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’Tis the season! It’s time to deck the halls and embrace the magic of Christmas. From twinkling lights to merry celebrations, here’s a list of holiday festivities across Texas that are sure to fill your heart with Christmas cheer!
Austin
Armadillo Christmas Bazaar
Get ready to embrace the magic of the season at the Armadillo Christmas Bazaar, happening Dec. 13 through 21 at the Palmer Events Center in Austin. Now celebrating its 50th year, this beloved holiday tradition brings together nearly 200 artists offering everything from fine art and jewelry to ceramics, photography, and whimsical handmade gifts. Families can browse the festive booths, enjoy delicious bites, and sip on seasonal cocktails, local brews, or mocktails while soaking in the cheerful holiday atmosphere. The event also features a lively music lineup with performances from favorites like Shinyribs, GRAMMY-winner Ruthie Foster, Kelly Willis, and Madam Radar–making it the perfect spot to create new holiday memories together.
Robert Earl Keen Presents “The Greatest Christmas On Earth“ Holiday Tour
Legendary Texas songwriter Robert Earl Keen is spreading holiday cheer once again with his 15th annual Christmas party tour, The Greatest Christmas on Earth. From Dec. 4 through 21, Keen and his band will take their traveling musical circus across the Southeast and Texas, blending the magic of the season with whimsical circus themes like lions, tigers, tightropes, and clowns, all set to his signature singalong tunes. The tour rolls into Austin on Dec. 19 and 20 at ACL Live at the Moody Theater, offering families and fans alike an unforgettable night of music, laughter, and Texas-sized Christmas spirit.
The Light Park
One ticket covers the whole car! This holiday season, The Light Park invites visitors to experience millions of dazzling LED lights synchronized to festive music from the comfort of their own vehicle. Each Texas location, including one in Round Rock just outside Austin, offers its own unique holiday twist. The mile-long immersive drive features towering displays, sparkling tunnels, interactive elements, and themed holiday scenes, perfect for families, couples, and friends to create memories and capture share-worthy photos. Standard hours are 5:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, and 5:30 p.m. to 11 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.
Carpenter Hotel
Shake, stir, and sketch your way into the holidays at Carpenter Hotel’s Holiday Cocktail Illustration + Sips on Tuesday, Dec. 9 at 5:30 p.m. This spirited “sip & sketch” night invites guests to learn festive cocktail illustration with local artist Emma C. Schmidt while enjoying handcrafted drinks from Carpenters Hall (cocktail or mocktail included). Art supplies are provided, making this 21+ event a merry mix of creativity and cheer.
Lone Star Court
Valencia Hotel Collection’s Lone Star Court in Austin is bringing holiday magic to The Domain with its Merry Moments seasonal offering. Guests can enjoy relaxed, luxurious accommodations for two, complimentary valet parking, free Wi-Fi, and two festive Merry Mocktails or Cocktails at The Water Trough. This immersive experience combines cozy comfort with holiday cheer, making it an ideal getaway for travelers and locals looking to celebrate the season in style.
Bastrop
Annual Lost Pines Christmas Lighted Parade
Join the city of Bastrop in downtown for their annual Christmas parade on Dec. 13. With more than 130 entries – including fanciful floats to fire trucks, unicycles to vintage cars, dancing Honey Bears to dignitaries, from Santa’s helpers to the big man himself your evening will for sure be lit up. Produced by the City of Bastrop, this joyful Bastrop tradition literally lights up the Bastrop Lost Pines Christmas festivities. The parade will begin approximately at 6 p.m. and will head south down Main Street, so be sure to get there early for a good spot! Visit their website or Downtown Bastrop on Facebook for more information.
Santa’s Workshop
The Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort & Spa is bringing the Christmas magic with its Santa’s Workshop event. From Nov. 30 through Dec. 25, children and families can step into Santa’s Workshop to decorate cookies, build ornaments and gingerbread houses, and send letters to the North Pole. The resort also offers Breakfast with Santa & Mrs. Claus every Sunday in December from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m., and Meet-and-Greet with Santa & Mrs. Claus every Friday and Saturday in December from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., so be sure to have your Christmas list ready. On Christmas Day, enjoy an unforgettable dinner at Heartwood House from 2:00 to 8:00 p.m., featuring glazed ham, seafood, prime rib, and holiday sides. The resort makes sure to bring the magic of the season to life for the whole family.
