ACF Spring 2025

Celebrating 50 YEARS OF fighting for justice.

Photos Courtesy of Monsoon Marketing Agency

Welcome to the 2025 Fiesta® issue of Arts Culture Fun magazine. This issue will focus on the uniqueness of San Antonio — its people, history, culture, and the organizations that make it unlike any other city.

In this issue you will find articles about San Antonio’s Party with a Purpose, Fiesta® San Antonio, including a full events calendar (pages 56-79). The events are ordered chronologically to help you plan your Fiesta experience. Don’t miss the article on the traditional Fiesta Parades and their Grand Marshals (pages 46-50).

The history of the Tobin Center for the Performing Arts is included in our Performing Arts section. Originally built as the Municipal Auditorium, the Tobin is now home for many of San Antonio’s local performing arts organizations. Downtown San Antonio once had a thriving theatre district that included key venues, and their legacy lives on through dedicated conservation efforts.

In Culinary Arts, the Culinary Institute of America, located in the Historic Pearl District, has significantly impacted the city’s food scene and supports San Antonio’s designation as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy. Noted local chefs have attended the Institute and many have received James Beard and Michelin recognitions.

Art is definitely everywhere in San Antonio, and several city organizations are dedicated to supporting public arts and artists. In the hustle and bustle of daily life, these installations, often in the most unexpected spaces, are essential to carve out moments of tranquility and joy.

As spring transitions to summer, we encourage you to visit some of the attractions that make San Antonio a great place for history and culture fans as well as family fun. We live in a very unique city with so much to appreciate.

I hope you enjoy this issue of Arts Culture Fun — a magazine for locals about locals.

Louis Doucette

Publisher

www.ArtsCultureFun.com

Publisher

Louis Doucette

Copy Editor

Trisha Hutzler

Writers

Ana Flores, Drew Henry, Steve Rosenauer, Kimberly A. Suta, Susan Yerkes

Advertising Sales

Sandy Weatherford, Gerry Lair

Business Manager

Vicki Schroder

Design, Production & Website Jennifer Nelson

Nelson Designs Phone 210.410.0014, San Antonio

Mailing Address

Information: info@artsculturefun.com Website: www.ArtsCultureFun.com

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PRESERVING THE PAST, INSPIRING THE FUTURE:

THE TOBIN CENTER'S ENDURING IMPACT

By Ana Flores

Nestled along the banks of the San Antonio River, the Tobin Center for the Performing Arts is a world-class venue and cornerstone of San Antonio’s cultural landscape. Built originally in 1926 as the Municipal Auditorium, this state-of-the-art performing arts hub continues to fulfill its mission of promoting a diverse range of cultural, educational and artistic experiences that improve the quality of life in San Antonio through its dynamic programming and commitment to creative excellence.

A HISTORIC LANDMARK REIMAGINED

Designed by noted architect Atlee Ayers, the Municipal Auditorium memorialized American soldiers killed in the First World War. With its eye-catching yellow-tiled Byzantine domes, the Spanish Colonial Revival building cost $1.2 million and garnered Ayers, along with associates Emmett Jackson and George Willis, the American Institute of Architects Gold Medal in 1929.

Following Bexar County’s approval of a $100 million construction bond in May 2008, combined with a contribution from the City of San Antonio, the Bexar County Performing Arts Center Foundation was formed to own and operate the new facility and committed to raising an additional $54 million from the private sector. In 2010, the Tobin Endowment obtained the naming rights to the facility with a $15 million challenge grant, and in 2011, a groundbreaking ceremony

took place. After three years of construction, the 1,738-seat establishment, complete with distinctive “flat-floor” capability, cutting-edge acoustics and original facade preserved, reopened its doors to much fanfare on September 4, 2014.

Three separate spaces make up the premier performing arts center, including The H-E-B Performance Hall, The Carlos Alvarez Studio Theater and The Will Naylor Smith River Walk Plaza, and host an array of performances, from Broadway productions and symphony concerts to contemporary music, dance, comedy and theatrical events, ensuring there is something for all audiences to enjoy. Since its grand reopening, the Tobin Center has welcomed more than 2,236,000 patrons and contributed significantly to San Antonio’s economy, generating $207 million in economic impact through increased attendance, employment and community investment.

Welcoming notable guests like Lyndon B. Johnson, Elvis Presley, Jimi Hendrix and Paul McCartney, and surviving fires and civil unrest throughout its nearly 100-year history, the Municipal Auditorium and now the Tobin Center have stood the test of time as beacons for the arts, resilience and community connection.

EDUCATIONAL IMPACT: INSPIRING THE NEXT GENERATION

Launched in 2015, Generation NEXT (GenNEXT) is the Tobin Center’s education initiatives program that provides access to professional arts and high-quality arts education opportunities. Through affiliations with the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts Partners in Education Program and North East Independent School District, the Tobin Center began providing arts-focused teacher training opportunities, introducing arts integration to classrooms across the district. In 2020, GenNEXT became a National Affiliate of the Wolf Trap Institute for Early Learning, bringing in strong arts integration education for early childhood. Guided tours of the Tobin Center are also offered as part of the program, each free and personalized to those in attendance, whether architecture/history, audience experience or technical theatre experience-focused.

A LASTING CULTURAL LEGACY

Achieving a decade of unforgettable experiences, the Tobin Center for the Performing Arts looks ahead to the next 10 years while remaining true to its rich cultural heritage and vibrant artistic future, continuing to inspire audiences and artists alike. Through acclaimed performances, community outreach and educational initiatives, the Tobin Center remains vital to San Antonio’s culture, ensuring the arts thrive for future generations.

For more information on the Tobin Center, scan the QR code.

HEB Performance Hall

Flat Floor Event

Carlos Alvarez Studio Theater

Will Naylor Smith Plaza

SPOTLIGHT ON RESIDENT COMPANIES

Beyond its breathtaking architecture and storied past, the Tobin Center’s Resident Companies help further advance its mission. Each bringing their unique vision, these organiza-

tions bring next-level productions to life, fostering creativity, education and community engagement. Together, they ensure the Tobin remains a thriving artistic home for all.

