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! 🎅✨
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
Twang launches new Fiesta Lime Rimming Salt with red, white, and green visuals. Photo: Twang, used with permission.
Fall Flavors & Festivities in San Antonio
As the fall season approaches, San Antonio is brimming with festive flavors and seasonal celebrations. From pumpkin-spiced lattes to wood-fired feasts and zesty new drink pairings, here’s what’s happening around town this September.
🎃 Sip Into the Season at La Panadería
La Panadería is welcoming cooler weather and the holiday spirit with the launch of its Pumpkin Cold Foam Latte, debuting Friday, September 19. (La Panadería, 2025)
This fall-inspired treat features an iced cinnamon latte base, topped with house-made cold foam crafted from real pumpkin puree and maple syrup, and finished with a dusting of pumpkin spice.
Pair your latte with La Panadería’s beloved brunch menu, featuring:
House-made chilaquiles
Huevos rancheros
Avocado toast
Breakfast tortas
And of course, freshly baked pan dulce
🍹 Twang Launches Fiesta Lime Rimming Salt
San Antonio’s own Twang, known for bold, South Texas-inspired flavors, has introduced its latest innovation: Fiesta Lime Rimming Salt. (Twang, 2025)
Perfect for cocktails and mocktails, this zesty rimmer combines lime zest with a balanced salt mix, accented with red, white, and green crystals — a nod to Twang’s Mexican-American roots and the colorful spirit of celebrations.
Price: $5 each
Where to buy: Online (nationwide delivery) and select Spec’s locations
Because every drink deserves a little fiesta.
🔥 Live Fire Returns to Hotel Contessa
Hotel Contessa is bringing back its popular seasonal tradition, Live Fire, starting Saturday, September 20 at Ambler, the hotel’s River Walk patio restaurant. (Hotel Contessa, 2025)
This immersive culinary series celebrates Texas cuisine with dishes prepared over an open flame, paired with live music from local musicians.
Kickoff Event: September 20
6 p.m. – Cocktail hour (drinks available for purchase)
7–8 p.m. – Free country line dancing lessons (RSVP on Eventbrite)
6–9 p.m. – Dinner reservations via OpenTable or 210-298-8040
Weekly Details
Every Saturday, 5–9 p.m. through mid-November (weather permitting)
Executive Chef Michael Collins brings more than 30 years of culinary experience — and a decade spent in Texas — to this series. Through Live Fire, he showcases regional ingredients, time-honored techniques, and partnerships with local producers.
📍 Ambler River Patio 306 W. Market St., San Antonio, TX 78205
✨ Whether you’re craving pumpkin spice, a festive cocktail upgrade, or a true Texas feast by the fire, San Antonio has something flavorful waiting for you this fall.
La Panadería’s Pumpkin Cold Foam Latte. Photo: La Panadería, used with permission.
Rosarita cocktail made with Avión Silver Tequila. Photo: Mokara Hotel & Spa, used with permission.
Celebrate National Tequila Day in San Antonio: Cocktails, Massages, and Riverwalk Vibes
Mark your calendars! National Tequila Day falls on Thursday, July 24, and San Antonio is raising a glass in grand style. Whether you’re in the mood for a vibrant Riverwalk celebration or a luxurious spa experience, there’s something for everyone this tequila-filled weekend.
🌮Ambler at Hotel Contessa: A Weekend Tequila Takeover
📍 Hotel Contessa | 306 W Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205 📅 Thursday, July 24 – Saturday, July 26
Ambler, the restaurant at the elegant Hotel Contessa, is going all in for National Tequila Day with a three-day celebration along the scenic Riverwalk. Here’s what’s in store:
🍹 Tequila Cocktail Specials & Live Music (Thursday–Saturday)
Cool down with an exclusive frozen grape sorbet topped with tajín and lime for $10
Enjoy live music each night
🎉 Tequila Day Takeover with PATRÓN (Saturday, July 26 | 3–8 p.m.)
Tequila tasting stations
A local vendor fair
Games and giveaways
Hop on the pedal-powered margarita bike to mix your own drink!
