The holiday season is in full swing at Pearl, and December is packed with festive experiences, family traditions, and community celebrations. Here’s your guide to everything happening this month—bookmark it, share it, and make your holiday plans at Pearl.
Events at a Glance
- Now Open: Jue Let
- Now Open: Cape Bottle Room
- Now Open: Umai Mi
- Now Open: Pearl Ice Rink
- Chanukah at Pearl
- Valero Alamo Bowl Tailgate at Pearl
- New Year’s Eve at Stable Hall
- New Year’s Eve at Sternewirth
- New Year’s Eve at Jazz, TX
- New Year’s Eve at Jue Let
- New Year’s Eve at Ladino
- New Year’s Eve Dinner at Hotel Emma
- Pullman Market’s NYE Lineup
Tree Lighting Ceremony – November 28
While technically still in November, the annual Tree Lighting Ceremony kicks off the season in a big way. This beloved event brings the community together with performances, holiday cheer, and the magical moment our iconic tree comes to life.
Plan your day with all of the details here
Pearl’s 12-Day Parade of Prizes
With the prize haul of the season officially wrapped up on December 3, we wanted to take a moment to thank everyone who entered the giveaway. By becoming a Pearl Insider, you are the first to know about new restaurants, events, enter subscriber-exclusive giveaways, receive offer codes for ticketed events, early access to seasonal merch drops, and a lot more.
Not a Pearl Insider? It’s free to join! Sign up here.
Now Open – Jue Let
Hours of operation: Monday through Sunday, 4 PM to 2 AM
Jue Let is an exciting Asian American cocktail bar created by chef Jennifer Hwa Dobbertin. It tantalizes the senses with inventive drinks and a unique blend of third-culture nostalgia, all set within a stunning two-story space that includes private karaoke rooms for an unforgettable experience. Ready to bring your friends? Share the menu with the group chat – we recommend the Divine Intervention.
Now Open: Umai Mi
Umai Mi is Chef Jason Dady’s playful take on modern Asian fare — bold flavors, bright textures & craveable bowls built for everyday eating at Pearl’s Bottling Dept. Food Hall. Think crispy, saucy, herb-packed dishes you can grab between meetings, share with friends, or enjoy before a night out at Pearl.
check out the menu
Free Photos with Santa
Capture the magic all month long!
Enjoy free photos with Santa every Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday through December 21.
Times and locations vary by date, so be sure to check the Events Calendar for the most up-to-date schedule. Note: Please bring your own camera as a photographer is not provided.
Pearl Ice Rink Now Open
November 28 through January 4
Step into the season at Pearl, where holiday magic meets our storied brewery grounds. Glide under twinkling lights, surrounded by familiar brick pathways and the spirit of a place that’s been gathering San Antonians for generations. Whether it’s date night, family time, or a festive spin just for you, the ice rink brings a classic winter moment to the heart of our historic district.
Note: For cancellations and rescheduling, please get in touch with Geoji support at this email.
get your tickets here
Free Salsa & Bachata Classes
Join us for Salsa & Bachata Nights on December 4 and December 11, from 7:00PM–9:00PM.
Get ready for an evening full of rhythm, energy, and community—and the best part? It’s completely free.
Bring your friends and get ready to dance the night away under the stars. The floor is open and the music will keep you moving all night long—don’t miss it!
Holiday Night Markets
Holiday shopping gets a touch of Pearl with Holiday Night Markets happening on:
- Wednesday, December 3
- Wednesday, December 10
- Wednesday, December 17
Stroll the grounds, sip something warm, and browse unique gifts from local makers, artisans, and small businesses.
Festive Movie Monday Lineup
Cozy up for holiday classics every Monday in December (except the 29th).
This year’s lineup features timeless favorites:
- Monday, December 1: Home Alone (1990)
- Monday, December 8: The Grinch (2018 animated film)
- Monday, December 15: Elf
- Monday, December 22: The Polar Express
Bring a blanket, gather your people, and settle in for movie magic under the lights. Movies start at sunset. We recommend arriving early to grab your spot!
Pullman Market’s Tamale Festival
December 13 from 1 PM to 5 PM
On Saturday, December 13, Pullman Market will introduce a new holiday tradition with the launch of the Pullman Market Tamale Festival. The free, open-to-the-public celebration will bring together a lineup of local tamale vendors — including specialty tamales from the Pullman Market team — giving guests the chance to enjoy a wide variety of tamales on-site or stock up on tamale packs for holiday gatherings.
The festivities will extend beyond the plate, with family-friendly activities for kids curated by The DoSeum, music from DJ Caliente, and a Best Tamale competition that will spotlight standout makers, and more.
Check out the tamale lineup:
- Carnita’s Spot
- Southerleigh
- Culinary Institute of America
- Mezquite
- Margarita’s Tamales
- Tamale Addiction
- Chamoy City Limits
- Chi Chi Birds Hot Chicken
RSVP for free here
Hotel Emma Holiday Perks & Go Rio Cruises
Guests of Hotel Emma can enjoy exclusive Go Rio Cruises, arranged through the concierge for a private river experience on select stays.