Ballet San Antonio

Founded in 1985, Ballet San Antonio, the city’s professional ballet company, is committed to sharing the splendor of dance through diverse performances and outreach programs that reflect, promote and enrich the cultural heritage of the South Texas area. The School of the Ballet of San Antonio, the organization’s official school, allows dancers ages 2 and above to work alongside professional staff and audition for company productions at the Tobin.

The Children’s Chorus of San Antonio

The Children’s Chorus of San Antonio (CCSA) enriches and expands the experiences of young people through choral singing and musical performance. Working to nurture young people in music and life, CCSA was formed in 1983 by Marguerite McCormick and began as the UTSA Children’s Chorus. Today, the organization provides specially crafted programming for children of all ages, including early childhood music, choral ensembles, neighborhood choirs and summer music camp.

Photo by Viewfinder Photography

Opera San Antonio

Opera San Antonio is committed to producing opera of uncompromising artistic quality while enriching the community through educational outreach and social engagement. Through concerts at the Tobin Center and programs like Explore Opera for Kids!, a partnership with the San Antonio Public Library, Opera in Schools and their Summer Voice Program in collaboration with the Classical Music Institute, Opera San Antonio encourages and promotes arts education by sharing the rich, relevant storytelling tradition of opera.

Youth Orchestras of San Antonio

Youth Orchestras of San Antonio (YOSA), with its roots tracing back to the San Antonio Youth Symphony created in 1949, provides young musicians of all backgrounds the opportunity to play music together to learn, grow and thrive while connecting with the community. Through its numerous programs, including YOSA Orchestras, Summer Symphony Camp, International Tours, Rising Star Fellows and Invitational, young musicians experience instruction from San Antonio’s top professional musicians and educators, perform in professional venues, build skills that result in future success and create lasting friendships.

The Orchestra San Antonio

Under the Classical Music Institute umbrella, The Orchestra of San Antonio (TOSA) is a performance-focused subgroup serving as the Tobin Center’s resident orchestra. Composed of 60 musicians, the organization launched its first full season of programming in 2024 but has served as the orchestra for productions of Ballet San Antonio and Opera San Antonio since 2022. TOSA prioritizes community engagement, holding concerts primarily at the Tobin Center and aiming to perform in surrounding areas.

Classical Music Institute

Established as the education program of the Chamber Orchestra of San Antonio in 2016, the Classical Music Institute (CMI) provides classical music education and performance to Bexar County. From youth initiatives to advanced training opportunities, CMI offers a variety of educational programming to ignite passion, cultivate creativity and nurture talent. Its upcoming CMI 210 Festival in summer 2025 will feature concerts, workshops and more, all working to develop classical music performance and education as a gateway to the arts.

Photo by Opera San Antonio and Karen Almond

Photo by Zero Photography

Photo by Felicia Sealey

BEHIND THE CURTAIN OF THE HISTORIC HEART OF SAN ANTONIO: THEATRE DISTRICT TAKES CENTER STAGE

By Ana Flores

The San Antonio Theatre District is a dynamic cultural hub reflecting the city's deep appreciation for the performing arts and historic preservation. Taking shape in the early 20th century, as downtown flourished as a commercial and entertainment center, the district grew alongside the rise of vaudeville, silent films and Hollywood’s golden age. Anchored by the Majestic Theatre, Empire Theatre, Aztec Theatre and the remnants of the Texas Theatre, this district has played a significant role in shaping San Antonio’s entertainment landscape for over a century

MAJESTIC THEATRE: A CROWN JEWEL OF SAN ANTONIO

The Majestic Theatre, designed by prolific theatre designer John Eberson, is considered one of his crowning achievements. San Antonio's Spanish and Moorish heritage inspired the grand movie palace, which first opened on June 14, 1929.

Once inside, patrons were whisked away to a fantasy land, complete with simulated clouds moving across the dark blue ceiling and a constellation of twinkling stars mirroring the celestial arrangement from the night the theatre opened in 1929. The interior further came alive with foliage, greenery and a variety of stuffed birds, including doves and peacocks, all expertly woven into the theatre’s fantastical design.

After years of dazzling audiences, by the early 1980s, the Majestic’s curtain seemed to be closing for good, with time taking its toll and the venue in disrepair. However, it found new life thanks to the dedicated efforts of Jocelyn ‘Joci’ Straus and Las Casas Foundation, now The Majestic Empire Foundation. With passion, precision and a price tag of $4.5 million, the Majestic Theatre was lovingly restored to its original grandeur in just 11 months, reopening in September 1989.

EMPIRE THEATRE: A BLEND OF OLD AND NEW

Built on the site of a former opera house, the Empire Theatre opened in 1914 as San Antonio’s first modern theatre. Designed in the style of a European palazzo, it began as a vaudeville venue before transitioning into a movie house. From the moment audiences stepped inside, the Empire Theatre dazzled with its ornate interior — gilded goddesses, floral designs and medallions adorned in layers of gold leaf, bronze and copper. At the time, the theatre featured cuttingedge innovations, including electric lighting, fans and motorized stage equipment. It quickly became a hub for entertainment, welcoming legendary performers like Charlie Chaplin, Mae West and Gene Autry to its stage.

In 1921, disaster struck when a catastrophic flood devastated San Antonio, submerging the Empire in up to nine feet of water. Mold and mildew set in as the water receded, and workers painted over the theatre’s gilded proscenium in stark white, losing its original brilliance. Following years of decline, the Empire Theatre closed in 1978. However, after successfully restoring the Majestic Theatre, The Majestic Empire Foundation launched a restoration effort for its sister theatre, where artisans painstakingly revived the original color scheme and restored pounds of gold leaf to the intricate plasterwork.

