Family-friendly ways to celebrate Hanukkah in San Antonio

Nov. 28, 2021

Shavano Park mayor Robert Werner, left, joins members of the Jewish community Tuesday night Dec. 12, 2017 for the lighting of the first candle of Hanukkah on the menorah outside Shavano Park city hall.

William Luther, Staff / San Antonio Express-News

There are multiple ways for families to celebrate Hanukkah with the Jewish Federation of San Antonio this Holiday Season. The San Antonio theme park will kick off the first night of the eight day the holiday on Sunday, November 28, in collaboration with the organization. The annual family-friendly event will begin at sundown, at 5:30 p.m., at Bay of Play with the lighting of a menorah.

It will also include songs, crafts and goodie bags for young children. Tickets are $47, and include entrance to the park on on November 28 from 1 to 9 p.m.

On the third night of the holiday, Tuesday, November 30, The Jewish Federation of San Antonio’s PJ Library program (a literacy program for families with young kids) will host a concert in the courtyard of the Estancia del Norte hotel. The night will begin at 5:30 p.m. and include a lighting of the menorah and a performance by acclaimed singer and dancer, Jason Mesches.

Families are encouraged to bring blankets and chairs to watch the show in the courtyard. There will be the opportunity to take free professional photographs taken in front of the menorah. Children are encouraged to wear their pajamas to the event, and will be treated to kosher cookies and hot chocolate, as well as a gift bag full of treats. This event is free.