San Antonio, TX, December 6, 2025
As the holiday season nears, San Antonio’s small businesses are showcasing their creativity and resilience. Local entrepreneurs like Cristina Chio are offering unique products and experiences that contribute to the community’s economy. From food trucks serving diverse treats to seasonal events, residents and visitors have plenty of opportunities to celebrate while supporting local enterprises. The city is filled with festive activities, highlighting the rich culture of San Antonio. Everyone is encouraged to explore and enjoy the unique offerings of these small businesses this holiday season.
Support San Antonio’s Small Businesses This Holiday Season
Local entrepreneurs are welcoming the festive spirit with unique offerings as the community embraces exciting holiday events.
San Antonio, Texas – As the holiday season approaches, the resilience and creativity of San Antonio’s small businesses shine. Entrepreneurs like Cristina Chio, who founded La Concheria, exemplify the spirit of innovation that boosts the local economy. With limited regulation fostering an environment for entrepreneurship, these unique businesses are thriving, invigorating both the community and the economy.
This holiday season, San Antonio is set to dazzle residents and visitors alike with an array of festive offerings reflecting the city’s rich culture. Whether sampling delicious treats from local food trucks or attending community-driven events, there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year while supporting local enterprises.
1. La Concheria
La Concheria, a new concha food truck, is bringing a variety of unique flavors to the South Side. Founded by Cristina Chio during the pandemic, the truck offers conchas in flavors like mazapán, Oreo, churro, and Biscoff, with prices starting at $2. The official debut is set for Saturday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at “Sip & Sit with Me,” across from Mission San Jose. Chio plans to keep customers updated on locations and schedules via social media.
2. Holidays on Houston Street
Holidays on Houston Street transforms five blocks of Houston Street into a captivating holiday showcase from December 5 to December 14. Visitors can enjoy dazzling light displays, a festive market with over 50 local artisans, and unique communal dining experiences beneath twinkling street lights. The initiative begins on November 28 with the Ford Holiday River Parade and Lighting Ceremony, further enhancing the community’s seasonal festivities.
3. La Gran Tamalada
La Gran Tamalada returns to Historic Market Square on December 13-14, offering workshops, food vendors, live music, and tamales to sample throughout the weekend. This event celebrates San Antonio’s tamale-making tradition, allowing families and visitors to learn about the process from making masa to folding husks. Even if you can’t make it during La Gran Tamalada, a festive weekend stroll through the beautifully decorated Market Square is recommended.
4. River Walk Holiday Lights
The world-famous San Antonio River Walk is illuminated with thousands of lights through January 13. Visitors can enjoy the festive atmosphere while strolling along the riverbanks, making it a must-see during the holiday season. This enchanting experience not only highlights the beauty of the River Walk but also supports the local businesses that thrive along this bustling corridor.
5. Old West Christmas Light Fest
Located just north of San Antonio in Boerne, the Old West Christmas Light Fest dazzles with holiday flavors, favorites, and fun. The event features millions of twinkling lights, live music, food trucks, and family-friendly activities, creating cherished memories for all ages. This event serves as a testament to the community’s ability to come together and celebrate while supporting nearby businesses.
These local businesses and events offer a glimpse into the festive spirit of San Antonio, providing unique experiences that reflect the city’s rich cultural heritage and community spirit. By exploring these options, residents can contribute to the economic vitality of the area while creating fond holiday memories.
FAQ
What is La Concheria?
La Concheria is a new concha food truck offering unique flavors like mazapán, Oreo, churro, and Biscoff, with prices starting at $2. The official debut is set for Saturday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at “Sip & Sit with Me,” across from Mission San Jose. Updates on locations and schedules are available via social media.
When is Holidays on Houston Street taking place?
Holidays on Houston Street transforms five blocks of Houston Street into a captivating holiday showcase from December 5 to December 14. The initiative begins on November 28 with the Ford Holiday River Parade and Lighting Ceremony.
What is La Gran Tamalada?
La Gran Tamalada returns to Historic Market Square on December 13-14, offering workshops, food vendors, live music, and tamales to sample throughout the weekend. This event celebrates San Antonio’s tamale-making tradition, allowing families and visitors to learn about the process, from making masa to folding husks. Even if you can’t make it during La Gran Tamalada, a festive weekend stroll through the beautifully decorated Market Square is recommended.
When are the River Walk Holiday Lights displayed?
The San Antonio River Walk is illuminated with thousands of lights through January 13, offering a festive atmosphere for visitors to enjoy during the holiday season.
Where is the Old West Christmas Light Fest located?
The Old West Christmas Light Fest is located just north of San Antonio in Boerne, featuring millions of twinkling lights, live music, food trucks, and family-friendly activities, creating cherished memories for all ages.
Key Features
| Event | Description | Dates | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| La Concheria | New concha food truck offering unique flavors like mazapán, Oreo, churro, and Biscoff, with prices starting at $2. | Official debut on Saturday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. | Sip & Sit with Me, across from Mission San Jose, San Antonio, TX |
| Holidays on Houston Street | Transforms five blocks of Houston Street into a captivating holiday showcase with light displays, a festive market, and communal dining experiences. | December 5 to December 14 | Houston Street, San Antonio, TX |
| La Gran Tamalada | Celebrates San Antonio’s tamale-making tradition with workshops, food vendors, live music, and tamales to sample throughout the weekend. | December 13-14 | Historic Market Square, San Antonio, TX |
| River Walk Holiday Lights | Illuminates the San Antonio River Walk with thousands of lights, creating a festive atmosphere for visitors to enjoy during the holiday season. | Through January 13 | San Antonio River Walk, San Antonio, TX |
| Old West Christmas Light Fest | Features millions of twinkling lights, live music, food trucks, and family-friendly activities, creating cherished memories for all ages. | Throughout December | Enchanted Springs Ranch, Boerne, TX |
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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.
