San Antonio has many attractions, activities and places to visit during the holiday season, but for many of us, the holiday break is a time to reconnect with our loved ones.

Victoria Dovalina, a sophomore Psychology major, said, "I get to spend time with my family and take a break from school to get my brain back in order from all the homework and studying."

Things to do with family and friends include going downtown, visiting theme parks, attending parades, enjoying sporting events and doing at home activities.

One of San Antonio’s main attractions is the River Walk, and during the holiday season it provides many events, activities and attractions for all to enjoy.

Elia Gonzalez, a freshman Communication major, said, "The River Walk is a must for me and my family. We usually go see the lights and the carol singing."

A few of the events that are held on the River Walk include Ford Holiday Boat Caroling, Nov. 27 - Dec. 19, Ford Fiesta de las Luminarias, Dec. 3-19, and the Holiday Arts & Crafts Show, Dec. 10-12. For more information visit www.paseodelrio.org.

Theme parks are another favorite holiday pastime. Many of them have extended holiday hours and are filled with holiday extravaganzas. Six Flags Fiesta Texas and SeaWorld both offer fun and exciting attractions, such as lights, themed shows and special guest appearances. For more information, visit their websites. For current updates, visit their Facebook and Twitter pages.

Performances are another holiday tradition that many people enjoy. Matthew Mejia, a sophomore Music/Voice major, said, "I really like the fact that San Antonio has a variety of performances for the holidays, like dance recitals, choir recitals or even Christmas caroling."

Some performances that will be happening this holiday season include: Classic Country Christmas Show, Mariachi Vargas, The Nutcracker and Holiday Pops. These performances are all scheduled at different times and dates. For more information about tickets prices and details, go to www.visitsanantonio.com, and scroll down until you reach ‘Holiday Performances’ for each event’s link.

Another great activity to enjoy and give back to the community is to volunteer at a nearby community center/shelter.

"One thing that me and my family enjoy doing is helping out a family in need, like adopting a family. It shows that we have spirit for other people in need, and it makes the holidays more memorable. And you can possibly develop a new friendship, too," said Esmeralda Trevino, a sophomore Dance major.

Places that you may volunteer include Haven for Hope, The Children’s Shelter and Seton Home. Helping out during the holiday season can make a big difference in someone else’s life.

Sports are another holiday favorite for many San Antonians. Many people gather during the holidays to watch games of the San Antonio Spurs, San Antonio Rampage, Dallas Cowboys or their favorite team.

"Sports are really popular and can be a bonding experience," said Andy Ybarra, a sophomore Kinesiology major. Sports events that are coming to San Antonio over the holiday break include The Valero Alamo Bowl and U.S. Army All-American Bowl. For more information about games or the teams mentioned, go to their websites.

On the more economical side, many activities that can be done right at home include holiday decorating, cooking, baking traditional family recipes and watching holiday movies, such as "Elf" and "The Santa Clause."

For more holidays events and activities go to visitsanantonio.com or use Google.

After a long break, be ready for the Spring semester to begin on Tuesday, Jan. 18.

Happy holidays!