Bryan
Holiday Markets and Shopping
Bryan, Texas is a hidden gem that delivers all the cozy holiday charm travelers look for this time of year. From festive markets and lighted parades to unique local shops and seasonal pop-ups, the city offers an easy, crowd-free alternative to the state’s more well-known holiday destinations. Stroll the historic downtown for handcrafted gifts, sip something warm at a local spot, and soak in the small-town magic–plus, with one of the country’s most over-the-top Christmas attractions just minutes away, Bryan makes a surprisingly memorable stop for anyone exploring Texas during the holidays.
COLLEGE STATION
Christmas in College Station
College Station is brimming with holiday cheer this season, offering a full lineup of festive events and attractions perfect for a Texas road trip. Highlights include annual favorites like The Nutcracker by Ballet Brazos, Movie Nights at City Hall, Jingle on the Green, and holiday markets, plus the signature event, Santa’s Wonderland, the world’s largest Christmas park, featuring VIP carriage tours, a live nativity, ice skating, snow tubing, Texas-shaped funnel cakes, and more through January 4. Visitors can further immerse themselves in the Christmas spirit with themed hotel packages, such as The George’s Texas Christmas Experience and NYE offerings, Calvary Court’s Santa’s Wonderland packages, and specials at Texas A&M Hotel & Conference Center, Courtyard by Marriott, and Holiday Inn Aggieland. Local dining favorites like Dixie Chicken, Layne’s, and Porters add to the charm, making College Station a must-visit destination for holiday magic and timeless traditions.
DFW
Christmas at the Winspear: A Pop-Rock Holiday Spectacular
Join the Winspear Opera House on Tuesday, Dec. 17 for their one night only holiday concert. Offering a star-studded lineup with #1 Billboard-charting Dallas String Quartet, America’s Got Talent finalists Sons of Serendip, The Voice Australia winner Anja Nissen, and Grammy-nominated pop-rock group Q The Band, this unforgettable event is bound to bring joyful noise. Combining the elegance of a Vienna-style classical concert with the warmth and joy of the holiday season, this performance promises to become a new Dallas tradition for families and music lovers alike. This festive celebration brings together world-class talent and holiday magic for an unforgettable evening of music, storytelling, and joy.
The Dallas Symphony Orchestra
The Dallas Symphony Orchestra is inviting you to celebrate the season with a month of festive performances at the Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center in downtown Dallas. Come hear—and see—as the magical symphony and orchestra perform your favorite Christmas movie scores and soundtracks, such as Home Alone in Concert (Dec. 5–7), where John Williams’ iconic score is performed live-to-picture, and the beloved Christmas Pops series (Dec. 12–21), featuring classic carols and the Dallas Symphony Chorus. Families can enjoy Family Christmas Pops (Dec. 13), a kid-friendly matinee with sing-alongs, holiday characters, and pre-concert activities like crafts and an instrument petting zoo. Rounding out the lineup is Brassy Christmas (Dec. 16), a lively showcase of the DSO’s brass section. Tickets start at $37, and details are available at DallasSymphony.org.
SNOWDAY and SANTALAND
This Christmas, transport your family to the magical world of SANTALAND and SNOWDAY at the Galleria. Dallas’s favorite winter wonderland returns for the 2025 holiday season, offering an immersive, photo-friendly adventure from November 14 through early January. Guests can explore hundreds of Instagram-worthy holiday-themed rooms, including a stunning light and sound show, a peppermint soda shop, and SNOWDAY’s signature Christmas light maze. SANTALAND continues its journey with a magical train ride to the North Pole for photos with Santa before immersing guests in the enchanting realm of a Christmas town. This year’s experience features new attractions like a German marketplace, an ice cave forest led by an operatic Jack Frost, a toy workshop, and an igloo crawl-through tunnel. Inclusive options include pet-friendly Wednesdays and Spanish-speaking Santas on select Thursdays. Tickets start at $15 for kids and $25 for adults, with combo discounts and weekday specials available. Learn more at snowdaydallas.com.
