SAN ANTONIO — Hemisfair and the San Antonio Parks Foundation are launching a brand-new tradition this year: Holidays at Hemisfair presented by H-E-B, a season-long celebration that will transform Civic Park into a festive destination throughout the holiday season.

For the first time since its full completion, Civic Park at Hemisfair will serve as a centerpiece for holiday gatherings, offering ice skating, markets, movies, cultural celebrations, and family-friendly events in the heart of downtown San Antonio.

Ice Skating at Civic Park

A key highlight of this year’s festivities is the debut of an outdoor ice skating rink, opening November 28, 2025 through January 3, 2026, created in partnership with San Antonio Parks & Recreation. The rink will be surrounded by sparkling lights, music, and holiday décor.

Skate the City – Holidays at Hemisfair
📍 Civic Park at Hemisfair
📅 November 28 – January 3
🎟️ Admission: $15 for all ages (skate rental included)
Tickets available online only

Standard Hours

• Mondays: Closed

• Tuesday–Friday: 5–9 p.m.

• Saturdays: 12–9 p.m.

• Sundays: 12–9 p.m.

Holiday & School Break Hours

• Dec. 19–23, 26–30: 12–9 p.m.

• Dec. 24–25: Closed

• Dec. 31 & Jan. 1: 12–9 p.m.

Hemisfair Historic Home Lighting Ceremony

The holiday season officially begins November 29, 2025, when Hemisfair hosts its Historic Home Lighting Ceremony. The charming homes on E. Nueva Street will be illuminated and decorated by Hemisfair’s holiday partners, bringing a nostalgic, storybook feel to the district.

Movies by Moonlight: Holiday Edition

Families can enjoy classic holiday films under the stars at Civic Park on select Mondays in December, including:

• Elf – December 2

• The Polar Express – December 9

• How the Grinch Stole Christmas – December 16

• Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer – December 23

As an added bonus, free parking is available Tuesday evenings at any City-owned surface lot or garage.

Holiday Markets at Hemisfair

Hemisfair will host multiple opportunities to shop small and support local makers.

Holidays at Hemisfair Gift Market – November 29–30
Presented by Galaxy Productions and SA Local Market, this two-day market runs from noon to 9 p.m.

Weekend Holiday Markets – December 6, 13, and 14
Local vendors will offer handmade goods, art, gifts, and more, with flexible hours perfect for holiday shopping.

Holiday in the Garden

On Saturday, December 20, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Hemisfair will host Holiday in the Garden at Yanaguana Garden. Sponsored by H-E-B, the event celebrates Christmas, Kwanzaa, and Hanukkah with live music, cultural activities, crafts, treats, and family-friendly fun.