No reservations required – event is open to the public
Additional cocktails and bites available from Ambler’s dinner menu
💆♀️ Agave Escape at Mokara Spa: Self-Care Meets Celebration
📍 Mokara Hotel & Spa | 212 W Crockett St, San Antonio, TX 78205 📅 Now through Sunday, July 27
In a beautiful twist, National Tequila Day and International Self-Care Day both fall on July 24 – and Mokara Spa has found the perfect way to honor both with its new Agave Escape Massage Package.
🌿 The Agave Escape Experience
Full-body massage using organic agave oils (known for anti-inflammatory benefits)
Cupuacu butter foot massage to promote deep relaxation and balance
Available now through Sunday, July 27
🍸 Bonus Treat at Ostra
After your treatment, head to Ostra, Mokara’s award-winning on-site restaurant, to enjoy a complimentary Rosarita Cocktail made with:
Avión Silver Tequila
Rosé
Agave nectar
Fresh lemon and lime juice
The perfect way to toast a day of total rejuvenation.
Whether you’re toasting with a tequila trio or treating yourself to a luxury massage, San Antonio offers the ultimate way to celebrate this spirited summer holiday. Salud! 🥂
Twang debuts limited-edition cocktail rimming salt for Fourth of July celebrations. Photo: Twang, used with permission.
Celebrate the Fourth of July in Style at Hotel Contessa
This Fourth of July, make your way to Hotel Contessain downtown San Antonio for a weekend full of bold flavors, festive fun, and patriotic flair. (Hotel Contessa, 2025)
🍖 Fourth of July Dining Specials at Ambler
Available Thursday, July 3 – Saturday, July 5
Ambler, Hotel Contessa’s signature restaurant, is firing up the grill with bold Texas barbecue and elevated comfort food all weekend long. Enjoy these mouthwatering specials:
Mesquite Smoked Pork Ribs with mac-n-cheese & slaw – $34
24oz Bone-In NY Strip with mac-n-cheese & grilled asparagus – $99
👉 Reservations recommended. Book online or call Ambler at (210) 298-8040. Limited seating available!
🎬 Outdoor Movie Night: Independence Day
Saturday, July 5 at 10:30 p.m. | Hotel Contessa River Walk Patio
The celebration continues Saturday night with a special screening of the iconic film Independence Day. Grab your seat (first come, first served!) on the River Walk patio and enjoy:
Themed cocktails
Popcorn & candy
A nostalgic s’mores bar
Don’t miss this perfect summer night under the stars!
📍 Hotel Contessa – 306 W Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205
✨ Summer Sips & Patriotic Products
🍸 Twang’s Life, Liberty, and Lime Rimming Salt
Raise a glass to summer with Twang’s newest limited-edition release, Life, Liberty, and Lime—a zesty cocktail rimming salt featuring all-natural red, white, and blue crystals. (Twang, 2025)
Founded in San Antonio in 1986, Twang is a Latino-owned brand known for premium-flavored salts, sugars, and seasonings that elevate every bite and sip.
🍵 Full Leaf Tea Company: Functional Hydration for the Fourth
Looking for a refreshing, wellness-forward way to celebrate? Full Leaf Tea Company has you covered with patriotic drinkware and antioxidant-rich teas. (Full Leaf Tea Company, 2025)
Full Leaf, based in Southern Oregon, is beloved for its USDA organic teas, wellness blends, and on-the-go accessories. Explore their tea-based summer recipes and curated gift sets to keep the good vibes flowing all season long.
Photo: Full Leaf Tea Company, used with permission.
Whether you’re indulging in barbecue and blockbusters or sipping antioxidant-packed tea by the pool, there are plenty of ways to make this Independence Day your most flavorful and festive yet! 🎆
Hotel Contessa is offering a unique rooftop spa experience designed especially for dads. Photo: Garrett Smith, used with permission.
