Attractions
Enjoy all of the festivities Sights & Sounds of Christmas has to offer!
Santa Appearances
Santa Claus will be making a special appearance nightly during both weeks of the Sights & Sounds of Christmas Festival! Please see the schedule below for details on his arrival destination each night. He will also be available for free photos at Santa’s River House in Plaza Park from 6:30-9:30 PM each night.
| Date | Activity | Arrival Method | Location / Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tuesday Nov. 27 | Sponsorship Party | Personal Car to Rec Hall | Rec Hall 6:30–8:30pm |
| Wednesday Nov. 28 | S&S Night 1 | SMFD Ol Betsy | Activity Center 5:45pm |
| Thursday Nov. 29 | S&S Night 2 | Miller Jr High Chior Hayride | Activity Center 5:45pm |
| Friday Nov. 30 | S&S Night 3 | Pink Heals Hays County Fire Truck | Activity Center 5:45pm |
| Saturday Dec. 1 | S&S Night 4 | Hays County Jeep Club | Activity Center 5:45pm |
| Wednesday Dec. 5 | S&S Night 5 | SMHS Pep Rally | Activity Center 5:45pm |
| Thursday Dec. 6 | S&S Night 6 | SMFD Boat Ride (or alternate) | Activity Center 5:45pm |
| Friday Dec. 7 | S&S Night 7 | Hero’s Night/Military Night | Activity Center 5:45pm |
| Saturday Dec. 8 | S&S Night 8 | SMPD Rescue Vehicle | Activity Center 5:45pm |
Carnival
Hours: Wednesday – Saturday 5PM – 11PM
From bumper cars to the Ferris wheel, our carnival has something for everyone! Test your luck at one of the many games or get a rare view of the park from above on one of the soaring rides. Purchases can be made with Magic Money wristbands.
The Carnival at Sights & Sounds is open nightly Wednesday-Saturday during the event. Rides range in price from $1-$7.
Petting Zoo
The McCoy’s petting zoo is back and continues to be free for all Sights & Sounds attendees! Enjoy this rare opportunity to get up close and personal with a variety of animals, including llamas, lambs, goats, bunnies and more. Admission to the petting zoo is free and feed will be available for purchase.
Santa’s Gift Shop
Are you looking for unique holiday gifts? Santa’s Gift Shop has a variety of options with over 30 different vendors. With items such as decorated cookies, clothing, home decor and more, you are sure to find something for everyone on your list. Interested in participating as a Santa’s Gift Shop vendor? Please visit our Vendor Registration page .
Food Court
Feeling hungry? With over 25 different food vendors, there is a variety of options to satisfy your cravings during your visit to the festival. Whether you are looking for something savory or sweet, you’re sure to find a delicious treat on either side of the river. Interested in becoming a food vendor? Please visit our Vendor Registration page .
Reindeer Games
Kids and kids-at-heart can enjoy a game of life-size Jenga, Giant Connect 4, Tic-Tac-Toe and more at the Reindeer Games station! This free attraction is the perfect spot for those looking to take a break from the many other activities of the festival. Come enjoy an evening under thousands of color changing lights and family fun.
Pony Rides
We’re bringing back the pony rides, so don’t forget to pack your hat and cowboy boots!