In 1998, after a $5 million renovation, the theatre reopened as the Charline McCombs Empire Theatre, named in honor of a generous gift from local philanthropists Charline and BJ (Red) McCombs to complete the project. The theatre continues to shine today, hosting live performances, concerts and local events.

Today, the Majestic Theatre is home to Broadway in San Antonio, national touring concerts, comedy shows, children’s events and more. In partnership with The Majestic Empire Foundation, the Majestic and its sister venue, the Charline McCombs Empire Theatre, offer educational opportunities for students that enrich arts education and cultivate a diverse future audience for live theatre. Tours of both theatres, where guides share history and architectural details, are available, with Spanish-language tours coming this spring.

AZTEC THEATRE:

A UNIQUE CULTURAL LANDMARK

When the Aztec Theatre opened its doors on June 4, 1926, it was considered one of the most extravagant movie palaces of its time. Designed by a renowned architectural firm best known for Los Angeles’ Egyptian and Chinese Theatres, the venue embraced the grandeur of Mesoamerican Revival architecture. Along with a two-ton chandelier dominating the lobby, the theatre’s lavish decor included vibrantly colored columns, sculptures, furnishings and murals, many of which were authentic reproductions of ancient Mesoamerican artifacts.

Initially built for silent films, the Aztec quickly adapted to the evolution of cinema and screened its first talking picture just one year after opening. By the 1970s, as grand movie palaces struggled, the Aztec was divided into three smaller auditoriums and rebranded as the Aztec Triplex. Despite these efforts, the venue ultimately closed its doors in 1989.

Recognizing its historical and architectural significance, the San Antonio Conservation Society stepped in to save the Aztec in 1983; however, it wasn’t until the late 1990s that a full restoration effort began. The theatre reopened in 2006 as Aztec on the River, a multi-sensory attraction that, while innovative, was short-lived, closing in 2007. After sitting vacant, the theatre briefly found new life in 2009 with San Antonio Rose Live, a country and gospel music showcase. Its true revival came in 2013 when the Aztec was reimagined as a live entertainment venue, as it remains today.

TEXAS THEATRE: A FACADE OF THE PAST

The Texas Theatre, a once-grand movie palace, opened in 1926. Designed by the Kansas City architectural firm of Robert Otto Boller, the venue showcased a Spanish Revival style. Its facade featured terracotta columns and multicolored arches, while indoors, the 3,000-seat auditorium provided a luxurious setting for moviegoers.

Despite its initial success, the theatre faced challenges as time progressed with the rise of urban flight and decreased patronage. The theatre eventually closed in the 1970s, leaving the building unused and vulnerable to deterioration. In the early 1980s, plans emerged to develop a new bank building on the site of the Texas Theatre, threatening its demolition. Despite efforts by the San Antonio Conservation Society to preserve the entire building, ultimately, only the theatre’s ornamental facade was saved.

THE DISTRICT TODAY

The Majestic, Empire and Aztec Theatres continue to serve as anchors of San Antonio’s downtown theatre district and economic catalysts in the revitalization of the city center. They generate increased revenue from dining, hotel bookings, parking, catering and backstage support needs.

With the theatres’ rich histories and continued operation, the district remains a hub for the arts, captivating audiences with its unique blend of history, architecture and world-class performances.

For more information on the venues featured in this article, scan the QR code.

Looking east on Houston Street with the Texas Theatre and the Majestic Theatre in view, circa 1920s. UTSA Special Collections

ALAMODOME

www.alamodome.com

DISNEY ON ICE LET’S DANCE!

April 17-20

POST MALONE WITH JELLY ROLL

May 7

CHARLINE MCCOMBS EMPIRE THEATRE

www.majesticempire.com

BLUE NOTE RECORDS 85TH SONS OF CREAM

March 6

MARC MARON ALL IN TOUR

March 9

MOM’S UNHINGED COMEDY SHOW

March 12

EXPELLED TEACHERS COMEDY SHOW

March 15

BINOMIO DE ORO DE AMERICA

March 21

DUSTY SLAY THE NIGHT SHIFT TOUR

March 22

ANJELAH JOHNSON-REYES THE FAMILY REUNION TOUR

March 23

A MAN NAMED CASH

March 28

TIFFANY HADDISH - THE FUNNY AND FEARLESS TOUR

April 11

GIRLS NIGHT OUT –THE MUSICAL

April 12

COUNTESS CABARET WITH LUANN DE LESSEPS

April 18

#IMOMSOHARD FLASHBACK

May 4

ABBAFAB

May 23

FREEMAN COLISEUM

www.freemancoliseum.com

SESSANTA V 2.0: PRIMUS, PUSCIFER, A PERFECT CIRCLE

April 29

MERCY ME – LIVE 2025

May 3

FROST BANK CENTER

www.frostbankcenter.com

MARC ANTHONY - NTC 1274TH TOUR NEO CITY –THE MOMENTUM

March 9

DEFTONES

March 13

PAPA ROACH AND RISE AGAINST

March 22

TOBY MAC’S HITS DEEP TOUR

March 23

J-HOPE - HOPE ON THE STAGE IN SAN ANTONIO

March 26-27

THEO VON

March 28

KEVIN HART

April 12

DISTURBED

April 25

STAINED AND BREAKING BENJAMIN - AWAKEN THE FALLEN TOUR

May 7

ALEJANDRO FERNANDEZ DE REY A REY

May 31

MAGIK THEATRE

www.magiktheatre.org

ELEPHANT & PIGGIE’S WE ARE IN A PLAY

March 1-23

LOTERIA – GAME ON May 3 – June 1

MAJESTIC

THEATRE

www.majesticempire.com

FUNNY GIRL

March 1-2

NARUTO THE SYMPHONIC EXPERIENCE

March 5

BLIPPI - JOIN THE BAND TOUR

March 7

YURIDIA SIN LLORAR US TOUR 2025

March 9

THE GREAT GATSBY A NEW BALLET

March 12

DANCING WITH THE STARS

March 13

HARRY POTTER AND THE CHAMBER OF SECRETS IN CONCERT (WITH THE SAN ANTONIO PHILHARMONIC)

