Doc Watkins’ Big Band Holiday Classics Concert is this Sunday December 9 at Pearl Park. Photo: Pearl, used with permission.
Pearl is excited to present Doc Watkins’ Big Band Holiday Classics Concert this Sunday December 9 at 7:30p.m. at Pearl Park. Guests are invited to experience Watkins and a stellar line-up of San Antonio musical talent for an evening of big band holiday classic songs. The performance recreates Doc’s soon-to-be released and much anticipate album Doc Watkins Christmas in Jazz, TX. Alongside members of the San Antonio Symphony, Doc sings Silver Bells, White Christmas and other classic holiday standards. This event is free and open to the public with food and drinks available for purchase at the Bottling Department. (Pearl, 2018)
As part of the holiday programming, starting Wednesday, December 5, Pearl celebrates the tradition of Christmas Caroling with choirs from several local schools and organizations including Lamar Elementary, Hawthorne Elementary, Northwest Hills Baptist Church (Kidz Music Club), San Antonio Chamber Choir, Chantez Nouvelle and more. The dates for Christmas Caroling include December 5, 11, 12, 17 and 18. Times vary, please check Pearl’s social media and website for more information. This event is also free and open to the public.
Celebrate National Repeal Day on Wednesday December 5 at Sternewirth at Hotel Emma. Photo: Hotel Emma, used with permission.
National Repeal Day celebrates the Repeal of Prohibition, or the end of the great experiment, and the return of legal alcohol sales. This year, Repeal Day will be observed on Wednesday December 05, 2018. The Repeal of Prohibition in the United States was accomplished with the passage of the Twenty-first Amendment to the United States Constitution on December 5, 1933. The Esquire Tavern and Hotel Emma will be holding events on Wednesday to commemorate the big day.
The Esquire Tavern is excited to invite all of San Antonio to party like it’s 1933 and celebrate the establishment’s 85th birthday at a timeless bash on Wednesday, December 5, the day recognized as ‘Repeal Day’ throughout history. To commemorate 85 years of providing downtown San Antonio with exquisite classic cocktails and delectable tavern food, the oldest bar on the Riverwalk will host an evening of revelry. Guests can expect entertainment including live music, a fortune teller, burlesque performances and plenty of the Esquire’s classic, prohibition-era cocktails like its famous Old-Fashioned. A variety of complimentary hors d’oeuvres and drinks will be shared throughout the night. Reservations are encouraged and available for both The Esquire Tavern and Downstairs at The Esquire. (The Esquire Tavern, 2018)
Special guests include Stars and Garters Burlesque accompanied by live music from The Dirty River Dixie Band. Chef Brooke Smith’s full menu will be available until 11p.m., including Esquire favorites like the Chicken Chalupitas in addition to the recently updated seasonal menu featuring new items like her savory Artichoke Dip and Grits and Grillades. The mysterious Shaman-like, ‘Brujo Jerry’ will be inhabiting Downstairs at The Esquire Tavern for the evening to share his revelatory visions of the future. Patrons are encouraged to celebrate their right to drink alcohol and visit Downstairs for the best Grower Champagne list in town, paired with house-prepared charcuterie and oysters on the half-shell. Everyone is invited. The event is from 7p.m. to midnight and the entertainment begins at 8p.m.
The Esquire Tavern
155 E. Commerce Street
San Antonio, TX 78205
Hotel Emma is hosting a National Repeal Day event at Sternewirth from 6p.m. to 10p.m. The evening will feature drink specials and Jazz Age music by award-winning artist Henry Brun. The public is invited to toast the end of prohibition and celebrate the freedom to drink and be merry this holiday season. The staff will dress the part in era-appropriate attire for an authentic Roaring Twenties feel. New features include speedier drink service courtesy of a new service bar and a new mezzanine seating area, where there is space for every reveler. The event is free and open to the public. (Hotel Emma, 2018)
The exclusive drink specials include:
• Gin Martini – Gin, Dry Vermouth, Orange Bitters $8
• House Bubbles – $8
• Aviation – Gin, Maraschino Liqueur, Crème de Violette, Lemon $9
• Sazerac – Rye, Peychauds Bitters, Absinthe $9
Sternewirth Tavern & Club Room,
136 E. Grayson St.
San Antonio TX 78215
La Cantera Resort & Spa will host Gingerbread Decorating Parties to benefit SA YOUTH. Photo: La Cantera Resort & Spa, used with permission.
