JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa is thrilled to announce the return of the resort's signature immersive Christmas experience, ice!™, from Nov. 23, 2026 through Jan. 3, 2027. A cornerstone of the resort’s acclaimed Hill Country Christmas celebration, this year's larger-than-life frozen attraction brings the timeless story of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer to life through more than two million pounds of hand-carved ice sculptures, storybook scenes and interactive displays. As the only attraction of its kind in Central and South Texas, it's a must-attend holiday event for the whole family. Tickets, early bird deals and exclusive room packages are on sale now at JWHillCountryChristmas.com.
Created by Gaylord Hotels in 2001, ice! is a long-standing holiday tradition that has delighted tens of millions of guests with its larger-than-life frozen storytelling. Kept at a chilly 9 degrees Fahrenheit, this year's experience whisks visitors into the world of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, where more than two million pounds of ice are hand-carved by 40 master ice artisans from Harbin, China, using techniques passed down from generations to bring the classic holiday tale to life.
Alongside Rudolph, Hermey the Elf, Yukon Cornelius and other beloved characters, guests can explore 11 immersive scenes, wander through dazzling frozen passageways, race down four two-story ice slides, enjoy the kids’ peek-a-boo slide and capture festive photo moments. To stay warm, guests will be provided with signature blue parkas to wear before stepping into this unforgettable winter wonderland.
Beyond ice! featuring Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer™, guests can enjoy So Much Christmas at Reindeer Ridge, part of the Hill Country Christmas festivities. The resort’s Exhibit Ballroom is completely transformed into an extravagant 40,000-square-foot hub designed to create the ultimate holiday getaway, including Snow Flow Mountain, a multi-lane tubing hill made of real snow for all-age alpine fun; Snow Ball Build & Blast, where guests make and throw snowballs to score points and boost the power of the snow-making machine; Mrs. Claus’ Christmas Traditions, where Mrs. Claus hosts a retelling of “‘Twas the Night Before Christmas” and holiday carol sing-alongs; Gingerbread Decorating Corner, with an opportunity to meet Nutmeg the gingerbread; and more!
Adding to the excitement, guests can embark on a festive Reindeer Games™ Scavenger Hunt, exploring the resort while searching for clues set out by Rudolph himself to find The Misfit Toys and send them on their way to their new homes. Families can even write heartfelt letters to Santa, sharing their holiday wishes, and take photos with Santa as he makes special appearances at the resort throughout the season!
Starting today, guests can purchase early bird tickets and Stay & Play Packages, which include overnight accommodations, two ice! tickets per night of stay and exclusive resort guest benefits, including the Chill Pass for front-of-line access and reduced wait times at the immersive Christmas attraction. For more information, visit JWHillCountryChristmas.com.
Complementing the resort’s signature Hill Country Christmas programming, guests can enjoy a festive retail experience with holiday shopping opportunities, luxury brand activations, and seasonal wellness offerings throughout the property.
Experience everything the JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa has to offer this holiday season. Book an overnight stay and receive exclusive access to luxury amenities such as the nine-acre River Bluff Water Experience with temperature-controlled pools and hot tubs; eight acclaimed dining outlets; two 18-hole PGA TOUR championship golf courses at TPC San Antonio; world-class Lantana Spa; Topgolf Swing Suite; sports courts for tennis, basketball and pickleball; and scenic walking trails with picturesque views of the Texas Hill Country. To book your stay at the JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa, please contact the resort at 210-276-2500 or visit www.JWSanAntonio.com.