Balloon Museum
Is the all-too-jolly season leaving you wanting to do something a little less jolly, and more… uplifting? Balloon Museum’s Let’s Fly – Art Has No Limits exhibition floats on through Dallas, offering a multisensory celebration of art, air, and creativity through April 26, 2026. Spanning 65,000 square feet at South Side Studios, this immersive experience features luminous installations and interactive exhibits from 18 international artists, including mirrored spheres, kinetic sculptures, and a 26-foot LED butterfly first seen at Burning Man. Guests can explore themes of flight, freedom, and movement through large-scale works such as “Balloon Tree,” “Lava Lamp,” and “AIRSCAPE,” which blend technology, nature, and imagination. Tickets are now available, making this a must-see holiday-season destination for art lovers and families alike. To learn more and purchase tickets, please visit the website here and follow along on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, LinkedIn, and YouTube.
Astra Lumina
Astra Lumina illuminates Trinity Forest Adventure Park in Dallas, offering a captivating night walk filled with star power. Created by Fever, this immersive experience invites you to take an immersive night stroll—with a warm, spiked mocha in hand—through nine vibrant zones with stunning light displays, 360º soundscapes, and cosmic storytelling designed to foster connection under the stars. This year’s event introduces a wellness-inspired element, featuring optional breathwork classes on select dates to help guests center themselves before the journey. Perfect for locals and visitors alike, Astra Lumina is an unforgettable holiday outing and a magical tradition in the making.
Christmas at the Anatole
Christmas at the Anatole in Dallas transforms the Hilton Anatole into a festive wonderland, where guests can explore the winter fun of ice rinks and ski lodges in the heart of Dallas. Guests can enjoy whimsical holiday inflatables, holiday train rides through the atrium, Christmas crafts, and family photo opportunities. A highlight of the season is The Lodge, a new après-ski lounge experience offering cozy bites and festive cocktails. The celebration also features Dallas’ largest outdoor ice-skating rink, making it a must-visit destination for holiday fun.
Turtle Creek Chorale
Turtle Creek Chorale’s beloved holiday concert series, All Is Bright, returns this December with four heartwarming performances across the DFW metroplex. This festive program blends timeless classics with new works, celebrating light, hope, and harmony while reminding audiences of the season’s themes of peace, love, and togetherness. Stops include Lover’s Lane United Methodist Church (Dec. 11), First Presbyterian Church of Dallas for two “Holidays in a Hurry” mini-concerts (Dec. 12), Broadway Baptist Church in Fort Worth (Dec. 14), and the Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center (Dec. 15). Tickets range from $25 to $100, making this a must-see tradition for music lovers seeking holiday cheer.
Hotel Crescent Court
Unwrap the gift of love this Christmas at Hotel Crescent Court with a series of themed experiences, including a special couple’s package, Meet Me at the Mistletoe. This intimate holiday experience invites couples to indulge in pure romantic bliss by sipping on complimentary Christmas-inspired cocktails at Beau Nash, enjoying a $75 dining or spa credit, and the luxury of a late checkout and valet parking, making this a holiday escape that you will never forget. Hotel Crescent Court is also offering Santa Paws, a pet-friendly getaway; and Sleigh the Day, a spa-centric escape. These offerings combine luxury accommodation with seasonal perks, making Crescent Court a top destination for holiday travelers seeking romance, relaxation, or a celebration with furry friends.
Thompson Dallas
Deck the halls at Thompson Dallas this holiday season with a series of unique holiday experiences, including Tequila & Tacos on Dec. 10, a guided Komos Tequila tasting paired with gourmet tacos; Brunch with Santa on Dec. 13, 14, 20, and 21, featuring a holiday menu and photos with Santa, with proceeds benefiting Toys for Tots; The Nutcracker Holiday High Tea on Dec. 14, where guests enjoy traditional high tea accompanied by live vignettes from Texas Ballet Theatre; and Catbird Christmas with Nostalgia & Noise later that evening, a VIP dinner and after-party supporting The Birthday Party Project. These events combine culinary delights, entertainment, and charitable giving, making Thompson Dallas a must-visit destination for holiday celebrations.
The Adolphus
The Adolphus, Dallas’ historic landmark hotel, transforms into the city’s holiday centerpiece with lavish décor and a monthlong schedule of Christmas programming curated to create lifelong memories. The season kicks off with a tree-lighting spectacular on December 5, featuring the city’s tallest live indoor Christmas tree, a 25-foot Balsam fir, Victorian Carolers performing classic holiday hits, a hot toddy bar, and complimentary holiday cookies. Guests and visitors will also enjoy two signature holiday experiences: a Holiday Brunch and a Holiday Dinner Service in the legendary French Room, or choose from a selection of cozy chalets at The Winter Village. For those seeking a luxurious staycation, the Holiday Glow Package offers perks like a signature candle, dining credit, and room upgrades. Holiday activations run through Jan. 11, 2026, with The Winter Village continuing until Jan. 31.
