Christmas in San Antonio
Strings of colored lights draped over the River Walk cypresses, theme parks dressed for the season and crisp evenings made for family strolls.
Your holiday getaway to San Antonio
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Book unique activities at special prices.
Hotels for the holidays
Downtown and theme-park-area stays for 3 nights and 2 adults, with rates that refresh automatically.
Where San Antonio celebrates Christmas
From the glowing river to the theme parks and seasonal markets: the December stops worth making.
- Nov–JanRiver Walk lights season
- Late NovFord Holiday River Parade
- ≈63 °FAverage December high
- ≈3 hDrive from Houston
Snapshots of a Texas Christmas
Light tunnels, giant trees, carolers and visits with Santa: the holiday season in and around San Antonio.
- Holiday ice sculptures
- Pictures with Santa
- Candy-land light tunnel
- San Fernando Cathedral in December
- A walk through white lights
- Family nights under the lights
- Carols in the open air
- A light festival from above
Christmas in San Antonio FAQ
Dates, weather, where to stay and how to plan a December family trip.
When do the River Walk lights come on?
Traditionally they switch on the Friday after Thanksgiving, during the Ford Holiday River Parade, and stay lit every night until early January. Walking the river to see them is free, and you can also take in the lights from a river barge.
What is the Ford Holiday River Parade?
A holiday parade of floats sailing down the River Walk that kicks off the lights season in late November. You can watch from the banks, and reserved seats are sold and usually sell out.
What do the theme parks offer in December?
Six Flags Fiesta Texas puts on Holiday in the Park, with lights, shows and rides after dark, and SeaWorld San Antonio hosts its Christmas Celebration with light tunnels and seasonal shows. Operating days vary, so check each park's calendar before buying tickets.
What's the weather like in December?
Days are mild, with highs around 63 °F, but nights can drop to the low 40s °F and the occasional cold front blows through. Pack a jacket and layers, especially for evenings on the river or at the parks.
Where should I stay over the holidays?
Downtown near the River Walk lets you walk to the lights, San Fernando Cathedral and the Alamo. If your plans center on Six Flags or SeaWorld, a hotel on the northwest or west side cuts down on driving.
Is it worth driving in?
Lots of families road-trip: it's about 3 hours from Houston, 4 to 5 from Dallas, and 4 to 5 from Monterrey via Nuevo Laredo. A car makes it easy to reach the theme parks outside downtown. If you fly, SAT airport is about 15 minutes from downtown.
What documents do I need if I'm traveling from Mexico?
A valid passport and US visa for every family member, children included. If you cross by land you'll also need I-94 permits, since San Antonio lies beyond the border zone, and expect long bridge lines during the holidays.
Is it crowded during the holiday season?
Yes, especially on December weekends and between Christmas and New Year's. Visit the River Walk on a weeknight or early in the evening, buy park tickets ahead and book your hotel early, since school-break dates fill up fast.
How do I get my confirmation, and where are the terms?
Your confirmation arrives by email once you complete the purchase. Change and cancellation terms depend on each fare or hotel and are shown before you pay, so review them when choosing your package.
Keep the hotel, flights and tickets for your San Antonio holiday trip on your phone with the Ticketón app.