La Cantera Resort & Spa is having Gingerbread Decorating Parties this month at the San Gabriel Meeting Room to benefit SA YOUTH and children and adults can both participate in this sweet event. La Cantera Resort will provide the home-made, ready to assemble house and resort Pastry Chefs will offer decorating tips while guests provide the creativity. These decorating parties are set for Thursday, December 6 from 7p.m. to 9p.m. and Saturdays, December 8, 15 and 22 from 10a.m. to 1p.m. (La Cantera Resort & Spa, 2018)
Gingerbread Houses are $50 each and may be reserved by calling (210) 558-2247 or emailing the recreation department. Ten dollars from every Gingerbread House purchased will benefit SA YOUTH. SA YOUTH’s mission is to develop the character, strengths, talents and skills of San Antonio’s high-risk urban youth through fun, safe experiences, positive learning environments and holistic programs that inspire everyone to fulfill their potential personally and in the community. More information holiday events is available online.
La Cantera Resort & Spa
San Gabriel Meeting Room
16641 La Cantera Parkway
San Antonio, TX 78256
(210) 558-6500
Horsshoe Bay Resort has a variety of holiday activities scheduled for December. Photo: Horseshoe Bay Resort, used with permission.
Horseshoe Bay Resort is at the forefront of Texas’ luxury travel destinations, named by Condé Nast Traveller as one of the ‘Top Resorts in Texas and The Southwest.’ Just a short 90-minute drive from San Antonio, it features a variety of lakeside activities, kid-friendly amenities and dining outlets with spectacular views of Lake Lyndon B. Johnson, Horseshoe Bay Resort is the perfect place to cozy up for the holiday season and enjoy seasonal programming like a complimentary shuttle to the Marble Falls Walkway of Lights, Winter Wonderland, New Year’s Eve activities and more. (Horseshoe Bay Resort, 2018)
December events: Charlie Brown Christmas Dinner
Friday, December 14 – Dinner begins at 7p.m.; the show begins at 8p.m.
Don’t miss a fabulous performance of a Christmas classic by the Austin Chamber Music Center. Celebrate the season with the original Charlie Brown music of Vince Guaraldi featuring pianist Michelle Schumann, bassist Utah Hamrick, drummer David Sierra and special guests plus the chance to meet Snoopy in the lobby. Reservations required.
Horseshoe Bay Resort Winter Wonderland
Saturday, December 15 from 4p.m. to 10p.m.
Take a stroll through Horseshoe Bay Resort’s Winter Wonderland. The Winter Market will feature a uniquely curated shopping selection, including Kendra Scott, Raven + Lily, Haley LeBeuf, Colores Collective and Mustard Seed Jewelry. Guests will also enjoy a Laser Light Show, the Acapella Group Vocalibre of Texas State University, photos with Santa, letters to Santa, arts and crafts, food and beverage stations, horse-drawn carriage rides and more. Guests may view pricing and updates on the resort event calendar.
Saturday, December 21
• 10a.m. to 2p.m. Gingerbread House Decorating at the Yacht Club Ballroom: bring the little ones to decorate a gingerbread house. These pre-assembled houses are made in the pastry department and all supplies and decorations are included. Reservations are required 48 hours in advance by calling 830.596.2582.
• 6p.m. to 7p.m. – Marble Falls Walkway of Lights: watch more than two million lights transform Marble Falls Lakeside Park into a Winter Wonderland. Complimentary shuttles are available for overnight guests and club members.
Sunday, December 31
• 6p.m. to 1a.m. – Kids Club New Year’s Eve: while parents dance the night away, let Horseshoe Bay Resort take care of the kids at the Kid’s Club. New Year’s Eve Kid’s Club programming includes snacks, dinner and arts and craft activities throughout the evening. Reservations are required.
• 9:30p.m. – Ring in the New Year at Horseshoe Bay Resort: folks can enjoy dancing at the Granite Ballroom with live music by The Argyles – one of the best party bands in Texas. Admission includes party favors and a champagne toast at midnight. Drink specials will be available to purchase throughout the evening.
Weekly Activities
• 11a.m. to 12p.m. – Exotic Animals featuring Birds of the Bay, where guests can take a memorable photo with the exotic birds on property; a staff member will also be on-site to share interesting bird facts and the Tortoise connection: where guests can mingle with the tortoises on-property and learn unique cool facts. Guests may also feed the tortoises a snack and take get a picture that they will never forget. Check Horseshoe Bay Resort’s website for more information.
Weekend Activities
• Thursday – Saturday; 6p.m. to 7p.m. – Marble Falls Walkway of Lights: watch more than two million lights transform Marble Falls Lakeside Park into a Winter Wonderland. Complimentary shuttles are available for overnight guests and club members.
• Friday and Saturday, 6p.m. – 7:30p.m. – S’mores by the Campfire: Enjoy complimentary S’mores on the Live Oak Lawn, surrounded by festive decor and the beautiful Texas Hill Country.
