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.

Kick off your holiday adventure by immersing yourself in the glow of over 100,000 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 12, 2025. December brings even more sparkle with three cherished holiday traditions:

• Ford Fiesta de las Luminarias – Experience the charm of luminarias, a beautiful Mexican tradition where small, sand-filled bags with candles line the riverbanks, casting a warm glow over the water.
• Ford Holiday Boat Caroling – Hear the sounds of the season drift through the air as boats filled with carolers cruise along the river, spreading holiday cheer nightly from December 5-23, beginning at 6:00 p.m.
• 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.

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 Art Market at the Tobin Center – Celebrate local artists and find one-of-a-kind gifts at the Holiday Art Market. Explore booths filled with handmade art, jewelry, and crafts that capture the spirit of San Antonio.
• Holiday Market and Family Fun at San Antonio Museum of Art – Perfect for families, this market features festive shopping, crafts, and activities for all ages. A great way to support local vendors while enjoying holiday cheer.
• 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.

Step into a season of faith, culture, and tradition with “Christmas at the Missions”—a month-long celebration that brings the heartwarming traditions of Advent and Christmas to life! Hosted by El Camino de San Antonio Missions, this celebration highlights the cultural and devotional practices of the San Antonio Missions and the Archdiocese. From November 30 to January 11, immerse yourself in the beauty of Matachines dances, Posadas, and the inspiring Christmas at the Missions Exhibit at the Margil Center.

Here’s a glimpse at some of the events:

• Annual Matachine Pilgrimage of San Juan Diego | Dec. 7 | 7 a.m. | Witness hundreds of dancers process and pray as they honor Our Lady of Guadalupe — Begins at Mission San Juan Capistrano and concludes at Mission San José.
• Matachine Festival | Dec. 8 | 1 - 5 p.m. | Mission Concepción’s El Camino Campus | Enjoy an afternoon of traditional dances, live music, food booths, and fair-trade shopping—all for free
• Annual Posadas at the Missions | Dec. 20 | 6 p.m. | Locations: Mission Concepción, Mission San Juan Capistrano, and Mission San José

Discover the flavors of Southtown’s culinary gems this holiday season! Here’s a taste of what the Culinary Capital of Texas has to offer:

Little Em’s Oyster Bar
Dive into fresh oysters and coastal-inspired dishes in this charming spot. With its lively atmosphere and chic decor, Little Em’s makes the perfect gathering spot for seafood lovers and was recently recognized in the Michelin Texas Guide.

Rosario’s ComidaMex & Bar
An iconic spot for Tex-Mex and margaritas, Rosario’s is beloved for its vibrant flavors and festive vibe. Try their famous enchiladas and classic cocktails for an authentic San Antonio experience.

Burgerteca
Where burgers meet Mexican flavors! This unique eatery brings a creative twist to classic burgers with Mexican spices and ingredients. It’s a must-try for burger aficionados!

Liberty Bar
Nestled in a historic building, Liberty Bar offers a blend of modern American dishes and a warm, inviting ambiance. Their eclectic menu and extensive wine list are perfect for a cozy night out.

Battalion
Located in a former fire station, Battalion specializes in Italian cuisine with bold, flavorful pasta dishes and a stylish setting. It’s the place to be for pasta enthusiasts and those seeking a unique dining experience.

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:

• Rotary Ice Rink at Travis Park – Glide into the holiday spirit at the Rotary Ice Rink in Travis Park! Open daily, this festive outdoor rink offers fun for all ages, surrounded by twinkling lights and holiday decorations. A perfect way to add some wintry magic to your San Antonio holiday experience.
• Holidays on Houston Fun Run & 5K – Lace up for a holiday-themed run down Houston Street! This family-friendly fun run and 5K invites participants to dress in their favorite festive attire as they race through downtown, complete with holiday cheer and post-race festivities.
• Taste of Houston Street Community Dinner – Join the community for a cozy holiday meal right on Houston Street! This outdoor, family-style dinner features local chefs and a delicious seasonal menu, offering a unique way to experience the flavors of San Antonio during the holidays.
• San Antonio Coffee Festival presents Hot Holidays on Houston Street – Warm up your holiday season with coffee tastings, treats, and festive fun! Hosted by the San Antonio Coffee Festival, this event celebrates local coffee artisans along Houston Street, making it a must for coffee lovers and holiday enthusiasts alike.
• Holidays on Houston Street Market – Discover unique holiday gifts at this open-air market along Houston Street! With vendors offering handmade crafts, holiday décor, and festive treats, it’s the perfect spot to find one-of-a-kind presents and support local artisans