Category: Holiday themed events

Ring In the Season with the Best Holiday Celebrations in San Antonio This Weekend

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

Ácenar is elevating the River Walk tradition with front-row views of the 44th Annual Ford Holiday River Parade & Lighting Ceremony. (Ácenar HotMex & CoolBar, 2025)

Seating options include:

  • 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)

Guests can enjoy:

  • Mariachis
  • Holiday DJ
  • Student musical ensemble
  • Photos with Santa
  • Wine tastings & cocoa
  • Holiday treats
  • Crafting station
  • Local vendors

Ticket Options:

  • General Seating – $50
  • Front-Row Seating – $65
  • 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! 🎅✨

Holiday Cheer Takes Center Stage with La Cantera’s Tree Lighting & Jingle Bell Roll

La Cantera Resort & Spa kicks off the holidays with 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 Cove transforms 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.

• Adult Roller Skate — Saturday Nights (Nov. 22–Dec. 27)

Sophisticated lighting, curated playlists, and a relaxed social vibe create a perfect grown-up night out.

• Teen Roll — Sunday Evenings (Nov. 23–Dec. 28)

High energy, bold lighting, and Instagram-worthy photo ops for teens ready to roll with friends.

Skates are available to rent on-site.

Event Dates

  • Annual Tree Lighting: Friday, November 21, 2025 at 5:30 p.m.
  • Jingle Bell Roll: November 21 – December 28, 2025

Location

Signia by Hilton La Cantera Resort & Spa
Plaza San Saba & Topaz Pool
16641 La Cantera Parkway
San Antonio, TX 78256

Magik Theatre Brings A Charlie Brown Christmas to Life

Magik Theatre’s A Charlie Brown Christmas opens with its Party in the Park. Photo: Magik Theatre, used with permission.

Magik Theatre Presents A Charlie Brown Christmas — A Heartwarming Holiday Tradition

San Antonio, TX – Magik Theatre is kicking off the holiday season with a festive family favorite: a charming stage adaptation of the classic A Charlie Brown Christmas. Sponsored by Whataburger and Valero, the production runs November 22–December 24 and invites audiences of all ages to rediscover the joy, simplicity, and spirit of the holidays. (Magik Theatre, 2025)

This faithful retelling follows Charlie Brown as he searches for the true meaning of Christmas. Surrounded by decorations and seasonal cheer, he still senses something missing. With help from Lucy, Linus, Snoopy, and the rest of the Peanuts gang, he takes on directing the school Christmas play hoping it will bring clarity and connection. Featuring Vince Guaraldi’s iconic score and Charles M. Schulz’s gentle humor, the production is perfect for both longtime fans and children experiencing the Peanuts magic for the first time.

Special Events & Add-On Experiences

Story Time at Hemisfair – Nov. 18 at 10 a.m.

Join Magik Theatre staff for a special outdoor story time featuring A Charlie Brown Christmas. The first 20 children receive a free book, plus enjoy a themed craft and playtime at Yanaguana Garden.

Opening Night Party in the Park – Saturday, Nov. 22

Party: 3:30–4:30 p.m.
Show: 5 p.m.
Celebrate opening night with a free holiday party at Hemisfair Park featuring a live DJ, themed craft, hot chocolate from Paleteria SA, Peanuts photo ops, and pictures with Santa inside the theatre (BYOC). The party is open to all; the performance is ticketed.

Singalong Performance – Saturday, Dec. 13 at 2 p.m.

Sing along to holiday favorites including “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer,” “O Christmas Tree,” and “Christmas Time Is Here.” Guests receive lyric booklets, and Bird Bakery is providing complimentary cupcakes.

Backstage Experience Add-On (After Every Show Except Special Events)

For $20 per person, enjoy an onstage meet-and-greet, photo opportunities with the cast, a guided 15-minute tour, and a special treat.
Note: Not accessible for mobility devices. Guests under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

Field Trips & Mini Camps

Student Matinees

Magik’s beloved field trips include a weekday performance plus TEKS-aligned learning. A December 5 performance includes live audio description for vision-impaired students. Educators can reserve field trips online.