Horseshoe Bay Resort
200 Hi Circle North
Horseshoe Bay, TX 78657
(877) 611-0112
John Stillwagon returns as Crumpet the Elf in ‘The Santaland Diaries’ at The Classic Theatre. Photo: Laura Tannenbaum, used with permission.
The hilarious holiday favorite ‘The Santaland Diaries’ returns to The Classic Theatre of San Antonio this week when it opens on Friday December 7. This one-man show is based on the true chronicles of NPR comic genius David Sedaris’ experience as Crumpet the Elf in Macy’s Santaland display. This cult classic riffs on a few of his odd encounters with his fellow man during the height of the holiday crunch. John Stillwagon returns as Sedaris’ not so merry alter ego Crumpet the Elf with Bart Roush directing. The show is written by David Sedaris and adapted by Joe Mantello. ‘The Santaland Diaries’ runs through Sunday December 16 with show dates on December 7, 8, 9 and 14, 15 and 16. Performances are Friday and Saturday at 11p.m. and Sunday at 7p.m. (The Classic Theatre, 2018)
Tickets are $25 for general admission and may be purchased online or by calling the box office at (210) 589-8450. Group rates are available. There will be a complimentary eggnog reception on opening night Friday December 7. Please note that ‘The Santaland Diaries’ is recommended for ages 14 and over as it contains mature content and language and the secret of Santa is exposed.
The Classic Theatre of San Antonio
1924 Fredericksburg Rd
San Antonio, TX 78201
(210) 589-8450
Hotel Emma will host a holiday concert this Saturday to kick off the season. Photo: Nick Simonite, used with permission.
Hotel Emma is thrilled and honored to continue their annual Salvation Army benefit this holiday season from December 14 through December 22. To kick off the holiday season and give a special preview of the upcoming caroling, Hotel Emma will host a concert on Saturday, December 1 from 3p.m. to 5p.m. in the Pearl Amphitheatre. The community of San Antonio is invited to sing along with local 12-year old musician Marisa Rose Mejia and additional holiday performances including the Children’s Choir. Santa will be available for photo opportunities and guests will be able to enjoy complimentary cookies and hot chocolate during the performance. The presentation is free and open to the public. (Hotel Emma, 2018)
Chordsmen will perform in Supper for guests’ enjoyment from December 14 through December 22 from 11a.m. to 2p.m. Reservations for Supper are encouraged and can be made by calling (210) 448-8351. Donations can be made to the Salvation Army kettles in Supper and in the hotel lobby area. Hotel Emma will be matching all donations received up to $5,000.
Holiday Performance:
Pearl Amphitheatre
303 Pearl Pkwy
San Antonio, TX 78215
Carolers at Supper:
Supper at Hotel Emma
136 E Grayson St
San Antonio, TX 78215
Alyx Gonzales and Hunter Wulff in ‘Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley’ at The Classic Theatre. Photo: Siggi Ragnar, used with permission.
Just in time for the holiday season, the next production at The Classic Theatre of San Antonio, ‘Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley,’ opens on Friday November 30. This San Antonio premiere is based on the characters from Jane Austen’s beloved novel ‘Pride and Prejudice’ and is written by Lauren Gunderson and Margot Melcon and directed by Kelly Roush. It runs from Friday November 30 through Sunday December 23. Showtimes are Friday and Saturday at 8p.m. and Sunday at 3p.m. Tickets are available online and at the box office and are $33 for general admission, $29 for senior, military, educator or SATCO and $18 for student. ID is required. On opening night, there will be a complimentary champagne reception after the show. (The Classic Theatre, 2018)
‘Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley’ takes place two years after the conclusion of Jane Austen’s beloved novel ‘Pride and Prejudice,’ where the bookish, oft-neglected middle sister, Mary Bennet becomes the center of this holiday story. When the shy, bookworm Arthur de Bourgh turns up unexpectedly at the family celebration, Mary must learn to be the heroine of her own story in order to receive the romance she longs for.
Special Student Performances – Thursday December 6 at 7p.m.
The Classic Theatre of San Antonio
1924 Fredericksburg Rd
San Antonio, TX 78201
(210) 589-8450
Tickets to ‘Fiddler on the Roof’ go on sale this Friday November 30. Photo: Joan Marcus, used with permission.
