Ford Holiday River Parade Watch Party at Hotel Contessa at Hotel Contessa – San Antonio, TX

Ford Holiday River Parade & Lighting Ceremony at Hotel Contessa

Friday, November 28, 2025
Pre-Party Celebration | 5:30-7:30 PM
Tree Lighting Ceremony | 6:30 PM
Parade Begins | 7:00 PM (Estimated to reach Hotel Contessa between 7:25–7:45 PM)

✨ Celebrate a Beloved San Antonio Tradition

Experience the magic of the Ford Holiday River Parade and Lighting Ceremony from one of the most iconic viewing spots on the River Walk — Hotel Contessa.

Enjoy festive pre-parade entertainment, twinkling holiday décor, live mariachi and student ensemble, and complimentary hot cocoa and holiday treats as the city lights up for the season.

️ Ticket Options

General Seating – $50 per person

• Assigned chair on the River Level for prime parade viewing
• Access to Pre-Parade Festivities and hotel amenities
• Includes complimentary hot cocoa and holiday treats
• Access to indoor restrooms and bar service

Does Not Include:

• Valet or self-parking (see notes below)
• Food or alcoholic beverages (available for purchase at Ambler)

Front-Row Seating – $65 per person

• First-row chair closest to the River Walk
• Access to Pre-Parade Festivities and hotel amenities
• Complimentary hot cocoa and holiday treats

Does Not Include:

• Valet or self-parking
• Food or alcoholic beverages (available for purchase at Ambler)

Marriage Island VIP Seating – $95 per person

• Premium seating on Marriage Island with unobstructed views
• Includes one alcoholic beverage, upgraded chair, and VIP access
• Complimentary hot cocoa and holiday treats
• Access to indoor restrooms and bar service

Does Not Include:

• Additional food or beverage purchases beyond first drink

Pre-Parade Festivities (Free for Ticket Holders & Hotel Guests)

5:30–7:30 PM | River Level
Celebrate before the parade with:

• Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony on the River Terrace (~6:30PM)
• Live Mariachi by Azteca De America and CAST Schools Student Ensemble
• Photo opportunities with Santa
• Holiday Facepainting
• Complimentary hot cocoa and holiday treats
• Crafting station and family-friendly entertainment

Parking Information

• Valet parking is reserved for overnight hotel guests and VIPs only.
• No general event parking will be available on-site.
• Guests are strongly encouraged to use rideshare or public parking garages/lots near the hotel.

Add-On: Adults-Only VIP Terrace Party (21+) – Limited Availability

Upgrade your parade experience with access to the exclusive second-floor terrace overlooking the River Walk. $85pp.

VIP Add-On Includes:

• Entry to the Adults-Only Terrace Party (21+)
• Chef-inspired appetizers (5:30–7:30 PM)
• Two handcrafted cocktails per guest + private bar
• Live holiday DJ and festive entertainment
• Express chair massages from the Spa at Hotel Contessa
• Santa hat gift
• Luxury Crafting Station
• Raffle entry for a one-night stay at Hotel Contessa in 2026

Limited parade views from terrace level. For optimal viewing, purchase a parade seat in addition to your VIP upgrade.

Important Notes & Disclaimers

• All sales are final. No refunds or exchanges.
• Seating is assigned. Guests must select their seats during purchase.
• Chairs and landscaping along the River Walk are managed by the City of San Antonio. Hotel Contessa will do its best to adjust chair placement for any obstructed views but cannot guarantee a clear view for all seating areas.
• Section J16 is located under the Presa Street Bridge and has a low clearance of 7 ft.
• Section J14 may have partial obstructions due to city landscaping.
• No outside food or beverages allowed.
• Parade arrival time is estimated; exact timing may vary.

Stay the Night

Make a weekend of it! Book your stay at Hotel Contessa for a luxurious suite experience in the heart of the River Walk, steps away from the festivities.

Book Your Stay

️ Refund Policy

All ticket sales are final. In the event of parade delay or cancellation by the City of San Antonio, tickets are non-refundable.