Fall & Winter Mini Camps

Perfect for 1st–5th graders during school breaks.

  • Fall Camp: Nov. 24–26, 9 a.m.–12 p.m. – $145
  • Winter Camp: Dec. 23–24, 9 a.m.–12 p.m. – $50/day

Each camp features storytelling, puppetry, games, and a live performance.

Special Performances

Pay What You Wish + Live Audio Description – Saturday, Nov. 29 at 2 p.m.

A donation-based, accessible performance sponsored by H-E-B. Live audio description (via headset) is provided by Vibrant Works. Tickets available only at the door on the day of the performance.

Educator Appreciation Day – Sunday, Nov. 23 at 3 p.m.

Educators and school staff receive one free ticket with ID. Additional tickets are 20% off.

ASL Interpreted Performance – Sunday, Dec. 7 at 3 p.m.

Featuring interpretation by Robert Cardoza, the San Antonio theatre community’s leading ASL interpreter.

Sensory-Friendly Performance – Saturday, Dec. 13 at 10 a.m.

Ideal for guests on the autism spectrum or with sensory sensitivities, offering a relaxed, judgment-free environment.

Military & First Responders Day – Saturday, Dec. 30 at 2 p.m.

Service members with valid military ID can purchase $5 discounted tickets.

Ticket Information

Single Tickets

  • $30 – Adults
  • $25 – Children (2–17), Military, Seniors, Educators & Students
  • Free – Children under 2 (unless using a seat)

Purchase online, by phone at (210) 227-2751, or in person at Magik Theatre’s Box Office (420 S. Alamo). Group rates are available for parties of 10+.

A Charlie Brown Christmas cast. Photo: Mewborne Photography, used with permission.

Twang’s Pickle Gift Box Brings Big Flavor for National Pickle Day

Twang launches Pickle Gift Box for National Pickle Day, November 14. Photo: Twang, used with permission.

Celebrate National Pickle Day with Twang’s Ultimate Pickle Gift Box 🥒

Pickles are having a major moment. According to GrubHub, pickle orders surged 89% in 2023, and pickle-flavored products are popping up everywhere, from Flamin’ Hot® Dill Pickle Cheetos to Jimmy John’s Picklewich. Whether you’re a long-time pickle enthusiast or a recent convert to the briny craze, there’s no denying that America is deep in its dill era. (Twang, 2025)

Pickles and Twang: A Perfect Pair

For Twang, the San Antonio–based salts and seasonings company, pickles aren’t just a passing trend, they’re part of their flavor DNA. Known for bold blends that bring zest to any snack or drink, Twang has long celebrated the tangy, salty joy that pickles bring.

Introducing the Pickle Gift Box

In honor of National Pickle Day (November 14), Twang is launching the Pickle Gift Box, a limited-edition collection packed with pickle-inspired goodies:

  • 🥒 1 Clear Green Fanny Pack
  • 🐶 1 Pickle Dog Keychain
  • ✨ 1 Twang Glitter Sticker
  • 🍸 1 Pickle Drink Rimmer
  • 🧂 1 Pickle Fiesta-Sized Flavored Salt Jar
  • 🌶️ 1 Hot Pickle Snack-Sized Flavored Salt Shaker
  • 🍺 1 Pickle Beer Salt Bottle
  • 🍈 1 Cucumber Chile Lime Beer Salt Bottle

Retailing for $50.00, the gift box is the ultimate treat for anyone who loves all things tangy, crunchy, and crave-worthy.

A Dill-Lightful Deal

From November 1–14, Twang is offering 10% off all pickle products, including the Pickle Gift Box. Use code PICKLEDAY at checkout to claim your discount. (One-time purchases only; offer can’t be combined with other discounts.)

So whether you’re seasoning your snacks, rimming your cocktail glass, or just living your best pickle-loving life, Twang’s got your flavor fix this National Pickle Day.

Veterans Day Specials from Chef Nicola Blaque and H-E-B

On Tuesday November 11, H-E-B will distribute gift bags to veterans inside their stores. Photo: H-E-B, used with permission.

