Dive into January with Twang’s Miche-Nada recipe. Photo: Garrett Smith and Giant Noise Partners, used with permission.
Dry January: A Reset for the New Year
Dry January is a month-long commitment to abstaining from alcohol, often taken up after the indulgences of the holiday season. Many people choose January because it offers a natural reset: routines are quieter, social calendars are lighter, and there’s a collective desire to start the year with healthier habits.
Going alcohol-free can improve sleep, boost energy, and support mental clarity. For others, it’s a chance to reassess their relationship with drinking, break unconscious habits, and prove to themselves that alcohol isn’t a necessity. Dry January is less about restriction and more about intention, reflection, and beginning the year feeling grounded and in control.
A Non-Alcoholic Option to Celebrate
With this in mind, Twang is sharing a non-alcoholic drink recipe to keep the ritual and flavor alive during Dry January. (Twang, 2026)
Twang is a Tex-Mex–inspired, family-driven company founded in 1986, specializing in flavored salt, sugar, and spice blends. For over 38 years, Twang has been sharing its bold products and recipes with the world, and Dry January is no exception.
Twang’s Miche-Nada
Twang’s Miche-Nada is a non-alcoholic spin on the classic Mexican beer cocktail, the michelada. It can be made using classic, spicy, or pickle Twang Michelada Mixers.
Curated with all-natural ingredients, the mix includes real lime juice, robust ancho chiles, and organic Worcestershire sauce. Twang’s Rimming Salt completes the drink, with flavors like lime, grapefruit, mango chile, and more.
The michelada mix comes in a 16oz bottle for $7.00, while rimming salts are $5.00 each. All Twang products ship nationwide and are available at select retailers across the country.
Twang Miche-Nada Recipe
Ingredients:
Twang Michelada Mixer (classic, spicy or pickle flavors)
Twang Rimming Salt (lime, grapefruit, mango chile, and more flavors)
Ice
Sparkling water
Lime wedge
Directions:
Rim your glass with choice of Twang’s Rimming Salt
Order traditional Rosca de Reyes for Dia de los Reyes from all La Panaderia locations. Photo: La Panaderia, used with permission.
🎉 A sweet tradition returns to San Antonio as the holiday season comes to a close. As families gather to celebrate Día de los Reyes, the aroma of freshly baked Rosca de Reyes fills the air, bringing together history, culture, and community in every bite. This January 6, beloved local bakery La Panadería invites guests to continue the celebration with its beautifully crafted Rosca de Reyes, a timeless symbol of joy, generosity, and togetherness. (La Panadería, 2026)
Celebrate Día de los Reyes with La Panadería’s Rosca de Reyes
In honor of Día de los Reyes (celebrated on January 6), beloved San Antonio bakery La Panadería is pleased to offer pre-orders of Rosca de Reyes, a vibrant, round festive bread that is as rich in symbolism as it is in flavor.
One of the most cherished holidays in Latin American and Spanish cultures, Día de los Reyes honors the Three Kings who brought gifts to the baby Jesus. While the day marks the official end of the Christmas season, it also signifies a meaningful time for community, family, and delicious tradition.
Pre-Order Details
La Panadería’s Rosca de Reyes is available for pre-order now, with pickup date options between January 3 and January 6.
Pricing options include:
Family-sized Rosca de Reyes – $29
6-pack mini Rosca de Reyes – $29
Individual mini Roscas are also available in-store year-round at each La Panadería location.
As the holiday season winds down, Día de los Reyes, and the Rosca de Reyes, offer a beautiful opportunity to keep the festive spirit alive, create new memories, and honor the values of generosity, joy, and community.
About La Panadería Bakery Café
Founded in 2013 at the Quarry Farmers Market, La Panadería is a bakery and café located in San Antonio, Texas. Co-owners and brothers José and David Cáceres opened their first brick-and-mortar location in 2014 to share their cultura and love for baking with the city they call home.
With a strong commitment to quality ingredients and artisanal craftsmanship, La Panadería has become a staple in the evolution of the San Antonio culinary scene, delighting locals and visitors alike with its Mexican pastries, tortas, brunch offerings, and warm, inviting dining experience.