March 14

ALEJANDRA GUZMAN BRILLA TOUR

March 16

PRETTY GUARDIAN SAILOR MOON - SUPER LIVE NORTH AMERICAN TOUR

March 18

WANDA SYKES

PLEASE & THANK YOU TOUR

March 21

ANJELAH JOHNSON-REYES THE FAMILY REUNION TOUR

March 22

THE ROCK ORCHESTRA BY CANDLELIGHT

March 23

DARYL HALL

March 25

JOE GATTO

March 27

TAYLOR TOMLINSON SAVE ME TOUR

March 28-29

CHICAGO LIVE CONCERT

March 31

MAMMA MIA

March 1-6

BRAD WILLIAMS THE GROWTH SPURT TOUR

April 17

KILLERS OF KILL TONY STAND UP COMEDY BY KAM PATTERSON, ARI MATTI, DAVID LUCAS, MARTIN PHILLIPS

April 19

CHEAP TRICK

April 21

SANTANA ONENESS TOUR 2025

April 22

PAT BENATAR & NEIL GIRALDO

March 23

DIANA KRALL

April 24

THE WIZ

May 6-11

HA*ASH

May 18

COUTURE ON TOUR AN EMILY IN PARIS EXPERIENCE

May 19

HAUSER - THE REBEL IS BACK

May 22

MOULIN ROUGE: THE MUSICAL May 27 – June 8

SAN ANTONIO PHILHARMONIC

@ First Baptist Church Downtown www.saphil.org

HARRY POTTER AND THE CHAMBER OF SECRETS IN CONCERT, MAJESTIC THEATRE

March 25

CLASSICS VII - ILLIA OVCHARENKO, PIANO, JEFFREY KAHANE, CONDUCTOR, SCOTTISH RITE CONCERT HALL

March 21-22

CLASSICS VIII - JJ, GUITAR ANTHONY PARNTHER, CONDUCTOR, SCOTTISH RITE CONCERT HALL

April 4-5

J.S. BACH: EASTER ORATORIO JEFFREY KAHANE, CONDUCTOR, BASILICA OF THE NATIONAL SHRINE OF THE LITTLE FLOWER

April 11-12

JEFFREY KAHANE SOLO RECITAL, JEFFREY KAHANE, PIANO, OUR LADY OF THE LAKE UNIVERSITY, SACRED HEART CHAPEL

April 13

J.S. BACH CANTATA NO. 4

JEFFERY KAHANE, CONDUCTOR, SCOTTISH RITE CONCERT HALL

April 18-19

CLASSICS IX - ELENA URIOSTE, VIOLIN, ZLATOMIR FUNG, CELLO, JEFFREY KAHANE, CONDUCTOR

SCOTTISH RITE CONCERT HALL

May 2-3

CINCO DE MAYO - JEFFREY KAHANE, CONDUCTOR PLAZA GUADALUPE

May 4

CLASSICS X - MAHLER SYMPHONY NO. 2, “RESURRECTION” SAN ANTONIO MASTERSINGERS, JEFFREY KAHANE, CONDUCTOR, MAJESTIC THEATRE

May 23-24

SAN PEDRO PLAYHOUSE

www.sanpedroplayhouse.org

JERSEY BOYS

March 1-2

ROMEO & JULIET

Shakespeare in the Park

March 25-30

ANYTHING GOES

May 9 – June 1

STABLE HALL

@ Pearl www.stablehall.com

DONAVAN FRANKENREITER GET OUT YOUR MIND TOUR

March 12

ZIOR PARK

March 15

YOUNG POSSE

March 15

NATE SMITH

April 24

THE MOSS

April 25

JULIEN BAKER AND TORRES SEND A PRAYER MY WAY TOUR

May 4

MAT KEARNEY WITH AUGUSTANA

May 5

THEE ALTONS AND THE SINSEERS, CLUB HEARTACHE TOUR

May 8

WILD PARTY

May 15

WHITE DENIM

May 25

TOBIN CENTER

Carlos Alvarez Studio Theater www.tobincenter.org

KATHLEEN EDWARDS

March 1

CURTAIN TALKS AND COCKTAILS

BOB FOSSE AND THE MUSICALS OF KANDER & EBB

March 3

INDUSTRY NIGHT READING LA RUTA – ISAAC GOMEZ

March 17

DRINKS AND DANCE DISCOVERY

RHYTHM OF THE HEART – THE IMPORTANCE OF DANCE IN SAN ANTONIO

March 26

HEATHER LAND GIRL’S NIGHT OUT

April 12

100A PRODUCTIONS THE REVOLUTIONIST

May 14-18

CURTAIN TALKS AND COCKTAILS WEST SIDE STORY

May 19

TOBIN CENTER

H-E-B Performance Hall www.tobincenter.org

THE PRINCESS BRIDE – AN INCONCEIVABLE EVENING WITH CARY ELWES

March 1

YOSA PHILHARMONIC WITH SAN ANTONIO MASTERSINGERS CARMINA BURANA

March 2

TOMMY DORSEY ORCHESTRA TRIBUTE TO FRANK SINATRA

March 7

ANDY GRAMMER MONSTER TOUR

March 12

THE ELECTRIC LIGHT ORCHESTRA EXPERIENCE EVIL WOMAN – THE AMERICAN ELO

March 14

YOSA PRESENTS DANCING QUEEN THE MUSIC OF ABBA

March 15

THE PRICE IS RIGHT LIVE!

