Where is the Best Place to Go During Thanksgiving in San Antonio?
Where is the Best Place to Go During Thanksgiving in San Antonio?
Hello and happy (almost) Thanksgiving! My name is Anthony Sharp – a U.S. Air Force veteran turned San Antonio Realtor®. I'm here to share where to go during Thanksgiving in San Antonio so you can make the most of the holiday.
San Antonio offers something special for everyone, especially military families. Whether you're new in town due to PCS orders or a long-time local, let's explore the best spots and experiences that will make your Turkey Day memorable.
Planning a holiday move or have PCS orders to San Antonio? Let's make it easy – schedule a free PCS consultation with me. In 15 minutes, we'll map out a smooth game plan so you can enjoy your Thanksgiving without stress.
Why San Antonio Is Great for Thanksgiving
San Antonio isn't just "Military City USA" in name – it genuinely embraces its military community year-round. Thanksgiving in San Antonio brings out the warmth of this city in big ways.
The weather is comfortably mild with cool mornings and pleasant afternoons. This allows families to get outside for a post-feast walk or play football at the park. More importantly, the community goes above and beyond to make everyone feel at home.
One example is Mission Thanksgiving at JBSA-Fort Sam Houston. Local families volunteer to host young soldiers in their homes for Thanksgiving dinner. For many service members, it's their first major holiday away from home, and San Antonians step up to give them a family atmosphere.
As a veteran who's been in those boots, I can't overstate how much this gesture means. It perfectly captures why this city is so special – neighbors here treat you like family.
Churches, VFW halls, and on-base support groups often organize potlucks and gatherings. If you can't travel home for the holiday, you won't be alone. This community has your back.
San Antonio's huge military population means you're surrounded by folks who "get it." About 1 in 10 adults here is a veteran, so there's built-in camaraderie. Bottom line: San Antonio combines big-city amenities with small-town heart.
Top Family-Friendly Spots & Events
The San Antonio River Walk
The day after Thanksgiving, downtown comes alive with the Ford Holiday River Parade. This spectacular nighttime event features 100,000+ twinkling lights and illuminated floats gliding along the River Walk.
This 44th annual parade (Nov. 28, 2025) officially kicks off the holiday season. The event includes a tree-lighting ceremony, live music, and even Santa floating by. Families line the banks to watch the magic.
Get tickets in advance or find a free viewing spot early. Even beyond parade night, strolling the River Walk under the holiday lights is pure joy.
Military Appreciation Events
San Antonio's gratitude for service members shines in November. Around Veterans Day, the city hosts "Celebrate America's Military" festivities and free family days at places like the Alamo and SeaWorld.
Many local attractions continue to offer military discounts or freebies over the holiday weekend. Check out Hemisfair Park, the San Antonio Zoo, or the Witte Museum. Often kids get in free with a military ID.
Operation Homefront provides free Thanksgiving meal kits to military families in need. The respect and support here are real.
Turkey Trots & Outdoor Fun
Start your Thanksgiving morning with the San Antonio Food Bank Turkey Trot 5K. This annual run/walk on Thanksgiving Day supports local families in need and is open to all ages.
It's become a tradition for many military families here. If running isn't your thing, consider a casual hike at Government Canyon State Natural Area or Eisenhower Park. The weather usually cooperates, making outdoor activities perfect before the big feast.
Local Parades & Community Festivals
Beyond the big River Parade, several communities host events. The Holidazzle festival in nearby Schertz features the Festival of Angels lighted night parade the first weekend of December.
Cibolo combines its annual holiday parade and tree lighting the Saturday after Thanksgiving. The event includes floats, a vendor market, and Santa's arrival. These small-town events are super welcoming and help you feel connected.
Best Neighborhoods to Explore
Schertz and Cibolo
These suburbs northeast of San Antonio sit right by Randolph AFB. They exemplify small-town holiday charm. During Thanksgiving week, you'll find genuine community spirit.
Neighbors often organize block-party potlucks, and streets twinkle with Christmas lights. In Cibolo, the historic Main Street area is quaint and walkable – perfect for an after-dinner stroll.
