BANG FOR YOUR BUCK
7 spectacular San Antonio spots to ring in a sparkling New Year
Most of the holiday gifts have been wrapped, and the big meal has been ordered long ago. All that remains on the to-do list is to bake a few cookies before scheduling a few hours to relax. Oh, and there’s that always-vexing question — what the heck should you do to ring in the new year?
Almost every San Antonio restaurant will try to entangle guests with tony prix-fixe, and even the sloppiest of bars will lure customers with a free “Champagne” toast. And, of course, there is always the option to stay at home playing Enya for your fireworks-rattled pug. Still, for many, the only way to embrace Auld Lang Syne is at a giant citywide party.
Celebrate SA
The grandest of Alamo City’s annual fetes stretches from Market Street to Civic Park at Hemisfair. This year’s theme — “Dancing in the Streets” — promises music at every turn, from the “screwmbia” of Príncipe Q to a disco picnic hosted by SoundCream Airstream. Carnival rides, food and artisan vendors, and drinks kiosks complete the free event, which crescendos in a lavish fireworks display at midnight.
Hyatt Regency San Antonio New Year’s Eve
Get an eagle’s eye view of the glittering sky by partying on the downtown hotel’s rooftop. Tickets are a bit dear at $285 a pop but include live music, a sumptuous hors d’oeuvres spread, a top-shelf bar, and party favors.
Kids Countdown at the DoSeum
An 8 pm bedtime doesn’t mean youngsters can’t join the countdown fun. Before a magical balloon drop, kids are invited to mark the “noon year” with face painting, nibbles, and other child-friendly activities. Tickets are $25, but parents should be advised that coat checks and stroller parking will not be provided to accommodate a large number of guests.
Fiesta Texas New Year’s Celebration
It’s no surprise that San Antonio’s resident theme park would say goodbye to 2023 in a big way. The firework display is a 360-degree pyrotechnic spectacular with over 200 launch locations throughout the park. The best seat in the house is the Lone Star Lil’s Amphitheater, which can be reserved for an additional cost. Pass holders get access to the Diamond Bash, which includes two hours of exclusive thrills on DC Universe rides.
The Moon’s Daughters NYE Party
Watch the sky light up from the highest rooftop in the 210. This lofty experience includes light bites, an open bar, a tattoo artist, a tarot card reader, and music by New York’s DJ M.O.S. Admission is $375 to $2000, so cash in those holiday gift cards.
Rosario’s Dancing on the Rooftop
Undeniably, Southtown is one of San Antonio’s most electric neighborhoods during New Year’s Eve, and Rosario’s is in the heart of it all. Step up to the rooftop for midnight snacks, a Champagne toast, party favors, photo ops, and a thumping set by DJ Steven Lee Moya. Tickets range from $125 for an individual ticket to $1,050 for a reserved table for eight.
SeaWorld New Year’s Eve
Dive into 2024 at the popular marine park. Attractions include entertainment scattered throughout the grounds and a grand fireworks show viewable from various vantage points.