March 16

SAXON

HELL, FIRE AND STEEL TOUR

March 21

VOCTAVE

March 22

NITTY GRITTY DIRT BAND ALL THE GOOD TIMES –THE FAREWELL TOUR

March 26

KODO

One Earth Tour 2025

March 27

THE ORCHESTRA SAN ANTONIO ECHOES IN DIVERSION

March 29

JAZZ AT LINCOLN CENTER NEW ORLEANS SONGBOOK

March 30

LA SANTA CECILIA

April 1

WIZARD OF OZ ON ICE

April 3

STAVROS HALKIAS THE DREAMBOAT TOUR

April 4

STAYIN’ ALIVE ONE NIGHT OF THE BEE GEES

April 5

JIM HENSON’S LABYRINTH IN CONCERT

April 8

OPERA SAN ANTONIO MADAMA BUTTERFLY

April 17 & 19

THE PSYCHOLOGY OF A MURDERER

April 22

GIRLS GONE BIBLE, FOR GOD SO LOVED THE WORLD TOUR

April 27

GET THE LED OUT, A CELEBRATION OF THE “MIGHTY ZEP”

May 2

THERESA CAPUTO LIVE THE EXPERIENCE

May 4

ALTON BROWN LIVE LAST BITE

May 8

THE CHILDREN’S CHORUS OF SAN ANTONIO Untraveled Worlds

May 10

YOSA PHILHARMONIC FIREBIRD DANCE

May 11

YOSAPALOOZA

May 18

BOW WOW AND CHINGY

May 21

GENE SIMMONS BAND 2025

May 23

WONDER THEATRE

www.wondertheatre.org

9 TO 5

March 1-2

BEAUTIFUL - THE CAROL KING MUSICAL MAY 16 – JUNE 8

Scan the QR code for links to expanded event listings and to purchase tickets.

CULINARY MAGIC AT THE PEARL: How the Culinary Institute of America is Transforming San Antonio’s Food Scene

In the heart of San Antonio’s revitalized Pearl District, where historic charm meets modern flair, one of the world’s most prestigious culinary schools, the Culinary Institute of America (CIA), is cooking up a revolution that’s as rich in tradition as it is in innovation. As part of San Antonio’s proud designation as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy, the CIA has become an integral ingredient in the city’s evolving culinary recipe, blending world-class education with local flavor to create a lasting impact on the region’s food scene with unparalleled expertise and passion.

By Kimberly A. Suta

Since its debut at the Pearl in 2008, when it was founded with a gift from San Antonio’s renowned entrepreneur and philanthropist, Kit Goldsbury, the CIA has quickly become a cornerstone of San Antonio’s gastronomic landscape. It opened to much fanfare, as the school’s state-of-the-art facility blends seamlessly with the district’s industrial past and dynamic present. The Pearl, known for its bustling Farmer's Market (one of the top in the nation), eclectic eateries and artfilled spaces, provides the perfect backdrop for an institution that is redefining what it means to cook, create and connect through food.

CIA’s esteemed Associate Dean, Jose Frade, who has been with the college for almost a decade, brings his own unique background, from the Valley to Houston, Austin’s Le Cordon

Bleu, Mexico City and even San Antonio’s UTSA, and is quick to highlight the importance of keeping pace with evolving food trends.

“Our curriculum may not change on a daily basis, but we — as educators — are always in conversations with industry partners. Whether it’s the fast-casual surge, the rise of food trucks or master programs in global beverage and wine, we ensure our students are on the cutting edge,” said Frade. The school is not only training tomorrow’s top chefs but also reinforcing San Antonio’s reputation as a hub of culinary excellence, where local traditions meet international innovation.

Over the past 17 years, the CIA’s San Antonio campus has grown into a dynamic hub for aspiring chefs, drawing a diverse student body of, now, approximately 200 future culinary leaders. These students are not only mastering the art of cuisine — they’re also gaining invaluable hands-on experience through partnerships with the Pearl’s curated restaurants, local institutions and the ever-evolving urban landscape. According to Frade, San Antonio’s CIA campus is the only CIA campus uniquely placed in an urban setting, surrounded by restaurants, bars, food trucks and the like.

“There’s restaurants and hotels just feet away from us. The students see that and become part of the community right away. We’re a commuter campus, so most of our students have full time jobs. They study and then go working at restaurants around the city,” said Frade.

The impact of the CIA is perhaps best illustrated through the success of its alumni. Graduates have gone on to helm award-winning restaurants, earn accolades from the James Beard Foundation and Michelin, run successful food manufacturing businesses and even redefine Texan cuisine by blending traditional flavors with modern techniques. Notable chef alumni — whose names have become synonymous with innovation and quality — are invigorating palates across the region, proving that the education they received at the CIA truly prepares them for the culinary world’s challenges. Their achievements are inspiration for a new generation of local talent, creating a ripple effect that benefits not just the food industry, but the entire community.

Notable alumni who are making waves in the culinary world and right here at home include chefs such as Mixtli’s Diego Galicia and Nicola Blaque of Jerk Shack — who recently earned Michelin accolades, Ana Liz Pulido of Ana Liz Taqueria (in Mission, TX) — recognized by the James Beard Foundation as Best Chef in Texas, and Shanika Patterson — a MasterChef finalist, all began their journey in classrooms at CIA San Antonio. These success stories not only give current students something to aspire to but also reinforce the CIA’s role in fostering local talent and entrepreneurial spirit. Many alumni now own and operate thriving restaurants, bringing their passion for food to communities across the region and even contributing to programs like SAISD’s nutrition initiatives.

“A lot of our instructors are really invested in our partnership with SAISD to train childhood nutrition workers and help San Antonio become healthier,” explained Frade.

Beyond its role as an educational institution, the CIA’s presence at the Pearl has had a transformative effect on San Antonio’s culinary landscape. The school’s programs and community outreach initiatives have sparked collaborations with local eateries and food festivals, where students and seasoned chefs come together for pop-up dinners, tasting events and culinary showcases. These events celebrate farmto-table practices, sustainable sourcing and the Alamo City’s vibrant mix of cultures. They serve as a reminder that great food is not just about technique or presentation — it’s about community, creativity and the joy of sharing a good meal.

“But I’m most proud to be able to wear so many different hats — overseeing the program, developing partnerships and making connections to open doors for our students, as well as be on committees like UNESCO,” shared Frade.

