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
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
‘All is Calm: The Christmas Truce of 1914’ will be playing at The Public Theater of San Antonio from November 23 through December 23. Photo: Siggi Ragnar, used with permission.
A new holiday tradition returns to The Public Theater of San Antonio with opening night of ‘All is Calm: The Christmas Truce of 1914’ on Friday November 23. It will play in the Russell Hill Rogers Theater until Sunday December 23 and has George Green as Director, Zachariah Baker as Music Director and Courtnie Mercer as Choreographer. It stars Zachariah Baker, Chaz Ingraham, David Nanny, Robby Vance, Travis Trevino, Robert Nauman, Gavin Rohrer, Aaron Ely, Eric Dean Buchaus, John Towry, Miguel Ochoa and Trey Hoadley. Show times are Thursday, Friday and Saturday at 7:30p.m. and Sundays at 2p.m. Tickets are available online or by calling the box office at (210) 733-7258. Prices are $30 for Adults, $25 for Military members with ID, $25 for Seniors age 60 and older and $25 for Students with ID. Group rates are available for ten or more guests. (The Public Theater of San Antonio, 2018)
‘All is Calm: The Christmas Truce of 1914’ by Peter Rothstein has musical arrangements by Erick Lichte and Timothy C Takach. It is set in 1914, at the Western Front, where out of the violence comes a silence, then a song. When a German soldier steps into No Man’s Land singing “Stille Nacht” it brings about a night of camaraderie, music and peace. A remarkable true experience, it is told in the words and songs of the men who lived it. This acapella musical highlights the beauty and power of the human spirit during the darkest of days.
Special Event Nights:
Opening Night with post show reception to follow – Friday November 23
Education Night – Thursday December 6
Food Truck Friday – Friday December 7
Special Marcsmen performance following show – Friday and Saturday December 14 and 15
The Public Theater of San Antonio
800 West Ashby Place
San Antonio, TX 78212
(210) 733-7258
Horseshoe Bay Resort has a number of activities planned for the holiday season. 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)
Upcoming events for November:
Thursday November 22 through Saturday November 24
• 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.
Saturday, November 24
• 5p.m. to 9p.m. – Candy Cane Course – guests can enjoy a round of putting at the Whitewater Putting Course while surrounded by beautiful scenery decorated in holiday cheer. Regular rates apply.
• 6:30p.m. to 8p.m. – Letters to Santa – guests can take a memorable holiday photo and let the little ones hand deliver their letters to Santa. Enjoy a complimentary laser light show and candy cane s’mores.
Horseshoe Bay Resort’s everyday activities for November:
• 9a.m. to 5p.m. – Creative Play – at the Jungle Kid’s Club, children can create crafts including slime, suncatchers, dream catchers, mini-pumpkin decorating, edible crafts and more. Cost is $15 per child and all children must be accompanied by an adult.
• 11a.m. to 12p.m. – Birds of the Bay – guests can take a memorable photo with the exotic birds on property. A staff member will be on-site to share interesting bird facts.
• 11a.m. to 12p.m. – Tortoise connection – mingle with the tortoises on-property as guests learn unique facts. Guests may feed the tortoises a snack and take a picture to commemorate the occasion.
Horseshoe Bay Resort
200 Hi Circle North
Horseshoe Bay, TX 78657
(877) 611-0112
North Star Mall’s cowboy boots will light up starting Thursday November 22. Photo: North Star Mall, used with permission.
The world’s largest cowboy boots at North Star Mall will light up after sunset on Thursday, November 22 as a beacon for the holidays. The glow from 8,000 red and white LED lights that adorn North Star’s 35-feet tall Cowboy Boots during the holidays serve as a guiding light for Santa Claus and officially symbolizes the beginning of the holiday season. The boots will glow nightly from 5:45p.m. to 7a.m., November 22 through December 31. The Boots are located at the frontage road of Loop 410 in front of Saks Fifth Avenue. (North Star Mall, 2018)
The boots stand 35 ft. high, are 8 ft. in diameter and weigh five tons, that’s 5,000 lbs. each. Artist Bob Wade, a native Texan, originally created the boots in 1979 for the Washington Project for the Arts, funded in part by the National Endowment for the Arts. The black, brown and white simulated plucked ostrich skin boots took Wade six weeks to build. In November 2014, Guinness World Records officially declared the art sculpture that symbolizes cowboy phenomena the “World’s Largest Cowboy Boot Sculpture.”
North Star Mall
7400 San Pedro
San Antonio, TX 78216
(210) 340-6627
SA Examiner 