San Antonio transforms into a holiday wonderland like no other, kicking off its seasonal celebrations with the iconic Ford Holiday River Parade on November 29, 2024. This cherished city tradition illuminates the River Walk with dazzling lights, vibrant floats, and festive cheer, setting the stage for a season packed with unique holiday events and traditions.

The 43rd Annual Ford Holiday River Parade, themed “Toy Box Adventures,” promises magic for all ages with 27 beautifully decorated floats, five special entertainment floats, and Santa himself. More than 100,000 twinkling lights will adorn the River Walk from November 29, 2024, to January 5, 2025, creating a magical riverside backdrop for visitors. Along with the lights, two beloved holiday traditions return in December: the Ford Fiesta de las Luminarias and Ford Holiday Boat Caroling. Fiesta de las Luminarias, taking place from December 6-22 on weekends, illuminates the riverbanks with hundreds of sand-filled luminaria bags, while the Ford Holiday Boat Caroling fills the air with festive tunes from December 5-23.

Beyond the River Walk, the second annual San Antonio Holidays on Houston Street brings a lively holiday market to the heart of downtown. Kicking off on December 3 with the Houston Street Lighting and Community Dinner, the market will run from December 13-15, offering seasonal goods, local treats, and crafts. For the active holiday-goers, a Holiday Fun Run and 5K is set for December 17. At the historic Alamo, visitors can experience “Homemade Christmas” on December 7, a step back in time showcasing 19th-century Texas holiday traditions.

Market Square adds its own flair with the beloved La Gran Tamalada, a festive celebration of tamale-making held on December 14 and 15. Along with live music, visitors can enjoy family photos with Santa and delicious food from local vendors.

San Antonio’s holiday spirit extends beyond the downtown area with must-see events across the city:

• SeaWorld Christmas Celebration (November 14 – January 5): The state’s largest Christmas celebration, SeaWorld offers millions of lights, unique holiday bites, and heartwarming performances like “O Wondrous Night,” featuring caroling, dancing, and puppetry.
• San Antonio Zoo Lights (November 16 – December 31): Families can stroll through the zoo’s enchanting light displays, enjoy live entertainment, and meet Santa Claus himself.
• Six Flags Holiday in the Park (November 18 – January 7): Sparkling with over a million lights, this event offers festive décor, holiday treats, and thrilling rides, including Texas’ only racing roller coaster, the all-new KID FLASH Cosmic Coaster.
• Classic Christmas at Toyota Field (November 22 – December 29): This immersive event provides families with a perfect setting for holiday bonding through memorable experiences.
• Hill Country Christmas at JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort and Spa (November 23 – January 5): The resort’s grand ICE! exhibit showcases 20,000 square feet of ice sculptures and slides inspired by Dr. Seuss’ “How the Grinch Stole Christmas,” offering guests a frosty experience with exclusive treats and holiday activities.
• Illuminate at the San Antonio Botanical Garden (November 29 – January 12): The garden’s stunning light displays blend art and nature in a captivating holiday spectacle.
• Christmas at the Caverns (December 7, 8, 14, 15, 20-23): This unique underground celebration includes caroling in the caverns, the Trail of Lights, and a festive Reindeer Roundup Maze. Advanced tickets are recommended due to limited availability for Caroling in the Caverns.

San Antonio’s rich holiday offerings bring warmth and festivity to locals and visitors alike. From illuminated riverbanks to cozy market gatherings, these seasonal events make San Antonio a standout holiday destination filled with cheer, tradition, and community spirit.

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