Last Updated – 18th December 2025
Jump to: Christmas Lights and Displays | Family Fun and Winter Activities | New Year’s Eve Countdown Events
The holiday season sparkles with joy, and Christmas week brings a special kind of magic to every corner of the city. Lights twinkle, festive music fills the air, and there’s no shortage of heartwarming events that bring people together to celebrate, laugh, and create unforgettable memories.
Check out our guide to the best Christmas events happening from Dec. 23 – Jan. 1 and make the most of this wonderful time!
And if you are looking for more ways to spend the break, explore concerts, pop-ups, markets, and local outings check out our always updated guide to the Top Weekend Events in San Antonio
Editor’s Note: We strive to keep listings up to date, but details are subject to change. Always verify with event organizers or participating locations before heading out.
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Christmas Lights and Nighttime Displays (Dec. 24 – Jan. 1)
The Light Park
Immerse yourself in a dazzling display of lights and sound at The Light Park in San Antonio. This enchanting drive-thru experience takes you on a journey through a wonderland, where millions of twinkling lights illuminate the night sky. From towering Christmas trees to animated holiday scenes, every detail is meticulously crafted to create a truly magical experience.
You can also purchase themed snack packs, sunglasses, and light wands or bracelets to add onto the experience.
When: November 7, 2025 – January 4, 2026
Where: Parking Lot, 21300 Interstate 45 N, Spring, TX 77373
How much: Starts at $39.99
Santa’s Ranch
Image credit: Santa’s Ranch
Santa’s Ranch Drive Thru in New Braunfels, just north of San Antonio, offers a festive family experience with over 3 million lights and animated holiday displays along a mile-long winding route. This dazzling drive takes about 30-45 minutes and is filled with Christmas cheer, including animated Santas that celebrate beloved holiday traditions.
Along the way, stop at the concession stand for hot chocolate, homemade kettle corn, snacks, and treats for your pets, as well as souvenirs to remember your visit.
When: November 7, 2025 – January 4, 2026
Where: 9561 I-35, New Braunfels, TX 78130
How much: $37 per vehicle (one entry) | $74 per vehicle (unlimited entries)
Jones Christmas Ranch
Jones Christmas Ranch Drive-Thru in Boerne, TX, offers a stunning holiday experience with over 4 million LED lights synchronized to festive music on 94.5 FM. Spanning 30+ acres, you’ll drive through tunnels, towering trees, animated displays, and themed scenes, including a fun “find Stitch” challenge.
Capture photos from your vehicle, discover hidden characters, and know that your visit supports a great cause: helping over 700 kids from shelters each year.
When: November 8, 2025 – December 31, 2025
Where: 43360 Interstate 10 W Frontage Rd, Boerne, TX 78006
How much: $40 per vehicle
SeaWorld Christmas Celebration
Image credit: SeaWorld San Antonio
SeaWorld San Antonio’s Christmas Celebration is transforming the park into a dazzling winter wonderland.
Immerse yourself in a sea of sparkling Christmas lights while enjoying heartwarming holiday shows, a brand-new Christmas parade, and the return of beloved seasonal performances. Complete with festive treats, themed areas, and a special visit from Santa himself, this is sure to be one of the ultimate holiday experiences for the whole family.
When: November 13, 2025 – January 4, 2026
Where: 10500 SeaWorld Dr, San Antonio, TX 78251
How much: Included with Park Admission
San Antonio Zoo Lights
Image Credit: San Antonio Zoo
Zoo Lights at the San Antonio Zoo is where the wildest holiday magic comes to life! Watch the zoo light up with thousands of dazzling lights, festive tunes, and whimsical displays that will have you in awe. And stroll through vibrant, colorful realms filled with holiday cheer at every turn.
This year, the attractions are bigger, brighter, and more enchanting than ever, making it the perfect place to experience the wonder of Christmas lights San Antonio-style, especially with the little ones.
When: November 15, 2025 – December 31, 2025
Where: 3903 N St Mary’s St, San Antonio, TX 78212
How much: FREE for members | Included with Standard Admission
San Antonio Botanical Garden’s Illuminate
Step into a world of wonder as the garden transforms with all-new handcrafted lanterns, glowing trails winding through the lush landscape, and larger-than-life sculptures that turn the night into pure enchantment. Here, you’ll find a one-of-a-kind experience that perfectly blends art, culture, and nature.
