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
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
La Panadería to Celebrate Stone Oak Grand Opening on December 17. Photo: La Panadería, used with permission.
San Antonio’s food scene continues to grow, and Stone Oak residents now have a new reason to celebrate. One of the city’s most beloved bakeries, La Panadería, is officially opening its newest, and largest, location in North San Antonio. Known for its authentic Mexican pastries, fresh-baked bread, and all-day café menu, the James Beard–nominated bakery is bringing its signature flavors and community-driven atmosphere to the Stone Oak area just in time for the holidays. (La Panadería, 2025)
La Panadería Opens Its Largest Location Yet in Stone Oak
La Panadería, beloved for its authentic Mexican pastries, tortas, and all-day café fare, is officially expanding once again in San Antonio.
The bakery will celebrate the grand opening of its newest Stone Oak location on Wednesday, December 17, inviting the public to join in a festive ribbon-cutting event filled with music, special guests, and community celebration.
Grand Opening Celebration Details
📍 Location: Stone Oak 📍 Address: 1011 N. Loop 1604 E., San Antonio, TX 78232
🗓 Wednesday, December 17, 2025 ⏰ 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Event Highlights:
DJ and live festivities
UTSA Cheerleaders
Ribbon cutting at 11:30 a.m.
First look at the new space and La Panadería’s newest mascot
A Major Milestone for La Panadería
The Stone Oak opening marks La Panadería’s largest location to date, spanning an impressive 6,600 square feet and offering 100 dedicated parking spaces for guests.
This expansion represents:
💼 100 new jobs created in San Antonio
🏗 $3.5 million investment into the space
📍 The fifth La Panadería location in the city
What’s on the Menu?
Guests can expect the same crowd-favorite offerings La Panadería is known for, including:
The Stone Oak opening also introduces Don Lino, La Panadería’s very first mascot.
Don Lino is a heartfelt tribute to the generations of bakers who inspired the Cáceres family’s craft. Named after a legendary baker from the brothers’ childhood stories in Mexico City, Don Lino represents the warmth, tradition, and artistry behind every loaf of bread.
With his signature mustache and dimpled smile, Don Lino embodies:
Early-morning dedication
The scent of fresh bread
The enduring spirit of La Panadería
The Don Lino story was written by Emiliano Cáceres Manzano, son of co-founder José Cáceres. Guests can meet Don Lino for the very first time during the Stone Oak grand opening.
Jose & David Caceres + Don Lino Photo: La Panadería
Holiday Seasonal Treats & Drinks
La Panadería is also celebrating the holiday season with two festive, limited-time offerings, available at all locations:
🎄 Seasonal Specials
Horchata Cold Foam Latte | $7.50 Smooth cold brew topped with house-made horchata cold foam, infused with vanilla and cinnamon, and finished with freshly grated nutmeg.
Abuelita Chocolate Tiramisu | $11.50 A cinnamon-kissed twist on the classic tiramisu, blending espresso and mascarpone with Kahlúa and rich Abuelita Chocolate.
🗓 Available now through New Year’s 📍 Limited in-store availability
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
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! 🎅✨
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.
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 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
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)
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.
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].
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
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
SA Examiner 