Celebrate the Season Western-Style at the Briscoe’s Cowboy Christmas

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

Elevate Your Space: How 6Stringers Transforms Guitar Passion into Custom Wall Art

Musicians and music lovers are sure to enjoy custom wall art from 6Stringers. Photo: 6Stringers, used with permission.

Personalized wall art is a unique gift idea. For guitar lovers, it adds a distinctive touch to any space, celebrating their passion for music. Custom pieces can feature favorite song lyrics, iconic guitar silhouettes, or even artwork of cherished instruments. These creations transform walls into a vibrant tribute to one’s musical journey, making them perfect for homes, studios, or practice spaces. Whether it’s a framed print, canvas, or metal sign, personalized art captures the essence of a guitarist’s identity. These thoughtful decorations not only enhance the aesthetic of a room but also serve as daily inspiration, reminding them of their love for music and creativity.

With the holiday shopping season among us, it’s time to start thinking about gift ideas. If someone you know loves guitars and would appreciate a personalized gift, consider 6Stringers. Or treat yourself and show off your guitar passion with customized wall art. (6Stringers, 2024)

6Stringers creates world class personalized wall art for guitar lovers. Their custom wall art includes:

  • Canvas Wall Art – Claim your spot as the headliner of your Guitar Room with a beautifully customized guitar canvas.
  • Metal Wall Art – Create your personalized Metal Sign to showcase in your Guitar Room.

Featured Products:

Why you should buy customized gifts from 6Stringers:

  • Made in the U.S.A. – their products are crafted in the U.S.A with high-quality materials. Each product is customized with meticulous attention to detail to inspire and enhance your guitar space.
  • Preview & Edits – your satisfaction is their top priority. Your masterpiece will begin production after you approve the preview proof email.
  • Fast & Reliable Shipping – they use reliable and trusted shipping partners (UPS, USPS, and FedEx) to deliver your orders quickly and safely. You’ll receive a tracking number by email once your package ships.

So what are you waiting for? Order your very own wall art from 6Stringers for your music room, jam room, or wherever else you ROCK OUT, or surprise your loved one with their very own wall art. They’ll love you for it.

Canvas wall art. Photo: 6Stringers, used with permission.

Style Reborn: Exploring Rehab Revolution Apparel

Rehab Revolution Apparel has unique apparel for nurses, therapists, and patients. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Specialized clothing and gifts for medical professionals are an excellent way to  recognize their dedication and care. Whether it’s a small token of appreciation or a meaningful item, such gestures can brighten their day and show gratitude for their tireless efforts. It’s a way to acknowledge their hard work, especially in demanding times, and to remind them that their compassion does not go unnoticed. Most of all, they promote a sense of camaraderie and appreciation within the healthcare community. When it comes to gift giving and getting, Rehab Revolution Apparel is leading the way.

Rehab Revolution Apparel – Discover fun and positive clothing and gifts designed for nurses, therapists, cancer survivors, surgery patients, and individuals on the journey to sobriety. Gifts include custom made t-shirts, candles, and other specialized gifts.

Reasons to consider a gift from Rehab Revolution Apparel:

  • Support Patients and Care Givers Alike – Items are tailored for nurses, therapists, and patients, with customization options.
  • Made in the U.S.A. – Discover a collection of meticulously designed and crafted products, all made right here in the U.S.A.
  • Fast Shipping – Enjoy fast shipping to receive your products promptly. They prioritize efficiency and convenience for all our customers.

These gifts are suitable for:

  • Nurses
  • Physical Therapists
  • Occupational Therapists
  • Speech Therapists
  • Cancer survivors and those recovering from illness/surgery
  • People celebrating their sobriety
Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Gifts from Rehab Revolution Apparel make excellent gifts for the medical professional in your life, or even yourself, to celebrate your hard work and accomplishments. If you know someone who is celebrating being cancer free or recuperating from an illness or surgery, they have gifts for that too. Customized gifts are more personal and thoughtful. So check out the wide selection of gifts and start shopping!

Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Gift idea: Bark & Barware Premium Cocktail Smoker Kit

Elevate your cocktail experience with the Bark & Barware cocktail smoker kit. Photo: Amazon

Cocktail smoker kits provide a unique twist to mixology, elevating the art of cocktail crafting with enticing smoky flavors. These kits enable enthusiasts to infuse their favorite drinks with a touch of sophistication. By adding depth and complexity to cocktails, these kits offer a sensory experience that delights the palate and captivates the senses. Perfect for home bartenders and professional mixologists alike, cocktail smoker kits redefine the boundaries of cocktail creativity and indulgence.

If you enjoy a good quality drink, or know someone who does, allow me to introduce the Bark & Barware cocktail smoker kit. It combines elegance and taste and is perfectly tailored for a birthday gift, or with Father’s Day coming up soon, a Father’s Day gift.

Bark & Barware is dedicated to transforming ordinary moments into extraordinary memories. Their meticulously crafted Cocktail Smoker Kit ensures an exceptional drink experience, whether you are hosting a special event or enjoying a quiet evening at home. Bark & Barware adds a touch of sophistication to your libations. (Bark & Barware, 2024)

The Bark & Barware kit includes:

  • Six different wood chip flavors: pear, oak, cherry, apple, hickory, and maple for a diverse smoking experience with every drink
  • A torch – provides users with a seamless and controlled smoke infusion for their favorite drink. Due to shipping regulations, the kit does not include butane
  • Four whiskey stones
  • Tongs
  • Smoker infuser
  • Metal filters
  • Ice sphere maker

I recently received my very own Bark & Barware cocktail smoker kit and was pleased with the kit as a whole. It comes in a sturdy wooden box that is perfect for gift giving. The product insert contains instructions on how to use your smoker kit but I found it very user friendly. You need to buy your own butane, but aside from that, it comes with everything you need to make an amazing cocktail for yourself or a friend/family member. If you need more information, their website contains video tutorials and cocktail recipes.

*This post features a gifted item

Taco Cabana announces return of popular holiday gift card offer

Taco Cabana’s holiday gift offer begins on October 18 and runs through the end of the year. Photo: Taco Cabana, used with permission.

The season of giving is upon us, and if you are looking for gift ideas for the foodie in your life, consider this gift idea from Taco Cabana.

Give the gift of Taco Cabana this holiday season! Taco Cabana gift cards are a quick and easy present that everyone can enjoy throughout the holidays and beyond. (Taco Cabana, 2023)

Beginning Wednesday, October 18, 2023, for every $25 spent toward Taco Cabana gift cards, guests will receive a complimentary $5 Holiday Guest Appreciation Card for a limited time. The Holiday Guest Appreciation Cards can be redeemed at any Texas Taco Cabana location beginning two hours after purchase/activation and will remain active until Sunday, March 31, 2024. Taco Cabana gift cards can be ordered online or at any participating Taco Cabana location; e-gift cards are also available online. 

The Taco Cabana holiday gift card offer is available beginning Wednesday, October 18, 2023 through Sunday, December 31, 2023 at all participating Texas Taco Cabana locations.

Taco Cabana offerings  are available via curbside pick-up, drive-thru, in-restaurant, and mobile order through the My TC! App.

Taco Cabana, a subsidiary of YTC Enterprises, LLC, was founded in 1978. The brand specializes in Mexican-inspired food including breakfast, lunch and dinner tacos, dozen taco boxes, enchiladas, fajitas, quesadillas, flautas, burritos, double crunch pizzas, freshly-made flour tortillas and a selection of made-from-scratch salsas and sauces. Restaurants feature open-display cooking, a selection of bottled beer and signature tequila margaritas, patio dining, drive-thru windows, curbside pick-up and delivery. As of October 12, 2023, Taco Cabana operates 143 company-owned restaurants in Texas.