The weather is cooling off, the leaves are falling and the holidays are approaching. Winter is here. And with the new season comes San Antonio winter festivals and events. Here are some of our favorites for the months of November and December:
November Festivals and Events
Diwali San Antonio Festival of Lights
Diwali is an Hindu, Sikh, and Jainian festival that symbolizes the victory of good over evil. It attracts over 15,000 people from all over Texas to come experience traditional Indian culture. The festival has classical Indian dances, Bollywood Zumba, live music, a river barge parade, and Diya ceremony. There also will be plenty of vendors selling food, jewelry, and henna tattoos.
Luminaria
What: Celebrate the arts with this San Antonio festival that draws more than 300,000 visitors. There will be performances and work presented by actors, comedians, filmmakers, dancers, poets, musicians, composers, and visual artists. These artists are inspired by the luminaria, which is a traditional lantern that represents energy, warmth, illumination, movement, and tradition. We hope you find as much inspiration from the festival as the artists do.
Six Flags Fiesta Texas: Holiday in the Park
Six Flags will transform into a winter wonderland to celebrate the holiday season. They will deck the halls with millions of colorful lights, Christmas decorations, and even appearances from Santa Claus. Along with the beautiful decor, there will be gorgeous light displays, and new shows to watch! Bring the whole family and enjoy the holiday spirit.
Light the Way at the University of the Incarnate Word
For the last 30 years, UIW has hosted the Light the Way festival to kick off the holiday season in San Antonio. This year there will be performances by students in the community, Tejano singer Patsy Torres, and a special guest traveling all the way from the North Pole. All of the entertainment leads up to the big event of flipping the switch, which turns on nearly a million lights around the campus.
Ford Holiday River Parade and Lighting Ceremony
This water-filled parade happens every year the day after Thanksgiving. Decorated and sparkly floats glide down the river and the bridges light up to put on a show for San Antonians. Just be sure to get your tickets early because space fills up quickly. But if you would rather skip the crowds, you can still catch the event on TV.
December Festivals and Events
A Christmas Carol
Bah Humbug! This classic Christmas story by Charles Dickens is a staple for every family. It embodies the Christmas spirit of giving and learning more about yourself and others. Get inspired by the play and give back a little something after you enjoy the show.
La Tamalada
Join the Witte Museum in making tamales! Learn about the history of tamales, and then make your own dozen to take home and share. Enjoy a box lunch and gathering with others while the tamales cook!
Valero Alamo Bowl
Remember the Alamo Bowl! This winter event moves away from the holidays and into the world of college football. With record-breaking television ratings and huge crowds, the Alamo Bowl hosts the number one Pac-12 team and the number one Big 12 team. Cheer on your favorite along with millions of other fans and enjoy the winter celebrations.
Instead of hiding out under the blankets this winter, get out and explore all the great San Antonio winter festivals and events. Interested in more activities? Try our list of things to do in Texas this winter!