Last-Minute Father’s Day Gift Ideas in San Antonio
Still searching for the perfect Father’s Day gift? Treat Dad to an unforgettable experience this year with luxurious offerings from Hiatus Day Spa • Med Spa, Omni La Mansión del Rio, Mokara Hotel & Spa, and Hotel Contessa. From spa indulgences to tableside whiskey dinners and rooftop experiences, here’s how to make this Father’s Day the best yet. (Hiatus Day Spa • Med Spa, Omni La Mansión del Rio, Mokara Hotel & Spa, and Hotel Contessa, 2025)
Relaxation & Golf at Hiatus Day Spa • Med Spa
Dates: June 14–15 (Activation) | Gift Packages Available: May 29–June 16 Location:Hiatus Day Spa • Med Spa
Surprise Dad with the ultimate relaxation experience at Hiatus Day Spa • Med Spa. During the 19th Hole at Hiatus event, dads can unwind while catching the U.S. Open Golf Tournament across nine serene Relaxation Lounges. Sip on a cold EIGHT beer—crafted with just three clean ingredients—or enjoy an “Arnold Calmer” after a rejuvenating treatment.
The Dad Bod | 2 hours | $220 ($260 value) Choose from two Essential Services: Signature Massage, Tailor-Made Facial, The One and Only mani/pedi, or The Body Wrap.
The Back Swing | 60 minutes | $155 ($175 value) Includes a 60-minute Knockout Massage, Energizing Scalp Massage, and Knot Bot Add-Ons for total body relief.
The Gentleman’s Tips & Toes | 85 minutes | $99 A pampering mani/pedi with a cocoa + shea butter wrap—book online or purchase as a gift card.
Date: Sunday, June 15 Location: Omni La Mansión del Rio, San Antonio
Celebrate Dad with a Garrison Brothers whiskey cocktail and a courtyard cookout with Executive Chef Robert Cantu grilling prime meats tableside. Try your hand at a mini putting contest—those who sink a hole-in-one will be entered to win:
Date: Father’s Day Time & Reservations: Call 210-298-8038 Price: $85 per person Location: Hotel Contessa, 306 W Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205
For dads who enjoy crafting and self-care, Hotel Contessa’s rooftop spa experience is the perfect fit. This hands-on session teaches skin-care techniques and includes a take-home self-care travel kit. Enjoy craft cocktails—like High West Bourbon and Old Fashioned Pecan—and light bites from Ambler as you relax above the city.
Don’t wait—Father’s Day is almost here. Give the gift of experiences, indulgence, and quality time.
La Panadería is offering Ferrero Rocher conchas and 100 free mimosas. Photo: La Panadería, used with permission.
Celebrate Mother’s Day in San Antonio and Beyond: Unique Experiences and Heartfelt Gifts
With Mother’s Day approaching on Sunday, May 11, it’s the perfect time to plan something memorable for the amazing moms in your life. Whether you’re in San Antonio or looking for a feel-good experience elsewhere, here are some standout offerings—from delicious brunches and spa packages to creative cocktails and musical events that give back.
Ferrero Rocher Conchas & 100 Free Mimosas Celebrate Mom with complimentary mimosas for the first 100 mothers dining in at any of La Panadería’s four locations on May 11. Starting Saturday, May 10, enjoy two new drinks: an Iced Lavender Latte with cold foam and a Strawberry Mimosa. Don’t miss their Ferrero Rocher Concha—a red and brown concha shell filled with Nutella and Hazelnut Praline Cream, available all May.
“What To Get Mom” Spa Package Gift Mom relaxation with a spa package that includes two luxurious services valued at $350, a complimentary glass of prosecco, and a fresh bouquet. 📞 Call 210-353-8016 or book online to reserve.
Truffles & Bubbles for Mom Join Dean’s for brunch on May 11, served from 7a.m. to 3p.m.. From 10a.m. to 3p.m., visit the Petalé Haus Floral Design pop-up for ready-made bouquets or build-your-own blooms. 🍫 Add a box of signature truffles and a half-bottle of sparkling wine for $65. Reserve on OpenTable.
Customized Cocktails with Mom From 1p.m. to 4p.m. on May 11, enjoy skyline views while La Pulga Tequila hosts a drink-printing experience. Personalize the signature Paper Heart cocktail with a photo or message printed on top. 🍸 Reservations highly encouraged via OpenTable.
Rooftop Painting with Jean Marston Unwind on May 11 from 4p.m. to 5p.m. with a guided painting session by local artist Jean Marston at the Rooftop Pool. Enjoy light bites, wine, and skyline views. Spa services are also available post-session. 🎨 RSVP required by calling 210-298-8038. 💰 $85 per person.