The celebration will include a fireworks display on its Hill Country Golf Club. Photo: Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Villas, used with permission.
New Year’s Eve in San Antonio: Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort Celebrations
Looking for New Year’s Eve celebrations in San Antonio that offer something for everyone? Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Villas is hosting one of the most versatile and festive San Antonio NYE events, featuring an adults-only party, family-friendly activities, dining experiences, and a fireworks display set in the Texas Hill Country. (Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Villas, 2025)
Located just minutes from downtown San Antonio, this newly renovated resort spans 300 scenic acres and provides an ideal getaway for locals and visitors looking to ring in the New Year in style.
Adults-Only New Year’s Eve Party in San Antonio: “Denim and Diamonds”
For couples and groups seeking a glamorous adults-only New Year’s Eve party in San Antonio, the resort’s exclusive “Denim and Diamonds” celebration delivers a high-energy night of entertainment.
Hosted in one of the resort’s upgraded ballrooms, the event includes:
Live music and a DJ
Dancing throughout the evening
A dinner buffet
An open bar
At midnight, guests gather on the Hill Country Golf Club for a champagne toast and fireworks display, making this one of the most memorable NYE events near San Antonio.
New Year’s Eve Hotel Package in San Antonio
The New Year’s Eve Celebration Packageis perfect for those wanting to stay overnight and avoid driving home after midnight. The package includes:
Overnight accommodations in a newly renovated guestroom
Admission for two to the adults-only “Denim and Diamonds” event
Single-event tickets are also available for those who want to attend the party without booking a stay.
Booking tip: Select a December 31 stay date on the resort’s website and use offer code 25NYE.
Family-Friendly New Year’s Eve Events in San Antonio
The all-ages NYE party in the Independence Ballroom features:
Kids’ activities and games
A bounce house
Indoor and outdoor entertainment
A DJ and festive atmosphere
This makes the resort a strong option for parents searching for New Year’s Eve events in San Antonio for kids.
Dining Options for New Year’s Eve in San Antonio
Guests can celebrate with food and drinks throughout the property, including:
A festive holiday buffet at Springhouse Café
Chef-driven dining at Antlers Lodge
A lively evening at Charlie’s Long Bar
Cocktails and light bites at Woodbine Bar in the hotel lobby
These dining options make Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort a one-stop destination for New Year’s Eve dining in San Antonio.
New Year’s Eve Fireworks in San Antonio
At midnight, all resort guests are invited to enjoy a spectacular New Year’s Eve fireworks display over the Hill Country Golf Club—one of the most scenic NYE fireworks experiences near San Antonio.
Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Villas
Address: 9800 Hyatt Resort Dr. San Antonio, TX 78251 Phone: (210) 647-1234
About the Resort
The newly renovated Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Villas sits on the historic Rogers-Wiseman family ranch, a working Texas ranch for over a century. With 502 guest rooms, ranch-inspired design, and convenient access to San Antonio International Airport and downtown attractions, the resort blends Texas Hill Country charm with upscale comfort, making it a standout destination for New Year’s Eve getaways in San Antonio.
Celebrate New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day in San Antonio. Photo: Kimpton Santo, used with permission.
Ways to Celebrate New Year’s Eve & New Year’s Day in San Antonio
Whether you’re looking for rooftop fireworks, elegant prix-fixe dinners, or a cozy New Year’s Day recovery brunch, San Antonio offers plenty of memorable ways to ring in 2026. Here’s your guide to the city’s standout New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day celebrations.
🎆 Events at Pearl
New Year’s Eve at Pearl – Stable Hall
December 31 | 8 PM Ring in the new year with The Texases, a lively country cover band performing the final show of 2025, and the first of 2026, at the iconic Stable Hall. Tickets available here. (Pearl, 2025)
Cellar Select New Year’s Eve Dinner Featuring Eagle Rare 25
December 31 | 7 PM Hotel Emma celebrates its 10th anniversary with an exclusive NYE dining experience featuring Eagle Rare 25. Guests also receive wristbands for entry to the annual Sternewirth NYE Party. Tickets available here.
