One of the greatest benefits of living in San Antonio is the variety of “things” to see and do. In fact, there are so many San Antonio attractions and events on any given weekend that it can seem overwhelming to choose just one. In this series, all pressure is off! Ten fun things to do in San Antonio will be chosen each week to make researching for the next Friday celebration, date night, or family outing a little more simple. Specifically, during this time, we’re here to make your holiday season more exciting with plenty of activities that are sure to spread holiday cheer!
- 1. See a Fun Play!
The holidays calls for fun activities that the whole family can engage in. San Antonio’s Magik Theatre is currently performing “Twas the Night Before Christmas,” a quirky play about a mouse who tries to save Christmas from a terrible, evil elf. This hilarious and unique play offers a story that is fresh and new. The whole family will fall in love with the characters and events that occur in this play. It’s bound to get you in the holiday spirit!
When: This weekend, schedule here
Where: 420 S. Alamo St.
- 2. Experience a Wonderland
Morgan’s Wonderland is a fantastic theme park, designed specifically for individuals with special needs. The park is having its annual light display that transforms itself into “A Wonderland Christmas.” Colorful lights, decorations, songs, storytellers, ice-skating, Santa, and even a petting zoo are among the exciting activities available. There will be special Christmas rides, only available during this festive time of year. This outstanding organization asks for your support during the holiday season. Head out and enjoy the wonderland!
When: This weekend @ 4PM-9PM
Where: 5223 David Edwards
- 3. Carole All Night Long
What better way to get you in the Christmas spirit than through cheerful carols? This weekend, there will be five different boats floating along the River Walk with groups performing Christmas carols. There are more than 185 singing groups that participate, and of course, they welcome the crowd if they want to join in. Stroll along the river, enjoy the glistening lights and partake in some joyful carols that will brighten your spirits. This nightly caroling is happening all weekend long, so if you’re downtown, you’re sure to hear the wonderful songs.
When: This weekend, @6PM-9PM
Where: Downtown area of River Walk
- 4. Celebrate Winter!
The DoSeum promises to light up your winter season with a Winter Wonderland celebration! Come and experience the transformation of the museum as you walk through Santa’s workshop, frosted windowpanes, a light exploration workshop, and a Snow Day Play Scape. There will be fun activities for kids such as crafts, interactive games, and you can even get a picture with Santa Claus. The winter workshops assure fun for every child involved. With this cold weather, an indoor winter wonderland is just what we need!
When: This weekend, museum hours
Where: The DoSeum (2800 Broadway St.)
http://www.thedoseum.org/event/winter-wonderland/
- 5. Sing and Dance to a Tony Award Winning Musical
The hit Tony award-winning musical, Jersey Boys, is hitting the stage at the Majestic Theatre! The musical tells the true story of four young blue-collar teens and their journey to success in pop music. With over 175 million records, the Jersey Boys were an instant success with hit songs like “Sherry,” “Oh What A Night,” and “Big Girls Don’t Cry”. You’ll be tapping your feet to this one and won’t be able to resist singing along to some of the catchy lyrics. Over 20 million people have seen the show, and you can help to increase that number this weekend!
When: December 9-11, times here
Where: Majestic Theatre (224 E Houston St.)
- 6. Learn a New Recipe
It’s not Christmas in San Antonio without a little Mexican food—tamales for that matter! Come and enjoy La Tamalada at the Witte Museum this Saturday where you’ll learn to make tamales. Each participant will be making six bean tamales to either enjoy for lunch or to take home and share with friends and family. Skilled chef Gloria Solis will be guiding and helping so that your tamales turn out authentic and delicious. This fun filled activity promises to be interactive, and we guarantee that you’ll learn something new while cooking! Who wouldn’t want to taste test tamales for an afternoon?
When: December 10 @11AM-1PM
Where: The Witte Museum (3801 Broadway St.)
- 7. Have a Cultural Christmas
Christmas can look very different, depending on your culture and the way that you celebrate. Engage in a new kind of Christmas culture this year with “An Irish Christmas” at the Tobin Center. The lively performance will feature Irish dancers and photographic images as a unique background to the show. You’ll receive a glimpse into Ireland and how the people celebrate the holidays in their country. It’s family friendly, full of life and humor, and promises to help you kick off the holiday season with a bang!
When: December 10 @7:30 PM
Where: Tobin Center for the Performing Arts (100 Auditorium Circle)
http://www.artssa.org/an-irish-christmas/
- 8. Attend an Art Party
This week, San Antonio Museum of Art opens its doors for their monthly art party. This month is centered around the theme of Peace, Joy, and Art. Live music by The Jazz Protagonists will have you in the holiday spirit, and they make classic Christmas songs jazzy with their smooth sound and instruments. There will be specialty cocktails, gallery tours, and art making. Wear a festive cocktail dress in red to support the holiday theme that the party holds. Everyone’s looking for a great Christmas party to attend during this time of year and SA Museum of Art definitely knows how to throw one!
When: December 9 @6PM-8PM
Where: 200 West Jones Avenue
- 9. Make Memories
Looking for the best holiday festival in town? The Holiday Magic Festival of Lights is a tradition at Retama Park and works to bring together multiple cultures in a holiday celebration. There will be millions of Christmas lights, Chinese lanterns, cultural performances, food from all over the world, snow, and of course, Santa! Explore and experience the magic as you walk around and view the gorgeous lights, shop, eat, listen to music, and watch the fireworks show at the end of the evening. It truly is a magical evening for the entire family. The authenticity of the festival is striking, and you’ll be making memories throughout the course of the evening.
When: This weekend @5:30-11PM
Where: Retama Park (1 Retama Parkway)
http://holidaymagicfestivaloflights.com
- 10. Nab A Baked Treat
It seems like the holidays inevitably require a need for baked goods. If this year is no exception, turn to Rise Bakery to meet your needs. The quaint little Stone Oak bakery with the most clever name has muffins, scones, cookies, cake, and fresh bread baked daily. Additionally, you can stop in for lunch to enjoy a grilled sandwich, salad, and even a burger. If you’re looking for a quiet place to study or work, they have a full espresso bar that offers a nice alternative from national coffee chains. With items baked from scratch, this bakery should definitely be at the top of your to-do list during the season.
When: M-F @7AM-3PM; Sat @8AM-3PM; Closed Sunday
Where: 923 N Loop 1604 E, Suite 101
