HOLIdAy STOrIEs NOVEMBER 24, 2023
Ford Holiday River Parade 2023
Greetings! The City of San Antonio is honored to host the 42nd Annual Ford Holiday River Parade. We are excited to experience another lovely holiday season here in San Antonio, and hope visitors and locals alike partake in the magic of our River Walk lights. The Ford Holiday River Parade is the perfect kick off to the holiday season, and the theme for this year’s River Parade is “Holiday Stories.” This year’s celebration will feature the Nutcracker as Grand Marshal as he is part of a treasured holiday story. For those of you visiting, I sincerely hope that you experience San Antonio’s rich culture, gracious nature and holiday spirit during your time here, and create your own holiday story to share for years to come. From my family to yours, wishing you peace, love and joy this holiday season. Sincerely, Ron Nirenberg, Mayor 4
Each year, the South Texas Ford Dealers enjoy bringing the magic of the holidays to you and your family through the Ford Holiday River Parade. The parade is a San Antonio tradition that brings happiness to so many, and we are proud to be a part of it. Ford is dedicated to building great products—to strengthening our business to the benefit of our communities. This is the foundation of Ford’s success, which helped us become a global automotive industry leader on six continents. The South Texas Ford Dealers are independent dealerships that join together to bring you this and other events on the River Walk—San Antonio’s happy place. We encourage you to come back this holiday season to enjoy the Ford Holiday Boat Caroling and the Ford Fiesta de las Luminarias. Do not miss our other River Walk events throughout the year, such as the Ford Mariachi Festival. This time of year, we like to think of ourselves as Santa’s Elves helping to bring the holiday spirit into your life. At Ford, we go further to make our vehicles better, our employees happier and our planet a better place to live in. Best wishes for a safe and happy Holiday Season. -Your South Texas Ford Dealers
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Ford Holiday River Parade and River Lighting Ceremony
Friday, November 24, 6:00 to 9:00pm Welcome to the 42nd Annual Ford Holiday River Parade! Always held the day after Thanksgiving, the Ford Holiday River Parade and Lighting Ceremony has been San Antonio’s way to ring in the holiday season since 1981, and this beloved tradition is a truly spectacular sight. This year’s parade theme is "Holiday Stories," a nod to San Antonio’s many integrated stories as a city steeped in more than 300 years of heritage, as well as the traditions of countless families who celebrate the holiday season along the River Walk. The evening is highlighted with 27 dazzling floats cruising along the downtown portion of the River Walk. Pre-parade entertainment at Arneson River Theatre features the parade’s Grand Marshal, the Nutcracker, played by ballerino George Chini, and other performers from the classic holiday ballet, who will take to their production to McAllister Auditorium on December 15-17. At 7:00pm, in a glorious flip-the-switch moment, watch more than 100,000 lights turn on before your eyes during the much-anticipated lighting of the River Walk. Every night, the River Walk is illuminated with twinkling lights dangling from cypress trees along the banks of the bustling downtown River Walk and stretch through the quiet Museum Reach to the Pearl. Lights stay on from 5:30pm until sunrise, through the morning of January 7, 2024. Stroll the river, take in the sights and feel the holiday spirit light up inside you! Ford Holiday River Parade Schedule Do not miss a single moment of the fun! Keep this schedule on hand to stay up to the minute on Santa’s arrival.
4:00pm – River Walk closes to the general public. 5:00pm – River Walk gates open for ticket holder access at Arneson River Theatre and along the 2.5-mile parade route. 6:00pm – The parade begins at the Tobin Center. See the map for the parade route and approximate viewing times per area. 6:00 to 7:00pm – The festive pre-parade show for ticket holders starts at Arneson River Theatre. 7:00 to 8:00pm – The televised parade begins at Arneson River Theatre, and Santa arrives on the last float! 7:00pm – The Lighting of the River Walk ceremony commences, with the Nutcracker taking the lead. TheSanAntonioRiverWalk.com
the nutcracker 2023 grand marshal
The Ford Holiday River Parade’s Grand Marshal for 2023 is the Nutcracker, played by ballerino George Chini. This beloved holiday story follows the journeys of the Nutcracker and Clara who, along with other performers from this classic holiday ballet, will take their production to McAllister Auditorium on the campus of San Antonio College on December 15-17 (December 15 is a sensoryfriendly production). For tickets, please visit AlamoCityArts.org.
