With its usually mild winter weather and fabulous culture, San Antonio, Texas is a wonderful destination for a winter getaway. It’s easy to enjoy the city’s year-round attractions. During the holiday season, you can also add to your getaway by including some of the special seasonal events throughout the city.

The River Walk is one of the city’s most popular attractions. Year-round, this beautiful area features shops and cafes located along a meandering river through the center of downtown San Antonio. It’s located one story below the city streets. You can walk along the River Walk or take a boat tour any time of year. During the holiday season, the River Walk is decked out in its holiday finest with lights and plenty of decorations. The holiday season kicks off with the Ford Holiday River Parade and Lighting Ceremony. The ceremony takes place just after Thanksgiving each year. The event regularly draws in over 100,000 visitors and includes a one-hour parade, live music, famous celebrities, and floats.

You may have missed the river parade and lighting ceremony this year, but don’t fret. The holiday isn’t over yet.

Just the Beginning: Other Holiday Celebrations Make San Antonio Rich In Culture

Carriage ride in San Antonio

This River Walk event marks the beginning of the holiday season on the River Walk, and the festivities continue throughout the season. On select days in December, the River Walk is lit up with more than 2,500 luminaries to create an unbelievably beautiful backdrop for you to enjoy holiday shopping or dining on the River Walk. This tradition is based on the religious belief that the candles will light the way for the Holy Family.

During the holiday season, Six Flags Fiesta Texas hosts Holiday in the Park. Throughout the holiday season, you can enjoy the rides, shows, shops, and dining options at Six Flags with the park dressed in its holiday finest. The warmth of the season will touch you with special seasonal holiday shows as well as carolers roaming the park to spread holiday cheer. You will also find plenty of festive holiday displays throughout Six Flags. The holidays are a magical time of year to visit Six Flags.

2 Other Christmas Treats in San Antonio

Get some Christmas shopping done in San Antonio at the famous Kristkindlmarkt. The temperate winter climate in San Antonio is just perfect for spending time shopping at this outdoor market. The market runs for one day only each December, and it brings you traditional German cultural items including handcrafted gifts, clothing, crafts, gingerbread houses, ornaments, jewelry, and much more.

In early December each year, the McNay Art Museum hosts the Annual McNay Holiday Market, which is also a great Christmas shopping destination for your getaway. This year, the museum is hosting a Tim Burton exhibit called “Dreamland“.

Make your holiday getaway a truly special event when you make plans to enjoy some of these seasonal special events and activities in the San Antonio area this year!

Mike Sharp
Author: Mike Sharp

I have a passion for travel and outdoor activities, and now I'm enjoying retired life. I will continue my traveling, golfing, boating, and enjoying life all across the great state of Texas.

Join the Texas Outside newsletter