Category: Hotel news

Hotel Emma: Rare Whiskey Tastings and Takeovers in San Antonio

The first Tequila Weekend is coming to the Pearl in May. Photo: Pearl, used with permission.

Sip and Stay: Spring & Summer at Hotel Emma

Hotel Emma at Pearl, the legendary AAA Five-Diamond, Two-Michelin-Key brewhouse turned luxury hotel, is heating up for the 2026 season. From rare whiskey verticals to high-profile bar takeovers, the San Antonio landmark has curated an exceptional lineup of programming you won’t want to miss. (Hotel Emma,/Pearl, 2026)

Buffalo Trace Prohibition Collection Tasting

Date: April 25 | Time: 3:00 p.m.

Location: Sternewirth

Experience a rare piece of spirits history. This guided tasting features the Buffalo Trace Prohibition Collection, a meticulously recreated set of “medicinal” whiskeys honoring the brands that survived the 1920s. Collectors will have the chance to sample highly sought-after, limited-release vintage expressions in the industrial-chic atmosphere of Sternewirth.

Goodjuice Visits San Antonio: Tequila Weekend

Dates: May 1–3

San Antonio’s spirit scene is getting a fresh infusion as Goodjuice brings its vibrant, community-focused energy to the Pearl for the city’s first-ever Tequila Weekend. Scheduled to be one of the biggest spirits events in Texas, this weekend is a must-attend for agave lovers.

Special Offer: Hotel Emma is offering attendees 35% off guest rooms and 20% off suites with code AGAVE26.

Featured Events:

  • Taste of Pearl (Cocktail Competition): Friday, May 1 | 4:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
  • Distiller’s Dinner: Friday, May 1 | 6:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.
  • Goodjuice Agave Spirits Festival: Saturday, May 2 | 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
  • Los Lobos Concert: Saturday, May 2 | Doors at 6:30 p.m. | Show at 7:30 p.m.

Derby Day & Old Forester Rare Release Tasting

Date: May 2 | Time: 3:00 p.m.

Location: Sternewirth

Celebrate the “Run for the Roses” with a high-stakes tasting of the Old Forester Whiskey Row Series. While awaiting the 2026 Derby results, guests will explore the history of Louisville’s first bottled bourbon with exclusive pours of rare releases curated specifically for the occasion.

Sternewirth x Bar Colette Takeover

Date: May 14

In a highly anticipated cross-Texas collaboration, the team from Dallas-based Bar Colette, a 2025 James Beard “Best New Bar” nominee, will take over Sternewirth for one night only. Experience avant-garde cocktail builds and meticulous techniques that blend Dallas’s high-design mixology with Hotel Emma’s storied industrial elegance.

Eagle Rare Dinner

Date: May 19 | Time: 6:30 p.m.

Take a deep dive into one of the world’s most awarded bourbon labels. This multi-course dinner features a vertical tasting of 10, 11, 12, and 17-year expressions.

The Highlight: Attendees will have a rare opportunity to purchase a pour of the elusive 20-year or 25-year Eagle Rare, vintages rarely seen outside of private collections.

Sternewirth Hits NYC: Bar Convent Brooklyn

Dates: June 9–10

The Sternewirth team is taking San Antonio style to the Big Apple for Bar Convent Brooklyn (BCB). Beyond the convention at Industry City, keep an eye out for the team popping up at several NYC mainstays throughout the week, where they’ll be serving San Antonio-inspired classics to the global bar community.

Ready to join the fun? Book your stay at Hotel Emma and secure your tickets for these exclusive events before they sell out.

Fiesta San Antonio for Foodies: Champagne Dinners and Seasonal Cocktails

Celebrate Fiesta at Otto’s Ice House with limited-time cocktails, Tejano music, and exclusive metals. Photo: Otto’s Ice House, used with permission.

Viva Fiesta! 3 Must-Visit San Antonio Events This Week

If you’re still looking for the perfect way to celebrate Fiesta, San Antonio is delivering in spades. From ice house hangouts to high-end champagne dinners, here are three ways to soak up the spirit of the season. (Otto’s Ice House, Pearl, Hilton La Cantera Resort & Spa, 2026)

1. Sip and Celebrate at Otto’s Ice House

Chef Levi Goode’s newest concept, Otto’s Ice House, is going all out with seasonal flair. Whether you’re hunting for a free collectible medal or a refreshing drink, this is your go-to spot.