🎶 A Mother’s Day That Gives Back: Rock And Roll Playhouse Concerts
Looking for a feel-good gift that supports a great cause? The Rock and Roll Playhouse is hosting family-friendly concerts nationwide on May 11, with $1 from each ticket donated to Can’d Aid, a nonprofit supporting kids in the arts. Capitol Theatre Center will match donations to Can’d Aid for tickets purchased for Mother’s Day weekend for all Rock And Roll Playhouse locations across the country.
Noah Kahan & More (feat. Adoraborealis) – Brooklyn Bowl, Brooklyn, NY
Grateful Dead & More(feat. Crickets & Cicadas) – Ardmore Music Hall, Ardmore, PA
Treat Mom to Rock and Roll Playhouse this May 11. Courtesy photo, used with permission.
About Can’d Aid
Can’d Aid is a national nonprofit dedicated to creating healthier, more creative communities. Since 2013, they’ve donated over:
12,800 bikes
8,900 skateboards
4,100+ musical instruments
They partner with artists like Tyler Childers, Steep Canyon Rangers, and more to host workshops and live performances for underserved youth.
About The Rock and Roll Playhouse
Founded in 2014 at Brooklyn Bowl, The Rock and Roll Playhouse introduces kids to classic rock in family-friendly concerts across the U.S. With over 42 venues in 30 cities, they bring the music of iconic bands to life—creating unforgettable, creative moments for the next generation.
No matter how you choose to celebrate, make this Mother’s Day one filled with love, laughter, and a touch of magic. 💐
Bakery Lorraine’s Two-Layered Moist Carrot Cake. Photo: Bakery Lorraine, used with permission.
Easter is a cherished holiday celebrated worldwide, symbolizing renewal, hope, and resurrection. For Christians, it marks the resurrection of Jesus Christ, making it one of the most significant religious events of the year. Beyond its spiritual meaning, Easter brings people together in joyful celebration. Traditions vary globally—from sunrise church services to colorful egg hunts, festive meals, and spring-themed decorations. Many enjoy brunches filled with seasonal dishes, while others gather with family for large dinners. In some cultures, parades, dances, and special pastries mark the occasion. Regardless of tradition, Easter serves as a time of reflection, unity, and new beginnings.
If you’re in the San Antonio area, or plan to be during the upcoming holiday weekend, here are some ways you can celebrate Easter in the Alamo City. (Bakery Lorraine, Tenfold Rooftop Bar, La Panadería, Dean’s Steak & Seafood, Chef Jason Dady Restaurants, Hotel Contessa, Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa, Omni La Mansión del Rio, 2025)
Bakery Lorraine – Bakery Lorraine is offering a delightful selection of seasonal pastries to celebrate Easter, including:
Easter Chick Tart ($7.50) features a whimsical design with raspberry jam, vanilla sponge cake, and a refreshing lime mousse
Easter Nest Tart ($7.00) combines a rich caramel chocolate filling with Cadbury Milk Chocolate Eggs and a crispy fillo dough topping
Easter Bunny Carrot Cake ($7.50) is a moist blend of pineapple, coconut, walnuts, and fresh carrots, finished with cream cheese frosting and playful white chocolate bunny ears
Easter Egg Moon Pie ($5.50) offers a nostalgic twist with graham cookies, marshmallow, and white chocolate
Flower Macaron with Lemon Ganache ($4.00) is a refreshing, tangy treat with a smooth lemon filling
For those seeking a complete Easter experience, Bakery Lorraine offers the Easter Box ($25), which includes one of each of the featured treats—Easter Chick Tart, Easter Nest Tart, Easter Bunny Carrot Cake, and Easter Egg Moon Pie. The Easter Box is available now for pre-sale orders, with store pickup on April 18-20, and limited quantities will be available for in-store purchase.
Additionally, Bakery Lorraine is offering their Two-Layered Moist Carrot Cake in 7” & 9” sizes ($50/$70), made with pineapple, coconut, walnuts, and fresh carrots, topped with cream cheese frosting and mini macarons. Whole cakes are available for pre-sale online now through 4/16, with pickup available at all Austin, Boerne, and San Antonio locations on April 19-20 only.