As San Antonio continues to flourish as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy, the Culinary Institute of America at the Pearl stands as a beacon of excellence. Its influence is felt far and wide — from the kitchens of trendy new restaurants to the traditional family-owned establishments that have long cemented Texas cuisine. For residents and visitors alike, the CIA is a testament to the city’s enduring love for food. In this dynamic setting, the CIA isn’t just teaching recipes — it’s crafting the future of San Antonio’s food scene, one delicious innovation at a time.

A key example of this innovative approach is Savor, the on-campus (Pearl-based) restaurant that serves as a living classroom. At Savor, last-semester students rotate between front-of-house and back-of-house roles, delivering a meticulously crafted prix fixe dining experience that draws on American Contemporary cuisine with international influences.

In the mornings, pastry students take charge at the CIA Bakery Cafe pop-up, while in the evenings, an American Contemporary dinner menu emerges — each dish a testament to the creative curriculum and success of the program.

“Our focus is education first,” Frade explained. “We want every guest to experience not just a meal, but a journey through the culinary techniques our students are mastering.”

As you can see, San Antonio’s CIA’s influence extends well

beyond the campus walls. Its collaboration with local initiatives — like the famed Pearl Farmer's Market, where early on, live-fire kitchens and student-run taco stands introduced locals to unforgettable dishes — has helped establish San Antonio’s reputation.

“San Antonio’s food scene is evolving,” Frade noted. “We’re moving beyond the traditional Tex Mex label, with chefs experimenting with diverse cuisines while still honoring our authentic roots — think vibrant barbacoa, twists on local classics and more.”

The CIA’s presence in San Antonio is a curated celebration of community and building a close-knit culinary network that values collaboration over competition. With its strong ties to UNESCO’s Creative City of Gastronomy program and local partnerships — from the Texas Beef Council’s “pasture-toplate” initiatives to community events like Dia de los Muertos and the annual Paella Challenge, now in it's 15th year, both spearheaded by local hero and CIA alum, Johnny Hernandez — the CIA is firmly woven into the fabric of San Antonio’s cultural and culinary identity.

For families, food lovers and aspiring chefs alike, the Culinary Institute of America at the Pearl isn’t just a school — it’s a vibrant, living testament to San Antonio’s ongoing culinary renaissance. Here, history and innovation blend as seamlessly as indigenous ingredients in a perfectly balanced dish, inviting everyone to savor the success of a community that truly believes in the power of incredible food that brings people together in the most delicious ways.

For more information on the restaurants mentioned in this article, scan the QR code.

MICHELIN & JAMES BEARD ACCOLADES Elevate San Antonio's Culinary Scene

By Kimberly A. Suta

San Antonio’s vibrant blend of art, culture and fun isn’t limited to its historic missions and colorful festivals — it’s also on the cutting edge of culinary excellence. With local chefs and restaurants earning accolades from Michelin and the James Beard Foundation, our city’s food scene is a feast for both the palate and the soul. The Alamo City is exceptionally proud to have a long list of chefs who have received, not only local, but national and even global attention from these top organizations.

You may know that the whole of San Antonio was abuzz in 2024 when it was first announced that the Michelin Guide was expanding its reach to Texas. Here are some of the chefs to top both lists.

At the heart of this gastronomic renaissance is one of the City’s oldest fine dining establishments, Biga on the Banks, led by the “godfather” himself, Chef Bruce Auden. A James Beard Finalist for Best Southwest Chef from 2001 to 2005 and again in 2011 and 2012, Chef Bruce has been a pillar of the culinary community.

“All of us at Biga are very humbled by the national recognition we have been receiving from March 2000 and continuing through present day 2025. More importantly, is the love that San Antonio gives us,” he shared.

As Biga on the Banks celebrates its 25th anniversary on April 22 — coinciding with Earth Day — the restaurant will close for an evening fundraiser. This special event will feature guest chefs and Biga alumni like Mark Bliss, Elise Broz and Luis Colon, uniting the culinary community in a celebration. And during Fiesta®, Biga delights guests with its holiday river parade dining experience — no set menu, no reserved balcony seats, just a casual, festive atmosphere where diners can enjoy their meal while watching the famous parade on April 28.

Adding to the city’s culinary accolades is Chef Jennifer Hwa Dobb of Best Quality Daughter at the Historic Pearl. Known for her creative Asian fusion cuisine, Dobb was a 2024 James Beard Best Chef Texas semi-finalist.

Chef Bruce Auden, Biga on the Banks

Photos by Drew Henry

“I’m happy to be considered — it’s good for business and great for San Antonio. I always want to credit my team at BQD; the restaurant literally doesn’t exist without them. I’m proud of all of the nominees this year and hope one of us can bring home San Antonio’s first win!” she announced.

Chef Berty of Ladino, also at the Historic Pearl, is another shining star. Recently awarded a Michelin Bib Gourmand, Chef Berty Richter, Partner and Executive Chef of Ladino and Ezov, explained, “From day one, our goal has been to showcase the cultures and cuisines of the Mediterranean region while using the local ingredients we have right here in San Antonio. Getting recognition from Michelin is an incredible achievement for all of us at Ladino.”

And finally, not to be outdone, Chef Chris Cullum of Cullum’s Attaboy has also earned some Michelin recognition — specifically for his no-frills approach to great food.

“Being recognized by Michelin — and for Attaboy — is an incredible validation of our efforts. It feels like the world is acknowledging what we do and encouraging us to keep pushing forward,” said Cullum. “This honor is a lifetime achievement for our entire team, a testament to our dedication to excellence and to each other. Long live the legend, long live Attaboy.”

Together, these culinary innovators have not only helped create San Antonio’s food scene but have taken this great culinary city to the next level.

For more information on the chefs and restaurants mentioned in this article, scan the QR code.