From a real estate perspective, Schertz and Cibolo are known for family-friendly neighborhoods and affordability. They boast top-rated schools, low crime, and many newer homes in the low $300s. No wonder they're popular with military families.
New Braunfels
About 30 minutes north, this German-heritage town is still lively around Thanksgiving. Take a stroll in the historic downtown or visit Gruene for holiday market days. You might catch live music at Texas' oldest dance hall.
Boerne
This Hill Country gem is about 40 minutes northwest. Boerne's Main Street comes alive right after Thanksgiving with Dickens on Main. This two-night festival draws thousands for faux-snow, carolers, and shop specials.
Even if you miss the festival, Boerne's small-town charm makes it worthwhile. Great cafes and boutiques line the streets.
Hill Country Day Trips
Fredericksburg
This quaint German town is about 1–1.5 hours north and fantastic during Thanksgiving weekend. Picture strolling Main Street with Christmas lights up and wine-tasting at vineyards in the afternoons.
Fredericksburg hosts Holiday Trade Days shopping market the weekend after Thanksgiving. Hundreds of vendors sell antiques, crafts, and gifts. Many wineries are open and less crowded than during peak season.
Hill Country State Parks
Want to burn off Thanksgiving calories? Consider a day hike at Lost Maples State Natural Area. Late November offers cool, crisp air and possibly some bright orange maple leaves.
Enchanted Rock State Natural Area offers an amazing granite dome hike. The views from the top are worth the climb. Check park websites for reservations, as holiday weekends can be popular.
Johnson City & Marble Falls
Johnson City hosts the Lights Spectacular starting Thanksgiving weekend. Over a million lights drape the courthouse and trees – it's free and delightful for kids.
Marble Falls has the Walkway of Lights along Lake Marble Falls. Making a loop through these towns can be a full day trip with plenty of wow moments.
Local Thanksgiving Dining
Raul Jimenez Thanksgiving Dinner
This amazing San Antonio tradition happens every Thanksgiving Day. The Jimenez family and volunteers host a massive free dinner for anyone in need at the downtown convention center.
It's one of the largest community Thanksgiving dinners in the nation. In 2024, they served about 25,000 people with 4,000 volunteers. This year they're planning for 29,000 meals.
You can volunteer or simply share a meal. This event showcases what Thanksgiving is all about: people coming together, giving thanks, and helping others.
Restaurants Open on Thanksgiving
If you prefer dining out, you've got plenty of choices. Many hotels and downtown restaurants host special Thanksgiving meals.
Hotel Emma at the Pearl offers a gourmet Thanksgiving feast buffet. On the River Walk, spots like Ambler at Hotel Contessa offer multi-course Thanksgiving menus overlooking the river.
For family-friendly options, Bill Miller BBQ and Luby's often offer take-home Thanksgiving packs or dine-in plates. Be sure to reserve early – spots fill up quickly.
Travel & Lodging Tips
Booking Accommodations
If you need a hotel, book early and look for military family discounts. Many San Antonio hotels offer special military rates. Bring your ID at check-in.
There's also on-base lodging at Fort Sam Houston, Lackland, and Randolph. Check availability well in advance as these fill quickly.
Navigating Travel
San Antonio International Airport is relatively small and easy to navigate. Arrive early for flights – security lines get longer with holiday crowds.
Driving in? I-35 between San Antonio and Austin can get jammed, especially Wednesday before and Sunday after Thanksgiving. Try to travel at off-peak hours if possible.
Holiday House-Hunting Advantages
Less Competition
Most buyers pause their search during the holidays. That means you'll face a lot less competition. The frantic bidding wars of spring and summer cool way down.
You might be the only offer on a house that would've gotten multiple offers earlier in the year. San Antonio has about 5.9 months of inventory, meaning plenty of homes to choose from.
Motivated Sellers
Sellers who keep homes listed during the holidays often need to sell. They're generally very motivated to negotiate. You'll see more price reductions and concessions in Q4.
Your ability to close during the holiday season could be their gift. They might return the favor in sale price or by paying some closing costs.