Christmas in the Garden at the Fort Worth Botanic Garden
The Fort Worth Botanic Garden will once again transform into a winter wonderland this holiday season, offering visitors a magical experience filled with dazzling lights, festive food, and holiday cheer. From Nov. 21, through Jan. 4, guests can stroll through enchanting displays, including a giant illuminated Texas flag, 1,200 dancing LED bluebonnets, a Gingerbread Walk lined with Texas nutcrackers, and glowing tunnels of ribbons and candy canes. The Japanese Garden will also shine with beautiful illuminations, adding to the event’s festive charm. Visitors can enjoy local cuisine from Fort Worth favorites such as JD’s Burgers, Magdelena’s, Pulido’s, Curly’s Custard, and Margie’s Italian Gardens, while nightly visits from Santa Claus continue through Christmas Eve. Capacity is limited each night, and popular dates are expected to sell out quickly, so guests are encouraged to purchase tickets early to secure their preferred date.
Miracle Holiday Pop-Up Bar
One of Texas’s favorite holiday pop-up cocktail experiences is returning this winter, bringing with it a swirl of seasonal cocktails, over-the-top festive décor, and the fan-favorite collectible mugs, which will be available for purchase. Miracle at Lower Greenville and Puttery will each offer fresh twists on beloved traditions, giving guests a blend of nostalgia and holiday magic from the moment they step inside. Both locations will be open from Nov. 17 through Dec. 31, with Lower Greenville welcoming visitors Monday through Thursday from 3 p.m. to 12 a.m. and Friday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 12 a.m. Puttery will be open Sunday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 1 a.m., making either spot an inviting stop for anyone looking to toast the season in style.
St. Henry’s Winter Wonderland
For adults looking to celebrate the season in style, The Henry is hosting its annual winter wonderland pop-up bar from Nov. 11 through Jan. 4. The rooftop escape features festive decor, seasonal dishes, photo opportunities, and a lineup of holiday cocktails, including the Spiced Pear Cosmopolitan and Junior & Mrs. Mint. The food menu includes new standout offerings like Brie & Prosciutto S’mores and fan favorite, Short Rib Potsticker. Admission is $7 per guest, with a portion benefiting the North Texas Food Bank. The Henry is open evenings throughout the week, from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m.. Sunday through Tuesday, 4 p.m. to 11 p.m. on Wednesday, 4 p.m. to 12 a.m. on Thursday, and 4 p.m. to 1 a.m. on Friday and Saturday, making this cozy holiday destination the perfect night out for festive cheer.
The Colony
Cosm
Step into a world of pure imagination this holiday season at Cosm, where an awe-inspiring 87-foot screen amplifies the magic of Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory. Perfect for families, friends, and chocolate lovers, Cosm offers an immersive shared experience into the wonder of the Chocolate Factory for an elevated, multisensory adventure that feels straight out of a holiday dream. Whether you’re savoring the dazzling visuals, sharing sweet moments with loved ones, or rooting for your favorite playoff-or-bowl-bound team, Cosm makes the season brighter and more magical. Learn more and reserve your spot here.
GRAND PRAIRIE
EpicCentral
EpicCentral in Grand Prairie is turning up the holiday magic with a variety of festive attractions for all ages. Every night, Illuvia’s water-and-light show shines bright with a brand-new Christmas edition featuring water jets, music, and video projections. Families can dive into Epic H2Olidays at the indoor waterpark (Nov. 28–Dec. 31) for a tropical holiday escape complete with décor and photo ops. Adventure seekers will love Bolder Blizzard (Nov. 21–Jan. 7), offering zip-lines, synthetic ice skating, tubing, and more for a snowy-season vibe. Kids can hop aboard the Li’l Grande Holiday Train for themed rides on select weekends through Dec. 21. Plus, the city’s Main Street Magic and “Holiday Fun in Grand Prairie” programming bring seasonal charm downtown. Don’t miss Prairie Lights, Texas’ premier drive-through holiday lights experience (Nov. 27–Dec. 31), featuring a two-mile path of over 4 million lights, a Holiday Village with carnival rides, a walk-thru forest, photos with Santa, and festive shopping.
