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The holiday season is in full swing, and San Antonio has offerings for every celebration. Embrace the old traditions and experience some new ones with this lineup of holiday events appealing to your whole family.

Family Friendly Performances

Saturday, December 10
A Christmas Carol, 4:30–6:00 P.M. at Villa Finale
Performed in front of a Victorian home, this collaboration of San Antonio’s Classic Theater, the King William Association, Bonham Academy, and G.W. Brackenridge High School brings this classic Christmas ghost story to new life. Refreshments will be offered before and after the performance. Dress warmly for this outdoor event! Tickets are $20 for adults and $10 for kids 12 and under.
December 16–18
Mejia Ballet International’s The Nutcracker at Lila Cockrell Theatre
Presented by ARTS San Antonio with San Antonio Metropolitan Ballet and choreographed and directed by the founder of Mejia Ballet International, Paul Mejia, a former principal dancer under George Balanchine at the New York City Ballet, this performance is one to see! Tickets range from $29–99.
December 17 & 18
The Nutcracker Ballet at McAllister Auditorium
Presented by the Alamo City Dance Company, the ballet features approximately 100 dancers in 160 roles and is danced by San Antonians with the exception of the guest artists, Jennifer Goodman and Ikolo Griffin. Tickets range from $25–30.
December 26 & 27
Moscow Ballet’s The Great Russian Nutcracker at Majestic Theatre
This company of almost 40 dancers is the only internationally touring ballet group to perform to critical acclaim in over 75 North American cities annually. Tickets range from $32.25–179.25.
December 22 & 23
Home Alone Live in Concert, 7:30 P.M. at the Majestic Theatre
A true holiday favorite, this beloved comedy classic features composer John Williams’ enchanting score performed live to picture by the San Antonio Symphony Orchestra. Guaranteed to relieve your own holiday stress, Home Alone is fun for the entire family.
December 16–23
A Charlie Brown Christmas at Majestic Theatre
Presented by the Magik Theatre, this Christmas classic follows the Peanuts gang as they experience the true meaning of Christmas from tree trimming to the manger. Tickets are $20–30.
November 18–December 30
‘Twas the Night Before Christmas, by Ken Ludwig, at the Magik Theatre
Not a creature was stirring . . . except Amos the mouse as he attempts to save Christmas from an evil ex-elf who wants to sell the naughty and nice lists to a department store. A sensory-friendly performance will be held on Saturday, December 3rd at 2:00 P.M. Tickets are $12-15.

Free Events

Friday, December 9
Free Outdoor Movie: Elf, 7:00–10:00 P.M. at Tobin Center for the Performing Arts
The plaza opens at 7 P.M., and the movie begins at 8 P.M. Bring your lawn chairs or blankets and enjoy the movie on a 32 foot LED screen. No outside food or drinks are allowed, but concessions will be available for purchase including full bar service. No pets.
Saturday, December 10
La Gran Tamalada, 11:00 A.M.–1:00 P.M. at the Guadalupe Cultural Arts Center
This annual community workshop honors the tradition of making tamales for the holidays. The free event blends storytelling and the history of the tamalada, promoting cultural pride and lifelong learning. For the second year, the Cortez Family, owners of the popular Mi Tierra restaurant, will share their love of family, tradition, and tamales with the community.
Lighted Christmas Parade, 7:00–9:00 P.M. at Old Town Helotes
Local businesses, charities, and organizations participate in this joyous parade while vendors serve hot chocolate, pastries, and other goodies. Arrive early for parking and bring your own chairs, blankets, flashlight, and umbrella.
Sunday, December 11
Winter Celebrations Around the World, 12:00–4:00 P.M. at the Institute of Texan Cultures
Features holiday traditions from various cultures with crafts, family activities, performances, and more. December’s Free Second Sunday also includes a donation drive.
Tuesday, December 13
Hands on Chanukah, 3–6 P.M. at the Barshop Jewish Community Center
Celebrate Chanukah with your friends at this annual event.
Saturday, December 17
Free Outdoor Movie: It’s a Wonderful Life, 7:30 P.M. at Hemisfair
This iconic 1940s story starring Jimmy Stewart delights young and old. Food, drink, and music start at 7:30 P.M.; show time starts at 8:30 P.M. Come early to claim your spot.
Wednesday, December 21
La Posada, 6:00–8:00 P.M. at the Guadalupe Cultural Arts Center
This new tradition offers the Guadalupe’s neighbors an opportunity to participate in a fun and culturally meaningful holiday program. Theatre, music, food, and community all come together on this magical night.

Take Your Holiday Outside

Wednesday, December 28
Chanukah on the River, 4:00–5:00 P.M. at the Arneson River Theatre
This holiday event features a Menorah game show and river parade, a free live concert with Jewish rock band, Soul Farm, plus Menorah lighting. Tickets are $8 per person and include jelly donuts, a boat ride, and a sack hot dog dinner.
November 25–December 31
Holidays in Bloom at the San Antonio Botanical Garden
This magical nature experience is a wonderful way to stretch your legs during the holiday season. Visitors will encounter poinsettias, a giant Christmas tree, wreaths, and red bows throughout, enhancing the seasonal beauty of the garden.
December 10, 11 & 17-23
Christmas at the Caverns, 5:30–10:00 P.M. at Natural Bridge Caverns
On select nights throughout the Christmas season, the entire park will be illuminated by thousands of twinkling lights. Within this magical wonderland will be featured Caroling in the Caverns, along with several above-ground Christmas attractions. Fill your nights with the joy of the season in the Texas Hill Country. Cavern Christmas Package tickets are $29.99 per child and $44.99 per adult; other ticket pricing options also available.
What’s on your holiday bucket list?