotels Going Big for Holiday Celebrations
Back to Top of ListDeck the Halls Package at Westin Riverwalk, San Antonio
When to Experience: November 14, 2025 - January 5, 2026
Turn your San Antonio getaway into a Christmas dream come true! With the Deck the Halls Package, families can stay on a festively decorated floor where twinkling lights, colorful décor, and a Christmas tree in every room bring the magic of the holidays to life.
You'll be greeted with a special holiday treat upon arrival, setting the tone for a stay that feels straight out of a storybook.
Book now through January 2, 2026, for stays between November 14 and January 5, and make your holiday getaway truly unforgettable.
Let the Festive Times Roll at Signia by Hilton La Cantera Resort & Spa
When to Experience: Select days, November 21, 2025 – end of the Season
Signia by Hilton La Cantera Resort & Spa invites you and your family to Jingle Bell Roll with endless activities that the whole family will love. Their beloved onsite Topaz pool is transforming into a sparkling roller skating rink, and you won't want to miss the festive events available throughout the season.
Family Holiday Jams take place on select Wednesday evenings, where your family can enjoy cheerful, kid-friendly tunes and special appearances by Santa's elves and helpers while Saturday afternoons offer the chance to rollerskate with Santa and friends! Have teens in the family? Glow Up & Roll on Sunday nights was created specifically for the teen audience, featuring bold lights, energy, and holiday vibes.
Catch the Jolly Happy Soul with a Corncob Pipe and Button Nose at ICE! featuring Frosty the Snowman
When to Experience: November 22, 2025 – January 4, 2026
Get ready to chill out in true holiday style at ICE! featuring Frosty the Snowman, the JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa's spectacular frozen attraction and one of the coolest family holiday events in San Antonio. Step inside to find classic scenes and characters from the beloved story come to life through thousands of pounds of hand-carved, colorful ice sculptures.
Bundle up and wander through dazzling frozen displays, glide down ice slides, and snap unforgettable family photos surrounded by shimmering sculptures. Beyond the ice, the resort sparkles with festive décor, twinkling lights, and holiday treats that make every moment merry and bright.
And Ho! Ho! Ho! Oh, So Much More!

More events are being added to make this festive getaway your family's most memorable yet! Stay tuned for more information on incredible events, like the Rotary Ice Rink at Travis Park and Winterfest at the Rock at La Cantera!
And, if you're looking for even more sparkle, explore our "Best Places to See Holiday Lights in San Antonio" guide or browse the full Holiday Event Calendar.
Family Holiday Events in San Antonio — FAQ
What are the best family-friendly holiday events in San Antonio?
Top picks include SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration, Zoo Lights at the San Antonio Zoo, Six Flags Fiesta Texas' Holiday in the Park, and Illuminate at the Botanical Garden, all offering festive fun for all ages.
When do the River Walk holiday lights turn on?
The River Walk lights debut during the Ford Holiday River Parade on November 28, 2025, and sparkle through the first week of January 2026.
Are there indoor holiday events for kids in San Antonio?
Yes! Visit ICE! featuring Frosty the Snowman at JW Marriott Hill Country Resort or the Jingle Bell Roll at La Cantera Resort & Spa for cozy, weather-proof family fun.
Where can I see the most spectacular Christmas lights in San Antonio?
Don’t miss the Coca-Cola Classic Christmas at Toyota Field, Zoo Lights, and the glowing River Walk — they’re among the city’s brightest holiday displays.
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What holiday activities are perfect for a weekend getaway in San Antonio?
Combine light shows, local markets, and dining on the River Walk for a magical weekend escape filled with festive charm.