Frisco
Omni PGA Frisco Resort & Spa
Tee off the holidays at Omni PGA Frisco Resort & Spa with a month-long festive lineup of events and experiences for guests and locals alike. Highlights include the Naughty or Nice Holiday Package, Santa’s Landing suites, and the debut of Blitzen’s Bar, a pop-up cocktail lounge featuring seasonal drinks by renowned mixologist Julie Reiner. And for those not staying at the Omni PGA, families from all over can enjoy Home on The Range for the Holidays, a free and open-to-the-public event occurring every Saturday, 5 to 8 p.m., ending Dec. 20. This weekly, community event features mini golf, train rides, and letters to Santa, plus special events like Photos with Cowboy Santa and a dazzling Holiday Drone Show. Additional activities include Character Breakfasts, cookie decorating, and Build-A-Bear workshops, making Omni PGA Frisco a must-visit destination for holiday cheer throughout December and even into January.
Houston
Jingle Bell Bar
Jingle Bell Bar returns to Botonica in River Oaks this holiday season, running November 26 through December 28, just in time for Thanksgiving. This immersive experience transforms the space into three festive worlds, from the classic warmth of “Classic Christmas” to the whimsical sweetness of “Candy Cane Lane” and the cozy, snow-filled escape of “The Ski Lodge.” Guests can sip seasonal cocktails or spirit-free creations, enjoy festive bites, take part in crafty workshops, and soak in live entertainment. With weekly programming including burlesque, live music, and holiday-themed activities, Jingle Bell Bar offers something for everyone looking to celebrate the season. Visitors are encouraged to dress in holiday glam, and while entry is free, reservations are recommended for a guaranteed spot. Open Tuesday through Friday from 4 p.m. to midnight, Saturday and Sunday from 2 p.m. to midnight, and Monday, December 22, from 4 p.m. to midnight, Jingle Bell Bar promises a playful, festive escape for adults 21 and over.
Miracle Holiday Pop-Up Bar
Texas’s favorite holiday pop-up bar, Miracle, will also be spreading its festive cheer at Johnny’s Gold Brick and Winnie’s. Guests can expect seasonal cocktails, over-the-top decor, and the ever-popular collectible mugs available for purchase. Both locations will be open from Nov. 21 through Dec. 30, with Winnie’s continuing the celebration through Dec. 31. Johnny’s Gold Brick will welcome visitors Monday through Friday from 4 p.m. to 12 a.m. and Saturday – Sunday from 2 p.m. to 12 a.m., while Winnie’s will be open Sunday through Wednesday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Thursday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 1 a.m., making either destination a festive stop for anyone looking to toast the season in style.
Texas Winter Lights
Texas Winter Lights returns to Downtown Houston at Altitude Rooftop at the Marriott Marquis Houston from Nov. 17 through Dec. 31 transforming the rooftop and its iconic Texas-shaped lazy river into a sparkling holiday playground with over 100,000 LED lights, a new 360° photo installation, and festive western-inspired bites. The official Grand Opening Celebration on Nov. 21 features Houston icon Mattress Mack flipping the switch, while guests can enjoy live country bands, dueling pianos, line-dancing, and visits from Santa on select nights. High Dive rooftop grill serves duck banh mi, brisket sandwiches, loaded totchos, specialty cocktails, and local beers, and private igloos or wooden cabins for 4 – 10 guests start at $75 for two hours, complete with curated food towers and bottle service. Returning favorites include the 80-degree Texas-shaped lazy river, VR Sleigh Ride with Santa, Concerts Under the Stars, Movies on the Deck, nightly snowfall, and playful lawn games, while festive hotel suites and themed weekend brunches at Walker Street Kitchen extend the holiday cheer throughout the Marriott Marquis, making it a uniquely Houston celebration for families, friends, and holiday lovers.
Queensbury Theatre Presents “A Charlie Brown Christmas”
Queensbury Theatre, West Houston’s historic non-profit theatre located in CityCentre, recently announced the details of their 2025 Main Stage production of A Charlie Brown Christmas, running Dec. 11-21. On Thursday, Dec. 11, the theatre will hold a preview performance ahead of Opening Night on Friday, Dec. 12. Evening performances begin at 7 p.m., with a 2 p.m. matinee on Saturdays and Sundays. Following the Thursday, Dec. 18 performance, Queensbury will host a “Peanuts Pride Night” with a free event following the show with specialty cocktails and a special guest performance. The show is open to audiences of all ages, and the estimated running time is 90 minutes without an intermission.