When: November 21, 2025 – January 11, 2026
Where: 555 Funston Pl, San Antonio, TX 78209
How much: $23 – $31 for adults | $18 – $24 for kids 3 – 12 | Free for kids 2 and below
Crumbling Castle Lights
Get ready for a breathtaking holiday adventure at Crumbling Castle Lights. Spread across 30 acres of Texas Hill Country, this dazzling drive-through display features thousands of twinkling trees, five glowing tunnels, and over a mile of enchanted forest.
You’ll journey through magical holiday scenes, fairy-tale sculptures, and a captivating storybook narrative filled with delightful characters, all set to festive music.
When: November 21, 2025 – December 31, 2025
Where: 571 FM 289, Comfort, TX 78013
How much: $40 | $75 for a season pass
Coca-Cola Classic Christmas at Toyota Field
Coca-Cola Classic Christmas at Toyota Field is a holiday experience like no other, bursting with sparkle and cheer. With over 55,000 square feet of dazzling light displays and sculptures, it’s one of the most vibrant attractions of the season.
You can also glide down snow slides, skate on ice, enjoy live entertainment, and meet Santa himself.
When: November 28, 2025 – December 28, 2025
Where: 5106 David Edwards Dr, San Antonio, TX 78233
How much: Starts at $21
ICE! Featuring Frosty the Snowman
Step into the heart of Frosty the Snowman’s iconic story like never before—carved out of 6,000 blocks of ice!
Stroll through a chilly town square, meet Frosty, Karen, and Hocus Pocus in a refrigerated boxcar, and glide down six thrilling ice slides. Don’t forget to wave to Frosty in his sleigh with Santa as you soak in the frosty magic.
The experience lasts around 20-40 minutes, but you can spend as much time as you like with Frosty and his friends.
When: November 22, 2025 – January 4, 2026
Where: 23808 Resort Pkwy, San Antonio, TX 78261
How much: Starts at $31
Marble Falls Walkway of Lights
Stroll through stunning Christmas sculptures along Marble Falls Lake, surrounded by sparkling lights that bring the season to life. Santa will be there every Friday through Sunday until Christmas, ready to hear your holiday wishes.
When: November 21, 2025 – January 3, 2026
Where: 305 Buena Vista Dr, Marble Falls, TX 78654
How much: $2 per person
Lights Alive
Image credit: Lights Alive
Lights Alive! in San Antonio offers an unforgettable holiday experience with a nearly one-mile drive-thru light show that’s both mesmerizing and high-tech. Watch as vibrant lights dance in sync with a mix of modern remixes and classic holiday tunes, creating a show unlike any other.
After the drive-thru, step into the Winter Wonderland Park & Play festival. Take photos with Santa, tackle escape rooms, craft your own creations, or try your hand at axe throwing. Kids will also love the large play area, while the Holiday Marketplace offers festive shopping, gourmet cotton candy, fresh fudge, and plenty of photo ops, including a life-size sleigh.
When: November 21, 2025 – January 3, 2026
Where: 5931 Roft Rd, San Antonio, TX 78253
How much: Starts at $36 per vehicle
Old West Christmas Lights Fest
Image credit: Christmas Light Fest
The Old West Christmas Light Fest 2025, held at Enchanted Springs Ranch in nearby Boerne, TX, invites you to experience a Texas-sized holiday celebration. Over 40 Old West-style buildings come to life with millions of synchronized Christmas lights, creating a magical blend of Western charm and festive cheer.
Enjoy a drive-thru and walk-around experience filled with live music, nightly visits from Santa Claus, and fun activities like candyland-themed Instagram photo rooms, cookie decorating classes, and escape rooms.
Thrill-seekers can also enjoy laser tag under the lights, mechanical bull rides, and toasty s’mores around campfires.