quest across land , sea and space
OPEN NOW line pending. FEBRUARY 11, Sponsorship 2024
Scan for Tickets & Information or visit Witte Museum.org
nature, science & culture
Explore Your World is created by Scitech Discovery Centre, Perth, Australia and produced by Imagine Exhibitions, Inc. Explore Your World is presented by Traylor Ranches and generously supported by The Tobin Endowment and the Mary Pat and Michael Bolner Exhibition Endowment Fund.
The 42nd Annual Ford Holiday River Parade and Lighting Ceremony is a San Antonio tradition that officially rings in the holiday season. This year’s parade theme is "Holiday Stories," and begins with pre-parade entertainment at Arneson River Theatre, followed by 27 colorful floats. We love sharing the beauty of the River Walk, and we wish you and your family peace and joy during this special time of year.
2023 Ford Holiday River Parade Floats 1
The Nutcracker - Grand Marshal
Grand Marshal – Alamo City Arts
The magic of the Ford Holiday River Parade is ushered in by Alamo City Arts Nutcracker, ballerino George Chini. If you would like to continue to relish the holiday enchantment of the Nutcracker, please join us at the McAllister Auditorium on the campus of San Antonio College on December 15 for our sensory-friendly show, or on the 16 and 17 to experience the live orchestration and exquisitely choreographed ballet of the Nutcracker. AlamoCityArts.org 2
Christmas with Madeline
Fiesta Commission San Antonio
The Fiesta San Antonio Commission is a non-profit, volunteer, self-supporting organization that plans, promotes, coordinates and preserves Fiesta San Antonio. Through the support of its 100+ non-profit Participating Member Organizations, it presents a safe, educational, annual celebration of the diverse heritage, culture and spirit of San Antonio for its residents and visitors. Celebrate Fiesta 2024: April 18 – 28. ¡Viva Fiesta! FiestaSanAntonio.org 3
Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer
Landry's
Get festive and celebrate the holiday season with a collection of fun, family-friendly restaurants and attractions! From prime steak to seafood, delicious burgers and sky-high adventures, savor the best of the San Antonio River Walk and beyond. Dine at Saltgrass Steak House, Brenner’s on the River Walk, Landry’s Seafood House, Rainforest Café, Joe’s Crab Shack, Bubba Gump Shrimp Company and Chart House Restaurant inside Tower of the Americas. Great food. Great service. Great holidays. Find your favorite at LandrysInc.com.
TheSanAntonioRiverWalk.com
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Legend of the Red Flowers
The City of San Antonio
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Representing the City of San Antonio are Mayor Ron Nirenburg and members of the City Council. San Antonio is a global city with a dynamic economy and workforce, a deep cultural heritage and diverse communities that are resilient and welcoming. As one of the nation’s fastest growing cities, San Antonio has the 7th largest population in the United States. SanAntonio.gov
A Galactic Christmas
Longhorn Steakhouse
Longhorn Steakhouse has grown to become the undisputed home for great steak done right. Come on in for their cut above Texan experience and legendary steak. Do not forget about the bold flavors from their ever-changing seasonal menu or one of over 30 different lunch combinations, and top it off with one of their signature margaritas. Catering, take out and call ahead seating are available. Visit LonghornSteakhouse.com to find your nearest location.
