Things to Do on Christmas Week in San Antonio
Things to Do on Christmas Week in San Antonio 2024
Free Christmas Events San Antonio
San Antonio Christmas-Related Events
Holiday Events for Kids
Festive Fun for Adults
It’s the most wonderful time of the year! San Antonio has transformed into a festive wonderland this holiday season and hosts a plethora of Christmas events.
You don’t have to break a buck with free events like exploring the Deerfield Holiday Lights or the Alamo Heights Christmas Lights.
San Antonio is crawling with epic Christmas festivals that last weeks! These include the San Antonio Zoo Lights, Santa’s Ranch, and Old West Christmas Lights Fest.
Check out the full list below!
Editor’s Note: We work hard to bring you the most up-to-date information. However, all information is subject to change! As always, please verify with the organizer before heading out.
Also, please note that this article may contain affiliate links. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. We only recommend products and services that we genuinely believe will benefit our readers.
In case you are wondering about the choice of listings in this article, here is how we come up with our recommendations.
Check out our most recent article on Best Christmas Lights in San Antonio, San Antonio Restaurants Open Christmas Eve and Restaurants Open On Christmas San Antonio!
Free Christmas Events San Antonio
Alamo Heights Christmas Lights
Image credit: San Antonio Things to Do
Homes are adorned with dazzling lights, creating a breathtaking spectacle that draws visitors from far and wide. Streets are lined with glowing trees, houses wrapped in sparkling icicles, and yards filled with twinkling holiday figures. The best time to experience this enchanting display is at dusk, when the lights illuminate the neighborhood, creating a truly magical atmosphere.
When: December
Where: Alamo Heights, San Antonio, TX 78209
How Much: Free
Deerfield Holiday Lights
Image credit: San Antonio Things To Do
While technically the lights come on at dusk, a local secret is that many residents illuminate their displays as soon as the sun sets. Weekdays are ideal for avoiding the legendary weekend crowds. A friendly reminder: there are no public restrooms in the neighborhood, so plan accordingly.
When: December
Where: Deerfield, San Antonio, TX 78248
How Much: Free
Monte Vista Christmas Lights
Looking for a free and festive activity? Take a leisurely drive or stroll through the historic Monte Vista neighborhood in San Antonio. This charming district is renowned for its dazzling Christmas light displays, transforming the streets into a winter wonderland. Go all out for the holidays and enjoy all of the other Free Christmas Events in San Antonio!
When: December
Where: Monte Vista, San Antonio, TX 78212
How Much: Free
First Day Hike: Birding
What better way to ring in the New Year than to be with nature? Join the members of the Government Canyon Activities Committee on their birding outing.
You can bring your own equipment or let them know if you want to borrow binoculars when you make your reservation.
When: Wednesday, January 1, 2025 | 8 am – 11 am
Where: Government Canyon State Natural Area, 12861 Galm Rd, San Antonio, TX 78254
How Much: Free to join; Entrance fees: Free for kids 12 and below & $6 for adults
San Antonio Christmas-Related Events
SAMMinistries Holiday Wishes
This Christmas season, SAMMinistries is seeking your support to bring joy to over 500 children who have experienced homelessness and are now residing in their housing programs. You can make a difference by sponsoring a child and fulfilling their Christmas wish, or by organizing a gift collection drive within your community. Every contribution, no matter the size, will help to ensure a brighter holiday season for children in need.
Where: 910 Oblate Dr, San Antonio, TX 78216
Elf Louise Christmas Project
Image credit: Elf Louise Christmas Project Facebook
Help bring smiles to the faces of children in need this Christmas! The Elf Louise Christmas Project, a non-profit organization serving San Antonio since 1969, needs your help to deliver gifts. Volunteer on Christmas Day and make a lasting impact.