  • The Drinks ($12):
    • River City Rosè: Vodka, honeysuckle liqueur, lemon, strawberry, and sparkling water.
    • Como la Flor: A smoky-sweet blend of Tequila, mezcal, orgeat, lime, and Aperol.
  • The Swag: Spend $40 or more to snag an exclusive Fiesta medal for FREE, or purchase one for $10.
  • The Party: On Friday, April 24, catch live Tejano music immediately following the Battle of Flowers parade.

When: Now through Sunday, April 26 Where: 111 Newell Avenue, San Antonio, TX 78212

2. Viva Pearl: Family Fun in the Heart of the City

For those wanting a vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere, Viva Pearl returns this Friday. It’s the perfect post-parade landing spot to keep the energy high.

  • The Activities: Get creative with maraca painting and papel picado postcard making.
  • The Atmosphere: Browse curated local vendors and enjoy live musical performances throughout the evening.
  • The Food: Local food vendors will be on-site serving up South Texas favorites.

When: Friday, April 24 | 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM Where: 303 Pearl Pkwy, San Antonio, TX 78215

3. An Elevated Alternative: Lanson Champagne Dinner

If you’re looking to escape the crowds for a more intimate, sophisticated evening, head to Signature Restaurant at Signia by Hilton La Cantera Resort & Spa.

Chef John Carpenter has designed a seven-course tasting menu specifically paired with five selections from Lanson Champagne. Highlights include:

  • Hamachi with watermelon yuzu granita.
  • Scallop & Caviar in a champagne beurre blanc.
  • Texas Wagyu Ribeye and Gulf Redfish.
  • Malva Pudding to round out the evening.

When: Thursday, April 23 | 6:00 PM Where: Signature Restaurant (La Cantera Resort & Spa) Booking: This is a one-night-only event with limited seating. Find more details and book your table here.

Pro Tip: If you’re heading to the Battle of Flowers parade on Friday, plan your route early! Both Otto’s and Pearl are expected to be busy immediately following the festivities.

The St. Anthony Hotel Presents a Lunar New Year Celebration by Chef Leo Davila

Esencia announces Lunar New Year celebration on February 24. Photo: Clint Walker, Charlie Walker Creative, used with permission.

Ring in the Year of the Fire Horse at Esencia

A Lunar New Year Celebration at The St. Anthony

The St. Anthony, a Luxury Collection Hotel, invites guests to an elevated culinary journey to celebrate the Lunar New Year at the newly opened restaurant, Esencia. The evening will blend tradition, prosperity, and community through the artistry of James Beard–nominated Chef Leo Davila. (St. Anthony, 2026)

Experience a thoughtfully curated, family-style dinner designed to honor the heritage of the Year of the Fire Horse.

The Evening’s Highlights

The festivities kick off with a lively cocktail hour followed by a traditional Lion Dance, a symbol of power and wisdom, before settling in for a multi-course feast.

  • Prosperity Crudo Platter: Smoked seafood, citrus ponzu, and house pickles.
  • Char Siu–Style Pork Belly: Served with leafy lettuce and a savory glaze.
  • Longevity Noodles: A unique blend of Texas Chinese BBQ and house chorizo.
  • Peking-Style Duck Breast: Accompanied by plum sauce and soft bao buns.
  • Golden Veggie Fried Rice: Topped with crispy garlic and sesame.

Event Schedule & Location

Date: Tuesday, February 24, 2026

Location: Esencia at The St. Anthony | 300 E Travis St., San Antonio, TX 78205

Schedule

  • 5:30 – 6:30 PM | Cocktail Hour
    (Beverages available for purchase, with optional wine, cocktail, and sake packages)
  • 6:30 – 7:00 PM | Traditional Lion Dance Performance
  • 7:00 – 8:30 PM | Multi-Course Family-Style Dinner

Ticket Options

Choose the experience that best suits your evening. Please note that prices are subject to taxes and fees (++) and can be purchased via Eventbrite.

General Admission | $85++

  • Reserved seating for the evening’s festivities.
  • Discounted valet parking ($10).

The VIP Experience | $150++

  • Preferred seating for the dinner and performance.
  • Two complimentary cocktails during the cocktail hour.
  • Complimentary valet parking.

Reserve Your Table: Tickets are available now. Don’t miss this one-night-only celebration of unity and good fortune!

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Best Super Bowl Watch Parties in San Antonio (Plus Food & Drink Deals)

Tenfold Rooftop at Kimpton Santo San Antonio – Riverwalk. Photo: Kimpton Santo, used with permission.

