Nature-oriented activities, a chili cook-off, and back-to-back all-star football games are among the highlighted events scheduled around the San Antonio area for the first weekend of 2023.
Catch the last weekend of 'Lightscape'
Now through Jan. 8
San Antonio Botanical Garden is marking the final weekend of its Lightscape, a new holiday season tradition where the garden’s outdoor trail is illuminated with seven decorative installations synchronized to seasonal music. Entry times available every 15 minutes from 5:30-9 p.m. daily. General admission: $16-$28; free for infants ages 0-2; discounts available. 555 Funston Place, San Antonio. www.sabot.org
Meet new people
Jan. 6
Single Professionals Network, a friendship group for singles aged 55 years and older, meets for conversation, libations, games and food. 5-7 p.m. Free admission. Scuzzi’s, 4035 N. Loop 1604 W., San Antonio. www.spn-sa.org
Learn to take photos
Jan. 6
Phil Hardberger Park Conservancy will have a program about how teenagers and adults can use their cell phone to take quality nature photos in the park. No art experience necessary. Registration is required. 10 a.m.-noon. Begins at the park’s urban ecology center, 8400 NW Military Hwy., San Antonio. www.philhardbergerpark.org
Attend a chili cook-off
Jan. 7
Hollywood Park Community Association presents its sixth chili cook-off, which will include a pie contest, games and children’s activities. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Free admission. Memorial Park, Sunway and Mecca drives, Hollywood Park. www.hpcatx.com
Get involved in Hollywood Park
Jan. 7
The town of Hollywood Park invites residents to a forum where those interested in volunteering for a city board or committee or even running for City Council learn how to do just that. 10 a.m. Free. Voigt Center, 701 El Portal Drive, Hollywood Park. www.hollywoodpark-tx.gov
Catch a local football game
Jan. 7
Fans of high school football fans may watch two games featuring top high school football players — all in one day, in one place. All-American Bowl showcases the nation’s best seniors, followed by the San Antonio Sports All-Star Football Game, which has standout local players in action. Kickoffs: Noon and 5 p.m. Admission for both games: $15-$25. Alamodome, 100 Montana St., San Antonio. www.nbcsports.com/allamericanbowl and www.sanantoniosports.org/event/aab-sas-all-star-football-game
Jan. 10
Brighton Preschool will host an open house with on-site tours, giveaways, family activities, and an opportunity for each family to have their application fee waived. 3-6 p.m. Free. 14207 Higgins Road, San Antonio. www.brightonpreschool.org
