San Antonio is full of holiday spirit. From live mariachi performances of holiday tracks to impressive light displays, ice sculptures, and more, explore the most family-friendly things to do during the Christmas season in San Antonio.
LIVE SHOWS AND PERFORMANCES
Capture the spirit of the season by attending a showing of these timeless performances.
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“A Christmas Carol” | San Pedro Playhouse: Don’t miss this dazzling performance of Charles Dickens’ classic Christmas tale, presented with American Sign Language. Runs Nov. 29 to Dec. 22.
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The Children’s Nutcracker | The Children’s Ballet of San Antonio: Perfect for audiences of all ages, make your way to Lila Cockrell Stage to enjoy this holiday tradition. Runs Dec. 13 and Dec.14.
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Mariachi Sol de Mexico Presents Jose Hernandez’s Merry-Achi Christmas | Tobin Center for the Performing Arts: Combining traditional Mexican music with holiday favorites, audiences will love this unique experience featuring a 13-piece mariachi ensemble. Dec. 20.
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The Frosty Follies | San Pedro Playhouse: You’ll have a hard time staying in your seat during this grooving showcase of holiday tunes hosted by the San Pedro Playhouse. Runs Dec. 5 to Dec. 22.
LIGHTS AND DECORATIONS
Enjoy the brightest light displays in the metro by checking out these must-see experiences:
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Coca-Cola Classic Christmas | Toyota Field: Located at Toyota Field, this immersive experience offers the best of the holidays thanks to ice skating, Santa meet-and-greets, snow slides, and, yes, massive light displays you must see to believe. Runs Dec. 6 to Dec. 29.
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Santa's Ranch | New Braunfels: Head to historic New Braunfels to enjoy this drive-through holiday lights event fit for the whole family, highlighted by more than 2.5 million lights twinkling brightly. Runs Nov. 3 to Dec. 31.
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SeaWorld San Antonio Christmas Celebration | SeaWorld San Antonio: Enjoy dazzling light displays, seasonal treats, and more than a dozen specially themed holiday areas, including Rudolph’s Christmas Town, a Christmas Market, and other experiences. Runs Nov. 29 to Jan. 5.
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Zoo Lights | San Antonio Zoo: There’s hardly a better time to visit the San Antonio Zoo than during the holiday season, where night-time trips feature lantern-lit animal displays that wow people of every age. Runs Nov. 16 to Dec. 31.
HOLIDAY POP-UPS AND EVENTS
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Holidays on Houston Street | Downtown San Antonio: Head to the center of the city for this bustling, festive tradition featuring five blocks of fun, including decorations, performances, lights, and more. Runs Nov. 29 to Jan. 2.
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ICE! Featuring Dr. Seuss’ “How the Grinch Stole Christmas!” | JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa: Looking for a holiday getaway? Head out to the JW Marriott in north San Antonio to explore Whoville ice sculptures crafted using 2 million pounds of ice. Runs Nov. 23 to Jan. 5.
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Miracle at The Esquire | Esquire Tavern: Enjoy Christmas-themed cocktails and over-the-top decorations at this popular institution that’s been transformed into a wild winter wonderland. Runs Nov. 29 to Dec. 31.
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Ford Holiday Boat Caroling | San Antonio River Walk: Cruise through San Antonio’s famed River Walk while singing timeless holiday carols for passersby to enjoy. Runs Dec. 4 to Dec. 23.
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Gruene Ice Rink | Gruene: Lace up your skates and hit the ice at this family-friendly skating rink, open daily for guests to enjoy throughout the holiday season. Runs Nov. 23 to Jan. 5.
- Holidays at The Pearl | The Pearl: Head to the Historic Pearl just north of Downtown to sample some seasonal spirit, whether it be photos with Santa, Christmas movies on the lawn, Holiday Market evening outings, or all of the above.
