It may not always look or feel like a winter wonderland here in central Texas, but there is no doubt that winter is the coolest time of year.
As San Antonioians we like to complain about how hot it gets here during the summer, but the part we forget to highlight is that it also doesn’t get too cold here in winter. While our more northerly neighbors are regularly seeing freezing temperatures and snowfall, even our coldest days here are surprisingly mild. When you look out the window and see the sun is shining you could be fooled into thinking it is a nice warm spring day even in mid-December.
You just never know what it will be like this year. The weather could be warm and breezy or even cold and rainy but, unlike other parts of the U.S., it is rarely snowing or freezing.
Around here there’s no need to get bundled up with coats and earmuffs. No need to pay attention to the treads on the soles of those fashionable winter boots, it rarely freezes long enough for ice or snow to stick around. So, grab a light jacket and get out to enjoy some holiday fun. Savor the cool, but not cold, winter weather by embracing the outdoors.
Get into the Christmas spirit by strolling through the already stunningly beautiful Botanical Gardens for their winter event: Lightscape. Enjoy the sounds of carolers singing in the caves at Natural Bridge Caverns, or walk mitten-in-mitten with your love down the River of Lights on the Riverwalk. Even Santa stops by San Antonio to defrost each year. You’ll be able to find him at several different attractions and events across the city including the highly decorated Santa’s Railroad Wonderland at the Texas Transportation Museum.
Instead of shopping online or heading into a big air-conditioned store, you can buy from local craftsmen and shops at open-air pop-up markets. Bring the entire family because many markets do special holiday-themed events. These are great places to spend time with others and find the perfect holiday gifts and treats. You can check out the Pearl Holiday Night Market or stop by the Christmas Markets in La Villita. As you walk around from booth to booth you will no doubt find a shop selling warm holiday cheer. Fill up a mug of hot cocoa or coffee to warm your hands as well as your insides. Don’t forget to get your tamales too!
If it is feeling a little too cold for some folks, try finding festive holiday lights from the cozy warmth of your car. Many streets and neighborhoods show off their Christmas spirit by setting up marvelous light displays in their front yard. You can load the family in the car and venture out on your own or head to one of the mile-long drive-through light experiences. Whichever way you decide to go, pack plenty of snacks and warm drinks.
Even without snow or pine trees, city streets still look festive. With twinkling lights on the houses and trees, you don’t miss the more iconic triangular shape of pine trees. The Live Oak trees are definitely not meant to withstand snow and even through winter, they keep their green leaves. But wrap these familiar trees in glowing lights and you won’t even need to add a star to the top to capture the beauty of our Texas Christmas.
With the twinkling lights in the oak trees and the stars shining bright on iconic Texas-sized cowboy boots, we’ve found our southern Christmas charm here in San Antonio without snow-topped trees or bundled-up skiers. There are so many ways to get out and enjoy this holiday season. However you decide to celebrate, make sure to make the most of the cool Texas winter.
