A San Antonio Christmas

San Antonians have developed their own unique mix and take on traditions from their family heritage and culture.
In SA, Christmas isn't Christmas without tamales. Families gather together to make them in assembly line fashion, one spooning masa on corn husks, one slathering on tamale filling, either pork, jalapeno bean or chicken, one sealing the wrapped filling in the husks, etc. Then, of course, there's those of us who love tamales but wouldn't dare attempt the daunting task of homemade ones. We stand in line, sometimes for hours to buy them. SA has many restaurants famous for their exceptional tamales but the corner store where we buy tortillas and barbacoa is often the best source.
 





The Christmas lights on the River Walk are always impressive but a local San Antonio custom during the month of December is a visit to the





Windcrest neighborhood "Light Up," an annual contest for the best yard light display. They put out a map each year outlining the decorated homes.




2005 Contest Winner







An unusual tradition is the Blessing of the Animals. A 31-year custom in SA, a priest from Mission San Jose blesses animals on a stage in Market Square.








All animals are welcome from snakes to llamas!

























Held in early December, this festive event also involves strolling mariachis and of course a meeting with Santa Claus AND Pancho Claus.






So, San Antonio, where Christmas is only one of our reasons to celebrate, invites you to visit us.

And here at Hidden Valley our campers get into the spirit of the holidays also. Ya'll come see us.
We'll show you how to get the most out of your visit and provide maps, parking info and the best routes through downtown.
SEE YOU SOON!