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Jack Finds Christmas
Royal Public Schools
Royal Public Schools is a tuition-free college prep charter school located on the south side of downtown San Antonio. Royal offers an innovative and next generation of the STEM school model called STREAMS-360. The STREAMS-360 is a whole child approach to education that integrates Science, Technology, Reading, Engineering, Arts, Math and Social Emotional Learning through project-based learning. Currently, Royal is accepting applications for students in grades K through 9 while adding one grade each year until serving K through 12. RoyalTX.org 13
Ford Holiday River Parade 2023
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Elves on Shelves
University of the Incarnate Word
Since 1986, UIW has held its annual Light the Way event, where the campus is lit up by a million Christmas lights. As UIW’s gift to the community, the public is invited to come out to the campus to take pictures and enjoy this cherished holiday tradition. Visit nightly through January 6. UIW.edu
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A Christmas Carol
LandShark Bar & Grill
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How the Grinch Stole Christmas
Eva's Heroes
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Margaritaville, LandShark Bar & Grill, and their related brands are among the most unique and exciting restaurant, bar, merchandise and entertainment destinations in the world! They offer more than food, drinks and t-shirts, and are committed to creating the Margaritaville Experience for every one of their guests, every time they visit. SanAntonio.LandSharkBarandGrill.com
Eva’s Heroes enriches the lives of teens and adults with intellectual special needs through a variety of programs. Participants can socialize and create lasting memories with their peers while enjoying the unique experiences San Antonio has to offer. From art night to Broadway shows, summer camps and dancing with friends, there is something for everyone! EvasHeroes.org
Ford Holiday River Parade 2023
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Choo Choo Christmas
Cavender Cares
Established in 2021, Cavender Cares is the philanthropic heart of Cavender Auto Group, dedicated to giving back to the San Antonio community. With a mission rooted in generosity and making a difference, they have soared to new heights, donating over half a million dollars and making impactful partnerships with over 200 city organizations. Cavender Auto Group and Cavender Grande Ford are honored to be part of the Ford Holiday River Parade, contributing to the holiday spirit and showcasing their unwavering commitment to the beautiful city of San Antonio! CavendarCares.com
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Charlie & Friends
Blue Cares
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The iconic Charlie Brown Christmas Tree and the Peanuts gang kick off the holiday season. On the float are the VP of Dailey Wells Communication, CJ Hijazi, and Director of Outreach for Blue Cares, Jessica Vidal, along with past recipients of the Blue Santa program. BlueCaresICare.com
Llama’s Holiday Drama
San Antonio Gardenia Fine Arts Club
The San Antonio Gardenia Fine Arts Club was founded in 1960 to further interest in fine arts and promote friendship within the membership. The organization awards a fine arts scholarship each month to deserving fine arts students who graduate from within Bexar County high schools and remain in San Antonio to attend college. SocietyTexas.com/tag/san-antonio-gardenia-club/
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Floating in a Winter Wonderland
Choose from Downtown or Museum Reach route. Duration: 50 minutes Times: Departs every 30 minutes, 6:30 pm – 9:00 pm Dates: Refer to website for route departures
SCAN TO BUY TICKETS Come down to the Downtown or Museum Reach routes along the historic River Walk for an unforgettable holiday experience! Float under a canopy of warm, twinkling lights on trees and bridges. Enjoy delicious hot chocolate and holiday music surrounded by your loved ones.