Super Bowl Sunday Specials: Where to Eat, Drink & Watch the Big Game in San Antonio

Super Bowl Sunday is almost here, and locally owned restaurants and bars across San Antonio and New Braunfels are bringing the heat with food deals, drink specials, and high-energy watch parties. From rooftop margaritas to wing specials and projector-screen viewing, here’s where to celebrate the Big Game on Sunday, February 8.

🍹 Rosario’s ComidaMex & Bar (Southtown)

All Day Sunday | February 8

Football fans can enjoy half-off appetizers all day long at Rosario’s, available exclusively at the main bar and rooftop bar. The restaurant is also debuting The Benito Bowl, a blue frozen margarita inspired by this year’s halftime performer, Bad Bunny. (Rosario’s, 2026)

Both bars feature massive flat-screen TVs for optimal game viewing. The 25+ rooftop bar will also host its weekly Cozy Up Sundays, featuring $8 signature cocktails and bites.

📍 Walk-ins welcome | No reservations required

🦀 Smashin Crab (All Locations)

All Day Sunday | February 8

Smashin Crab is closing out football season strong with $1 wings all day, available for dine-in or takeout at all three locations, perfect for hosting your own watch party at home. (Smashin Crab, 2026)

Each restaurant is decked out with wall-to-wall TVs, and guests can also enjoy 2-for-1 Hurricanes, available through February 17.

🍻 Finnegan’s Sports & Spirits

All Day Sunday Happy Hour

Finnegan’s is keeping it simple and fun with all-day happy hour and beer bucket specials, including:

  • $4 Margaritas
  • $5 Bloody Marys
  • $15 Domestic Beer Buckets

A laid-back spot to sip, snack, and settle in for the game. (Finnegan’s, 2026)

🍔 Muck & Fuss

Muck & Fuss is serving up game-day classics with:

  • $9.95 wing special
  • $19.95 ice-cold beer buckets

Catch the game on TVs throughout the restaurant or on the projector screen in the Biergarten, while sipping from a lineup of 38 draft beers featuring top local and national breweries. (Muck & Fuss, 2026)

🏨Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa

🍽️Corinne San Antonio: Big Game Pre-Game Specials

Sunday, February 8 | Game Starts at 5:30 PM

📍 555 S Alamo St., San Antonio, TX 78205
🚗 Valet parking available for $10

Kick off Super Bowl Sunday at Corinne’s bar with game-day drink specials, including Bloody Marys, mimosas, beer specials, and an All Day Happy Hour Menu.

Snack on crowd favorites like buffalo cauliflower, regular wings, or a Trio Dip (guacamole, queso, salsa) while watching the game on two big screens. (Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa, 2026)

🌿Anaqua Garden Bar: Game Day Watch Party

Sunday, February 8 | Game at 5:30 PM | Trivia: 2–4 PM

📍 555 S Alamo St., San Antonio, TX 78205
🚗 Valet parking available for $10

Anaqua Garden Bar is hosting a full-scale Super Bowl watch party with multiple projector screens with sound, theater-style seating, and plenty of food and drink.

The party starts early with trivia from 2–4 PM, featuring questions on Bad Bunny and 2026 Super Bowl commercials.

Menu highlights include:

  • Buffalo Cauliflower Wings
  • Regular Wings
  • Trio Dip (Guac, Queso, Salsa)
  • Local brewery buckets & seltzers

🌊Kimpton Santo San Antonio – Riverwalk

🥩Dean’s Steak & Seafood: The Courtyard Kickoff

Sunday, February 8 | Game Starts at 5:30 PM

📍 Interior Courtyard, 431 S Alamo St., San Antonio, TX 78205

Dean’s is extending happy hour drink specials all day in its comfortable interior courtyard. Watch the game on two TVs with sound while enjoying upscale-casual vibes, great drinks, and shareable bites. (Kimpton Santo San Antonio, 2026)

🌇Tenfold Rooftop: Level 10 Kickoff Hour

Sunday, February 8 | Game Starts at 5:30 PM

📍 431 S Alamo St., San Antonio, TX 78205
🚗 Complimentary valet with purchase
🔗 Reservations required

Tenfold Rooftop offers a relaxed Super Bowl experience with sound-on TVs, bucket specials, and 270-degree city views.

