Illustration of Santa checking a long list at a desk with an elf while children peek around a door (River of Lights)
Christmas Lights

River of Lights

Visitors can celebrate the holiday season along the Museum Reach with festive light displays and a 30-foot musical holiday tree. Activities include playing in 100,000 pounds of real snow, riding down two snow slides, taking photos with Santa, and viewing a Holiday Animal Display. The celebration also features live musical stage performances, a holiday market, and local food trucks.

Sat, Dec 12, 2026 All ages Free.

Plan Your Visit

Hours

4PM - 8PM.

Neighborhood

Museum Reach

Food & Drink

Multiple food truck vendors will be on site with food available to purchase.

Location

San Antonio River Lock & Dam on the Museum Reach · 510 Brooklyn Ave, San Antonio, TX 78215 Get Directions

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 (5/5)

Best For

Families with children

Vibe

Festive and lively

Energy Level

Moderate

Photo Friendly

High

Weather Sensitivity

High

Tips & Advice

  • Arrive early because parking spaces near the Lock & Dam fill quickly.
  • Check street-parking signs before leaving your vehicle, since meter rules vary by location and time.
  • Consider VIA routes 5, 8, or 9, or carpool, rideshare, or walk to avoid parking hassles.
  • Bring the family ready for outdoor activities, including snow play and the two snow slides.
  • If you want to participate as a vendor, submit an application; selection is not guaranteed.

Special Events & Promotions

  • Entry is free.

Links & Contact

Run by San Antonio River Authority

Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their contact page.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this event suitable for families?

Yes, the celebration invites the whole family.

What activities are offered?

Visitors can see the lights and musical holiday tree, play in real snow, use the two snow slides, take Santa photos, view the animal display, and browse the holiday market.

Will food be available?

Food-truck vendors will be on site.

Where can I park or take public transit?

Street parking is available on Brooklyn Avenue and nearby streets, with pay-to-use lots along McCollough, Brooklyn, 8th, and 9th Streets between St. Mary’s and Broadway. VIA routes 5, 8, and 9 are convenient options.

How can I apply to be a vendor?

Food and other vendor applications are available on the event page; submitting an application does not guarantee selection.

Browse Christmas in San Antonio

Always check the official website for the most current information.

We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.

Contributors & Updates

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