South San Antonio will sparkle with over 40,000 holiday lights on the Texas A&M University-San Antonio campus as they invite the community to celebrate the holiday season at the annual Lights of Esperanza.
This year marks the event’s 10th anniversary, and it will take place on Tuesday, Dec. 2, from 6:00–8:00 p.m. The evening event promises dazzling lights, festive entertainment, and a fun-filled experience for the whole family — all designed to bring neighbors together in the spirit of hope and unity.
Never miss San Antonio Report’s biggest stories.
Sign up for The Recap, a newsletter rundown of the most important news, delivered every Monday and Thursday.
What started a decade ago as a modest event on a young campus has grown into one of the area’s most beloved community traditions, drawing over 3,000 guests every year. Lights of Esperanza — meaning “lights of hope” — reflects the University’s commitment to opportunity and belonging, illuminating the values that define its mission and its growing role as anchor for South Bexar County, all of San Antonio and beyond.
“The Spanish word Esperanza has a special meaning here at A&M-San Antonio. The beautiful Torre de Esperanza — the Tower of Hope — rises above the entrance of University Way. We take great pride in the importance our university has, as we are nestled in the heart of the South Side of San Antonio,” said University President Salvador Hector Ochoa. “For us, the Lights of Esperanza is not only a fun-filled holiday celebration but also a visual symbol of fulfilling our mission of bringing hope and opportunity — of being a light — to our community.”
Event details
What: 10th annual Lights of Esperanza
When: Tuesday, Dec. 2 | 6–8 p.m.
Where: Texas A&M University–San Antonio, One University Way, San Antonio, TX 78224
Admission: Free and open to the public (view the event map)
Event highlights
This year’s celebration will be bigger and brighter than ever and will include:
- 40,000+ lights across campus
- Laser light show at the Central Academic Building
- Holiday Market featuring local artisans
- Free hot chocolate and cookies from Chartwells
- Food trucks with seasonal favorites
- Live performances and family-friendly activities
The campus will light up with thousands of twinkling lights as Fernando and Norma Reyes, prominent community leaders and entrepreneurs, flip the switch during the event. The event concludes with the iconic Central Academic Building serving as the backdrop for a jaw-dropping laser light show. Guests will see the magic of the holiday season as the campus transforms into a holiday winter wonderland.
Food lovers won’t be disappointed at Lights of Esperanza. A lineup of food trucks will serve up holiday favorites, such as donuts, corn in a cup, smashburgers, Mexican hot dogs, caramel apples, chicken on a stick and hot apple cider. Visitors can also grab some free hot chocolate and cookies as they walk around the event, thanks to the support of Chartwells, A&M-San Antonio’s on-campus dining vendor.
Guests will find plenty to explore beyond the lights. Families can enjoy carnival-style rides, interactive games, and festive photo stations, while live performances showcase the creativity and talent of local artists. The holiday market adds a personal touch, featuring handcrafted gifts and seasonal treasures by local vendors, including jewelry, candles, mugs, and tote bags. For those looking to add a little extra cheer, light-up Santa hats will be available while supplies last.
Lights of Esperanza is more than a holiday tradition — it reflects the University’s rising momentum and impact. This fall, Texas A&M University–San Antonio welcomed its largest class of first-time college students, enrolling 1,295 Jaguars. With nearly seven in 10 identifying as first-generation and 79% of its student population eligible for Pell Grants, the campus continues to serve as a gateway to higher education for families across South Texas.
Adding to the excitement, the celebration comes just days before the men’s and women’s basketball teams hit the court for a home game on Dec. 4. Now in their second season, Jaguar Athletics is fueling school pride, community connection and a spirited campus culture.
Lights of Esperanza has become a cornerstone of connection between Texas A&M University–San Antonio and the South Side community. This year’s 10th anniversary is a special opportunity for the San Antonio community to come together, celebrate the holiday season, and share in a tradition that promises to keep shining well into the future. Join the community on campus Dec. 2 to experience it yourself.
Are you doing your part?
You’ve read unlimited of unlimited articles this month. That’s right — we’re committed to providing free, fair journalism for all.
But without donor support, our nonprofit newsroom can’t do its job to inform and empower your community.
Are you in? Your donation of any amount will help keep articles like this one accessible to all San Antonians.