Kids staying at the hotel can also drop off their wishes through the charming Letters for Santa activity in the library from November 25 through November 28. The attentive Hotel Emma staff act as Santa’s helpers, making sure the letters reach the kids’ parents safely. Cozy bonuses include hot chocolate and beautifully festive décor throughout the property.
11th Annual Chanukah Celebration – December 16
Join us—alongside YJSA (Young & Jewish San Antonio)—for the 11th annual Chanukah celebration at Pearl on Tuesday, December 16.
Enjoy live music, kid-friendly fun, and the ceremonial lighting of the menorah.
The menorah will continue to shine nightly, December 16–24, at the Shade Structure near Boiler House.
2025 Gifting Inspo
New Pearl Merch Has Arrived
Be the best Secret Santa by surprising friends and family with the new ceramic Pearl holiday ornament. It’s also the perfect gift for those family members visiting from out of town or as a reminder of your favorite corner of San Antonio. The new Pearl ornament is available at Larder inside Hotel Emma and online while supplies last.
Hand-Painted Bakery Lorraine Macron Boxes
“12 Days of Macarons” Holiday Box is back! A delectable journey through the world of macarons that will sweeten your festive season. This limited edition, hand-painted gift set is designed to delight your taste buds with a dozen exquisite flavors, one for each of the 12 days of Christmas.
The box itself is a work of art, adorned with festive holiday designs and shimmering accents, making it a stunning centerpiece for your holiday celebrations. Designed and painted by artist David Salaiz, this Holiday box is sure to impress!
Place your preorder here—pick up at Pearl on Tuesday, December 23.
Set the Table with Pullman Market
Created with Texas-made ingredients, Pullman Market offers traditional favorites and new takes on classic Holiday dishes. Made with love by our Market Chef team, grown with care by farmers all over the state. Order your sides, pies, and floral arrangements today!
Click here to place your order.
Wintery Sips This Way
Larder
‘Tis the season at Larder! Make your way down Brewmeister’s Alley and cozy up with Larder’s latest seasonal coffee and tea menu. The winter lineup includes:
- Peppermint Mocha (a classic)
- Miso Maple Matcha: Lightly sweetened matcha with maple and a dash of savory white miso
- Earl Grey Latte: Espresso, steamed milk, with house-made Earl Grey syrup
- White Chocolate Apple Chai: White chocolate syrup, spiced chai, and sweet apple
- Mexican Hot Chocolate: Traditional Mexican cacao blended with warm spices
- Medicine Ball: Peppermint and Chamomile Tea with lemon and honey
Park Bar
Fancy an adult twist to your drinks? Park Bar inside the Bottling Department is your holiday hub for all things cocktails, zero-proof options, new beers, and boozy hot chocolates. Here’s what they have in stocking.
(*Available as zero-proof):
- *Hot Cocoa: Rice Milk, Abulitas Hot Cocoa, Mini Marshmallows (Make it Boozy!)
- *Apple Spice Mule: Bourbon or Vodka, Apple Cider, Warm Spices, SoCo Gingerbeer
- *Rum-cha-Cha-ta: Rum, Rice Milk, Cinnamon, Sugar
- Pearishing Thyme: Vodka, Pear Liquor, St. Germaine, Thyme
- Showgirl!: Aperol, Sauvignon Blanc, Citrus, and a dash of Sparkle
- Apri-Caught Santa: Rye, Grapefruit, Apricot, Honey, Bitters
- Blue Christmas Without Yew: Blue Mai Tai
- Cranberry Spice Sangria: Red Wine, Cranberry and Pomegranate Juices, with Warm Spices
- That’s That Me Espresso: Vodka, Spiced Liquor, Grind Coffee Liquor, Black Walnut Bitters, Toki Orange Cream
Local Coffee
Pearl’s community coffee staple is serving up handmade syrups that are perfect for those hot latte mornings, cappuccinos, Americanos, and everything in between. Check out what’s brewing:
- Homemade Peppermint Syrup
- Homemade Gingerbread Syrup
Valero Alamo Bowl Tailgate at Pearl
December 27 + December 28
Before the Trojans and Horned Frogs take the field at the Alamodome on December 30, the celebration starts at Pearl.
We’re inviting the USC and TCU faithful—and all San Antonio football fans—to a two-day fan celebration in the heart of the district. Join the community on South Karnes Street, right in front of Pullman Market, for a pre-game atmosphere built for the fans who make the game what it is.
Free and open to the public. Discover more details here.
New Year’s Eve Parties
Stable Hall
December 31 at 8:00 PM
Head to Stable Hall for an unforgettable New Year’s celebration with the lively country cover band, The Texases! As the clock strikes midnight, you’ll be part of the thrilling final show of 2025 and the exciting inaugural performance of 2026. Get ready to dance and sing along under the dazzling lights of Stable Hall’s shimmering disco ball. Don’t miss this chance to ring in the new year with great music and an electrifying atmosphere!