Where: 333 Morris Witt St, San Antonio, TX 78226
The Children’s Shelter
This holiday season, The Children’s Shelter, a non-profit organization providing refuge and support for abused and neglected children, invites the community to volunteer. Opportunities abound, from spending quality time with children and providing academic assistance to lending a hand with festive holiday events. By volunteering, you can bring joy and hope to children in need during this special time of year.
Where: 2939 W Woodlawn Ave, San Antonio, TX 78228
San Antonio Zoo Lights
The San Antonio Zoo Lights is a magical holiday event that transforms the zoo into a winter wonderland. Millions of twinkling lights illuminate the zoo’s pathways, trees, and animal exhibits, creating a breathtaking spectacle for visitors of all ages. Key attractions include a festive train ride, a stunning lakeside light show, themed areas like Fiesta Plaza and Candy Lane, and opportunities to indulge in holiday treats and capture memories with Santa Claus.
When: Saturday, November 16, 2024 – Tuesday, December 31, 2024
Where: 3903 N St Mary’s St, San Antonio, TX 78212
How Much: FREE for members | Included with Standard Admission
Winterfest
Calling all San Antonio families! WinterFest is packed with delicious food options to tantalize your taste buds and keep you fueled for all the holiday cheer. Plus, you might even catch a glimpse of Santa himself during his special visits.
When: Monday, November 25, 2024 – Monday, January 6, 2025
Where: 1 Spurs Wy, San Antonio, TX 78256
How much: Free
Old West Christmas Lights Fest 2024
Image credit: christmaslightfest.com
Celebrate the holidays with a bang! The Old West Christmas Light Fest has tons of photo ops, Santa, lots of food and drinks, and a shopping area.
The kiddies can run around and let all their energy out in the playground with a Giant Mega Slide, a Fun Run Maze, and lawn games. You can even show some love to animals in the petting zoo.
Christmas at the Caverns
Experience a unique holiday celebration at Natural Bridge Caverns! As the sun sets, the caverns transform into a holiday dream. Wander through a trail of lights, roast s’mores by the campfire, and let the little ones skate on the ice rink. Don’t miss the chance to meet Santa and his reindeer, or explore the 5,000 square foot outdoor maze.
When: Saturday, December 7, 2024 – Monday, December 23, 2024
Where: 26495 Natural Bridge Caverns Rd, San Antonio, TX 78266
How Much: $18.99 – $37 per child | $24.99 – $47.99 per adult
Christmas Brunch
Have a festive feast at the Tributary restaurant in the lobby of the San Antonio Marriott Rivercenter this Christmas Day.
Indulge in a buffet featuring an array of delicious dishes, like flatbreads, pecan sage stuffing, brunch dishes with a Christmas twist, and more! There will even be a made-to-order omelet and premium carving station.
After that hearty meal, satisfy your sweet tooth with desserts made by their award-winning pastry chef.
When: Wednesday, December 25, 2024 | 11 am – 2 pm
Where: San Antonio Marriott Rivercenter, 101 Bowie St, San Antonio, TX 78205
How Much: $35 – $70
Cirque Musica – Holiday Wonderland
Cirque Musica – Holiday Wonderland is back, celebrating its 15th anniversary. Get your tickets now and witness a fantastical show filled with music, merriment, and marvels– everything you need for your holiday celebrations.
You’ll see incredible acrobatics, aerial feats, and talented singers and musicians all spreading holiday cheer!
When: Thursday, December 26, 2024 | 7 pm
Where: The Tobin Center for the Performing Arts, 100 Auditorium Cir, San Antonio, TX 78205
How Much: Starts at $49.50
Chanukah on the River
The Jewish community is celebrating the holidays with Chanukah on the River.
The Cruise Experience includes a boat ride, interactive entertainment, chocolate gelt, and Chanukah donuts.
The Menorah Lighting and concert featuring Nissim Black is free. This event will have kosher concessions and community leaders and dignitaries.