Chef Jennifer Hwa Dobb, Best Quality Daughter

Chef Berty Richter, Ladino

Chef Chris Cullum, Cullum’s Attaboy

Photo by Josh Huskin

Photos by Danya De Hoyos

Photo by Marla Segura

Photo by Mars Tello

AMERICAN/ CONTEMPORARY

410 DINER www.410diner.com

AMBLER TEXAS KITCHEN & COCKTAILS www.amblersanantonio.com

BAR LORETTA www.barloretta.com

BIGA ON THE BANKS www.biga.com

BLISS www.foodisbliss.com

BOILER HOUSE www.boilerhousesa.com

BOUDRO’S TEXAS BISTRO www.boudros.com

BURGERTECA www.chefjohnnyhernandez.com

CAPPY’S RESTAURANT www.cappysrestaurant.com

CAVALIER www.cavaliersanantonio.com

CLEMENTINE www.clementine-sa.com

CORINNE SAN ANTONIO www.corinnesatx.com

THE COVE www.thecove.us

CURED www.curedatpearl.com

DEWESE’S TIP TOP CAFÉ www.tiptopcafesa.com

ELSEWHERE GARDEN BAR & KITCHEN www.elsewheretexas.com

THE ESQUIRE www.esquiretavern-sa.com

FOUR BROTHERS www.omnihotels.com

FULL GOODS DINER www.fullgoodsdiner.com

THE GUENTHER HOUSE www.guentherhouse.com

THE HOPPY MONK www.thehoppymonk.com

LADINO www.ladinosatx.com

LANDRACE www.landracetx.com

LIBERTY BAR www.liberty-bar.com

LONE STAR CAFÉ www.lonestarcafe.com

M.K. DAVIS RESTAURANT (210) 223-1208

MAMA’S CAFÉ www.mamascafesa.com

MAVERICK TEXAS BRASSERIE www.mavericktexas.com

MAX & LOUIE’S NEW YORK DINER www.maxandlouies.com

THE MOON’S DAUGHTERS www.themoonsdaughters.com

THE REPUBLIC OF TEXAS www.therepublicoftexas restaurant.com

SOUTHERLEIGH FINE FOOD & BREWERY www.southerleigh.com

STOUT'S SIGNATURE www.stoutssignature.com

SUPPER www.supperatemma.com

TARDIF’S AMERICAN BRASSERIE www.tardifs.com

TYCOON FLATS www.tycoonflats.com

ASIAN

BEST QUALITY DAUGHTER www.bestqualitydaughter.com

COLETTE AT THE PHIPPS www.coletteatthephipps.com

DASHI SICHUAN KITCHEN & BAR www.sichuandashi.com

DING HOW CHINESE RESTAURANT www.dinghowsa.com

GODAI SUSHI BAR & JAPANESE RESTAURANT www.godaisushi.com

GOLDEN WOK www.goldenwoksa.com

HOT JOY www.hotjoysa.com

HUNG FONG CHINESE RESTAURANT www.hungfongsa.com

JINGU HOUSE www.jinguhousesatx.com

SARI SARI www.sari-sari-tx.com

SICHUAN HOUSE www.sichuaneats.com

STIXS & STONE www.stixsandstonesa.com

TOKYO COWBOY www.tokyocowboytx.com

BBQ

2 BROTHERS www.2brosbbqmarket.com

2M SMOKEHOUSE www.2msmokehouse.com

THE BARBECUE STATION www.barbecuestation.com

BLANCO BBQ www.blancobbq.com

THE COUNTY LINE www.countyline.com

CURRY BOYS BBQ www.curryboysbbq.com

PINKERTON’S www.pinkertonsbarbeque.com

SMOKE BBQ RIVERBAR www.smokedowntown.com

SMOKE SHACK BBQ www.smokeshacksa.com

BRITISH

MAD DOGS BRITISH PUB www.maddogs.net

FRENCH

BRASSERIE MON CHOU CHOU www.brasseriemonchouchou.com

GERMAN

LITTLE RHEIN PROST HAUS www.prosthaussa.com

SCHILO’S www.schilos.com

IRISH

THE COTTAGE IRISH PUB www.thecottageirishpub.com

DURTY NELLY’S IRISH PUB www.durtynellyspub.com

WAXY O’CONNORS www.waxyoconnors.com

ITALIAN

ALDINO’S AT THE VINEYARD www.aldinos.com

ALDO’S RISTORANTE ITALIANO www.aldossa.com

BATTALION www.battalionsa.com

DOUGH PIZZERIA NAPOLETANO www.doughpizzeria onlineorders.com

FIFE AND FARRO www.fifeandfarro.com

FIUME PIZZERIA www.fiumepizzeria.com

LA SORRENTINA ITALIAN RESTAURANT www.lasorrentinaitalian restaurant.com

LUCE RISTORANTE E ENOTECA www.lucesanantonio.com

NONNA OSTERIA www.nonnasa.com

PAESANOS www.paesanosriverwalk.com

PESTO RISTORANTE www.pesto-ristorante.com

POMPEII ITALIAN GRILL www.pompeiigrill.com

RAVELLO ITALIAN CUISINE www.ravellotx.com

RENZO’S TRATTORIA E PIZZERIA www.renzostrattoria.com

SCUZZI’S ITALIAN GRILL www.scuzzisitalianrestaurant.com

TIU STEPPI’S ITALIAN KITCHEN www.tiusteppis.com

TRE TRATTORIA www.tretrattoria.com

ZOCCA CUISINE D’ITALIA www.zoccariverwalk.com

MEXICAN

ACENAR www.acenar.com

ALDACO’S MEXICAN CUISINE www.aldacosrestaurants.com

AZUCA NUEVO LATINO www.azuca.net

CAFÉ OLE www.cafeole.us

CASA RIO www.casa-rio.com

CUISHE COCINA MEXICANA www.cuishemx.com

DON PEDRO

MEXICAN RESTAURANT www.donpedro.com

EL CHAPARRAL

MEXICAN RESTAURANT www.elchaparral.com

EL MIRASOL www.elmirasolsa.com

GUADALAJARA GRILL www.guadalajaragrill.us

IRON CACTUS www.ironcactus.com

LA FOGATA MEXICAN CUISINE www.lafogata.com

LA FONDA ON MAIN www.lafondaonmain.com

LA GLORIA www.chefjohnnyhernandez.com

LA MARGARITA www.lamargarita.com

LOS BARRIOS

MEXICAN RESTAURANT www.losbarriosrestaurant.com

LUZ ROJA COCINA Y CANTINA www.luzrojatexmex.com

MARIA BONITA RESTAURANT AND BAR www.mariabonitatx.com

MEZQUITE www.mezquite.com

MI TIERRA CAFÉ Y PANADERIA www.mitierracafe.com

MIXTLI www.restaurantmixtli.com

THE ORIGINAL BLANCO CAFÉ www.blancocafe.net

