1) “Batman” Screening
Monday , Nov. 25, 7 p.m.
Is there a better way to watch “Batman” than on the big screen? If you answered that with “definitely not” then this screening of “Batman” is for you. The Alamo Drafthouse will be hosting a free screening of “Batman” directed by Tim Burton, starring Michael Keaton, Jack Nicholson, and Kim Basinger this Monday. Don’t be a joker; watch “Batman.”
Location: Alamo Drafthouse Cinema (1255 SW Loop 410)
2) Chanukah Storytime
Wednesday, Nov. 27, 11 a.m.
How do dinosaurs say happy Chanukah? Well to find out the answer to this question join Barnes and Noble at The Shops at La Cantera as they read How Do Dinosaurs Say Happy Chanukah by Jane Yolen and illustrated by Mark Tegue.
Location: The Shops at La Cantera (15900 La Cantera Pkwy)
3) Light Up Downtown
Friday, Nov. 29 – Thursday, Dec. 19
Besides being about good tidings and holiday cheer, the holidays are also about who has the best decorations! Light Up Downtown is a holiday competition to see which businesses have the best exterior light display. The goal of the competition is to have major buildings and smaller buildings create an illuminated view of the downtown skyline for the holiday season. Besides seeing the skyline lit up with holiday spirit, you also get to vote for your favorites! The businesses that win will receive different awards for particular categories.
To find out what businesses are participating in this competition and to vote for your favorites you can visit: http://lightupdowntownsa.com/contest.php.
4) Santa’s Holiday Pajama Parade
Friday, Nov. 29, 10 a.m.
Santa and the Grinch will be stopping by North Star Mall to visit all the boys and girls before Santa has to get ready for his Christmas and the Grinch get’s ready to steal Christmas. Shoppers are encouraged to share in the fun, come in winter pajamas and join the Robert E. Lee High School Marching Band under the direction of Brannon Baker, mascots including Shamu, Penny Penguin, The Cookie Man, Bear-a-me , Twistee, a stilt walker and more! Following the Parade, children can enjoy free face painting, balloon art and other fun activities in Santa’s Court.
Location: North Star Mall (7400 San Pedro Ave)
5.) Esperanza Peace and Justice Center’s 24th Annual International Peace Market (Mercado de Paz)
Friday, Nov. 29 – Saturday Nov. 30, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Offering a family-friendly alternative to the corporate chaos of Black Friday shopping, the 24th Annual International Peace Market features over 100 local and international artisans selling handmade and unique gifts perfect for everyone on your gift list. The market will also offer live music, raffles, and local cuisine.
Location: Esperanza Peace and Justice Center (922 San Pedro)
6.) Feria De Santa Cecilia “Dia Del Musico”
Friday, Nov. 29 – Sunday, Dec. 1 noon – 9 p.m.
A three-day event packed with family-friendly activities, live music, and food, Dia Del Musico is a celebration of culture. Focused on local entertainment, the event will offer art and crafts and San Antonio-based musicians all against the colorful, lively backdrop of Market Square.
Location: Market Square – El Mercado (514 W. Commerce)
7.) Dickens on Main
Friday, Nov. 29 – Saturday, Nov. 30, 6 p.m.- 10 p.m.
The annual Christmas event will feature two themed weekends this year, offering different activities for each. The celebration kicks off with Fire and Ice weekend, which will feature the city’s holiday lighting ceremony, ice sculptures, and a special presentation of “A Christmas Carol.” O Tannenbaum weekend offers guests the chance to participate in a pet parade, explore Tannenbaum trail, and enjoy the musical styling of the Boerne Village band.
Location: Main Street (Boerne, TX)
8.) Emma Hodgson, Artemis Rising
Saturday, Nov. 30, 10 a.m. – noon
A published novelist at just 15, Alamo Heights sophomore and author Emma Hodgson will be signing copies and discussing her new book, “Artemis Rising” at the Twig Bookshop. The novel follows the story of nine Greek gods who are sent to various schools around the world to live as teenagers. Hodgson cites her love of Greek mythology as inspiration for the novel, saying she has “always liked to write about things that can’t happen in reality.” Copies of the book will be available for purchase at the signing.
Location: The Twig Book Shop (306 Pearl Parkway)
9.) La Gran Tamalada
Saturday, Nov. 30, noon – 7 p.m.
Offering guests the chance to explore cuisine and culture from Argentina, Chile, Peru, and Mexico, La Gran Tamalada is the perfect weekend activity for food lovers across the city. In addition to an assortment of cultural delicacies, traditional music and dance will be on display, ensuring a lively night of fun for the whole family.
Location: La Villita (418 Villita Street)
10.) Flamenco FLASH Mob at the Alamo
Saturday, Nov. 30, 5:30 p.m. – 5:35 p.m.
Get ready to dance Sevillanas! With aims to go viral, the 2nd annual Flamenco FLASHmob will unite hundreds of dancers in front of the Alamo for an interactive group dance that’s sure to be the highlight of participants’ weekends. Don’t know Sevillanas? No worries. The group welcomes a supportive crowd. The dance lasts only minuets so catch it while you can.
Happens at 300 Alamo Plaza, not at the cafe.
Location: Carmens de la Calle (720 E. Mistletoe)
This article appears in Nov 20-26, 2013.