Tenfold Rooftop Bar at Kimpton Santo – Tenfold brings two exciting cocktail offerings to Easter brunch this year. The Bunny Blanco ($16) combines 400 Conejos Mezcal with carrot, lemon, ginger, and sparkling wine for a unique, vibrant drink. The Tenfold Tulip ($15) is a beautiful blend of Teremana Tequila, lime, agave, butterfly pea tea, and tonic, creating a striking, flavorful sip. Both cocktails will be available for guests to enjoy Easter weekend from Friday, April 19, to Sunday, April 20. Reservations are encouraged and can be made online through OpenTable.
La Panadería – La Panadería is offering their fan-favorite Brunch on Easter Sunday from 7a.m. to 4p.m. at all four San Antonio locations. The brunch menu features signature dishes like Fiesta Lobster Benedict, Tequila Butter Steak and Eggs, LP Waffle Croissant, and Ranchero Eggs Benedict, alongside unique twists on traditional bites like Tortas and Ensaladas. Guests can also enjoy mimosas and cerveza with their meal.
Dean’s Steak & Seafood at Kimpton Santo – Dean’s Steak and Seafood is offering a unique, Easter Sunday cocktail: the Springtime Spritz ($15). Crafted tableside with Ketel One Botanicals, St. Germain, Washington Peache, and house bubbles, this refreshing cocktail is the perfect way to celebrate the season. Alongside their iconic brunch menu served until 3p.m. this exclusive cocktail will be available all Sunday, April 20, adding a festive touch to any Easter gathering at Dean’s. Reservations are encouraged and can be made through OpenTable.
Chef Jason Dady Restaurants is thrilled to offer special coursed brunches at Jardín and Tre Trattoria this Easter Sunday, April 20. Each restaurant will also offer kids’ menus for those 10 and under, making these brunches perfect for families to celebrate the spring holiday together. Jardín will exclusively offer a four-course, Mediterranean-inspired brunch menu for $49.95 per person. Tre Trattoria will serve a four-course, Italian-focused brunch for $54.95 per person.
Optional wine pairings are available at both Jardín and Tre Trattoria for $29.95 per person. Tax and gratuity are not included. For those interested in dining at Chef Jason Dady’s other concepts, Two Bros BBQ, Range and Tre Pizzeria will all remain open for regular service on Easter Sunday.
Hotel Contessa Easter Bunny Happy Hour | Saturday, April 20 | 3p.m. – 5p.m. The Easter Bunny is hopping into Ambler Bar for a uniquely San Antonio pre-Easter celebration. Friends and neighbors can pop by for specialty drinks and deviled egg specials. There will be photo opportunities with the Easter Bunny while enjoying Ambler’s festive atmosphere. It’s a grown-up Easter celebration with all of the fun and none of the early morning egg hunt.
Easter Sunday Brunch | Sunday, April 20 | All Day Experience a San Antonio Easter tradition reimagined at Ambler Bar. Chef Mike Collins has curated a special brunch menu featuring seasonal Texas ingredients and festive spring flavors. Meals will be paired with their handcrafted Easter cocktails for the ultimate Sunday celebration.
Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa, Autograph Collection Corinne Easter Brunch – Indulge in a chef-curated brunch featuring seasonal favorites this Easter Sunday, April 20. From 10a.m. to 3p.m., guests can look forward to chef-carved ham, shrimp cocktail, cinnamon rolls, a mimosa and juice bar, and much more. The Easter Bunny will also be present for delightful family photos. Pricing for the Easter brunch is $65 per adult and $17 per child (10 & under). Reservations are highly recommended.
Easter at Ostra at Mokara Hotel & Spa – Ostra’s limited-time Easter menu includes a Beet Cured Ocean Trout served with Everything Bagel chips, orange marinated sun gold tomatoes, whipped chive cream cheese and dill. A Salad Nicoise also graces the holiday selection, with seared Ahi Tuna, haricot vert, fingerling potatoes, heirloom tomatoes, a soft-boiled egg, baby cucumbers, baby lettuces, marinated olives and red onion. Easter Brunch at Ostra is $55 plus tax per person.
The Spring festivities continue at the bar with the Peeps Spritz, a 2025 “Easter basket candy” must-have according to Forbes. Crafted with Lalo Tequila, Cointreau, lime, Topo Chico and Dr. Pepper, and topped with a Peep, this cocktail is a signature treat for this time of year. All weekend long, families and couples can experience exquisite seafood cuisine at this AAA Four Diamond riverfront restaurant at Mokara Hotel & Spa.