Specials include:

  • $15 Food Special: 2 Brush Creek Sliders + Kennebec Chips
  • Domestic Beer Bucket (5) – $35
  • Import Beer Bucket (5) – $40
  • High Noon Bucket (5) – $40

🍩The Gunter Hotel

Paris Baguette: Game-Day Donuts & Cakes

Available Now Through Super Bowl Weekend

📍 205 E Houston St., San Antonio, TX 78205

Paris Baguette is serving up football-themed sweets, including the King Creme Football Donut and Triple Chocolate Football Cream Cake. Donuts are available daily, while cakes are offered for weekend orders (preorders encouraged). (The Gunter Hotel, 2026)

🧊Otto’s Ice House (Pearl District)

Open 11 AM – 10 PM | Kickoff at 5:30 PM

📍 111 Newell Ave, San Antonio, TX 78212

Chef Levi Goode’s newest concept is the ultimate riverside spot for Super Bowl Sunday. Enjoy ice-cold drinks, hearty favorites like Cantina Queso, the Hill Country Deluxe Smashburger, and Otto’s Last Shot, all while watching the game on multiple indoor and outdoor TVs. (Otto’s Ice House, 2026)

Whether you’re craving wings, rooftop cocktails, or a full watch-party vibe, San Antonio’s local spots are bringing their A-game this Super Bowl Sunday. 🏈

A Luxury Wellness Escape at Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk

The Moon’s Daughters’ rooftop lounge at Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk. Photo: Thompson San Antonio, used with permission.

New Year, New You: A Wellness Escape at Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk

As the new year begins, Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk invites travelers to embrace a New Year, New You mindset with a wellness-focused escape centered on The Spa at Thompson San Antonio—an elevated sanctuary designed for restoration, renewal, and indulgent self-care. (Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk, 2026)

A Sanctuary for Total Reset

Guests are welcomed into a serene spa experience complete with access to:

  • Relaxation lounges
  • A eucalyptus steam room
  • Sauna
  • Exclusive pool deck
  • Private locker rooms

Together, these amenities create the perfect foundation for a full-day reset. The experience is easily personalized with visits to the on-site nail salon, hair studio, and curated retail boutique, allowing guests to take a piece of their spa ritual home with them.

Customized Treatments for Every Need

For those looking to unwind on their own terms, the spa offers an extensive menu of treatments, including:

  • 25- to 100-minute massages tailored to individual needs
  • 11 specialized facials, ranging from anti-aging to deep nourishment
  • Five sensorial body treatments designed to awaken the senses while calming the mind

Late Night Luxury: Spa After Dark

A standout offering this season is the Thompson Spa Late Night Escape, a private, after-hours spa experience perfect for groups. Ideal for birthdays, bridal parties, corporate gatherings, or a wellness-driven girls’ night, guests enjoy exclusive access to the spa while Thompson provides the pampering, turning self-care into a celebration.

From Spa Serenity to Rooftop Glamour

To complete the experience, guests can transition seamlessly from spa serenity to skyline glamour at The Moon’s Daughters, the hotel’s enchanting indoor-outdoor rooftop lounge perched 20 stories above the River Walk. Inspired by the Greek goddess of the moon, the space glows with twinkling city lights and starry-night energy, an ideal setting to toast fresh starts with craft cocktails and sweeping views of San Antonio.

A Stylish Start to the Year

Whether it’s a solo reset, a group wellness gathering, or a chic way to welcome the year ahead, Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk offers a destination where rejuvenation meets elevated design and vibrant city energy.

Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk
115 Lexington Ave
San Antonio, TX 78205

Photo: Thompson San Antonio, used with permission.

San Antonio’s Gunter Hotel Raises the Bar with a Chef-Curated Dog Menu

Luxury, pet-friendly hospitality expands with a thoughtfully crafted canine dining experience in downtown San Antonio. Photo: The Gunter Hotel, used with permission.

The Gunter Hotel Launches Chef-Curated Dog Menu at Jots

San Antonio, TX — The Gunter Hotel, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, is raising the bar for pet-friendly hospitality with the launch of a new chef-curated Dog Menu at its signature restaurant, Jots. Designed with the same care, creativity, and quality as the human menu, this new offering invites four-legged guests to dine in style alongside their owners in the heart of downtown San Antonio. Now available, guests are welcome to bring their canine companions to Jots to enjoy the menu. (The Gunter Hotel, 2026)

Benson & Friends Favorites

The menu, aptly named “Benson & Friends Favorites,” features thoughtfully prepared dishes made with wholesome, recognizable ingredients. Each item is crafted to be both nourishing and indulgent, reinforcing The Gunter Hotel’s commitment to inclusivity and elevated experiences for every guest, canine companions included.

