Another holiday season is here, and San Antonio is abound with festive cheer and a sense of community spirit. This year, immerse yourself and your family in the magical South Texas festivities by exploring a wide variety of San Antonio holiday events.
From holiday markets to light displays and opportunities to give back, this list has something that will put anybody in the holiday spirit—whether your Santa’s number one fan or a local, lovable Grinch.
Lights of Esperanza at Texas A&M-San Antonio
Tuesday, December 2, 2025 | 6–8 p.m.
1 University Way | More info
On Tuesday, December 2, the Texas A&M University-San Antonio campus will be illuminated by tens of thousands of twinkling bulbs at the 10th annual Lights of Esperanza. You won’t want to miss this breathtaking display of light, community, and tradition that exemplifies the holiday spirit of the Southside. From carnival games to food, vendors, and even a snowball fight, Lights of Esperanza has activities and entertainment for the whole family to enjoy.
Holiday Market and Movie at Mission Marquee Plaza
Saturday, November 15 | 9 a.m. | Movie at sundown
3100 Roosevelt Ave. | More info
The last Mission Marquee market of the year on Saturday, November 15 will feature holiday-themed crafts and specialty products, Loteria by ¡Que Sabor!, a tamal-making workshop, and more. Arrive early for a tree adoption hosted by the City of San Antonio Parks & Recreation Department. That evening at sundown, there will be a screening of Home Alone as part of the Outdoor Family Film Series. Attendance is free, there’s parking on site, and the plaza is pet-friendly.
Winter Carnival at Arnold Park
Friday, November 21 | 3–10 p.m.
Saturday, Nov. 22 | 9 a.m.
1011 Gillette Blvd. | More info
A newer holiday tradition for Southside San Antonio families, the Winter Carnival at Arnold Park is a two-day celebration filled with festive fun, winter magic, and holiday cheer for the whole family. This annual festival includes an outdoor ice-skating rink with skate rentals available, classic carnival rides and games, a holiday market, seasonal treats, and festive photo ops.
Run or Walk a Holiday 5k
Running or walking a 5k alongside friends, family, and neighbors while enjoying crisp autumn air can be an immensely rewarding holiday experience—especially when it benefits a good cause. If you’ve been spending your time out on the Madla Greenway Trail, you’re probably already partially prepared for one of the following holiday runs.
San Antonio Food Bank’s Turkey Trot 5k
Thursday, November 27 | 8:30–11:30 a.m.
622 S. Flores St. | More info
Starting at Commanders House on South Flores and winding through Downtown San Antonio, the San Antonio Food Bank’s Turkey Trot 5k is an ideal way to start your Thanksgiving against the backdrop of this beautiful city. Registration fees benefit the San Antonio Food Bank and help nourish families in your community.
Jingle Bell Run at Martin Luther King Park
Saturday, December 13, 2025 | 8 a.m.
Martin Luther King Park | More info
Another run for a cause, the Arthritis Foundation hosts dozens of Jingle Bell Run events all around the country each year. The San Antonio Jingle Bell Run starts at Martin Luther King Park, and there are timed and untimed events available. Registration fees benefit the Arthritis Foundation.
New Year’s Eve 5k at Pearsall Park
Wednesday, December 31, 2025 | 4:30 p.m.
5102 Old Pearsall Rd. | More info
If your New Year’s resolutions include more exercise, get a jump on your goals by running or walking in the New Year’s Eve 5k close to home at Pearsall Park.
Give Back to a Local Food Drive
What better way to get into the holiday spirit by helping to feed families in need? Here are a couple options to give back that you can participate in at your convenience.
San Antonio Parks & Recreation Thanksgiving Food Drive
Now through November 26, 2025 | More info
You can participate in San Antonio Parks and Recreation’s Thanksgiving Food Drive by bringing two non-perishable food items to a Parks Department Community Center. The closest drop-off locations to VIDA are Ramirez Community Center (1011 Gillette Blvd.) and Harlandale Community Center (7227 Briar Place).
Fill a Holiday Box for the San Antonio Food Bank
Now through Saturday, December 20, 2025
5200 Historic Old Hwy 90 | More info
The San Antonio Food Bank’s holiday box program is a great way to give back on your own time. All you have to do is pick up a box from the Food Bank, fill it with the items listed here, and return it to them by Saturday, December 20.
Winter Wonderland at Palo Alto College
Open daily Thursday, Nov. 30–Friday, Dec. 22 from 6–9 p.m.
PAC Central Courtyard | More info
Throughout December each year, the Palo Alto College campus transforms into a drive-thru light display for all of South San Antonio to enjoy. Palo Alto College’s Winter Wonderland display is free and open to the public, but there’s a five-dollar suggested cash donation. Student organizations will also be selling holiday treats and refreshments to raise money.
The Nutcracker by Ballet San Antonio
December 5–7 & 12–14, 2025 | Times vary
Tobin Center | More info
Taking in The Nutcracker each year has become a beloved holiday tradition for people around the world, and Ballet San Antonio puts on an amazing show. Ballet San Antonio’s Nutcracker runs the weekends of December 5–7 and 12–14 at the Tobin Center for the Performing Arts.
VIDA – Your Home for Holiday Fun
Don’t let the community spirit fizzle out after ringing in a new year. Follow the VIDA Community News and Southside Living pages for more can’t-miss info and things to do year-round.