When: Sunday, December 29, 2024 | 3:30 pm
Where: Arneson River Theater, 418 Villita St, San Antonio, TX 78205
How Much: $10 (Cruise Experience); Free (Menorah Lighting and Concert)
Santa’s Ranch
Experience the magic of Christmas at Santa’s Ranch in New Braunfels, TX. This dazzling drive-thru light show features millions of twinkling lights, animated displays, and festive tunes. Enjoy hot chocolate and kettle corn as you wind through over a mile of illuminated country roads.
When: Friday, November 1, 2024 – Saturday, January 4, 2025
Where: 9561 I-35, New Braunfels, TX 78130
How Much: $37 per vehicle (one entry) | $74 per vehicle (unlimited entries)
Lights Alive!
San Antonio’s Lights Alive is returning this holiday season with a dazzling drive-thru light show. The event features millions of lights synchronized to music, creating a captivating display. From towering Christmas trees to animated characters, the show offers a variety of festive scenes.
When: Friday, November 22, 2024 – Saturday, January 4, 2025
Where: 5931 Roft Rd, San Antonio, TX 78253
How Much: $36.95 – $46.95
Rotary Ice Rink at Travis Park
Image credit: Rotary Ice Rink Facebook
Take your family and friends to the Rotary Ice Rink at Travis Park for a fun time of gliding on ice and enjoying the holiday cheer!
You might even get to see Santa! He’ll be there from 2 pm to 4 pm every Sunday.
When: November 15, 2024 – January 5, 2025
Operating Hours: Monday – Thursday 5:00 pm – 10:00 pm | Friday 5:00 pm – 11:00 pm | Saturday & School Holidays 1:00 pm – 10:30 pm | Sunday 1:00 pm – 8:00 pm | Christmas Eve & New Year’s Eve: 1 pm – 7 pm | Christmas Day & New Year’s Day: 1 pm – 7 pm
Where: 300 E Travis St, San Antonio, TX 78205
How Much: Free – $15
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.
When: Friday, November 1, 2024 – Sunday, January 5, 2025
Where: Parking Lot, 21300 Interstate 45 N, Spring, TX 77373
How Much: $39 – $55
SeaWorld Christmas Celebration
SeaWorld San Antonio is decking the halls for the biggest Christmas celebration in Texas, an extraordinary holiday event. This wintry wonderland features Christmas shows, festive foods, Santa Claus, and the largest Christmas light display in Texas.
When: Thursday, November 14, 2024 – Sunday, January 5, 2025
Where: 10500 SeaWorld Dr, San Antonio, TX 78251
How Much: Included with Park Admission
Riverwalk Christmas Lights
The San Antonio River Walk transforms into a magical winter wonderland during the holiday season. Thousands of twinkling lights illuminate the riverbanks, creating a breathtaking atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy various festive activities, including boat caroling, a luminaria display, an artisan market, and holiday boat cruises.
When: Friday, November 29, 2024 – Friday, January 13, 2025
Where: San Antonio, TX 78205
How Much: Varies
Celebrate San Antonio NYE Celebration
Join the massive New Year’s Eve party downtown presented by Michelob Ultra!
The South Alamo Main Stage will host performances by Eddit & The Valiants, John Charlie’s Heavy Love, and sets by DJ Isaiahfromtexas. The Boogie Bend Stage will host performances by LA 45, JOAQUIN, and DJ Lovedocument.
Aside from live performances, the free event for all ages will have carnival rides and attractions, food and artisan vendors, and a fireworks show at midnight!
When: Tuesday, December 31, 2024 | 6 pm
Where: Arneson River Theater, 418 Villita St, San Antonio, TX 78205
How Much: Free
Holiday Events for Kids
Six Flags Holiday in the Park
Image credit: Six Flags Fiesta Texas Facebook
Millions of twinkling lights illuminate the park, creating a magical atmosphere. Experience thrilling rides, festive shows, and delectable holiday treats. Meet Santa Claus, cozy up by a roaring fire, and immerse yourself in the spirit of the season.
