If you're looking for some fun things to do this holiday season, San Antonio makes it pretty easy to fill your itinerary. There’s a lot going on between mid-November and early January, with a number of holiday events you don’t want to miss this year. Some are free and close to home, while others are worth a quick zip downtown. We've rounded up four local favorites for the 2026 season and listed the dates below, so you can start planning ahead.
4 Holiday Events in San Antonio To Add to Your Calendar
1. Holidays at The Rock at La Cantera
Holidays at The Rock is an easy first stop, running November 21 through January 3. Opening night has a free tree lighting on Frost Plaza with dueling pianos, and the outdoor skating rink opens that same weekend. If you have gifts to buy, come back Thanksgiving weekend for the Wrap & Rock Holiday Market, where more than 75 local makers set up shop.
2. San Antonio Christmas Showcase
If you'd rather knock out all your shopping in one trip, the San Antonio Christmas Showcase is set for November 21 and 22 at the Freeman Coliseum Expo Hall. With more than 300 vendors under one roof, you can check off a good part of your list in one afternoon. When you need a break, there's winery row, plus a package check so you're not carrying bags around all day.
3. Ford Holiday River Parade
The Ford Holiday River Parade on November 27 is the city's official start to the season, and it's worth heading downtown for at least once. Floats and live entertainment make their way down the river, leading up to the River Walk Holiday Light Countdown. If you can't make parade night, about 200,000 lights stay on in the cypress trees every night into early January.
4. Zoo Lights at the San Antonio Zoo
Zoo Lights at the San Antonio Zoo is another good evening out, open November 14 through December 31. Once the sun sets, you'll enjoy light tunnels, animal displays, and a light show over the lake. Grab a hot chocolate and roast s'mores by the fire pits while you're there for some cozy, holiday fun.
The Greyson Puts You Close to the Best of the Season
Living at The Greyson makes it easy to say yes to more holiday events in San Antonio. Holidays at The Rock is just five minutes from home, and the River Walk lights are about a 20-minute drive. On weekends when you’d rather stay home, the cozy clubhouse is a great spot to have your own holiday get-together. Contact our team and schedule your tour today.