Honoring Veterans Day with Chef Nicola Blaque and H-E-B

Every year on November 11, we pause to honor Veterans Day, a time to recognize the brave men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces. This day reminds us that freedom comes at a cost, and it’s an opportunity to express gratitude to those who have sacrificed to protect it. From community parades to acts of service and remembrance, Veterans Day is about acknowledging courage, resilience, and dedication that continue to inspire generations.

This year, in celebration of Veterans Day on Tuesday, November 11, 2025, James Beard-nominated chef and U.S. Army veteran Nicola Blaque invites veterans and community members to come together over good food and shared appreciation. (The Jerk Shack/Freight Fried Chicken, 2025)

Celebrate with Chef Nicola Blaque

At her award-winning San Antonio restaurants, The Jerk Shack and Freight Fried Chicken, Chef Blaque is offering a special way to honor veterans, with a comforting fried chicken plate for just $10.

The Jerk Shack will feature its island-style fried chicken paired with bold Caribbean sides like pineapple slaw and masala fries.

Freight Fried Chicken will serve its signature boneless fried chicken plate, highlighting classic Southern flavors with sides such as mac ’n cheese, seasoned fries, and fried corn.

📍 The Jerk Shack
10234 TX-151, Suite 103, San Antonio, TX 78251
🕚 11 a.m. – 8 p.m. on Tuesday, November 11, 2025

📍 Freight Fried Chicken
312 Pearl Pkwy, Building 6, San Antonio, TX 78215
🕙 10 a.m. – 9 p.m. on Tuesday, November 11, 2025

About Chef Nicola Blaque

Lattoia Nicola Massey, known professionally as Chef Nicola Blaque, is a proud veteran, chef, and restaurateur based in San Antonio, Texas. Her Jamaican-inspired restaurant, The Jerk Shack, quickly became a local favorite after opening in 2018, earning a Bib Gourmand designation from the Michelin Guide in 2024.

In early 2024, she expanded her culinary footprint with Freight Fried Chicken, located in the Pearl district, a restaurant that pays homage to the formerly enslaved women who sold fried chicken in post-Civil War Virginia to support themselves and their families.

H-E-B’s Ongoing Commitment to Veterans

On Veterans Day and every day, H-E-B Partners across Texas honor the sacrifices of our nation’s veterans and their families through Operation Appreciation, a companywide initiative launched in 2013. (H-E-B, 2025)

This year, H-E-B stores across the state will distribute gift bags filled with H-E-B brand items and notes of gratitude to veterans both in stores and at local nonprofits such as VFW and American Legion posts.

Through Operation Appreciation, H-E-B has contributed over $17 million to military-based nonprofits in Texas, supported employment for more than 30,000 veterans and military spouses, and even provided mortgage-free homes to severely wounded veterans.

Customers can also give back by purchasing items from the Café Ole by H-E-B Commemorative Collection, with $0.35 from every purchase donated to military nonprofits across Texas.

A Shared Moment of Gratitude

Veterans Day is more than a holiday, it’s a moment to come together as a community to say thank you. Whether through a warm meal, a handwritten note, or a simple act of kindness, every gesture helps honor those who’ve served.

This Veterans Day, celebrate courage, community, and connection, one plate at a time.

Photo: Ann Compositions, used with permission.

Celebrate Native American Heritage at the Yanaguana Indian Arts Festival

An indoor pow wow at the Yanaguana Indian Arts Festival. Photo: Briscoe Western Art Museum, used with permission.

Celebrate Native American Heritage Month at the Yanaguana Indian Arts Festival

San Antonio, TX — The Briscoe Western Art Museum invites the community to honor Native American Heritage Month at the Yanaguana Indian Arts Festival on Saturday, November 8, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the museum’s beautiful campus along the San Antonio River Walk. (Briscoe Western Art Museum, 2025)

This annual celebration is free and open to the public, offering a full day of art, music, dance, storytelling, hands-on crafts, and cultural connections for all ages. Festival admission, museum access, and all activities are included at no cost.
👉 Free registration is available online.