GORIOCRUISES.COM
TICKET INCLUDES: • 50-minute cruise • Hot chocolate • Holiday music • Sarape blanket for additional fee
@GORIOCRUISES
Ford Holiday River Parade 2023
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Peppa’s Muddy Puddles Christmas
Fiesta Flambeau® Parade
The Fiesta Flambeau Parade, a highlight of Fiesta San Antonio, originated as a unique night event illuminated by torches and candles. It was conceptualized by engineer Reynolds Andricks, and later expanded with the help of festival impresario William Petmecky. Today, it is a celebrated spectacle with 200+ entries, drawing 750,000 spectators and over 1.5 million viewers via broadcast and live stream. Renowned worldwide, it has earned prestigious awards, becoming the city's top event during the 11-day Fiesta San Antonio. Flambeau.org
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Frosty The Snowman
Taco Cabana
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Taco Cabana is proud of its industry leadership position in Mexican-inspired culinary flavors and taste. TC has a delicious variety for breakfast, lunch and dinner, including tacos, burritos, fajitas, quesadillas, flautas, enchiladas, Cabana Bowls®, double-crunch pizzas, fresh salsas and a wide variety of margaritas. TC can also cater your private or business events! TacoCabana.com
The Three Wiseman
Light the World with Love
The Three Kings float reminds us that Wise Men still give. The Light the World Giving Machine, sponsored by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, is being hosted at Pearl. You, too, can give to local and global charities through a special vending machine, as you “Light the World” this season. ChurchofJesusChrist.org/comeuntochrist/light-the-world/giving-machines 18
It's in the cards... San Antonio's Famous Night Parade
Date: 04/27/24 Vanguard—7:15 Parade—7:40 Theme—Lotsa Loteria Fiesta Flambeau Parade Association, Inc. FLAMBEAU.ORG
Honored twice as the Best Parade among applicants in their budget category by the International Festivals and Events Association
Ford Holiday River Parade 2023
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The Snow Queen
Visit San Antonio - River Walk Royalty
The River Walk Royalty represent the crown jewel of San Antonio—the River Walk—at many events throughout the year. The money they raise to be on the Royalty Court goes to fund scholarships. To find out more about year-round events on the River Walk, visit TheSanAntonioRiverWalk.com.
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Holiday Miracle on 34th
Texas Capital Bank
Texas Capital is the premier full-service financial services firm headquartered in Texas. The firm delivers customized solutions through established commercial banking, consumer banking, investment banking and wealth management capabilities. Texas Capital has offices in San Antonio, Dallas, Austin, Houston and Fort Worth. TexasCapitalBank.com
The 12 Days of Christmas
BOMA
The San Antonio Building Owners and Managers Association, also known as BOMA San Antonio, is celebrating their 100th year! Founded in 1923, they serve both the commercial real estate industry and the community. Their mission is to represent and promote the interests of the commercial real estate industry with effective leadership and advocacy through the collection, analysis and dissemination of information, and through professional development actively and responsibly. BOMASanAntonio.org 20
See what events the San Antonio River Walk has in store for 2024.
TheSanAntonioRiverWalk.com
Ford Holiday River Parade 2023
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Arthur Celebrates Christmas
PuroClean of San Antonio NorthWest
PuroClean of San Antonio Northwest is the one-stop shop for all things restoration and re-construction for residential and commercial properties in Northwest San Antonio and New Braunfels. Named PuroClean’s Franchise of the Year out of over 350 franchisees, they have exemplary community service and support for residents suffering water, mold or fire damage. For a free estimate, contact them at 210-610-5353. PuroClean.com
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Steadfast Tin Soldier
Rey Feo Scholarship Foundation
The mission of the Rey Feo Scholarship Foundation is to financially support the aspiration of deserving high school seniors to obtain a college/university/trade education regardless of race, color, religion or gender. The Rey Feo Scholarship Foundation is a 501(c)3 nonprofit, non-political organization established in 1947. ReyFeoScholarship.com
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Elmo Decks the Halls
SeaWorld San Antonio
SeaWorld’s annual Christmas Celebration returns with millions of twinkling lights, amazing animal encounters, special holiday festivities and so much more through January 2! Experience "Oh Wondrous Night," a one-of-a-kind live stage show starring a cast of singers, dancers, whimsical puppets and live animals to tell the story of the Nativity as seen through the eyes of the animals who experienced it. SeaWorldSanAntonio.com
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Ford Holiday River Parade 2023
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Stories & Sounds of Christmas
Texas Cavaliers
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I’ll be Gnome for Christmas
Drury Plaza