“Pet-friendly travel has evolved, and today’s guests are looking for experiences that truly welcome their dogs, not just accommodate them. With this new menu from Jots, we’re extending our culinary philosophy to our four-legged guests, offering a dining experience that feels just as intentional and special.”
— Jiwon Choi, Gunter Hotel Owner and Managing Director at Axle Capital

A Thoughtfully Crafted Canine Menu

The Dog Menu features a variety of dishes designed with canine wellness in mind, offering something for every appetite:

  • Honey’s Hill Country Breakfast — A hearty blend of short rib, chuck, and brisket served with farm-fresh eggs
  • Nori’s Seattle Treat — Salmon paired with rice and green beans
  • Benson’s Chicken Delight — Made with locally sourced chicken
  • Canine Crudité — A fresh, vegetable-forward mix of apples, carrots, and green beans
  • Seasonal Dessert — House-whipped cream with berries

From breakfast through dessert, every four-legged guest can enjoy a well-rounded dining experience.

A Pet-Friendly Destination in the Heart of San Antonio

Located just steps from the River Walk, The Gunter Hotel has long welcomed pets as part of its community. The introduction of the Dog Menu further enhances the hotel’s reputation as a destination where history, hospitality, and modern lifestyle seamlessly converge.

As part of Tribute Portfolio, The Gunter Hotel also offers guests access to the Marriott Bonvoy® program, allowing members to earn and redeem points during their stay and across Marriott Bonvoy’s extensive global collection of hotels and resorts.

About The Gunter Hotel

A historic San Antonio landmark for more than 116 years, The Gunter Hotel reopened in fall 2025 following a $50 million renovation that brought the property up to the highest modern travel standards. The reimagined hotel blends rich heritage with modern luxury and features 311 guest rooms, including 30 suites, along with an array of new amenities.

Guests are invited to enjoy four distinctive dining concepts, Jots, Keystone Club, Bar 414, and Paris Baguette, as well as a cutting-edge recording studio and vinyl library. Inspired by the hotel’s musical legacy, each guest room features a record player and a copy of Robert Johnson’s first album, originally recorded at the hotel in 1936.

Photo: The Gunter Hotel, used with permission.

Raise a Glass Without the Alcohol During National Mocktail Week at Hotel Contessa

Ambler at Hotel Contessa celebrates Dry January with mocktail week (1/11-17) featuring custom non-alcoholic cocktails & IPAs. Photo: Garrett Smith, used with permission.

National Mocktail Week 2026: Sip Smarter in San Antonio

National Mocktail Week takes place January 11–17, 2026, celebrating the second week of January with creative, alcohol-free beverages. The week highlights healthier choices, mindful drinking, and the growing community around non-alcoholic drinks made with fresh ingredients and thoughtful craftsmanship.

Whether you’re participating in Dry January or simply looking to cut back after the holidays, this week is the perfect opportunity to explore elevated non-alcoholic options without sacrificing flavor or experience.

Celebrate National Mocktail Week at Hotel Contessa

If you’re in San Antonio, Hotel Contessa is the place to be. The hotel’s riverfront restaurant, Ambler Kitchen + Cocktails, is celebrating National Mocktail Week with a curated selection of Ritual zero-proof mocktails and Athletic Brewing non-alcoholic beers. (Hotel Contessa, 2026)

Mocktail Week at Ambler

January 11–17, 2026

🍹 Mocktails ($14)

  • Tiki Buck – Ritual rum, pineapple, lime, demerara syrup, ginger beer
  • Cozy Blanket – Ritual tequila, cinnamon syrup, pomegranate, lime
  • Tai Breaker – Ritual rum, lime juice, orange juice, orgeat

🍺 Non-Alcoholic Beer ($6)

  • Run Wild IPA – Athletic Brewing
  • Free Wave IPA – Athletic Brewing

About Ambler Kitchen + Cocktails

Located inside Hotel Contessa, Ambler Kitchen + Cocktails is a top-rated River Walk restaurant and bar, ideal for lunch, dinner, coffee, or a crafted cocktail, alcohol-free or otherwise. Known for its bold personality, Ambler blends Southwestern-Mexican flavors with international influences. Expect inventive dishes like elevated Reuben sandwiches and fried pecan sticky buns. Texan at heart, but anything but traditional.

Visit Ambler at Hotel Contessa

Ambler Kitchen + Cocktails
306 W. Market St
San Antonio, TX 78205
📞 (210) 298-8040

Photo: Garrett Smith, used with permission.

Ring in the New Year in San Antonio at Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Villas

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 Package is 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

Families staying at the resort can enjoy family-friendly New Year’s Eve activities in San Antonio, even without purchasing the celebration package.

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.

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