A Day Full of Culture, Art, and Connection

Throughout the day, guests can:

  • Enjoy arts and crafts for all ages
  • Meet and learn from Native artists and performers
  • Experience music, storytelling, and dance rooted in Native traditions
  • Explore the Briscoe’s galleries for free

Festival Highlights

Opening Blessing and Drum Circle

  • A spiritual blessing by United San Antonio Pow Wow, Inc., an organization dedicated to preserving and sharing Native American traditions.
  • A Pow Wow-style drum circle and dance demonstration by United San Antonio Pow Wow and Enemy Horse Drumming, showcasing the meaning and movement behind pow wow styles.

Storytelling and Music

  • Joyous Windrider and Rosie Torres bring Native stories to life through storytelling and movement.
  • Enjoy live music from Tim Blueflint Ramel, an award-winning flute player and member of the Bad River Band of the Lake Superior Chippewa. Ramel has shared the stage with Grammy Award–winner Mary Youngblood and will also demonstrate flute and jewelry making throughout the day.

Traditional Arts and Demonstrations

  • George Curtis Levi shares ledger art, a Cheyenne tradition dating back to the 1840s that uses repurposed record book pages to depict daily life. Levi, a member of the Southern Cheyenne, also has ties to the Arapaho and Oglala Lakota tribes.
  • Chase Kahwinhut Earles, a Caddo Nation artist, demonstrates traditional Caddo pottery techniques, reviving a centuries-old art form celebrated for its authenticity and cultural depth.
  • Shane Hendren, a Diné/Navajo jewelry maker and turquoise expert, showcases his intricate work and commitment to the integrity of Native craftsmanship.
  • Wayne TaySha Earles, a Caddo stone carver, presents cultural stonework and jewelry inspired by ancient Caddo artifacts from the Spiro Mounds in Oklahoma.

Hands-On Crafts and Family Fun

Festival guests can create their own:

  • Ledger art and mixed media collages
  • Leather medallions
  • Basket and loom weaving projects
  • Community weaving basket
  • Parfleche cases — traditional painted pouches made from rawhide, once used by Plains Indians for both beauty and practicality

Visitors can also browse and purchase Native artwork directly from the artists, including jewelry, pottery, beadwork, and textiles.

Honoring the Yanaguana Legacy

The festival’s name, “Yanaguana,” comes from the Payaya people, who were indigenous to the San Antonio area. It was their word for what we now know as the San Antonio River.

Held annually since the Briscoe’s opening, the Yanaguana Indian Arts Festival celebrates the vital role of Native Americans in shaping the West. It’s a day to learn, connect, and appreciate the vibrant living cultures that continue to inspire the region today.

📅 Date: Saturday, November 8
🕙 Time: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
📍 Location: Briscoe Western Art Museum, San Antonio River Walk
💲 Admission: Free (including museum entry and activities)
🔗 Register: [Free event registration available online]

Photo: Briscoe Western Art Museum, used with permission.

Día de los Muertos Events You Won’t Want to Miss

Pearl ofrenda. Photo: Pearl, used with permission.

Where to Celebrate Día de los Muertos in San Antonio: A Guide to New and Expanded Events

From art-filled altars to soulful dinners, the city honors life, love, and remembrance.

San Antonio is a city that remembers, a place where history, heart, and heritage intertwine beautifully during Día de los Muertos. In 2025, the celebration grows even more vibrant, with expanded events at Pearl, Pullman Market, and Clementine. Whether you’re drawn by the music, the food, or the cultural traditions, these celebrations offer a meaningful way to honor loved ones and embrace the spirit of community.

Día de los Muertos at Pearl

Dates: Saturday, November 1 & Sunday, November 2
Location: Pearl Park

Pearl once again comes alive with color, music, and memory as it hosts its annual Día de los Muertos festivities, now a two-day celebration.