Four Brothers at Omni La Mansión del Rio – Flavors of the South with a Tex-Mex flare take over the Easter Brunch menu at Four Brothers, the stunning on-site restaurant at Omni La Mansión del Rio. This three-course style menu begins with Street Corn Deviled Eggs topped with roasted corn, jalapeño and cilantro followed by a Chicken and Corn Bread Waffle served with a side of blueberry compote, maple syrup and jalapeño butter. The dessert course is appropriately named the Easter Basket, a pineapple upside-down cake topped with a cremé cheese mousse and candy eggs. The three-course brunch is $65 plus tax per person; Brunch is served all day.
To sip on Easter flavors, the Cotton Tail delivers a taste of Spring in a glass with Brugal 1888 Rum, pineapple and real coconut topped with whipped cream and jelly beans.
Hotel Contessa to host Flourish and Femme Art Fair on March 30, 2025. Photo: Hotel Contessa, used with permission.
Hotel Contessa is excited to host Flourish and Femme, a community art fair and immersive installation celebrating over a dozen local female artists of all generations. On Sunday, March 30 from 11:30a.m. to 3p.m., the public is invited to step into a colorful world of creativity right on the Riverwalk, where art, flowers and femme energy will come together and established artists will mentor emerging talent. (Hotel Contessa, 2025)
More than just an intergenerational art showcase, the art fair will feature a number of artisans who inject fun and flavor into every moment. This event is a celebration of female artistry, craftsmanship and community that is free and open to the public, benefiting local nonprofit Magdalena House, which empowers families to eliminate cycles of abuse and neglect in the community.
The Sunday art fair will unveil an extraordinary exhibition with a collective of local female artists, transforming the hotel’s spaces into a vibrant canvas of creativity. Through the theme of flowers, artists Kathy Sosa, Stephanie Pena Frost, Mary Carmen Sessions, Geri Garcia, and Ludi Smith will present a stunning installation that weaves together personal narratives and artistic expression. Launching on March 30, this immersive exhibit will extend through June 2025, with select guest rooms becoming intimate galleries that demonstrate the artists’ flower-themed works, inviting visitors to experience art that blooms through each individual’s storytelling.
Guests are encouraged to sip, savor and celebrate the impressive stories of a group of talented female artists and other prominent local women, many of whom are mentoring the next generation of artists in San Antonio. The creative space will also include culinary components with a special touch from Mijenta, a female-owned tequila distillery, where samples of their award-winning spirit will be available for tastings. Attendees can indulge in chocolate hand crafted by local female chocolatier Chef Alessia Benavides of CHOCOLATL. Additionally, Ambler will be open and serving their menu of creative plates and craft cocktails during the event.
This immersive experience celebrates the incredible works of over a dozen local female artists and artisans, including:
San Antonio–based artist Kathy Sosa, whose colorful works have been displayed across North America and is behind the famous Contessa painting at Hotel Contessa. Kathy will also do a book signing for her latest book, “Mestizaje: The Feminist Art of Kathy Sosa.” Kathy’s Contessa painting will be a muse/inspiration for the attending students.
Eight student artists from CAST School will be mentored by the featured professional artists. Students and artists will be paired up on March 30 for students to create and display their works at the Sunday Art Fair on April 27.
Chef Alessia Benavides of San Antonio’s celebrated female chocolatier, CHOCOLATL. Awarded Best Pastry Chef of 2024 by the Texas Culinary Association, Alessia Benavides is a passionate pastry chef and chocolatier dedicated to the art of baking and chocolate-making.
Mijenta Tequila, female-owned distiller based in Texas. Known for bridging eco-friendly tequila-making with female empowerment.
Proceeds from the art fair sales will be donated to Magdalena House, a neighborhood of transitional homes in San Antonio that serves mothers and their children who have fled danger and abuse. Utilizing a dual-generation approach, they provide safe shelter, basic needs, educational programming and therapeutic services. Hotel Contessa’s Flourish and Femme initiative partners with established artists and the CAST School to foster community mentorship and support, reflecting the hotel’s commitment to enhancing San Antonio’s local cultural landscape.