When: Monday, November 23, 2024 – Monday, December 23, 2024
Where: San Antonio, TX 78257
How Much: $29 – $89.99
San Antonio Santa Photos at Ingram Park Mall
Come capture the magic of the season with Santa photos at Ingram Park Mall! Santa will be onsite from November 17 through December 24th before he heads back to the North Pole!
When: November 14 – December 24, 2024 | Monday – Saturday: 11 am – 8 pm (Breaks from 3 pm – 4 pm); Sunday – 12 pm – 6 pm (Breaks from 3 pm – 3:30 pm); December 20 – 23: 10 am – 8 pm (Breaks 1 pm – 2 pm & 5 pm – 5:30 pm); December 24: 10 am – 5 pm (Break 1 pm – 1:45 pm)
Where: 6301 NW Loop 410 San Antonio, TX 78238
How Much: Price starts at $39.99
Santa Photos at North Star Mall
Mr. Claus is visiting all the way from the North Pole to take photos with you! Santa Photos at North Star Mall in San Antonio is now open. Santa will be there until December 24th. You can book your pictures online.
When: Until December 24, 2024
Where: 7400 San Pedro Ave., San Antonio, TX 78216
How Much: Starts at $19.99
San Antonio Santa Pictures at Rolling Oaks Mall
Capture the magic of the season with Santa photos at Rolling Oaks Mall! Visit Santa for a fun photo experience. Catch him at the Center Court, in front of the big Christmas Tree.
Book your visit now to lock in the day and time of your choice. Don’t miss out on this festive opportunity to celebrate the joy and wonder of Christmas.
When: Until December 24, 2024
Where: 6909 N Loop 1604 E, San Antonio, TX 78247
How Much: Starts at $19.99
Splashway Christmas
Image credit: Splashway Waterpark & Campground Facebook
Celebrate the Christmas season in the water at Splashway Water Park. Their Splashway Christmas features tons of exciting activities like the Lighted Christmas River Float, Ice Skating, arts and crafts, photos with Santa, and more!
Early New Year’s Eve Family Fun Fest
Join Pathways Youth at Cherrity Bar for an early new year celebration for the whole family.
The Early NYE Family Fun Fest will have free kids’ activities, a live DJ, and half-priced appetizers.
You’ll also be helping the group. 10% of the profits will go to their mission of transforming families, communities, and lives.
Kids Countdown
Give the kiddos the last day of 2024 to have immense fun! Get your tickets now to Kids Countdown where there will be tons of activities and yummy snacks. Watch the thrilling balloon drop to ring in the “Noon Year!”
CelebrateSA: Kids Countdown in Yanaguana Garden
Image credit: Hemisfair Facebook
Take the kids to the Yanaguana Garden at Hemisfair to celebrate the end of 2024! This evening will include Story Time readings with Ms. Kim highlighting New Year traditions from cultures around the globe, crafts and activities, and a giant countdown clock that will countdown to an early New Year at 8 pm.
How much: Free
The Jones Christmas Ranch
Jones Christmas Ranch is a family-run holiday tradition that has been dazzling visitors for 16 years. After gaining national recognition on ABC’s Great Christmas Light Fight, the family expanded their operation to a 32-acre property. Beyond the stunning light displays, the Ranch is committed to giving back to the community.
When: Friday, November 8, 2024 – Tuesday, December 31, 2024
Where: 43360 Interstate 10 West Frontage Rd, Boerne, TX 78006
How Much: $35 per vehicle Sunday – Thursday| $40 Friday – Saturday | $40 December 21 – 25 | $75 (season pass)
Holiday Bricktacular
Celebrate your holidays in a creative space. LEGOLAND® Discovery Center San Antonio will have tons of wonderland activities and festive decorations.
This year, they have Build To Give, an experience that allows you to give back ti the community with your creative LEGO heart creations. Plus, explore the MINILAND Winter Wonderland, LEGO-made wintry city streets with iconic holiday scenes.