Highlights include:

  • Large-scale, artist-curated ofrendas across the Pearl campus
  • Live performances by Grupo Volcan (Sunday)
  • Children’s art activities hosted by the Consulado de México
  • A communal procession through Pearl on Sunday evening at 7:15 p.m.
  • Roaming entertainers, art installations, and food inspired by Mexican traditions
  • A Catrin & Catrina Contest featuring a partnership with i la Catrina, showcasing seven live fashion Catrinas that tell the story and evolution of La Catrina through the ages

Special Experiences:

Mark your calendars and experience a vibrant celebration of culture, creativity, and community remembrance at Pearl.

Pullman Market: A Four-Day Celebration

Dates: October 23 – November 2
Location: Pullman Market

Pullman Market honors Día de los Muertos with a lively four-day celebration featuring ofrendas, costume contests, live DJ sets, and family-friendly fun at Mezquite.

Event Highlights:

  • Ofrenda Live (Oct. 23–Nov. 2): The Pullman Market altar honors San Antonio’s farmers and market pioneers, adorned with fresh produce, baked goods, and a Texas beer as an offering of remembrance.
  • Muertos Mariachi (Oct. 30, 5–7 p.m.): Enjoy live mariachi performances by the market’s ofrenda, blending music and memory in a community gathering.
  • Muertos at Mezquite (Nov. 1–2): A two-day celebration of music, color, and community featuring food, fun, and festive beats for the whole family.

Halloween Offerings at Pullman Market

  • Mezquite Halloween Pachanga – Friday, October 31, 6:30 p.m. to midnight
    Celebrate with food, music, and costume contests for both kids and adults.
  • Trick-or-Treating – All day across the market
  • Late-Night DJ – Until midnight in the Mezcaleria

Clementine’s Día de los Muertos Dinner

Date: Sunday, November 2 | 4 p.m.–8 p.m.
Location: Clementine, Castle Hills

Clementine, the beloved Castle Hills restaurant, is hosting its annual Día de los Muertos dinner in collaboration with 2M Smokehouse and Baked.

Chefs John and Elise Russ, Esaul Ramos Jr., and Grecia Ramos join forces for a one-night-only six-course prix-fixe menu, a heartfelt celebration of remembrance, flavor, and community.

Evening Highlights:

  • Mariachi performances and a stunning community ofrenda on the patio
  • Guests can write love affirmations for departed loved ones and place them on the ofrenda
  • Interactive beverage tasting stations featuring a curated selection of wines

To close the evening, Elise and Grecia will present Día de los Muertos-inspired desserts, including creative takes on pan de muerto, calabaza treats, mini sundaes, and sweet mignardises.

Reservations:

  • $135 per person (excluding tax and gratuity)
  • Optional wine pairing: $65
  • Book via OpenTable

Clementine’s annual dinner is a beautiful tribute to loved ones, where food, music, and shared memories bring the community together in true Día de los Muertos spirit.

Celebrate, Remember, and Reconnect

From Pearl’s grand installations to intimate culinary experiences at Clementine, San Antonio offers countless ways to celebrate life and honor those who came before us. This Día de los Muertos season, immerse yourself in the city’s rich blend of culture, remembrance, and community spirit.

San Antonio’s Dazzling Día de los Muertos Celebrations

Monumental Botanical Fridas. Photo: Signia by Hilton La Cantera Resort & Spa, used with permission.

Celebrate Día de los Muertos in San Antonio: Luxury, Culture, and Flavor

San Antonio is known for honoring its rich Mexican heritage in spectacular ways, and this year, two of the city’s most iconic hotels are taking Día de los Muertos celebrations to new heights. From stunning art installations to tequila-paired dinners and runway shows, here’s what awaits you at Signia by Hilton La Cantera Resort & Spa and Omni La Mansión del Rio. (Signia by Hilton La Cantera Resort & Spa/Omni La Mansión del Rio, 2025)

🌹 La Reina de La Vida at Signia by Hilton La Cantera Resort & Spa

Date: Saturday, November 1, 2025
Location: Signia by Hilton La Cantera Resort & Spa

On Saturday, November 1, 2025, Signia by Hilton La Cantera Resort & Spa will transform into a one-night-only “La Reina de La Vida” (The Queen of Life) experience, an immersive celebration of Día de Los Muertos that honors Mexican culture through art, fashion, cuisine, and music. Guests are encouraged to dress for the occasion and fully embrace the vibrant spirit of the holiday.