Hotel Contessa 306 W. Market St. San Antonio, TX 78205
An intimate, all-suite retreat set directly on San Antonio’s beloved River Walk, Hotel Contessa delights arriving guests with stylish suites that take their design cues from the city’s rich history and vibrant culture. Discover stylish suites and unwind at our spa, complemented by Ambler Texas Kitchen + Cocktails serving up agave cocktails and authentic Texas fare.
Bakery Lorraine has several delectable sweet treats for your sweetie this Valentine’s Day. Photo: Bakery Lorraine, used with permission.
Valentine’s Day, celebrated on February 14th, is a time to honor love and affection. While traditionally associated with romantic love, it’s a day for expressing care to family, friends, and even pets. Couples often exchange flowers, chocolates, or gifts, while others enjoy dinner dates or special outings. Many people send heartfelt cards, whether hand-made or store-bought, to express their feelings. In some cultures, the day extends beyond romance, with acts of kindness and appreciation for loved ones. Others may opt for a quiet evening, watching movies or creating personalized gifts, making it a day filled with love in all its forms. If you’re in the San Antonio area, here are some exciting ways to celebrate the big day with your loved one.
Bakery Lorraine
For foodies looking forward to delectable Valentine’s sweets, Bakery Lorraine has pastries exclusive to the Valentine’s Day holiday available in-store at all locations. (Bakery Lorraine, 2025)
Additionally, guests who purchase macaron boxes only on Friday, February 14 will receive a pink or white rose. 6 count Macaron Boxes will receive a singular choice of rose with purchase and 12 count Macaron Boxes will receive two roses while supplies last. Pastries and roses are available at all Bakery Locations.
Kimpton Santo
Experience a curated culinary experience and luxury accommodations for Valentine’s Day at Kimpton Santo. Guests can choose between the options below at Kimpton to celebrate the holiday. (Kimpton Santo, 2025)
An overnight Valentine’s Day stay in one of Kimpton’s Historic Luxury Suites with original 1850s architectural features. Reservations for the historic suites can be made online.
Tenfold Rooftop Bar is hosting three nights of customizable cocktails and the most charming views of the San Antonio skyline in the city. From Thursday February 13 until Saturday, February 15, guests can bring their gals, pals, significant others, and everyone in between to be able to print out customizable images on select cocktails. Reservations can be made online.
Dean’s Steak & Seafood is offering guests a Santo Valentin package that can be added from Thursday February 13 until Saturday, February 15. The package includes a half bottle of bubbles for two upon arrival at the restaurant and a box of truffles as a parting gift. Reservations can be made online.
InterContinental San Antonio Riverwalk
Celebrate love with several offerings perfect for every kind of date night. Guests can choose how they’d like to spend their special day with one or more of what InterContinental San Antonio has to offer. (InterContinental San Antonio Riverwalk, 2025)
The Date Night on the River Room Package: Guests can upgrade their luxury accommodations with pick-up from the exclusive boat stop on Pecan St., where guests can enjoy an enchanting riverboat cruise on the luminous San Antonio Riverwalk. Guests can also enjoy decadent French macarons, specialty chocolate bonbons, pate de fruit, and champagne that will be provided in-room.
Love & Chocolate with Chef Gonzo: For one-night-only (February 14, 2025), Netflix’s Bake Squad Chef Chocolatier Gonzo Jimenez will present a six-course tasting menu inspired by chocolate and cacao in collaboration with InterContinental San Antonio’s Executive Chef Andres Farias. Perfect for Galentine’s, date night, or just satisfying a sweet tooth, the rich prix-fixe menu will be available at InterContinental San Antonio’s in-house American Brasserie, Cavalier, for $150 per person, with reservations available here.
At InterContinental’s immersive Deco Bar, guests can enjoy the “Roses for My Lover” cocktail. Visitors who seek out the adorned cocktail can expect a balance of sweet and tart flavors that make the heart (and your loved one) happy.
Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa
Indulge in an unforgettable Valentine’s Day celebration at Corinne San Antonio. Love is in the air and Corinne is offering guests two dining options for the holiday. (Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa, 2025)
$90 3-Course Dining Experience: Reservations and walk-ins are welcome for the 3-course dinner experience at Corinne from Thursday, February 13 until Saturday, February 15. Reservations can be made online.
