As the days get shorter and the air gets crisper, the San Antonio River Authority is thrilled to introduce a lineup of exciting events that will make autumnophiles (aka fall lovers) everywhere rejoice! Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a nature lover, or just looking to enjoy the season with family and friends, we’ve got something special for everyone. Mark your calendars and join us for these incredible events!
Paddle Your Way to Victory: Race the River Paddling Series
The adrenaline is still pumping as we gear up for the final races in the Race the River Paddling Series! Paddlers from near and far have already made waves in the Mission Reach and Goliad races, and we couldn’t be more thrilled with the turnout. Now, we’re bringing the excitement to the heart of San Antonio with our first-ever nighttime race on the historic Downtown River Walk! Although registration for this event is full, we invite everyone to come out and cheer on the racers under the glow of city lights. The energy is going to be electric!
But don’t worry if you missed out—there’s still one more chance to paddle your way to victory! The final race of the year, Race the River: SASPAMCO in Wilson County on October 5th, is still open for registration. Think you have what it takes to win? Sign up here!
2024 Race the River: Mission Reach Pro Tandem Winners!
Stylized racing map of the 2024 Race the River: Downtown, the first ever nighttime race!
Pitch a Tent and Pop Some Corn: Family Fun Weekend at Helton Nature Park
Gear up and head out to Helton Nature Park for a weekend filled with family-friendly activities!
Friday, October 18th, kicks off with Campside Cinema. Grab your blankets, set up your chairs, and get ready for a magical movie night under the stars. We’re screening a family-favorite film, and the best part? It’s free! Don’t forget to arrive early to snag some complimentary popcorn, courtesy of the San Antonio River Authority.
Past Campside Cinema at Helton Nature Park
That same weekend, we’re also hosting a Free Camping Weekend at Helton Nature Park. From October 18th to 20th, all campsite booking fees are waived! With over 40 campsites available, there’s plenty of room for everyone, so gather your loved ones for an unforgettable camping experience. Enjoy our park amenities, including a basketball court, playground, and easy access to the SASPAMCO paddling trail. Spaces are limited, so be sure to register early!
The fun doesn’t stop there! On Saturday, October 19th, join us for the annual Fall Fest at Helton Nature Park. This festive event features a maze, car show, animal exhibitions, costume and baking contests, live music, and local vendors from Wilson County Trade Days. It’s the perfect way to embrace fall. Don’t miss out on one of the biggest events of the year!
Blaze a Trail, Spy a Ghost(?): Small Group Adventures and Experiences
If you prefer small-group experiences, we have a variety of smaller group events that cater to different interests. From Nature Days and Nature Workshops to Friday Night Hikes and River Authority Walking Rascals (R.A.W.R.), there’s something for everyone who loves the great outdoors. You can also join us for unique experiences like Drum Circle at San Pedro Creek Culture Park and Discovery Hunt. These events are perfect for meeting great people and discovering more about the San Antonio River in a relaxed, engaging setting.
Community Drum Circle at San Pedro Creek Culture Park
Feeling a bit more adventurous? Join the River Authority and Curious Twins Paranormal tour guides for Haunted Hikes! Hear share spine-chilling stories about early life along the river, haunted neighborhoods, as well as tragic floods that changed the course of our city’s history. Due to popular demand, this event series has been expanded to four events, two along the Museum Reach and two in King William! Haunted Hikes takes place every Wednesday in October. Registration opens September 25th at 9am. We hope to see you…if you dare.
The first of 4 Haunted Hikes offered in October
Ho Ho Ho! and South Texas Snow: Holiday Season on the Museum Reach
As the holiday season approaches, the San Antonio River Authority has a special gift for you—more opportunities to experience the magic of the holidays on the river! Due to popular demand, we’re extending our Holly Jolly Kayaking event to include an additional day of paddling fun on the Museum Reach of the San Antonio River Walk.
On Wednesday, December 4th, and Wednesday, December 11th, paddle through the beautifully illuminated Museum Reach and soak in the holiday lights from the water. Stay tuned for registration information, so mark your calendar and secure your spot early!
Holly Jolly Kayaking, kayak input
In addition to kayaking, on Saturday, December 14th, join us for the Museum Reach River of Lights—a fun family friendly event that immerses you in the dazzling spectacle that is the colorful holiday lights that adorn the San Antonio Riverwalk.
Enjoy a festive lineup of activities, great food, fun vendors, and get the chance to see a rare visitor to South Texas—SNOW!
River of Lights 2023
Stay Connected
Make sure to follow the San Antonio River Authority on social media (@sanantonioriver) and visit our website for the latest event updates, details, and vendor information. We can’t wait to see you at these events and share the joy of the season with you!