Evening Highlights

  • 5:30 p.m. — Cocktail Reception & Runway Showcase
    The evening begins in the resort’s lobby with craft cocktails featuring Volcan de Mi Tierra Tequila, followed by a Runway Showcase by iLaCatrina at Plaza San Saba.
  • 6:30 p.m. — La Catrina Glamour Experience
    Guests can indulge in professional Catrina makeup styling and enjoy a private photoshoot, leaving with five high-resolution keepsake images.
  • 8:00 p.m. — Five-Course Dinner at Primero Terrace
    Hosted by Volcan de Mi Tierra Tequila and presented by Chef Abraham Proa of Primero Cantina, this exquisite meal includes a tequila cocktail paired with each course.

Additional Offerings

Throughout the weekend, Volcan Tequila will feature limited-time specialty drinks at the resort’s restaurants, including Sire Bar, SweetFire Kitchen, Club Se7en, and Primero Cantina, available through Sunday, November 2, 2025.

Art & Culture

Don’t miss the Monumental Botanical Fridas, a series of Frida Kahlo-inspired sculptures crafted from fiberglass, resin, and acrylic paint, vibrant, bold, and free to the public through Sunday, November 2.

The resort will also feature an honorary ofrenda curated by Gabriela Gamez, showcasing the stunning Day of the Dead on My Mind painting by artist Kathy Sosa, a 5-foot-tall masterpiece depicting a powerful female figure wearing a traditional hand-embroidered huipil, symbolizing resilience, unity, and strength.

💀 Omni La Mansión del Rio: Dos Calaveras & Día de los Muertos Delights

Location: 112 College St, San Antonio, TX

Right along the iconic River Walk, Omni La Mansión del Rio is embracing the spirit of Día de los Muertos with cultural displays, handcrafted cocktails, and festive food offerings.

Ofrenda to Lydia Mendoza

The hotel’s lobby now features a beautifully adorned Día de Los Muertos altar (ofrenda) honoring Lydia Mendoza, the legendary San Antonio singer-guitarist known as “La Alondra de la Frontera.” Her legacy of giving voice, hope, and dignity to the Mexican community is celebrated in this heartfelt tribute.

Dos Calaveras Pop-Up Bar

A must-visit this season, the hotel’s signature El Colegio Bar has been transformed into “Dos Calaveras,” a lively pop-up running through Sunday, November 2, 2025.

Sip on limited-time cocktails created in partnership with Maestro Dobel Tequila, including the Pan de Muerto Flip ($16), a creamy blend of cinnamon, vanilla, orange bitters, and nutmeg that nods to the traditional sweet bread of the season.

Festive Food Offerings

The themed menu at Dos Calaveras includes:

  • 🍔 The Ofrenda Burger: Pan De Muerto bun, chorizo-beef patty, Oaxaca cheese, mole negro aioli, candied pepitas, and pickled onions, served with chili-dusted fries.
  • 🌮 La Calavera Brisket Tacos
  • 🍖 Elote “Catrina” Ribs

Perfect for those exploring downtown’s Día de los Muertos festivities, these dishes combine bold flavors and cultural creativity.

Family-Friendly Dining

For a more relaxed dining experience, visit Four Brothers, Omni’s in-house South Texan restaurant, where a newly refreshed menu includes highlights like:

  • Smoked Dino Rib
  • Bexar Cornbread
  • Chicken Osso Buco with butternut squash and cheese-filled agnolotti pasta

🌼 Celebrate Life, Culture, and Community

From the luxury hills of La Cantera to the historic charm of the River Walk, San Antonio’s Día de los Muertos celebrations offer a perfect blend of art, cuisine, and cultural connection. Whether you’re dressing as La Catrina, savoring tequila pairings, or simply admiring the ofrendas, this weekend promises to be a feast for the senses and the soul.