$150 VIP Exclusive Chef’s Table Menu: Join Corinne on Friday, February 14 for an exclusive ticketed 6-course dinner in Corinne’s private dining room. Seating is limited and reservations can be made online.
Chef Jason Dady Restaurants
Guests can enjoy special coursed dinners at Range, Jardin, Tre Trattoria, and Roca & Martillo for Valentine’s Day on Friday, February 14. Each restaurant will offer a glass of sparkling wine to start, accompanied by delicious dishes that are perfect for celebrating the special someone in your life. (Chef Jason Dady Restaurants, 2025)
Range – a five-course dinner for $100 per person inspired by Tuscan Italian flavors. 125 E. Houston St. San Antonio, TX 78205 Prix Fixe Dinner: 4p.m. to 10p.m.
Tre Trattoria – the coursed dinner is $100 per person and will feature signature dishes. 200 W. Jones Ave. San Antonio, TX 78215 Prix Fixe Dinner: 4 to 10 p.m.
Jardín – Valentine’s Day’s exclusive Mediterranean-inspired meal at $85 per person. 555 Funston Place San Antonio, TX 78209 Prix Fixe Dinner: 4 to 8 p.m.
Roca & Martillo – will offer a four-course Valentine’s Day dinner for $99 per person. 1 Spurs Way San Antonio, TX 78256 Prix Fixe Dinner: 4 to 11 p.m.
Wine pairings are available for each dinner at $40 per person. There are also aperitifs available for purchase on each menu. Each meal’s price does not include tax or gratuity.
iFLY Indoor Skydiving
The perfect romantic adventures start with the Valentine’s Day – Up In the Air package. Guests are encouraged to make a reservation for an unconventional Valentine’s Day celebration with their loved one. (iFLY Indoor Skydiving, 2025)
The Valentine’s Day – Up In The Air Package features 20% off of four flights, ideal to share between two people and all photos and videos from the experience that will make standout Instagram content. This promotion is available to buy and fly from now through February 17 and can be booked online.
Hotel Contessa
Hotel Contessa will offer romantic specials at their on-site full-service spa and River Walk restaurant Ambler Texas Kitchen. (Hotel Contessa, 2025)
Throughout the month of February, both hotel guests and the public can reserve the 50-minute It Takes Two couples massage at The Spa at Hotel Contessa for $300 per couple (normally $360 per couple). The It Takes Two couples massage can be booked HERE.
For couples looking to celebrate Valentine’s Day with a romantic dinner, Ambler Texas Kitchen’s Executive Chef Mike Collins will offer a three-course prix fixe menu on Friday, February 14, and Saturday, February 15. For $75 per person, guests will receive a starter, main course and dessert. For an additional $10 per glass, couples can enjoy a celebratory prosecco toast. Walk-ins are accepted, but reservations are encouraged and can be made via OpenTable.
And for those looking to extend their stay at Hotel Contessa can take advantage of special discounts for Texas residents, educators and military personnel. More information on Hotel Contessa’s stay packages can be found HERE.
Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk
Couples can escape into romance and luxury with the Lust and Leisure Package. Available February 1–28, 2025, this curated experience offers indulgence and pampering in the heart of downtown San Antonio. Rising 20 stories above the Riverwalk, the hotel blends modern sophistication with elevated amenities like a rooftop restaurant, serene spa, and panoramic views, making it the ideal retreat for Valentine’s Day or a romantic getaway. This offer is valid for stays from February 1–28, 2025, so couples can plan their romance-filled escape anytime during the month of February. (Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk, 2025)
Hiatus Day Spa • Med Spa
Couples can relax with a Love Birds couples massage. The 90-minute Love Birds couple massage begins with a crushed rose petal and organic sugar foot soak, heartwarming hot stone shoulder massage, then relax side-by-side in a couples massage with Hiatus’s house-blended love potion of rose, jasmine, vetiver and cocoa butter. Take flight with EarlyBird Full Spectrum CBD Gummies and a glass of bubbles to float through the rest of your day. Bookings can be made here for $399 per couple or $298 for those who are H-Circle members ($433 value). (Hiatus Day Spa • Med, 2025)
SA Examiner 