Whether you’re planning a date night or looking for picture-perfect backdrop for family photos, San Antonio is home to a list of holiday light displays that are either free or easy on the wallet.
There are headliner destinations, like the River Walk, as well as more intimate corners of Christmas cheer.
Save the list below to help you sleigh December and still leave some money in your pocket for buying gifts.
The University of the Incarnate Word’s twinkling trees – free
San Antonians came out to see UIW’s annual Light the Way ceremony on Saturday, November 23, 2019.
B. Kay RichterUIW’s annual Light the Way event took place on November 20, but the fun didn’t end there. Trees throughout the UIW campus will remain up throughout the holiday season, giving the public the opportunity to drive or walk through to see the dazzling display for free.
4301 Broadway
Museum Reach lights near the Pearl – free
If you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the main stretch of the River Walk, the Museum Reach section, located near the Pearl, offers a picturesque scene of illuminated trees reflecting on the water. The display is perfect for a family photo shoot or an evening of coffee and people watching from a seat at the Pearl Amphitheater.
303 Pearl Parkway (near the Pearl Amphitheater)
River Walk lights – free
We’d be remiss not to mention the most popular free holiday fun opportunity that dates back to the 1970s. It costs nothing to stroll the River Walk, taking in the sights of the lights, but there’s a way to get a narrated tour and save yourself the steps. Go Rio Cruises offers barge tours, giving you the chance to see the display from the water, for $11.50 with your ID if you’re a local.
Windcrest Light Up – free
The lights in Windcrest are always a sight to behold, and this year they are extra special. Summon your inner Windcrest Christmas spirit this year and be the light in darkness.
Robin Jerstad /ContributorFor more than 60 years, the San Antonio families have been able to enjoy the elaborate work of Windcrest residents as they invite the public to roll through along their streets to enjoy the displays. Revelers can experience the scenes from their cars or stop to take photos with their favorite yards.
Old West Christmas Lights Fest in Boerne – $10 to $15
While the San Antonio area opportunity is a ticketed event, admission is under $20. For the price, guests can see lights, adventure through an Old West town, and see plenty of holiday lights until Christmas Eve.
242 State Highway 46
Travis Park – free
San Antonio showed up to Travis Park for H-E-B’s tree lighting ceremony on Friday, November 26.
B. Kay RichterThe downtown park is your opportunity to see a 50-foot Christmas tree shining bright with 10,000 lights and dozens of handmade ornaments. While the Concolor fir is the main attraction, the entire park is transformed into a Whoville-like scene with opportunities for ice skating (tickets required) and free movie nights. Keep up-to-date on special events or free opportunities happening throughout the month by checking the Travis Park or Centro San Antonio social media pages.
301 East Travis Street
Palo Alto College’s Winter Wonderland ¡Celebración! – $15 per car
Palo Alto College kicked off their month-long holiday display Thursday night.
Courtesy Palo Alto College/ Jerry ArellanoThe Southside holiday scene is a drive-thru experience charging $15 per vehicle. The public is invited to take in the lights throughout the Palo Alto campus from their car from Friday, December 3 through Thursday, December 23.
1400 West Villaret Boulevard