North Part Lexus Broadway in San Antonio is proud to present the San Antonio engagement of the Tony Award®-nominated Broadway revival of ‘Fiddler on the Roof’ at the Majestic Theatre. It will play for eight performances from Tuesday March 26 through Sunday March 31, 2019. Tickets go on sale this Friday November 30 at 10a.m. Showtimes are 7:30p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, 8p.m. on Friday, 2p.m. and 8p.m. Saturday and 2p.m. and 7:30p.m. on Sunday. Tickets start at $40 and are available by Ticketmaster online, by calling (800) 982-2787 or by visiting the Majestic Box Office. The Majestic Box Office does not accept single ticket orders over the phone; all ticket sales must be made in person. Majestic Box Office hours are 10a.m. to 5p.m. Monday through Friday. Orders for groups of 10 or more may be placed by calling (210) 226-5967. (Broadway in San Antonio, 2018)
‘Fiddler on the Roof’ is the heartwarming story of fathers and daughters, husbands and wives and life, love and laughter. This classic musical is rich with Broadway hits including “To Life (L’Chaim!),” “If I Were A Rich Man,” “Sunrise Sunset,” “Matchmaker, Matchmaker” and “Tradition.” A beloved theatrical classic from Tony Award-winner Joseph Stein and Pulitzer Prize- winners Jerry Bock and Sheldon Harnick, ‘Fiddler on the Roof’ is directed by Tony Award-winner Bartlett Sher (South Pacific, The King and I); choreographed by the acclaimed Israeli choreographer Hofesh Shechter; inspired by the original choreography of Jerome Robbins; and has musical direction by Ted Sperling. The show won the 1965 Tony Award for Best Musical in addition to eight other Tony Awards that year. This acclaimed revival proudly introduces a new generation to the iconic musical adored across the globe.
Majestic Theatre
224 E. Houston St
San Antonio, TX 78205
(210) 226-5700
‘Annie’ plays at the Woodlawn Theatre through Sunday December 23. Courtesy photo, used with permission.
After a successful opening weekend, the Tony-Award winning musical ‘Annie’ continues at the Woodlawn Theatre. This family friendly musical centers around little orphan Annie, a spunky orphan who must endure life at an orphanage headed by the despicable Miss Hannigan. It runs until Sunday December 23 with showtimes every Friday and Saturday at 7:30p.m. and Sunday at 3p.m. Tickets prices are $30 for adults, $24 for senior/military/first responders, $18 for children/students and groups of ten or more receive a 20% discount. They are available online or by calling the box office at (210) 267-8388. (Woodlawn Theatre, 2018)
‘Annie’ is based on the popular Harold Gray comic strip Little Orphan Annie with music by Charles Strouse, lyrics by Martin Charnin and book by Thomas Meehan. It is set in New York City’s depression era of the 1930s. After enduring a life of misery at the orphanage, her luck begins to change when she is chosen to spend a fairytale Christmas at the home of wealthy businessman Oliver Warbucks. Meanwhile, spiteful Miss Hannigan has other ideas and hatches a plan to spoil Annie’s search for her true family. After winning the hearts of the household staff, Mr. Warbucks and Grace Farrell, his personal secretary, she finds a new home complete with the loveable mutt Sandy. Among the most popular musical numbers are ‘Tomorrow,’ ‘It’s the Hard Knock Life’ and ‘You’re Never Fully Dressed Without a Smile.’
Cast includes Maya Abelow and Alex Phillips as Annie, Roy Bumgarner as Warbucks, Nora Martinez as Grace Farrell, Melissa Gonzalez as Miss Hannigan and Jake as Sandy. Christopher Rodriguez serves as Director, Carla Sankey as Choreographer and Jane Haas as Music Director.
Promotional Nights:
Family Pride Night – Saturday December 1
ASL Night – Friday December 7
Student Night – Friday December 14
Education Night (sold out) – Friday December 21
Join the Grinch at SweetFire Kitchen at La Cantera for brunch and a reading of “How the Grinch Stole Christmas.” Courtesy photo, used with permission.
Welcome to Whoville! Join Grinch for a Brunch Feast at SweetFire Kitchen at La Cantera Resort & Spa, Saturday, December 1 from 10a.m. to 3p.m. Grinch will read “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” to the children by the Christmas Tree on Plaza San Saba, just off the patio at SweetFire Kitchen at 11a.m., 1p.m. and 3p.m. Brunch seating will be from 10a.m. to 3p.m. Feast menu includes Roast Beast; Who Hash; Grinch Greens; Cindy Lu Salad; Who Pudding; Grinch Bread, Whoville Feast treats, Grinch juice and so much more. The Grinch will make his rounds, stopping by the tables to pose for photos.(SweetFire Kitchen, 2018)
Tickets are $75 for adults and $30 for children. Five dollars from every ticket sold will benefit the San Antonio Library Foundation. To make a reservation please call 210-558-2479.
SweetFire Kitchen
La Cantera Resort & Spa
16641 La Cantera Parkway
San Antonio, TX 78256
(210) 558-6500