🌃 Rooftop & Skyline Celebrations
Light Up the Night: Rosario’s Rooftop New Year’s Eve Countdown
December 31 | 8:30 PM – 1:30 AM Celebrate 2026 with sweeping skyline views from Rosario’s ComidaMex & Bar’s rooftop in Southtown. Enjoy live beats by DJ Kenzo, craft cocktails, curated bites, and front-row views of the city’s New Year’s fireworks. (Rosario’s ComidaMex & Bar, 2025)
December 31 | 5 PM – 9 PM Chefs John and Elise Russ host a four-course prix-fixe dinner to close out 2025. Each guest receives a complimentary glass of champagne to toast the new year. (Clementine, 2025) Reservations recommended via OpenTable.
Jots at The Gunter Hotel: NYE Chef’s Signature Dinner
December 31 | 5 PM – 10 PM $80++ per person Includes a three-course chef-curated dinner and a glass of Duc de Chagny at Jots. (Gunter Hotel, 2025) 📍 311 N St. Mary’s St.
VIP Tables: $250 (up to 4 guests) or $500 (up to 10 guests)
Toast & Stay NYE Experience
Stay overnight and welcome 2026 in style with this special NYE hotel package.
NYE Fireworks via Private Balcony
Celebrate the new year with a direct view of the Tower of the Americas fireworks from a private balcony, perfect for out-of-town guests. (Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa, 2025)
Kimpton Santo: The NYE Skyline Stay
Celebrate, stay, and recover. This NYE hotel package includes overnight accommodations and easy access to Tenfold’s rooftop celebration—plus a relaxed New Year’s Day experience.
Step into old-world glamour with a Gold, Glitz & Glamour–themed celebration featuring DJs, roaming performers, chef-crafted bites, and a midnight countdown. Tickets here. (St. Anthony Hotel, 2025)
January 1 | 7 AM – 11 AM | $21 A comfort-forward breakfast featuring braised short ribs, pork belly, Yukon potatoes, roasted peppers, caramelized onions, and a sunny-side-up egg. 📍 The Gunter Hotel
✨ From rooftop revelry to refined dinners and restorative breakfasts, San Antonio offers something for every kind of New Year’s celebration. Cheers to 2026!
Miracle on Arciniega Pop-Up at Anaqua Garden Bar. Photo: Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa + Tay Simmons, used with permission.
Cozy Up Sundays Return to Southtown Rooftop Bar at Rosario’s 🌆
Rosario’s ComidaMex & Bar announces the return of Cozy Up Sundays at its Southtown Rooftop Bar, running now through January, every Sunday from 2 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Each Sunday, guests are invited to embrace the brisk winter air while enjoying handcrafted cocktails and bites for just $8, all paired with sweeping panoramic views of San Antonio’s skyline. Patrons are encouraged to gather loved ones and cozy up under Rosario’s signature pink blankets for the ultimate rooftop experience.
To ensure comfort during San Antonio’s unpredictable winter weather, space heaters are placed throughout the rooftop bar. On colder evenings, the bar’s enclosed space offers a warm and inviting retreat without sacrificing the atmosphere.
Located in the heart of San Antonio, Rosario’s provides a welcoming space where guests can fully immerse themselves in the city’s rich roots and vibrant culture, making it the perfect Sunday destination.(Rosario’s ComidaMex & Bar, 2025)
📍 Address 722 S. St. Mary’s St. San Antonio, TX
More Holiday Dining & Events in San Antonio 🎄
Looking for more ways to celebrate the holidays this month? Here are some standout experiences happening around the city:
Ambler Texas Kitchen + Cocktails
Holiday Dinner on the River Walk 📅 December 24 & 25 | ⏰ 5–8 p.m.
Celebrate Christmas Eve and Christmas Day with a festive holiday menu featuring prime rib, roasted turkey, seared salmon, and decadent desserts. (Ambler Texas Kitchen + Cocktails, 2025)
Miracle on Arciniega Pop-Up at Anaqua Garden Bar 📅 Open now – Sunday, December 28
Anaqua Garden Bar transforms into a winter wonderland with twinkling lights, seasonal décor, cheerful music, and a limited-time holiday craft cocktail menu served in themed mugs. (Anaqua Garden Bar, 2025)
Guests can also enjoy:
Cozy s’mores activations
A tunnel of lights
Hourly snow showers
Now in its second year, Miracle on Arciniega serves as a festive bridge between Downtown and Southtown, making it an ideal gathering spot for locals and visitors alike.
