Lights, Menorahs and Tamales: The Holidays in San Antonio are a Culturally Rich, Festive and Feast-Worthy Time of Year

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Nov 27, 2018, 16:00 ET

SAN ANTONIO, Nov. 27, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- San Antonio is often considered one of the most welcoming and festive cities in the U.S. During the holidays this spirit is all-the-more evident with numerous celebrations from early November through the first week of January, many of which are free to the public.

San Antonio’s River Walk lights up – literally – during the holidays with more than 2,000 luminarias, a traditional Mexican Christmas lantern consisting of a candle set in sand inside a small paper bag. The centuries-old tradition takes place this year December 2-4, 9-11 and 16-18.

A unique aspect of San Antonio during the holidays is the city's culturally rich roots, which range from Mexico and Spain to Germany and beyond, and can be experienced in many forms throughout the destination. From learning how to make authentic tamales and participating in a traditional celebration of Las Posadas to watching the annual Chanukah boat parade; from a memorable performance of The Nutcracker to an unforgettable mariachi musical concert by world-renowned Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitlán, the holidays in the Alamo City are a great time to experience the diversity of the community.

Visually, San Antonio literally shines; more than 2,000 traditional Mexican luminarias line the River Walk, SeaWorld features more than 9 million lights – more than anywhere else in Texas – and oversized and lit-up Christmas trees are all over town.

More than 45,000 hotel rooms are available throughout the city making finding a hotel a breeze. Whether guests are looking for a hotel on the River Walk, in the colorful Downtown or in the Hill Country, it's easy to find through special offers from the Marriott Portfolio of brands, Hyatt Regency San Antonio Riverwalk and the Eilan Hotel & Spa at VisitSanAntonio.com/holidays.

Add to all of this mild winter temperatures averaging in the 60s and the city stands out as an ideal destination for the entire family for a holiday getaway.

Go to Media.VisitSanAntonio.com/News for a round-up of the can't-miss, unique events happening this year in San Antonio.

SOURCE Visit San Antonio