When: November 28, 2025 – December 3, 2025
Where: 242 TX-46 Unit C, Boerne, TX 78006
How much: Starts at $22.24
Holiday Week Family Fun and Winter Activities (Dec. 24 – Jan. 1)
Holidays at The Rock
This festive event features everything you need for holiday cheer, including exciting movie nights and great shopping at the holiday markets.
You can enjoy gliding across the ice-skating rink and participating in many more festive activities. And be sure to check out the brand-new lineup of special holiday-themed menu items available at the seasonal “Santa’s Shack” kiosk.
When: November 22, 2025 – January 2, 2026
Where: The Rock, 17703 La Cantera Pkwy, San Antonio, TX 78257
How Much: Free
A Charlie Brown Christmas
Discover the true meaning of the holiday season by enjoying A Charlie Brown Christmas, a beloved theatrical holiday tradition.
Follow Charlie Brown as he sets out to discover what is missing, despite all the surrounding cheer, and takes on directing the school Christmas play with help from Lucy, Linus, Snoopy, and the rest of the Peanuts gang.
This faithful stage adaptation features the original score and gentle humor, delivering a timeless message about love, community, and simplicity that the whole family will appreciate.
When: November 22, 2025 – January 5, 2026 | 9 am – 9 pm
Where: Magik Theatre, 420 S Alamo St, San Antonio, TX 78205
How Much: $25 for kids | $30 for adults
Skate the City: Ice Skating in the Park
Image credit: San Antonio Parks Foundation
Glide into the holiday season at Skate the City: Holidays at Hemisfair in downtown San Antonio! From November 28 to January 3, Civic Park transforms into a festive outdoor ice rink, surrounded by twinkling lights, holiday music, and plenty of cheer.
When: November 28, 2025 – January 3, 2026
Where: Hemisfair, San Antonio, TX 78205
How Much: $15 per person
Elf The Musical
Image credit: Elf the Musical on Tour
Get ready for a night of laughter, heart, and holiday cheer with Elf The Musical, inspired by the beloved film! Follow Buddy the Elf as he embarks on a magical journey to New York City, where he helps the Big Apple rediscover the true spirit of Christmas.
Based on the acclaimed 2024 Broadway production, this tour has cracked the code for all-ages comedy—leaving both kids and adults laughing out loud. It’s a sparkling, jolly, and unforgettable night out, packed with joy and festive fun!
When: December 23 – 28, 2025
Where: Majestic Theatre, 224 E Houston St, San Antonio, TX 78205
How much: Starts at $58.50
Holiday Movies by Moonlight at Hemisfair: Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer
Wrap up the season with a magical movie night under the stars! Head to Civic Park for a special screening of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, the beloved holiday classic.
When: December 23, 2025 | 7 pm – 9 pm
Where: Civic Park at Hemisfair, San Antonio, TX 78205
How much: Free
Christmas Day Buffet at Hard Rock Cafe San Antonio!
Celebrate Christmas Day with a festive feast at Hard Rock Cafe San Antonio! Head over from 12 PM to 8 PM for a special holiday buffet featuring both adult and kid-friendly options.
Indulge in exclusive holiday cocktails and shop limited-time Rock Shop merch, including items from Bruce Springsteen and KISS.
When: December 25, 2025
Where: Hard Rock Cafe, 111 W Crockett St, San Antonio, TX 78205
How much: Starts at $65 for adults | $15 for kids
Candlelight: Christmas Classics
Immerse yourself in the magic of the season at Candlelight: Christmas Classics in San Antonio.
Enjoy an enchanting program featuring beloved pieces like “Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy,” “O Holy Night,” “Feliz Navidad,” and “All I Want for Christmas Is You,” alongside festive favorites like “Jingle Bells” and “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree.”
When: December 26, 2025 | 6:30 pm and 8:30 pm
Where: The Josephine Theatre, 339 W Josephine St, San Antonio, TX 78212
How much: Starts at $44.50
Cirque Musica – Holiday Wonderland
Image credit: Tobin Center for the Performing Arts
Get ready for a holiday spectacle like no other at the Tobin Center on December 28 as Cirque Musica: Holiday Wonderland brings together stunning circus performances with your favorite holiday tunes in a dazzling new show.