Tenfold Rooftop 📅 Friday, December 19 – Thursday, December 25
Celebrate the season from above the city at Tenfold Rooftop’s weeklong Christmas pop-up featuring festive cocktails, elevated holiday bites, and stunning skyline views. (Tenfold Rooftop, 2025)
Jots Signature Christmas Prime Rib 📅 Monday, December 22 – Friday, December 26 💲 $29 per person | Regular menu also available
Jots Restaurant is serving a comforting holiday favorite: Signature Prime Rib with rosemary au jus, fresh horseradish cream, and smashed potatoes—perfect for a classic Christmas meal downtown. (The Gunter Hotel, 2025)
📍 Address 311 N. St. Mary’s St. San Antonio, TX 78205
The Gunter Hotel’s newest speakeasy,Bar 414, hosts live music every Thursday through Saturday in December (excluding Christmas Day). Meanwhile, the Vinyl Library sets the mood in the lobby with its “Spin the Season” holiday vinyl curation.
📍 Address 205 E. Houston St. San Antonio, TX 78205
Ring in the holidays in style at the Pearl. Photo: Pearl, used with permission.
🎄 Holiday Happenings in San Antonio: Your Guide to Seasonal Events
San Antonio is buzzing with holiday cheer and this month brings a full lineup of festive markets, family-friendly celebrations, concerts, and community traditions. Whether you’re looking to snap a photo with Santa, hunt for local gifts, or savor holiday flavors, here’s everything happening around St. Paul Square and Pearl.
🎅 December 12: Santa at the Square & Holiday Market (St. Paul Square)
St. Paul Square is welcoming Santa to San Antonio for a special holiday pop-up market featuring all-local vendors. With the district fully decorated for the season, it’s the perfect chance to sip hot cocoa, shop small, and grab a festive family photo with St. Nick. (St Paul Square, 2025)
Where: Parking lot in front of 1902 — 1174 E. Commerce Street
When:5 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Admission: Free // All ages
🎶December 19: Beauty + Zen Haus Night Market + Elnuh at The Espee
Ring in the season with Beauty + Zen Haus’ Holiday Night Market, your destination for last-minute gifts, handcrafted goods, festive décor, and unique local finds. After browsing the market, stick around for indie-pop artist Elnuh, performing under the stars on The Espee’s outdoor plaza stage.
Event Details
Where: St. Paul Square Courtyard + The Espee — 1174 E. Commerce Street
When:Doors & music at 7 p.m.
Admission: Free // All ages
This Friday Night Live series is part of St. Paul Square’s vision to transform the historic district into one of San Antonio’s most vibrant hubs for entertainment, culture, food, and nightlife.
Photo: St Paul Square
🎁 Holiday Season at Pearl
The holiday spirit is in full swing at Pearl, with a packed calendar of family traditions, community events, and festive fun. (Pearl, 2025)
🌮 December 13: Pullman Market Tamale Festival (Debut!)
Pullman Market is launching its first-ever Tamale Festival, a new holiday tradition celebrating San Antonio’s beloved seasonal staple.
Event Details
When:Saturday, December 13 • 1 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Where: Pullman Market – Karnes Street 221 Newell Ave, San Antonio, TX 78215
Enjoy tamales from local vendors plus specialty creations from the Pullman Market culinary team. Guests can eat on-site or purchase tamale packs to take home for holiday gatherings.
Complimentary Santa photos are available every Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday through December 21. Times and locations vary — check Pearl’s Events Calendar for the latest schedule.
🛍️ Holiday Night Markets
Discover artisan gifts, warm drinks, festive lights, and local makers.
Next Market:Wednesday, December 17
🎬 Festive Movie Mondays
Enjoy holiday classics every Monday in December (except December 29). Movies begin at sunset, arrive early and bring blankets!