Be on the look out! You have the chance to meet LEGO holiday characters!
When: November 22, 2024 – January 5, 2025
Where: LEGOLAND Discovery Center, 849 E Commerce St Suite 910, San Antonio, TX 78205
How Much: Included with admission
Festive Fun for Adults
A Very Burlesque Xxxmas Party
Things are going to get steamy for your holiday celebrations. Watch as Burlesque acts tease you and put on a show. Acts include Ad Astra, Ms. Blazing and Ember Sol, Fire, and LED performer Pope plays with fire. Elmo Ramos, the most gentlemen of gents, will be hosting the night.
Performances will occur from 10 pm to 12 am. DJs Rivers and Dlo House will take over to spin beats from 12 am to 2 am.
When: Friday, December 27, 2024 | 10 pm
Where: Mi Vaquita, 212 College St, San Antonio, TX 78205
How Much: $20
Alamo Bowl Watch Party at River North Icehouse
Starts at 5pm – $5 Modelo Pitchers during the game. DJ AFTRPRTY post game until 2am!
When: 5 pm, December 18th
Where: 317 W Jones Ave, San Antonio, TX 78215
Pre NYE Bash with Big Bang 80s Rock Show
Party hard before the year ends and do it retro. Call your friends and head over to Fitzgerald’s Bar for their Pre NYE Bash.
Big Bang 80s Rock Show is taking you back to the era of neon lights and big hair. They’ll be performing hard rock hits from hair bands, including hits from Guns N’ Roses, Dangerous Toys, L.A. Guns, Warrant, Judas Priest, and more.
When: Saturday, December 28, 2024 | 8 pm – 2 am
Where: Fitzgerald’s Bar & Live Music Venue, 437 McCarty Rd #101, San Antonio, TX 78216
Christmas Movie Trivia
Test your Christmas movie knowledge and get the chance to win a prize. Ranger Creek Brewing is inviting you for a trivia night of iconic and classic Christmas movies. First-, second-, and third-place winners will win gift cards!
They’ll also have themed cocktails to get your head in the game.
Kids and pets are welcome with supervision.
When: Saturday, December 28, 2024 | 6 pm – 8 pm
Where: Ranger Creek Brewing & Distilling, 4834 Whirlwind Dr, San Antonio, TX 78217
New Year’s Eve Karaoke & Skyline Deck Party
Say “Goodbye!” to 2024 by belting out your favorite songs. Bring your family and friends to ring in 2025 in the most fun way!
After singing your heart out, head over to the Skyline Deck Party. Welcome the new year with drinks, music by DJ Tech-Neek, and a fantastic view of the downtown San Antonio Fireworks Show!
When: Tuesday, December 31, 2024 | 7 pm – 10 am (Karaoke); 10 pm – 1 am (Deck Party)
Where: Sanchos Cantina & Cocina, 628 Jackson St, San Antonio, TX 78212
How much: $10 (Deck party)
NYE at River North Icehouse
NYE at River North Icehouse – Reservations available for $250. Includes a booth, a complimentary bottle of liquor and a complimentary bottle of champagne. Midnight countdown hosted by DJ Cowboy Savage.
When: December 31st, 2024
Where: 317 W Jones Ave, San Antonio, TX 78215
How Much: $250
The Holiday Hideaway
Take your friends and family to Chicken N Pickel for cocktails. The Holiday Hideaway is a pop-up holiday bar with “lodge vibes, summit views, a cozy atmosphere, and outdoor fire pits.”
They have 10 festive cocktails and a variety of beer, wine, and liquor. Make your reservations today! That will include a red pepper hummus and a shareable charcuterie for the table.
When: Until January 1, 2025
Where: Chicken N Pickle, 5215 UTSA Boulevard, San Antonio, TX 78249
How Much: $20 – $60, 21+
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