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Since 1926, the Texas Cavaliers have been part of San Antonio’s culture and Fiesta® celebrations. With more than 600 business, civic and community leader members, the Texas Cavaliers Charitable Foundation has given more than $9 million to local children’s charities in San Antonio. TexasCavaliers.org
Drury Hotels is the official hotel for the 2023 Ford Holiday River Parade. The Drury family started Drury Hotels 50 years ago, and it remains family owned and operated. Recognized as best in customer service satisfaction for 17 years by JD Power, Drury Hotels invites you to “Travel Happy” at any of their 10 hotels in San Antonio or 150 throughout the United States. DruryHotels.com
Little Drummer Boy
Elmer's Air Conditioning and Plumbing
Elmer's Air Conditioning and Plumbing is San Antonio's trusted home services provider. They deliver top-quality HVAC and plumbing solutions, ensuring year-round comfort. Their skilled technicians provide reliable, friendly services. Experience excellence with Elmer's—your go-to experts! Elmer.com
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TheSanAntonioRiverWalk.com
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Bluey's Holiday
SEA LIFE San Antonio
SEA LIFE San Antonio is part of the largest family of aquariums in the world. Opened in 2021, it is downtown San Antonio’s only immersive underwater aquarium experience. SEA LIFE San Antonio is located at the Shops at Rivercenter, and features 10 interactive exhibits, thousands of sea creatures, the city’s only 180-degree ocean tunnel and more. From its origins in 1979 in Scotland, SEA LIFE is in locations throughout North America and in countries all around the world. VisitSeaLife.com/san-antonio
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Paddington & Christmas Magic
Hampton Inn and Suites
Spend the holidays with family and friends, and experience all the magic that is the River Walk while enjoying a complimentary hot breakfast, balcony suites and River Walk views from the rooftop-heated pool. Whether you are looking for the perfect suite to catch up on work, a spot for the family to come together after exploring, a place to accommodate your four-legged family members or somewhere to unwind after a romantic night on the town, they have got all the amenities you need. Hilton.com
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'Twas the Night Before Christmas
South Texas Ford Dealers
Ford is dedicated to building great products—to strengthening their business to the benefit of their communities. This is the foundation of Ford’s success, which helped them become a global automotive industry leader on six continents. The South Texas Ford Dealers are honored to join together and bring this event to you, and hope you and your family have a Happy Holiday Season. TexasFord.com
Holiday Bumper Boats Courtesy of Green Acres Golf & Games
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Ford Holiday River Parade 2023
holiday Traditions Begin on thE River Walk
The San Antonio River Walk is a special place to celebrate yearround, but when the lights come on during the holiday season, it becomes a magical wonderland where treasured memories are made. Families and friends return year after year to experience the splendor of San Antonio’s most iconic lighting extravaganza. The World-Famous Holiday Lights on the River Walk
November 24 to January 7 5:30pm to 8:00am, nightly
The River Lighting Ceremony on November 24 during the Ford Holiday River Parade marks the beginning of one of the largest free, dazzling holiday light displays in America—the Holiday Lights on the San Antonio River Walk. From dusk 'til dawn, you can stroll along the banks of the River Walk and take in the glow of more than 100,000 holiday lights dripping from the cypress trees. It is a gorgeous sight you can enjoy from plenty of outdoor dining spots. New this year, spectacular uplighting was added to 50 cypress trees, and underwater lights were installed to shine upwards and illuminate several footbridges. And the island in the grotto at the end of the Convention Center extension blooms with 5 to 6-foot lighted flowers, whimsical butterflies and more. Free to attend. TheSanAntonioRiverWalk.com 26
TheSanAntonioRiverWalk.com
Ford Holiday Boat Caroling
November 30 to December 23, nightly
“Jingle Bells” and other songs of the season drift through the air and down the river with the annual Ford Holiday Boat Caroling. Beginning and ending at the International Center Building, each boat makes a lap around downtown. You can either book a boat for your whole family, friends or colleagues, or purchase an individual ticket. Carolers get creative with mariachi groups, bell ringers and full bands, so sing and dance along from a table at one of the riverside restaurants —it will surely get you in the holiday spirit! For times and tickets, visit TheSanAntonioRiverWalk.com. Holiday Lights River Cruises
November 28 to December 23
Experience the spectacular holiday lights along the River Walk from a uniquely different perspective—by cruising under the colorful strands dangling from cypress trees while listening to holiday music and sipping delicious hot cocoa! Two 50-minute GO RIO cruise options provide the opportunity to enjoy the beautiful lighting displays along the Downtown River Walk and through the Museum Reach. For times and tickets, visit GoRio.com.