Get tickets here
Cellar Select New Year’s Eve Dinner Feat. Eagle Rare 25 at Hotel Emma
December 31 at 7:00 PM
As the crowning dinner of Hotel Emma’s 10th anniversary year, this exclusive event reflects our ongoing commitment to curating world-class dining experiences that embody the art of hospitality and the unmistakable spirit of Emma. The night’s highlight, Eagle Rare 25, stands among the most exceptional bourbons ever produced — setting the tone for a celebration of fine craftsmanship and culinary artistry.
Each dinner guest will also be gifted with a wristband for entry to our annual New Year’s Eve party at Sternewirth.
Get tickets here
New Year’s Eve at Sternewirth
December 31 at 8:00 PM
It’s time to raise a toast to the new year! Join us at Sternewirth to kick off 2026 in style. We’re excited to host our friends and Sternewirth Sessions regulars, DJ Jevonchi and Diego Martinez, who will be providing the festive soundtrack for the evening. Prepare to dance the night away and partake in all the celebratory fun, including complimentary Moët & Chandon for all guests, an ice sculpture with Champagne luge, a Polaroid photo station, party favors, culinary surprises from our team, and more.
Our steel tank alcoves, Mezzanine booths, and oversized leather “power couch” are available by reservation only. Guests of Hotel Emma will receive first priority, and all guests will be held to a minimum spend, plus taxes and gratuity. If you are interested in reserving private seating, please reach out to ryan.swanson@thehotelemma.com directly to book.
Sternewirth is open from 12PM to 2AM. General admission of $35 begins at 8pm. Wristbands are required, and you must be 21 to enter.
Get tickets here
New Year’s Eve Celebration with Doc Watkins and his Orchestra
December 31 at 10:00 PM
The dance floor will be open, and we’re celebrating New Year’s Eve in true 1929 style! Join Doc Watkins and his Orchestra for an unforgettable night as we ring in the New Year at Jazz, TX. The show kicks off at 10:00 pm and keeps the party going well past midnight. Our kitchen and bar will be serving up delicious dinner and drinks all night. Black Tie preferred. We can’t wait to see you at the show!
Looking for an earlier celebration? Check out its Pre-New Year’s Eve Party here.
Get tickets here
New Year’s Eve at Jue Let
Celebrate the arrival of 2026 at Jue Let’s inaugural New Year’s Eve party! Join us for a night of bites, cocktails, and music as we count down to the New Year together. The evening features fancy snacks, karaoke, and a signature champagne-and-caviar toast at midnight. Before you head out, grab a swag bag from us with a little something special to start your year off right.
General Admission: Starting at $108/person, begins at 9:00 pm (21+ only).
The Evening Includes:
- Heavy hors d’oeuvres and fancy snacks throughout the night.
- Karaoke and live music.
- Midnight champagne and caviar toast.
- Commemorative swag bag.
New Year’s Eve at Ladino
Ring in the New Year at Ladino with a culinary trip through the Mediterranean! Enjoy a beautifully curated multi-course meal in the heart of Pearl as you count down to 2026.
Dinner Reservation: $125/person (plus tax, gratuity, and beverages).
The Evening Includes:
- A sophisticated multi-course Mediterranean tasting menu.
- Optional Wine Pairings: Available for an additional $75/person.
- Festive atmosphere in one of San Antonio’s top-rated dining destinations.
Get tickets / Make reservations here.
Pullman Market: A Feast of Flavors
The restaurants at Pullman Market have curated specialized menus and fiestas, ensuring your final meal of 2025 is memorable.
- Isidore: Ring in 2026 with an elegant 8-course tasting menu featuring the season’s best ingredients. Price is $175 per person, with an optional $100 Premium Wine Pairing. Make your reservation here.
- Nicosi: Join the dessert bar for A Special Night at Nicosi. The $200 per person ticket is all-inclusive and features savory dishes created by the pastry chef, in addition to Nicosi’s renowned desserts, complete with alcoholic or non-alcoholic pairings. Make your reservation here.
- Mezquite: Say farewell to 2025 with a Sonoran-Style Feast featuring a family-style menu fit for a crowd. Price is $55 per person, and large parties are welcome. Make your reservation here.
- Mezcaleria: It’s a New Year’s Fiesta! The Mezcaleria is open from 11:00 am to 1:00 am. Come early for food, mezcal flights, and Mariachis, then stay late to dance to the countdown with a live DJ. No reservation needed.
Celebrate the Season at Pearl
Whether you’re catching a movie, shopping the night markets, enjoying riverside magic, or celebrating holiday traditions, Pearl is alive with moments that bring people together. Dive into the festivities, make memories, and experience the holidays this season at Pearl.