Support Us Button Widget

Santa’s Ranch + Christmas light guide in San Antonio, TX

santasranch-2-WP Resize

We hope your holidays are merry + bright. | 📸: @thedadbodstrong

Giddy up and be merry, San Antonio. Santa’s Ranch is now open and we can’t wait to head on over to San Marcos for one of our favorite drive-thru light displays this holiday season. We’ve got you covered with all the info you need:

  • The display features over 1.5 million, custom made lights.
  • The ranch is located an estimated 40 minutes away from SA — but, well worth the drive if you ask us.
  • Feeling a bit peckish? Make a pit stop at the ranch’s concession stand for some homemade kettle corn, roasted pecans + other holiday snacks.
  • Having trouble finding the entrance? Just look for the 50 ft tall Christmas tree.

While we’re in the holiday spirit, here are ten places to see Christmas lights this year:

Alamo Lights | 300 Alamo Plaza | Free

Two birds, one stonebring those out-of-towners to the famous mission + see the grounds illuminated by an impressive array of lights.

Lights Alive! | 5931 Roft Rd | $35+ per vehicle

Enjoy this musically-synchronized light show experience from the comfort of your car at Alamo Ranch.

Old West Christmas Light Fest | 242 State Hwy 46 W Unit C | $10+

Yeehaw — Experience a holiday light festival with a rustic charm at the picturesque Enchanted Springs Ranch in Boerne.

A Wonderland Christmas | 5223 David Edwards Dr. | $13+

Looking for an ultra-accessible holiday experience? Head on over to Morgan’s Wonderland for a spectacular light display + photos with an inclusion trained Santa.

River Walk Holiday Lights | Downtown | Free

While on the more touristy side, the River Walk never disappoints in delivering a holiday light display like no other.

Pro tip: Make the most out of your visit by checking out our downtown bar crawl guide.

santas-ranch-5

These holiday lights are groovy, baby. | 📸: @santasranch

SeaWorld San Antonio | 10500 SeaWorld Dr. | $45+

On the top of our list for largest holiday displays is SeaWorld with over 9 million twinkling lights adorning the theme park.

The Light Park | 1 Retama Pkwy. | $38+

Featuring a 700 ft animated LED tunnel, this drive-through holiday experience is a must-visit in Selma.

Christmas at the Caverns | 26495 Natural Bridge Caverns Rd. | $15+

Marvel at the 30 ft Christmas tree and then take a stroll through the 1/3 mile trail of lights. Bonus: snap a pic with Santa “Spelunker” Claus.

Elf Acres | 1475 Grosenbacher Rd | $30+

Pay a visit to Santa’s Village and sing along to Christmas tunes in your car as you drive through a one-mile holiday extravaganza.

Light the Way | 4301 Broadway | Free

While the official lighting celebration might be over, you can still head on over to the University of the Incarnate Word to see the dazzling array of lights adorning the campus.

We’re beaming with excitement for these holiday lights. Tag us in your photos on Instagram at @satxtoday and let us know what other hidden gems there are in San Antonio for great holiday light views.

More from SATXtoday
Who’s hungry?
Touchdown — We’re rounding up some spots offering freebies + super(bowl) deals.
Help conserve water and lower the cost of your bills with a rainwater collection system in your backyard.
Giddy up and get ready for this annual agriculture expo.
We asked and you answered with your favorite local businesses.
Make your voice heard, nominate your favorite local biz and they could win SATXtoday’s Best Competition.
Have an old car battery in the garage? Read about how to properly get read of it and other items.
Is your New Year’s resolution to be your own boss? Then take some advice from some of San Antonio’s business owners.
We sit down with Daniel to talk about the past, current, and future of The DoSeum.