The holiday season brings a special kind of magic to San Antonio, especially along the iconic River Walk!

This festive guide highlights all the must-see holiday experiences across Downtown, Museum Reach, and the Mission Section, where you’ll find twinkling lights, seasonal events, and unforgettable holiday fun.

Downtown

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Santa and Mrs. Claus on parade float at Ford Holiday River Parade on the River Walk.

Downtown


Kick off your holiday adventure by immersing yourself in the glow of over 200,000 twinkling, multi-colored lights along the downtown River Walk!

These dazzling displays light up starting from the Ford Holiday River Parade and continue to enchant through January 11, 2026. December brings even more sparkle with three cherished holiday traditions:

  • Ford Holiday Boat Caroling – This event is SOLD OUT; however, you can still hear the sounds of the season drift through the air as boats filled with carolers cruise along the river, spreading holiday cheer nightly on Select Days, December 12-23, 2025

  • Holidays at Hemisfair — This ALL-NEW holiday celebration invites you to skate, shop, and sparkle all season long. Enjoy ice skating under twinkling lights, festive markets, movie nights, and family-friendly fun as Civic Park becomes San Antonio’s newest winter destination.

  • Holiday in the Village at La Villita — an unforgettable, family-friendly celebration featuring handcrafted gifts, live music, snow-globe fun, cuddly goats and even “real” snow! With cookie decorating, a gingerbread house contest, Santa & the Grinch, and treasures from local artisans, it’s the perfect way to immerse in the holiday spirit in the heart of downtown San Antonio.

  • Holiday Artisan Show — Find unique holiday treasures at this festive market! With over 40 vendors offering handmade pottery, textiles, jewelry, woodwork, paintings, beadwork, and more, it’s a perfect spot to shop for one-of-a-kind gifts. This year, the event happens | December 5-7, 2025 and December 19-21, 2025.

Museum Reach

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Museum Reach


For a truly magical holiday experience, head to the Museum Reach section of the River Walk! This area is brimming with festive lights, unique shopping experiences, and holiday events to make your season bright.

Start your visit with a stroll through Historic Pearl to see the stunning Holiday Lights at Pearl, where twinkling displays create an enchanting atmosphere. Pearl's festive lighting and decorated plazas make it the perfect backdrop for an evening out.

While you're there, don’t miss these must-visit holiday markets and events:

  • Holiday Markets – Celebrate local artists and find one-of-a-kind gifts at Tobin Center for the Performing Arts, San Antonio Museum of Art, and the Night Market at Pearl.

  • River of Lights – Take in the beauty of the River of Lights, where festive lights dance along the river, creating a breathtaking sight as you stroll along Museum Reach. On December 13, 2025, join the San Antonio River Authority along the Museum Reach for a festive evening filled with holiday cheer. Enjoy sparkling lights, family fun, and seasonal activities.

Mission Reach

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Matachine Group at El Camino de San Antonio Missions
Photo by El Camino de San Antonio Missions

Mission Reach

  • Matachine Festival  |  December 7, 2025 — Mission Concepción will host its annual Matachine Festival, featuring dancing at the church and a celebration at the El Camino Campus from 1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. There will be Matachine dance troupes, food booths, fair trade items for sale, and Music.

Bonus: Holidays on Houston Street

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Holidays on Houston Street


Another can’t-miss holiday celebration is Holidays on Houston Street! Stroll over five blocks from Legacy Park to the Alamo, where you’ll be immersed in the magic of twinkling lights, grand festive decorations, lively entertainers, and special holiday offerings from local restaurants, shops, and partners.

Here are a few events we are super excited for:

  • SATX 5K– A new highlight of the holiday season! The San Antonio Marathon kicks off with the SATX 5K Presented by Holidays on Houston Street, replacing the annual Holidays on Houston Street 5K and Fun Run. Full details and registration are available below.

  • Taste of Houston Street Community Dinner  |  December 6th, 2025 – Enjoy a cozy, family-style holiday meal right on Houston Street. Local chefs will serve a delicious seasonal menu for a festive community dining experience.

  • Holidays on Houston Street Market  |  December 12 - 14, 2025 – Shop local this season at an open-air market featuring handmade crafts, holiday décor, and festive treats—perfect for unique, artisan-made gifts.