San Antonio is a magical place to visit any time of year but, during the holiday season, the city really puts on the charm, especially along the River Walk or Paseo del Rio. Over 122,000 multi-colored holiday lights hang from the tall cypress trees that line the river, reflecting off the water’s surface.
When to See the Lights
The season kicks into action with the annual FORD Holiday River Parade, held the day after Thanksgiving and one of the few night river parades in the country. The event starts with the flipping of the switch on the holiday lights, followed by a one-hour parade on the river itself. Tickets are needed for this very popular event; contact the Paseo del Rio Association for information.
The lights remain on every night through January 1.
Special Events
Carolers make the season especially festive. Over 185 groups, from school groups to bell choirs take turns in the nightly caroling and sing-along, which starts at 6:30pm in front of the Chamber of Commerce offices (602 East Commerce) and winds its way along the river until 9:45pm.
For the three weekends (Friday, Saturday, and Sunday nights) of Fiesta de las Luminarias, the River Walk is also illuminated with luminarias, sand-filled white sacks and a votive candle. Symbolic of the lighting of the way for the Holy Family, the luminarias are lit at dusk.
How to See the Lights
Strolling the River Walk is the easiest way to view the holiday lights. Be sure to cross over the river on one of the many footbridges for the best vantage point.
Visitors can also take the opportunity to hop a barge for a guided tour of the festive lights. For just a few dollars, you can enjoy a guided ride along the river.