Presented with YJSA (Young & Jewish San Antonio), this community celebration features live music, family activities, and a ceremonial menorah lighting.
The menorah will shine nightly December 16–24 near the Boiler House Shade Structure.
🎁 Hotel Emma Holiday Perks
Hotel Emma guests enjoy exclusive seasonal offerings including:
Custom Go Rio river cruises arranged through the concierge
Free family fun includes Cowboy Santa. Photo: Briscoe Western Art Museum, used with permission.
Saddle Up for Holiday Fun: Cowboy Christmas at the Briscoe Western Art Museum
San Antonio, TX – The Briscoe Western Art Museum is kicking off the season with its annual Cowboy Christmas, happening Sunday, December 7, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Families can enjoy hands-on crafts, Western-themed activities, and festive fun along the River Walk. And of course, Cowboy Santa will be greeting young cowboys, cowgirls, vaqueros and vaqueras from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.—ready for free photos and holiday wishes. (Briscoe Western Art Museum, 2025)
Guests are encouraged to register online in advance to help the museum prepare for crafts, supplies, and Santa visits. Full details on museum hours, parking, and admission are available online.
Free Admission on Locals Day
This year’s Cowboy Christmas lands on the Briscoe’s monthly Locals Day, meaning all Bexar County and San Antonio residents receive free general admission. Children 12 and under and active duty military members always get in free, making the Briscoe a budget-friendly holiday outing for families. Visitors from outside the area can enjoy Cowboy Christmas at no additional cost beyond regular museum admission.
Free Admission for Furloughed Federal Employees
Extended through December 7
Through Sunday, Dec. 7, furloughed federal employees impacted by the shutdown can enjoy free general admission for themselves and one guest. Just present a valid federal government photo ID at the door. This complimentary admission includes full access to Cowboy Christmas and all current exhibitions. The museum’s goal is to offer federal employees and their families a place to relax and reconnect this holiday season.
Museums for All: Making Art Accessible
Through the Museums for All program, anyone receiving SNAP or WIC benefits receives free admission with a valid program/EBT card. The Briscoe participates in Museums for All to ensure that cost is never a barrier to enjoying art, culture, and Western heritage.
Step Into History: Going to Texas: Five Centuries of Texas Maps
Cowboy Christmas attendees can also explore the Briscoe’s landmark exhibition, “Going to Texas: Five Centuries of Texas Maps.” This incredible collection traces how Texas has been imagined, mapped, and claimed for more than 500 years. Highlights include:
Rare maps from the famed Yana and Marty Davis Map Collection at the Museum of the Big Bend (Sul Ross State University, Alpine, TX)
Artworks and artifacts from the Briscoe’s own collection
Private loans that bring Texas history vividly to life
From early views of the Gulf Coast to Republic-era maps and modern highway charts, the exhibition offers something for history lovers of every age.
Special Event: Cartography Conversation – December 14
On Sunday, December 14, join Eliane and Jon Dotson of Old World Auctions for an engaging program inspired by Going to Texas. They’ll explore the stories behind centuries of maps, collectors, and the evolution of Texas on paper. The program is free with registration.
Holiday Crafts, Cowboy Santa & Western Gift Shopping
During Cowboy Christmas, families can enjoy festive drop-in holiday crafts inspired by Western traditions, creating keepsakes to take home. A Cowboy Christmas scavenger hunt will lead visitors through the museum and sculpture garden, inspiring exploration and new discoveries.
Everyone who completes the scavenger hunt receives a 10% discount at the Hendler Family Museum Store, where shoppers can find:
Western holiday décor
Jewelry
Books
Toys
Unique gifts you won’t see in regular retailers
More Ways to Visit the Briscoe for Free
The Briscoe offers several year-round programs that make visits affordable and accessible:
Locals Day: First Sunday of each month—free general admission for Bexar County and San Antonio residents.
Museums for All: Free admission with SNAP, WIC (and MAP where applicable) and an EBT card.
Bank of America Museums on Us: Free admission the first full weekend of each month for cardholders (Bank of America, Merrill Lynch, U.S. Trust).