Hotel Contessa’s Monthlong Día de los Muertos Festivities

Hotel Contessa will host various spirited activations for Día de los Muertos. Photo: Hotel Contessa, used with permission.

Celebrate Día de los Muertos All Month Long at Hotel Contessa

This October, Hotel Contessa invites guests and locals alike to experience a vibrant monthlong Día de los Muertos celebration along San Antonio’s iconic River Walk. The festivities will feature colorful cultural traditions, hands-on workshops, culinary delights, and live entertainment designed to honor remembrance and bring the community together. (Hotel Contessa, 2025)

🎉 Día de los Muertos River Parade Celebration

📍 River Level Atrium & River Patio
🗓 Friday, Oct. 24 | 5:30–7:30 p.m.

San Antonio’s Day of the Dead River Parade returns with elaborately decorated floats, catrinas, and costumed riders. Guests staying at Hotel Contessa can enjoy front-row seats to the parade, plus face painting, mariachi music, a live DJ, and local tacos and food vendors.

🎟 Tickets: $50–$110 (via Eventbrite)
Status: Sold Out

🌺 Día de los Muertos River Parade – VIP Terrace Experience

📍 Private Rooftop Terrace
🗓 Friday, Oct. 24 | 5:30–7:30 p.m.

Enjoy an elevated view of the River Parade from Hotel Contessa’s private rooftop terrace. This exclusive VIP experience includes two specialty cocktails, private bar access, DJ entertainment, and a flower crown-making station. VIP guests will also be entered into a raffle to win a one-night stay at Hotel Contessa in 2026.

🎟 Tickets: Starting at $175 per person (Eventbrite)

🌮 Street Taco Cook-Off with St. Philip’s College

📍 River Patio
🗓 Saturday, Oct. 25 | 10:30 a.m.–1 p.m.

Watch as culinary students from St. Philip’s College compete to create the best taco in town. Guests can enjoy complimentary light bites and refreshments while cheering on the chefs.

🎟 Free and open to the public — no RSVP required.

🎨 Make Your Own Altar: Kids Workshop

📍 River Level Atrium
🗓 Saturday, Oct. 25 | 2–3:30 p.m.

Perfect for kids 12 and under, this interactive workshop led by local artist Mary Carmen Sessions teaches the traditions of Día de los Muertos through hands-on art projects. Children will create tissue paper marigolds, colorful papel picado, and mini pan de muerto from modeling clay while learning the meaning behind each symbol.

🎟 Tickets: $25 per child (includes supplies, drink, and snacks) — purchase tickets [here].

🍸 Spirits & Sips Altar Workshop (Adults Only)

📍 River Level Atrium
🗓 Saturday, Oct. 25 | 6–7:30 p.m.

An evening for adults to sip, socialize, and create. Guests will design their own mini altar while enjoying a signature cocktail and learning about the cultural significance of altar traditions.

🎟 Tickets: $55 per person (includes cocktail and altar kit) — purchase tickets [here].

🖼️ Monthly Art Fair: Día de los Muertos Edition + CAST School Art Reveal

📍 River Level Atrium
🗓 Sunday, Oct. 26 | 11:30 a.m.–3 p.m.

This special edition of Hotel Contessa’s monthly art fair transforms the atrium into a lively marketplace of local artists and artisans, featuring Día de los Muertos–inspired works. Guests can also enjoy a student art reveal from CAST School, where young artists collaborate with professional mentors.

🎟 Free and open to the public — no RSVP required.

👻 Spooky Spa Halloween Party

📍 Rooftop Spa
🗓 Thursday, Oct. 31 | 6–9 p.m.

Cap off the month with an adults-only Halloween celebration at Hotel Contessa’s rooftop spa. Enjoy spa and jacuzzi access, themed demos, light bites, spooky cocktails, and a crystal sound bath experience. Guests can sign up for up to three spa sessions, including chair massages, Japanese head spa demos, infrared sauna services, and cold plunge stretch sessions.

The evening also includes adult trick-or-treating, a costume contest, and complimentary parking.

