'Tis the Season
Stay merry and bright all season long with San Antonio's best holiday events
Looking for something unique to do while getting into the holiday spirit? There's a variety of happenings in and around San Antonio during this final month of 2018.
Skip the line and book an appointment online to see Santa (so 21st century), take part in San Antonio's favorite tamale market, or spend a day in New Braunfels soaking up the small-town Texas holiday charm. No matter how you celebrate, there are plenty of activities to get you into the spirit of the season.
Holidazzle— December 1
The city of Schertz's Holidazzle (formerly the Festival of Angels) kicks off with special Breakfast with Santa. Space is limited and registration is required. Tickets are $10.
With a bellies full, enjoy some shopping at Kris Kringle’s Market while an outdoor ice skating rink and giant snow globe add to the festive atmosphere. There also will be local entertainment groups performing throughout the afternoon. Finally, Schertz's annual illuminated night parade kicks off at 6 pm to cap off Holidazzle.
32nd Annual Weihnachts Parade — December 1
The 32nd Weihnachts Parade in Boerne begins at 6 pm, and features more than 100 lit entries along Main Street. This free spectacle begins at Frederick Street (by the fire house) and ends at River Road.
Krause’s Biergarten & Cafe in New Braunfels — through December
Krause’s Biergarten & Cafe in New Braunfels hosts fun holiday happenings throughout December. A special edition of New Braunfels Farmers Market will take place outside on the cafe pavilion December 6, 7, and 8, from 5-9 pm.
Then, at 7:30 pm on December 13, New Braunfels’ best brass players will perform holiday tunes for free at the cafe. Last but certainly not least, Krause Klaus will be visiting the cafe throughout the month. Spot the jolly ol’ elf and get a photo with him for $10.
The Cowboy Christmas Parade — December 8
The Cowboy Christmas Parade starts at 7:30 pm in Old Town Helotes, at 14391 Riggs Rd. “Songs of Christmas” is the theme for this year’s parade, so expect a true Yuletide extravaganza.
La Gran Tamalada — December 8
The San Antonio holiday tradition returns from 11 am-7 pm at Market Square. Learn to make your own tamales courtesy of Mi Tierra's La Cortez Family or buy some from local vendors. There will be activities for children, music, and photo ops with Pancho Claus. Admission is free.
Windrcrest Light Up— December 8
Windcrest’s ever-popular Light Up begins with a ceremony from 6-9 pm at 8601 Midcrown Dr. Enjoy refreshments, caroling, and a visit from Santa. Also, pick up a map of local homes participating in the Light Up contest to view fantastic illuminated displays. "Bows and Lights” is this year’s theme.
Alamo Quarry Market— through December 24
Not up for standing in line to see Santa? Alamo Quarry Market has just the thing for you — online appointments. Santa is available daily from 10 am to 7 pm now through December 24.
Holiday Artisan Show — December 14-16
If you’re looking to finishing your holiday shopping (or want to cram it all into a single weekend), head down to the River Walk for the annual Holiday Artisan Show. Dozens of vendors will display and sell handmade merchandise, from jewelry and paintings to woodwork and textiles.
Ken Slavin — December 19
Local singer Ken Slavin performs a swingin’ holiday show at 8 pm at Sam’s Burger Joint. Enjoy jazzy versions of your holiday favorites, and return all week long as Jack Ingram, Del Castillo, Patricia Vonne, and Guy Forsyth all perform in the days leading up to the Christmas holiday.