In a city as large and diverse as San Antonio, it’s easy to find free or inexpensive activities for the whole family – especially during the holiday season. This weekend’s events include live music, movies, holiday fun and so much more. You can always count on us for great ideas!
TOP PICK
San Antonio Zoo Lights
San Antonio Zoo Lights is one of the area’s coolest places to see Christmas lights. Each night, the Zoo turns into a breathtaking winter wonderland with over two million lights shining brightly. Groupon is running a 25% off deal now for a limited time!
Friday
The Nutcracker Youth Performance – Ballet San Antonio
What: Ballet San Antonio presents excerpts of well-known ballets designed for elementary to high school students to introduce them to the joy of ballet. Teachers will be provided a study-guide prior to the performance to get the most out of their visit to Ballet San Antonio.
When: November 30, 10:00 p.m. – 11:00 a.m.
Where: 115 Auditorium Circle, 78205
Cost: Students: $8 | Adults: $10
Ford Fiesta de las Luminarias
What: Experience the serenity of the River Walk as you stroll by more than 2,000 Luminarias at night. This is a century’s old Mexican Christmas tradition.
When: November 30, 5:30 p.m.
Where: 110 Broadway St., 78205
Cost: Luminarias available online at the River Walk store
Sip ‘N Stroll in Seguin
What: Stroll through downtown Seguin and taste over a dozen varieties of homemade hot chocolate. Downtown businesses will keep their doors open late for some shopping, too. Other activities will include live entertainment from the Seguin High School Star Steppers, horse-drawn wagon rides, photos with Santa, a wiggle waggle train ride, and a variety of food vendors. The 2018 holiday mug will be available for purchase at a number of downtown merchants.
When: November 30, 5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Where: 114 S Austin St., Seguin, 78155
Cost: Free
Saturday
Hollidazzle in Schertz
What: Formerly known as Festival of Angels, this event promises to get you into the holiday spirit with a full day of yuletide cheer. In addition to plenty of entertainment, an ice skating rink will be at City Hall where people of all ages and skill levels can glide with glee! The lighted night parade will dazzle the crowds starting at 6 p.m. and travels along Oak Street to Main Street, down Schertz Parkway and onto Community Circle Drive.
When: December 1, 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Where: 1400 Schertz Pkwy., Schertz, 78154
Cost: Free
Breakfast with Santa at Northwest Hills UMC
What: Enjoy breakfast and get your photo taken with Santa!
When: December 1, 8:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
Where: 7575 Tezel Rd., 78250
Cost: $5 at the door
Free Monthly Fun Run
What: This running event is recommended for beginning runners of all ages, experienced runners who want to improve their race pace, and scholastic track and cross-country team runners. There is no need to register ahead of time. Water and sports drink will be provided at the Pavilion between events and on the Three-Mile Course.
When:December 1, 8:30 a.m.
Where: McAllister Park Pavilion #1 (Al Becken Pavilion)
Cost: Free
Oma’s Christmas Fair at the Kendall County Fair Grounds
What: Get some Christmas shopping done! Work your way through three buildings of vendors with handcrafted handmade merchandise, one of a kind gifts, gift ideas for all ages, photos with Santa, shopping for all ages, food and drink concessions, children’s activities, bake sale, door prizes, and more! All in a festive, holiday environment.
When: December 1, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Where: 1307 River Rd., Boerne, 78006
Cost: Adults: $5 | Children (12 and under): Free
Faithville Park Tree Lighting in Spring Branch
What: Join Faithville Park for their annual Holiday Kick Off Party and Tree Lighting! Play Bingo throughout the shops and win prizes! (Pick up a bingo card from a participating business or shop and they will explain how to play and win.) At dark, Faithville Park will host a special tree lighting in the courtyard with live music and gifts for kids.
When: December 1, 10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Where: 17130 State Highway 46 W, Spring Branch, 78070
Cost: Free
The Santa Express at Traders Village
What: Kids of all ages can have their photo taken with Santa for $5 (monies will go to T’eed off at Cancer). Santa will give each child a Golden Ticket for a Round Trip ride on The Santa Express (Trackless Train). If they ‘Believe’ their ticket will get hole punched and they will board the Train. The ticket is theirs to keep.
When: December 1, 12:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Where: 9333 Southwest Loop 410, San Antonio, 78242
Cost: Photo with Santa: $5 | Parking: $4
Free Family Movie at Mammen Public Library
What: Bring the whole family for a movie (Happy Feet) and snacks. Registration required. All ages welcome. There will be penguin themed snacks and craft.
When: December 1, 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Where: 131 Bulverde Crossing Rd., Bulverde, 78163
Cost: Free
Star Party at Eisenhower Park
What: Observe the night skies with the San Antonio Astronomical Association while learning about the constellations and the planets. Family-friendly activity included! During inclement weather, be sure to check the calendar as this program may be canceled.
When: December 1, 5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Where: 19399 NW Military Hwy., 78257
Cost: Suggested donation of $3 per person or $6 per family
Sunday
Jingle Jam at Rio Adventure
What: Kick-off the Christmas season with free, fun activities! There will also be a hilarious and meaningful Christmas production and a Christmas tree lighting.
When: December 2, 5:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Where: 16765 Lookout Rd., Schertz, 78154
Cost: Free
Sunday Masa at Historic St. Paul Square
What: Sunday Masa returns! Come on out for the 2nd annual celebration of the holiday season with tamales, local holiday vendors, pan dulce, hot chocolate, pictures with Santa, and much more.
When: December 2, 12:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Where: 1174 E Commerce St., 78205
Cost: $5 – 10
Any other things to do in San Antonio this weekend that you’re excited about? Let us know by commenting below.
