San Antonio, November 25, 2025
San Antonio is gearing up for the holiday season with a plethora of festive events and attractions. From the iconic Ford Holiday River Parade to dazzling light displays at the River Walk and local parks, there’s no shortage of holiday cheer for residents and visitors alike. This guide provides an overview of key events, including dates, locations, and unique highlights that embody the spirit of celebration during this special time of year.
San Antonio’s 2025 Holiday Season: A Guide to Festive Events and Attractions
San Antonio is embracing the holiday season with a variety of festive events and attractions, offering residents and visitors numerous opportunities to celebrate. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the city’s holiday happenings.
Ford Holiday River Parade and Lighting Ceremony
Event Date: November 28, 2025
The 44th Annual Ford Holiday River Parade kicks off the season with the theme “Merry Movie Magic.” The parade features 27 illuminated floats, 5 entertainment floats, and 200,000 holiday lights adorning the River Walk from sundown to sunrise through January 11, 2026.
Holiday Lights on the River Walk
Event Dates: November 28, 2025 – January 11, 2026
Following the parade, the River Walk continues to shine with over 100,000 lights draped over the towering bald cypress trees. This free event is open nightly, providing a picturesque setting for holiday strolls.
Westover Field of Lights
Event Dates: December 4–20, 2025
Located at the Westover Sports Complex, this event features over 350,000 synchronized lights, creating a dazzling display. The experience includes a half-mile walk through shimmering lights, free games, and photo opportunities. Admission is free, with donations encouraged to support local charities.
The Light Park at Wolff Stadium
Event Dates: November 13, 2025 – January 4, 2026
Wolff Stadium has been transformed into “The Light Park,” a drive-thru Christmas light display. Visitors can enjoy millions of dancing lights synchronized to festive music from the comfort of their vehicles. Admission is charged per car, with online tickets starting at $39.99.
SeaWorld San Antonio’s Christmas Celebration
Event Dates: November 13, 2025 – January 4, 2026
SeaWorld transforms into a Christmas wonderland with millions of lights, over a dozen decorated Christmas zones, new culinary offerings, and festive entertainment. Highlights include appearances by Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer and the Merry Mariachis. Admission is included with park tickets.
Six Flags Fiesta Texas Holiday in the Park
Event Dates: November 22 – December 23, 2025
Six Flags Fiesta Texas becomes a holiday wonderland with 2.5 million twinkling lights and over 75,000 decorations, including a 70-foot artificial fir tree. The park offers live shows, carolers, and holiday treats, all included with admission.
San Antonio Zoo Lights
Event Dates: November 15, 2025 – January 4, 2026
The San Antonio Zoo is illuminated with millions of lights, larger-than-life animal lanterns, and festive displays. Visitors can enjoy hot cocoa, s’mores, and a lakeside light show set to holiday music. Admission is included with zoo tickets.
San Antonio Botanical Garden’s Illuminate
Event Dates: November 21, 2025 – January 11, 2026
The San Antonio Botanical Garden presents “Illuminate,” featuring handcrafted lanterns, glowing trails, and illuminated sculptures. The event offers themed nights like Family Night and Sensory-Friendly Night.
Holidays at Hemisfair
Event Dates: November 28, 2025 – January 3, 2026
Hemisfair’s Civic Park is transformed into a holiday destination with ice skating, festive décor, and family-friendly activities. Highlights include the “Skate the City” outdoor rink and the Historic Home Lighting Ceremony on November 29.
Additional Events
- Santa’s Ranch: A drive-thru Christmas light park in New Braunfels, open through January 4, 2026.
- Lights Alive Christmas Light Park and Festival: A 1-mile drive-thru synchronized light show followed by a Winter Wonderland Park-n-Play festival, located at 5931 Roft Road, San Antonio, TX 78253.
- Texas A&M University-San Antonio’s Lights of Esperanza: The 10th annual celebration on December 2, featuring over 30,000 lights across the campus.
For a full list of holiday events and more details, visit the official San Antonio tourism website. Enjoy the festive season in San Antonio!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Ford Holiday River Parade?
The 44th Annual Ford Holiday River Parade is a cherished San Antonio tradition that brings joy and festivity to the San Antonio River Walk. This year’s theme is Merry Movie Magic, so be ready to see floats dedicated to the holiday season’s most iconic films.
When does the Holiday Lights on the River Walk event start?
The Holiday Lights on the River Walk event begins on November 28, 2025, and continues through January 11, 2026.
What is the Westover Field of Lights event?
Westover Field of Lights is an event featuring over 350,000 synchronized lights, creating a dazzling display. The experience includes a half-mile walk through shimmering lights, free games, and photo opportunities. Admission is free, with donations encouraged to support local charities.
Where is The Light Park located?
The Light Park is located at Wolff Stadium, 5757 US-90, San Antonio, TX 78227.
What are the dates for SeaWorld San Antonio’s Christmas Celebration?
SeaWorld San Antonio’s Christmas Celebration runs from November 13, 2025, through January 4, 2026.
Key Features of San Antonio’s 2025 Holiday Events
| Event | Location | Dates | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ford Holiday River Parade and Lighting Ceremony | San Antonio River Walk | November 28, 2025 | Annual parade featuring illuminated floats and holiday lights, marking the start of the festive season. |
| Holiday Lights on the River Walk | San Antonio River Walk | November 28, 2025 – January 11, 2026 | Over 100,000 lights illuminating the River Walk nightly, creating a festive atmosphere. |
| Westover Field of Lights | Westover Sports Complex | December 4–20, 2025 | Over 350,000 synchronized lights with free games and photo opportunities. |
| The Light Park at Wolff Stadium | Wolff Stadium | November 13, 2025 – January 4, 2026 | Drive-thru light display with millions of synchronized lights set to festive music. |
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Author: STAFF HERE SAN ANTONIO WRITER
The SAN ANTONIO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanAntonio.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Antonio, Bexar County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Fiesta San Antonio, San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo, and Dia de los Muertos. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Antonio and Bexar County, plus leading businesses in retail, insurance, and energy that power the local economy such as H-E-B, USAA, and Valero Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HEREHouston.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