Military & Kids: Children 12 and under are always free. Active duty members always free; families get half-price admission when visiting together. Retired and former service members receive discounted admission year-round.
Together, these programs make the Briscoe a perfect place for families looking to add a touch of Western adventure to their holiday season.
Photo: Briscoe Western Art Museum, used with permission.
Briscoe Western Art Museum 210 W. Market St. San Antonio, TX 78205
Pearl launches a first-ever outdoor ice rink. Photo: Pearl, used with permission.
Pearl Unveils New Outdoor Ice-Skating Rink for the 2025–26 Holiday Season
SAN ANTONIO — Pearl is bringing even more magic to the holidays this year. The beloved destination announced that its anticipated mini golf experience will transform into a sparkling outdoor ice-skating rink for the 2025–26 season. (Pearl, 2025)
The rink opens Friday, November 28, 2025, and will welcome skaters through Sunday, January 4, 2026. Guests are invited to lace up their skates and enjoy a festive winter escape right in the heart of San Antonio. Make an evening of it by stopping by Pearl’s Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony from 3:30 to 7 p.m. in Pearl Park, perfect before or after some time on the ice.
A Festive Setting in the Heart of Pearl
Located next to 1100 Springs Plaza, between Stable Hall and Ladino, the seasonal rink promises twinkling lights, holiday music, and joyful memories for all ages. Tickets will be available for purchase online.
A New Tradition Kicks Off With a New Festival
The debut of Pearl’s outdoor ice rink arrives just in time for another exciting first: the Taste of Pearl Festival, happening Saturday, November 29, from 3 to 8 p.m. This property-wide celebration invites visitors to explore live music, culinary experiences, art, shopping, and more.
Guests can skate beneath the lights, then wander through a festive hub featuring:
A live DJ
Special market vendors (to be announced)
Seasonal sips from Otto’s Ice House
Participation from beloved Pearl restaurants and shops
The Taste of Pearl Festival aims to deliver a vibrant day filled with discovery, flavor, and holiday spirit.
A Message from Pearl
“The holidays are a time for gathering and joy, and Pearl is honored to be part of those traditions. The addition of a new ice-skating rink offers a beautiful way for the community to come together, celebrate, and create lasting memories in the heart of San Antonio.” — Mesha Millsap, CEO of Pearl
About Pearl
Pearl is a dynamic cultural hub in San Antonio, built around the historic former Pearl Brewery along the Museum Reach of the San Antonio River Walk. Known for its iconic plazas, chef-driven restaurants, independent shops, and lively entertainment, Pearl celebrates the creativity of the city’s chefs, artists, musicians, and makers.
The neighborhood’s architectural treasures—including the 1894 brewhouse and stable—house the MICHELIN Two-Key and AAA Five Diamond Hotel Emma, along with Stable Hall, a standout live-music venue. At the center of Pearl, Pullman Market features acclaimed culinary concepts, including two MICHELIN-starred restaurants.
Hotel Contessa is lighting up the season with a front-row parade watch party and its first-ever tree lighting on the River Terrace. Photo: Hotel Contessa, used with permission.
🎄 San Antonio Weekend Holiday Events Roundup
The holiday season is officially underway in San Antonio, and this weekend is packed with festive celebrations across the city. From tree lightings to river parades, here’s where to find the magic.
✨ Gunter Hotel Tree Lighting Ceremony
📅 Saturday, November 29 | ⏰ 2–3 p.m. 📍 205 East Houston Street, San Antonio, TX 78205
Kick off the holidays at the historic Gunter Hotel, where a dazzling 16-foot Christmas tree will take center stage in the lobby. Enjoy a special performance by the talented Kingwood High School carolers from Houston, and warm up with complimentary sweet treats and hot cocoa. It’s the perfect blend of cheer, music, and community spirit in the heart of downtown. (Gunter Hotel, 2025)
🎉 Ácenar HotMex & CoolBar: River Parade Viewing
📅 Friday, November 28 📍 146 E Houston St, San Antonio, TX 78205
Riverside Seating – $28/person Up-close views with a dedicated server for cocktail orders.
Riverfront Patio Dining – $70 minimum per person A more elevated experience complete with Ácenar’s contemporary Mexican cuisine and crafted cocktails.