Madisonville
Madisonville Christmas Company
Celebrate the season at Madisonville Christmas Company, now in its third year of spreading holiday cheer. With over 30,000 square feet of festive décor, curated holiday collections, and dazzling in-store displays, it’s a must-visit destination for shoppers, decorators, and Christmas lovers. Guests can design custom trees or wreaths and enjoy handcrafted lattes, seasonal treats, and savory bites at Cafe Twelve25 or The Mantel. Or extend the holiday magic with an overnight stay at Yuletide RV Park, where families can camp or relax in themed casitas beneath twinkling lights. Fire pits, cozy hospitality, and festive gatherings make every visit memorable. The store is open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., with food and beverage service from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and until 9 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. Reservations for RV sites and casitas are available at (936) 241-3500.
Plano
“Scrooge the Musical”
The North Texas Performing Arts presents the 15th Annual Scrooge the Musical from Dec. 10 through Dec. 21, at the Courtyard Theater and Rodenbaugh Theatre. The production features a record-breaking cast of 150 performers, including returning favorites, community leaders, and NTPA alumni. Darrell Rodenbaugh reprises his role as Scrooge for his 125th performance, making him the longest-running Scrooge in Texas. Evening shows begin at 7:15 p.m., with matinees at 2:15 p.m. Special Gift to the Community performances are on both Wednesdays, and an ASL-interpreted show is scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 20, at 2:15 p.m. Tickets range from $13 to $25.
Port Aransas
Santa Soirée
The Port Aransas Tourism Bureau & Chamber of Commerce presents Santa Soirée, a festive holiday celebration on Dec. 13 that combines local traditions, seasonal activities, and family-friendly fun. Visitors can participate in Bingo Bells, a combination scavenger hunt and bingo card game, enjoy the colorful Lighted Boat Parade at the City Marina, and watch the sky come alive during the Holiday Drone Show set to holiday music. The festivities coincide with the Holiday Shop Around from Dec. 12 through 14, giving guests the opportunity to explore local shops and find unique gifts for the season. Santa Soirée offers something for everyone, making it a must-experience holiday event for locals and visitors alike.
San Antonio
Coca-Cola’s Classic Christmas
From Nov. 28 through Dec. 28, over 90,000 square feet of immersive holiday magic await visitors at this festive winter experience. Guests can enjoy millions of twinkling lights, falling snow, thrilling snow slides, outdoor ice skating, themed treats, and visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Highlights include a larger-than-life light display, alpine ice skating under the stars, and the expanded Slip N Slide Summit with icy lanes for all ages. Santa can be found relaxing in his ski gondola for a unique photo op, while Mrs. Claus hosts cozy story times. Families can also enjoy Cinemark Christmas Classics movie screenings, live music, karaoke, ugly sweater contests, and the lively Apres Ski Dance Party. Locations also include Dallas and Houston, so be sure to check the website to find your closest location. With countless photo-worthy moments, this event delivers nostalgic holiday cheer with exciting new surprises for all ages.
ICE! Attraction at JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa
ICE! returns to the Gaylord Texan Resort from Nov. 22 through Jan. 4, featuring Frosty the Snowman in a 20,000-square-foot frozen wonderland of hand-carved sculptures, immersive scenes, and thrilling ice slides created by artisans from Harbin, China. The experience concludes with a breathtaking crystal-clear Nativity scene, while the resort’s Reindeer Ridge offers even more holiday fun, including Snow Flow Mountain, Snowball Build & Blast, Mrs. Claus’ Christmas Traditions, the Gingerbread Decorating Corner, a Build-A-Bear Workshop, the new Snowman Scramble Scavenger Hunt, the Polar Plunge, s’mores, letters to Santa, and photo opportunities with Santa himself. Open to both resort guests and the public, ICE! delivers festive fun for all ages.