Year-End Incentives
Builders don't want excess inventory rolling into the next fiscal year. November and December are when home builders roll out incentives.
Think discounted upgrades, appliance packages, or temporary mortgage rate buy-downs. Many builders are advertising they'll pay points to lower your rate or cover closing fees.
VA Loan Timing Benefits
Quick Processing
VA appraisers and underwriters aren't as swamped in late fall. We often see VA loans closing in 30 days or less this time of year. If you go under contract around Thanksgiving, you could be a homeowner by Christmas.
BAH Advantages
Basic Allowance for Housing rates typically adjust every January 1st. If you're buying in late fall, you'll know what next year's BAH will be.
The house you buy in November might push the upper end of this year's BAH but be comfortable within next year's. You're locking in a home price now while your income is about to increase.
Seller Concessions
Sellers are often willing to contribute to closing costs or buy down your interest rate. This can be huge for VA buyers who want to keep savings in the bank.
VA loans already allow zero down payment. With seller concessions, you could bring very little to closing.
San Antonio Market Update
Stable Prices
The market has leveled off in 2025 in a healthy way. The median home price is around $309,000, virtually unchanged from a year ago. After 2020-2022's wild ride, this stability is a blessing.
San Antonio remains one of the most affordable big cities in Texas. You can feel confident the pricing is fair and grounded in reality.
Balanced Inventory
We have about 5.9 months of inventory, meaning enough houses for buyers to have options. Homes spend an average of 78 days on market before selling.
This gives everyone time to make decisions thoughtfully. You don't have to make an offer the hour a home lists.
How I Help Military Families
PCS-Proof Home Search
I coordinate closely with your military schedule. If you're only in town for short house-hunting leave, I'll maximize every minute with back-to-back showings.
If you can't be here in person, I offer 360° virtual tours and video walk-throughs. I've helped many families buy sight-unseen with confidence.
VA Loan Expertise
As a Certified Military Relocation Professional and veteran, I know the ins and outs of VA loans. I'll ensure any offer we make is VA-loan friendly.
I've built a network of VA-savvy lenders who work magic on tight timelines. They even have closing cost discounts for vets.
Timeline Coordination
Need to line up a lease-back because your report date is before closing? I'll handle that coordination. I pride myself on planning PCS timelines meticulously, including contingency plans.
Over Thanksgiving and Christmas periods, I make sure you're not left in limbo. Consider me your move concierge.
Settling-In Support
My help doesn't stop at closing. I provide all clients with a "Welcome Home" kit including trusted local contractors. Many are veteran-owned businesses I know personally.
If you close during the holidays, I've been known to drop off a Christmas tree or pie. Need recommendations on schools or pediatricians? Call or text me anytime.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best Thanksgiving events in San Antonio?
The Ford Holiday River Parade on Nov. 28, 2025, is a must-see with 100,000+ lights and floats. The San Antonio Food Bank Turkey Trot 5K on Thanksgiving morning is a family tradition. The Raul Jimenez Thanksgiving Dinner downtown serves thousands free meals.
Is San Antonio good for military families during Thanksgiving?
Absolutely! San Antonio is "Military City USA" with programs like Mission Thanksgiving hosting soldiers for dinner. About 1 in 10 adults here is a veteran, creating built-in camaraderie and support.
What day trips can I take from San Antonio during Thanksgiving?
Fredericksburg offers wine tasting and holiday shopping. Boerne hosts Dickens on Main festival. New Braunfels and Gruene have historic downtowns and live music. Johnson City features the Lights Spectacular with a million lights.
Are there good neighborhoods near military bases?
Schertz and Cibolo sit near Randolph AFB with family-friendly neighborhoods and homes in the low $300s. They feature top-rated schools, low crime, and strong community spirit perfect for military families.
Is Thanksgiving a good time to buy a house?
Yes! You'll face less competition, meet motivated sellers, and find year-end builder incentives. VA loans process faster in late fall, and you can lock in next year's higher BAH rates.
Happy Thanksgiving, and welcome to San Antonio – I'm truly thankful to be part of your journey!
– Anthony Sharp, USAF Veteran & Your San Antonio Military Relocation Expert
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