🎟 Sound bath tickets: $30 per person (limited availability; RSVP required)

📍 Hotel Contessa
306 W. Market St.
San Antonio, TX 78205

Halloween and Día de los Muertos Treats Around San Antonio

Celebrate the spooky season with Twang’s Zombie Fog Piña Colada Recipe. Photo: Twang + Thirsty Bartenders, used with permission.

🎃 Seasonal Bites & Sips in San Antonio: A Celebration of Flavor and Tradition

As the spooky season sweeps through San Antonio, local favorites are serving up treats that are as festive as they are flavorful. From Halloween-inspired pastries to Día de los Muertos breads and hauntingly good cocktails, here’s what’s new and not to miss this fall.

🕸️ Bakery Lorraine’s Halloween Pastry Collection

Available October 25–31 (while supplies last)

Bakery Lorraine is bringing a playful twist to Halloween with a lineup of handcrafted pastries that blend festive fun with refined craftsmanship. (Bakery Lorraine, 2025)

👻 Currently Available In-Store

  • Candy Corn Macaron – A tri-colored delight in white, orange, and yellow, filled with vanilla honey buttercream.

🎃 Available Starting October 25

  • Pumpkin Cream Puff – A charming pumpkin-shaped choux pastry filled with smooth pumpkin diplomat cream and decorated like a jack-o-lantern.
  • Passion Fruit Bat Tart – Almond sablée tart with tangy passion fruit curd, topped with chocolate bats and toasted marshmallow cream.
  • Black Cat Mousse – Cat-themed milk chocolate mousse with a raspberry center on a chocolate shortbread base.
  • Ghost Moon Pie – Graham cracker sandwich cookies with house-made marshmallow, dipped in white chocolate and finished with spooky green eyes.
Photo: Bakery Lorraine, used with permission.

💀 Twang’s “Zombie Fog” Piña Colada

Available nationwide & in select stores

Take your Halloween gatherings to the next level with Twang, the San Antonio-based, Latino-founded brand known for its bold, Latin-inspired drink rimmers and seasonings. (Twang, 2025)

In collaboration with Thirsty Bartenders, Twang has crafted a hauntingly delicious cocktail:

🍹 Zombie Fog Piña Colada Recipe

Ingredients:

  • Twang Black Flake Salt
  • 1½ oz rum
  • 1½ oz pineapple juice
  • ½ oz lime juice
  • ¼ oz blue curaçao
  • ¾ oz coconut cream
  • Garnish: dehydrated lime wheel

Instructions:

  1. Rim a chilled glass with Twang Black Flake Salt.
  2. Shake all ingredients with ice until chilled and frothy.
  3. Strain into the prepared glass with ice.
  4. Garnish with a dehydrated lime wheel.

💡 Pro Tip: Serve it in a skull glass or add dry ice for a foggy, otherworldly vibe!

🌼 La Panadería’s Totomoxtle Pan de Muerto

Available October 24–November 2 (in-store only)

In honor of Día de los Muertos, La Panadería presents a stunning new version of its beloved Pan de Muerto, crafted with handmade Totomoxtle Ash (burned corn husks). (La Panadería, 2025)

🌽 A Blend of Tradition and Artistry

  • Totomoxtle (Nahuatl for “corn husk”) is hand-burned to create a natural ash that gives the bread its deep black hue symbolizing mourning and spiritual cleansing.
  • Filled with slow-cooked sweet potato, the bread offers a naturally vibrant orange contrast and subtle sweetness, free from artificial dyes.
  • The ash adds only a hint of smokiness, letting the bread’s tender crumb and comforting aroma shine.

“With the passion and creativity with which we make our bread, La Panadería honors and welcomes our deceased with much love and respect…” — Azucena Nuño, Pastry Manager

“Día de los Muertos is a centerpiece of our Cultura… The Ofrenda always gives me the light to continue my journey.” — José Cáceres, Co-Founder

🍂 Celebrate the Season in Style

Whether you’re sipping spooky cocktails, sharing sweet treats, or honoring loved ones through tradition, San Antonio’s bakeries and makers are turning October into a feast for the senses.

Photo: La Panadería, used with permission.