La Cantera Resort & Spa “Jingle All the Way”
La Cantera Resort launched its first-ever holiday campaign on Nov. 21 with Jingle Bell Roll, a festive roller skating experience set amid twinkling lights, holiday music, and seasonal treats. Guests of all ages can enjoy themed skate nights, family-friendly sessions, and photo opportunities with Santa Claus, while corporate groups can take advantage of private rink access and catering packages. The celebration continues Dec. 1 through 6 with special culinary events featuring celebrity chef Gonzo Jimenez of Netflix’s Bake Squad and La Cantera’s executive chefs, including chocolate-themed creations, holiday dinners, and interactive cooking demonstrations. The campaign blends active fun, festive treats, and unique holiday experiences for locals and visitors alike.
Sippin’ Santa Holiday Pop-Up Bar
Your favorite holiday pop-up bars, Miracle and a new concept Sippin’ Santa, are set to reopen in San Antonio once again. Guests can expect seasonal cocktails, over-the-top holiday décor, and the fan-favorite collectible mugs which will be available for purchase. Miracle will take over The Esquire Tavern from Nov. 24 through Dec. 31, welcoming visitors Tuesday – Thursday from 5 p.m. to 12 a.m., Friday and Saturday from 6 p.m. to 2 a.m., and Sunday from 5 p.m. to 12 a.m. Just down the way, Sippin’ Santa will bring its tropical twist to Hugman’s Oasis from Nov. 29 through Dec. 31, open daily from 4 p.m. to 12 a.m. Whether you’re craving classic holiday magic or an island-inspired escape, both destinations promise a festive stop for anyone looking to toast the season in style.
The Children’s Nutcracker
The Children’s Ballet of San Antonio brings back its beloved holiday classic, The Children’s Nutcracker, to the Lila Cockrell Theater from Dec. 12 through 14. Audiences can expect breathtaking choreography, lavish costumes, and magical sets that bring Clara and her Nutcracker Prince to life. Families are encouraged to arrive early for the pre-show holiday market featuring festive treats, unique gifts, and photo opportunities with Santa, the Sugar Plum Fairy, and more. Located near the River Walk and Tower of the Americas, the venue offers the perfect setting for a day of holiday fun. Showtimes are Friday, Dec. 12, at 7 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 13, at 2 p.m., and Sunday, Dec. 14, at 2 p.m.
The Polar Express: The Musical
The Children’s Ballet of San Antonio is also presenting The Polar Express: The Musical at the Charline McCombs Empire Theatre on Dec. 6 and 7. Featuring live music, lively choreography, and talented young performers, the show takes audiences on a magical trip to the North Pole to rediscover friendship, wonder, and belief in Santa Claus. Guests are invited to wear cozy pajamas and arrive early for the pre-show holiday market offering themed gifts, treats, and photo opportunities with Santa and the cast. Showtimes are Saturday, Dec. 6, at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m., and Sunday, Dec. 7, at 2 p.m.
Texas Hill Country
Texas Hill Country Wineries Christmas Wine Affair
Tickets are now on sale for the Texas Hill Country Wineries Christmas Wine Affair, a festive passport event running November 24 through December 19. Over 25 days, participants can visit up to four wineries per day, enjoying complimentary wine tastings and a 15% discount on three or more bottle purchases at more than 50 participating wineries. Tickets are $65 each or two for $100, with $5 from every ticket supporting the Texas Hill Country Wine Industry Scholarship Fund. With Small Business Saturday approaching, the passport is also a wonderful way to support local wineries and businesses. For a more curated experience, the Holiday Winemaker Dinner takes place at Hill + Vine on Sunday, December 7, featuring six Texas Hill Country wineries and a multi-course menu perfectly paired with regional wines. Tickets are $150 each, limited to 60 guests.
Lights Spectacular
A short drive from San Antonio or Austin, Johnson City transforms into a sparkling winter wonderland during its Lights Spectacular, running Nov. 28 through Jan. 4. More than 2 million lights cover the historic downtown, Memorial Park, and the PEC Headquarters, creating a glow so bright it’s famously been spotted from space. Weekend festivities bring Santa and the Grinch, outdoor holiday movies, live music, food vendors, and more. It’s the perfect setting for a cozy getaway, where visitors can stroll downtown, enjoy local food, wine, and beer, and settle into a charming rental for the night. Paired with Hill Country scenery and plenty of holiday shopping, Johnson City is the perfect road-trip destination for families, friends, or couples looking for a magical holiday backdrop.
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Cover Photo by JESHOOTS.com on Unsplash