Reservations are required and seating is limited. To book, call (210) 222-2362.
🌟 Hotel Contessa: Parade Watch Party & First Annual Tree Lighting
📅 Friday, November 28 | ⏰ 5–7 p.m. 📍 306 W Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205
Hotel Contessa is lighting up the season with a front-row parade watch party and its first-ever tree lighting on the River Terrace. (Hotel Contessa, 2025)
Marriage Island VIP – $85 (includes upgraded seating, complimentary beverage & valet)
Tree lighting begins at 6:30 p.m., with the parade passing by shortly after 7 p.m.
🍸 Hotel Contessa: Ford Holiday VIP Terrace Party
📅Friday, November 28 | ⏰5:30–9 p.m. Guests 21+ can upgrade their night with exclusive terrace access overlooking the River Walk. $75 per ticket includes:
Two handcrafted cocktails
Chef-inspired appetizers
Live holiday DJ
Luxury crafting station
Express massages from the Spa at Hotel Contessa
Raffle entry for a 2026 one-night stay
Note: Limited parade views from the terrace; 15% off parade seating with code VIP.
🍽️ Ambler: VIP Parade Dining Experience
📅Friday, November 28 | ⏰5–9:30 p.m. Ambler’s private dining experience includes prime parade views, a three-course dinner, valet parking, and premium drinks.
Pricing:
Table of Four – $600
Individual Tickets – $175
Kids menu available.
Whether you’re looking for a cozy tree lighting or an unforgettable River Walk parade experience, San Antonio is sparkling with ways to celebrate. Bundle up, grab some cocoa, and enjoy the start of the season! 🎅✨
La Cantera Resort & Spa kicks off the holidayswith annual tree lighting and roller skating rink. Photo: La Cantera Resort & Spa, used with permission.
Holiday Magic Arrives at La Cantera: Annual Tree Lighting & “Jingle Bell Roll” Grand Opening
On Friday, November 21, 2025, Signia by Hilton La Cantera Resort & Spa will kick off the holiday season in spectacular fashion with its beloved Annual Tree Lighting, followed immediately by the grand opening of “Jingle Bell Roll,” a retro-inspired, LED-lit roller-skating rink built right over the resort’s shimmering Topaz infinity pool. (La Cantera Resort & Spa, 2025)
A Holiday Tradition: Annual Tree Lighting
The Annual Tree Lighting celebration sets the tone for a festive season ahead. Guests can enjoy:
Meeting friendly reindeer
Cookie decorating
Warm, creamy hot chocolate
Live holiday music
Dancing beneath the glow of the sparkling holiday tree
It’s the perfect way for families and friends to welcome the season together.
Introducing: Jingle Bell Roll
The new Jingle Bell Roll invites guests to lace up their skates and glide into the holidays with a high-energy skating experience unlike anything else in San Antonio. The activation features:
Dazzling LED lights
Festive music
Seasonal treats
A vibrant, nostalgic roller-rink atmosphere
This limited-time experience is designed for guests of all ages, local families, resort visitors, and holiday-loving adventurers.
Throughout the season, skaters can also enjoy:
Themed skate nights
Family-friendly skate sessions
Photo ops with Santa Claus
Holiday treats and concessions
Custom group packages for corporate events, including private rink access, catering, and branded photo options
Holiday Cove: A Winter Retreat
For guests seeking a more elevated seasonal escape, the resort’s Holiday Covetransforms the Topaz cabanas into a warm winter oasis. Expect:
Cozy group seating
Festive holiday décor
Curated seasonal treats
Reservations are encouraged and available online.
December Themed Skate Nights
To make the season even more memorable, “Jingle Bell Roll” will offer unique themed evenings throughout December:
• Family Holiday Jams — Wednesdays (Nov. 26–Dec. 24)
Kid-friendly holiday music, festive character appearances, and fun PJ-themed sessions perfect for younger skaters and families.
• Date Night Roll — Thursdays (Nov. 27–Dec. 25)
A romantic evening under the stars, complete with ambient lighting, smooth tunes, and a cozy, elegant atmosphere.
SA Examiner 