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Ford Holiday River Parade 2023
Museum Reach Lights Tour
December 3 to 18 Sundays and Mondays Every half hour from 6:30 to 9:00pm
Depart from the Thompson San Antonio Hotel, and cruise along the Museum Reach where sparkling white lights create a true winter wonderland. Pass through the Lock and Dam and up to the Pearl District. Downtown Reach Lights Tour
November 28 to December 23 Tuesdays to Saturdays Every half hour from 6:30 to 9:00pm
Depart from Zocca in the Westin Riverwalk Hotel, and see sights such as the Shops at Rivercenter and Arneson River Theatre. Ford Fiesta de las Luminarias
December 2 to 17 Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays at dusk
More than 2,000 Mexican Christmas lanterns light up the night during three weekends in December along the River Walk. Traditional luminarias, candles set in sand inside small bags, date back to 16th century Spain where they signified lighting the way for the Christian Holy Family’s journey to Bethlehem. These beautiful luminarias, combined with the colorful glow from the holiday lights overhead and the brilliantly lit cypress trees, create a picture-perfect display along the Downtown River Walk. Fun fact: Fiesta de Las Luminarias was the first big lighting project along the River Walk, beginning in 1968 and echoing the beginnings of the wonderful holiday lights you see today. Free to attend. TheSanAntonioRiverWalk.com
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TheSanAntonioRiverWalk.com
River of Lights on the Museum Reach
November 24 to January 7 5:30pm to 8:30am nightly
The famous River Walk Holiday Lights continue upriver to the Museum Reach, where the San Antonio River Authority has strung their own lighting displays through this quiet stretch of the river. Along the way, you will find enchanting displays of illuminated trees, and you can even catch the Light Show at the Lock and Dam, when the Christmas Pixel Tree turns into a dancing display synced to your favorite holiday tunes. Free to attend. SARiverAuthority.org. The River of Lights Kickoff Event
Holiday River Walk Artisan Show
December 8 to 10 Friday and Saturday: 11:00am to 11:00pm Sunday: 11:00am to 8:00pm The Holiday River Walk Artisan Show is the perfect spot to conquer your holiday shopping list. Head to the River Walk Extension (near the Chamber of Commerce and the Shops at Rivercenter) to shop from more than 40 artisan booths. You will find one-of-a-kind gifts, including pottery, textiles, jewelry, woodwork, paintings, beadwork and more. Free to attend. TheSanAntonioRiverWalk.com
Saturday, December 9 4:00 to 8:00pm
The San Antonio River Authority has even planned a few special events for you! Stop by the Lock and Dam at 510 Brooklyn Avenue for an evening of live music, a Pixel Tree Light Show, pictures with Santa, food trucks, holiday vendors and more! It is the perfect way to celebrate the holiday season. Holly Jolly Kayaking
Saturday, December 2 6:00 to 8:00pm
In the River City, Santa does not take a sleigh. He takes a kayak! Join the fun and paddle the Museum Reach for a unique night on the river surrounded by twinkling white lights. Register for a kayak or bring your own. The Museum Reach ramp to launch is at 220 Newell Avenue. For details, visit SARiverAuthority.org.
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thank YOU SPONSORS
Ford Holiday River Parade 2023
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