Best time to go to San Antonio, TX

River Walk Christmas Lights 2024-2025

A true sight for sore eyes!

Dates: November 24–January 7

River Walk Christmas Lights
River Walk Christmas Lights
Hilton Palacio Del Rio in December
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Thousands of San Antonio families wait impatiently for the beginning of November, when the spectacular Holiday Lights on the River Walk turn this beautiful promenade into a winter wonderland. The favorite shopping and restaurant destination for many locals, San Antonio River Walk or Paseo del Río is about 15 mi (24 km) long. Its major highlights include the Arneson River Theatre, Marriage Island, HemisFair Park, the Tower Life Building, the San Antonio Museum of Art, and the city's five Spanish colonial missions, listed as World Heritage Sites.

Christmas Lights display on the River Walk is among the most impressive in Texas. It features over 100,000 lights (2,250 strings) arranged over the trees and buildings lining the River Walk. The lights on the river stay on from 5:30 pm to 8 am. The River Walk is a public space, and visiting the display is free. However, you can take a paid river cruise on an illuminated boat to fully experience the magic of the season.

In addition to holiday illumination, the River Walk hosts various concerts, shows, and Christmas events such as the Ford Holiday Boat Parade and Caroling, the Ford Fiesta de las Luminarias, and the Holiday Artisan Show.

Details

When it comes to parking, there are several options. You can either pay for a spot on a 6000 ft parking lot, which works from 8 am to 6 pm; or use city-run garages, which are free on most days. If you're an RV owner, you are welcome to leave your vehicle at Travis Park nearby. You can also bring your doggo along if they're on a leash–the event is pet-friendly and some local restaurants even have pet menus for your furry ones!

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Last updated: by Olga Valchyshen