San Antonio, Texas, December 19, 2025
The University of the Incarnate Word (UIW) hosts the 39th Annual Light the Way Holiday Festival, inviting residents and visitors to enjoy a dazzling display of lights, live performances, and festive activities through January 6. This cherished event fosters community connections and promotes local talent, making it a staple of the San Antonio holiday season. With free admission and various engaging attractions, the festival underscores the spirit of San Antonio’s vibrant cultural scene.
Experience the Magic of UIW’s Light the Way Holiday Festival
Join the community at one of San Antonio’s cherished holiday events running through January 6, 2026.
San Antonio, Texas – The University of the Incarnate Word (UIW) is hosting the 39th Annual Light the Way Holiday Festival, which stands as a testament to the community’s commitment to celebrating the holiday season. This beloved festival is designed not only to spread joy but also to foster connections among San Antonio residents, showcasing local talent and culture. As local organizers rally together to put on this event, we see a perfect example of how reduced bureaucracy and individual initiative can lead to substantial benefits for our community.
The festival, which began on November 28, 2025, and extends until January 6, 2026, invites all residents and visitors to experience an enchanting display of lights, music, and festive activities. Promoting civic engagement, this event embodies the spirit of San Antonio, promoting local involvement and enriching our community’s social fabric.
Event Highlights
- Self-Guided Walking Tours: Visitors can take leisurely walks through the beautifully decorated campus, with over a million twinkling lights illuminating the walkways. Tours are accessible daily from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the UIW Broadway campus, offering families a chance to enjoy the season’s cheer at their own pace.
- Live Performances: The H-E-B Main Stage showcases a diverse lineup of local performers, ensuring the festival is a vibrant celebration of talent within San Antonio. Highlights include performances by the Brainpower Connection Schools, Reyna Acosta Voice Studio, and the Incarnate Word High School Choir, culminating in the highly anticipated lighting ceremony.
- Food and Shopping: Attendees can treat themselves to a variety of cuisines provided by local food trucks and browse unique gifts at the Holiday Market, supporting local businesses and artisans in the process.
- Kids’ Corner: Families will find plenty to keep children entertained, including trackless train rides and opportunities to capture memories with Santa and Mrs. Claus, fostering a family-friendly atmosphere.
- Alumni Exclusive Area: For UIW alumni, a special area offers festive DJ music, delicious tamales, drinks, and a whiskey tasting, strengthening community ties among previous students.
Parking and Transportation
Convenient parking options are available for festival attendees at two campus locations:
- Founders Hall (4119 Broadway): Accessible via the main Broadway entrance at Allensworth.
- Ancira Parking Garage (847 E. Hildebrand Ave.): Accessible through the US-281 North access road entrance.
For guests with disabilities, accessible parking is conveniently located in front of the Clarence Mabry Tennis Center. Additionally, ride-sharing services are permitted to drop attendees off at Founders Hall. Visitors are encouraged to refer to the event’s official website for comprehensive parking directions and walking routes to enhance their experience.
Additional Information
Admission to the Light the Way Holiday Festival is free, symbolizing UIW’s commitment to fostering community engagement and shared experiences among all attendees. It strongly reflects the university’s values and the support from local stakeholders, putting San Antonio’s sense of community in the spotlight. To stay updated on event details, including the schedule and festival ground maps, visitors can access the official event site.
Key Takeaways
The Light the Way Holiday Festival is more than just a holiday celebration; it reflects San Antonio’s robust community spirit and the advantages of local involvement in public festivities. The collaboration between various groups and emphasis on civic pride demonstrate how our city’s events can create meaningful experiences that resonate with residents and visitors alike. We encourage everyone to participate and support local initiatives that contribute to our vibrant community life.
FAQ
What are the dates and times for the Light the Way Holiday Festival?
The festival is currently underway and will continue through January 6, 2026, offering the community a festive experience filled with lights, music, and holiday cheer.
Where is the festival located?
The festival is held at the UIW Broadway campus, located at 4301 Broadway, San Antonio, Texas 78209.
What activities are available at the festival?
The festival features self-guided walking tours, live performances, food trucks, a Holiday Market, a Kids’ Corner with activities for families, and an Alumni Exclusive Area with special amenities for UIW alumni.
Is parking available at the festival?
Yes, parking is available at Founders Hall (4119 Broadway) and the Ancira Parking Garage (847 E. Hildebrand Ave.). Handicap accessible parking is located in front of the Clarence Mabry Tennis Center on the main campus. Ride-sharing services can drop off attendees at Founders Hall.
Is the festival free to attend?
Yes, the Light the Way Holiday Festival is free and open to the public, embodying UIW’s mission to bring the community together through shared experiences.
Key Features
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Self-Guided Walking Tours | Explore the campus adorned with over a million twinkling lights at your own pace. Available daily from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the UIW Broadway campus. |
| Live Performances | Enjoy a lineup of local talent at the H-E-B Main Stage, including the Brainpower Connection Schools, Reyna Acosta Voice Studio, and the Incarnate Word High School Choir. The lighting ceremony is scheduled for 6:30 p.m., followed by performances from the UIW Marching Cardinals and the UIW Chorale & Cardinal Singers. |
| Food and Shopping | Indulge in a variety of cuisines from food trucks and shop for unique gifts at the Holiday Market. A full list of vendors is available on the official event website. |
| Kids’ Corner | Families can take photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus, enjoy trackless train rides, and participate in build-a-stuffie activities. |
| Alumni Exclusive Area | UIW alumni can access a special area featuring a festive DJ, tamales, drinks, and a whiskey tasting. Alumni are welcome to bring up to three guests. |
| Parking and Transportation | Parking is available at Founders Hall (4119 Broadway) and the Ancira Parking Garage (847 E. Hildebrand Ave.). Handicap accessible parking is located in front of the Clarence Mabry Tennis Center on the main campus. Ride-sharing services can drop off attendees at Founders Hall. |
| Admission | The Light the Way Holiday Festival is free and open to the public, embodying UIW’s mission to bring the community together through shared experiences. |
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