Prepare to be amazed by jaw-dropping acrobatics, breathtaking aerial acts, and thrilling feats that will transport you to a magical winter wonderland.
When: December 28, 2025 | 7:30 pm
Where: Tobin Center for the Performing Arts, 100 Auditorium Cir, San Antonio, TX 78205
How much: Starts at $63
NUTCRACKER! Magical Christmas Ballet
Image credit: NUTCRACKER! Magical Christmas Ballet
Treat the whole family to NUTCRACKER! Magical Christmas Ballet and experience America’s favorite holiday tradition like never before. This enchanting performance features an international cast of world-class dancers, uniting talent from the finest ballet hubs around the globe.
Choreographed by renowned Ukrainian artist Viktor Davydiuk, the show seamlessly blends classical ballet with Tchaikovsky’s iconic score, while adding breathtaking acrobatics, grand puppets, and exquisite hand-crafted sets and costumes.
When: December 30, 2025 | 3 pm and 7 pm
Where: Majestic Theatre, 224 E Houston St, San Antonio, TX 78205
How much: Not stated
Home for the Holidays
Celebrate the season with an unforgettable night of music with Home for the Holidays at the Tobin Center.
This star-studded event features four world-renowned artists, including two-time Grammy and Academy Award winner Peabo Bryson, two-time Grammy winner Sheena Easton, American Idol winner and Grammy nominee Ruben Studdard, and international trumpet prodigy Ilya Serov. It’s a magical evening of holiday tunes and timeless classics you won’t want to miss!
When: December 31, 2025 | 7:30 pm
Where: Tobin Center for the Performing Arts, 100 Auditorium Cir, San Antonio, TX 78205
How much: Starts at $58
New Year’s Eve Countdown Events (Dec. 31)
Celebrate SA: 2025 NYE Party and Countdown
Image credit: saparks
Celebrate SA returns to Hemisfair on December 31 from 6:00 PM to midnight, bringing the community together for an unforgettable evening of music, food, and fun in the heart of downtown.
Dance to live music, indulge in delicious bites from local food vendors, and enjoy games and activities for the whole family. As midnight draws near, gather with the crowd for a breathtaking fireworks show that lights up the San Antonio skyline, marking the perfect start to the new year.
When: December 31, 2025 | 6 pm and 12:30 am
Where: Hemisfair, San Antonio, TX 78205
How much: Free
Kids Countdown
Celebrate the arrival of the “Noon Year” at The DoSeum on December 31st with a family-friendly bash! Explore the museum, enjoy delicious treats, and let the excitement build toward the grand balloon drop at noon.
When: December 31, 2025 | 10 am – 1 pm
Where: The DoSeum, 2800 Broadway, San Antonio, TX 78209
How much: $30
New Year’s Eve Countdown on Crockett at Hard Rock Cafe San Antonio!
Ring in 2026 with a bang at Hard Rock Cafe San Antonio’s epic New Year’s Eve Countdown!
Enjoy a lively block party featuring live music, a chef-specialty holiday buffet, party favors, and a champagne toast as you countdown to midnight. With a prime view of the Downtown San Antonio fireworks, this celebration is set to be one for the books!
When: December 31, 2025 | 7 pm
Where: Hard Rock Cafe, 111 W Crockett St, San Antonio, TX 78205
How much: $100 for early bird special
New Year’s Eve Lil’ Rockers Countdown
Celebrate the New Year early with a fun-filled party designed just for kids with the Lil’ Rockers Countdown, where the whole family can enjoy music, dancing, and an exciting early countdown at 6 PM.
Let your little rockers groove to upbeat tunes, enjoy games, and get into the festive spirit on the dance floor. And bring the whole crew for a tasty pre-party meal, with kids eating free during the event!
At 6 PM, there will be a special countdown to “midnight” followed by a sparkling (non-alcoholic) toast, so the kids can join in on the excitement of ringing in the New Year without the late bedtime.
When: December 31, 2025 | 4 pm – 6 pm
Where: Any Rock and Brews location in San Antonio
How much: Varies
If you’re looking for other events you and your loved ones can enjoy, check out more upcoming events and local fun in our San Antonio weekend guide.
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