THE ORIGINAL MEXICAN RESTAURANT www.originalmexican.com

PALOMA BLANCA

MEXICAN CUISINE www.palomablanca.net

RAY’S DRIVE INN www.raysdriveinn.net

RESTAURANTE PICO DE GALLO www.picodegallo.com

ROSARIO’S www.rosariossa.com

SALSALITO CANTINA MEXICAN RESTAURANT www.salsalito-sa.com

DORREGO’S www.dorregos.com

LUNA ROSA PUERTO RICAN GRILL & TAPAS www.lunarosatapas.com

OCHO www.havanasanantonio.com

TORO KITCHEN & BAR www.torokitchenandbar.com

SEAFOOD

COSTA PACIFICA www.costapacificausa.com

LITTLE EM’S OYSTER BAR www.littleemsoysterbar.com

ON THE BEND OYSTER BAR & CIGAR LOUNGE www.onthebendsa.com

OSTRA www.omnihotels.com

SILO ELEVATED CUISINE www.siloelevatedcuisine.com

STEAKHOUSE

AVENIDA BRAZIL CHURRASCARIA STEAKHOUSE www.avebrazil.com

BARN DOOR RESTAURANT & MEAT MARKET www.thebarndoor restaurant.com

BLU PRIME STEAKHOUSE www.bluprimesteakhouse.com

BOB’S STEAK AND CHOPS www.bobs-steakandchop.com

BOHANAN’S www.bohanans.com

BRENNER’S STEAKHOUSE www.brennerssteakhouse.com

THE CAPITAL GRILLE www.thecapitalgrille.com

CHAMA GAUCHA BRAZILIAN STEAKHOUSE www.chamagaucha.com

HAYWIRE RESTAURANT www.haywirerestaurant.com

ISADORE www.isadoresatx.com

J-PRIME STEAKHOUSE www.jprimesteakhouse.com

JOSEPHINE STREET www.josephinestreet.com

LITTLE RED BARN STEAKHOUSE www.lrbsteakhouse.com

PERRY’S STEAKHOUSE & GRILL www.perryssteakhouse.com

RANGE www.rangesa.com

RUTH’S CHRIS STEAKHOUSE www.ruthschrissa.com

SILO PRIME www.siloelevatedcuisine.com

TU ASADOR MEXICAN STEAKHOUSE www.tuasadorsatx.com

BAKERIES/SWEETS

THE ART OF DONUT www.artofdonut.com

BAKERY LORRAINE www.bakerylorraine.com

BEDOY’S BAKERY www.bedoysbakery.com

LA PANADERIA www.lapanaderia.com

BILIA EATERY www.eatbilia.com

DEAN’S STEAK & SEAFOOD www.deanssteakandseafood.com

Scan the QR code for links to expanded restaurant listings and to make reservations.

ART EVERYWHERE

Art is everywhere in San Antonio. It brightens walls and bridges, and blossoms in squares and parks. There's art in long-abandoned alleys and on columns under expressways. The city's colorful spirit shines forth in paint, tile, stone and all kinds of creative media. On a busy workday in a concrete jungle, an unexpected encounter with a work of art can be an instant reset. It asks you to stop and smell the flowers, even if the flowers are made of oversized bicycle parts. A vivid splash of art can also bring people together to celebrate in a place as barren as a neglected alley or provide a breathing space for moments of reflection.

Graffiti isn't the only art on building walls anymore. Cities around the country have embraced public art. Big, bold outdoor murals are becoming as common as tattoos on millennials, and the results can be powerful. Public art can revitalize communities and boost business. San Antonio's rich history and lively creative scene are fertile soil for its growth. Strong support from public and private sources keeps stimulating more creation.

The stage was set for public art long ago. In 1968, the city commissioned renowned Mexican artist Juan O'Gorman to create an epic mural to adorn the Convention Center built for HemisFair. You can still see his "Confluence of Civilizations" on the face of the Lila Cockrell Theater. The River Walk Public Art

By Susan Yerkes

Garden is in full bloom just across Market Street. Some works represent larger pieces spread around the city, like Leticia Huerta's "Blooms," huge metal flowers that also bloom in several city parks. Mexico City sculptor Pedro Reyes' powerful 16-foot volcanic stone "Stargazer" radiates serenity. Back on street level, sculptor Sebastian's towering red steel “Torch of Friendship,” a gift from the Asociación de Empresarios Mexicanos, has become a familiar symbol of this city and its close ties with Mexico. For a heavenly selfie, check out Jorge Marin’s “Alas de México" near the base of the Tower of the Americas. "Public art is becoming more popular across the country and the world," said Krystal Jones, Director of San Antonio's Department of Arts & Culture. The city's collection numbers

“F.I.S.H.” by Donald Lipski. Photo by Bob Howen, courtesy of Visit San Antonio

about 600 pieces so far, and more are in the works. Artists apply to be on a "qualified" list to work on city art projects. When a proposal goes out, a panel chosen by the San Antonio Arts Commission — an independent group appointed by the City Council — works with Jones and her department to select the artists and help oversee the process.

"Folks are wanting to invest in art more than they ever have. San Antonio has been doing it for a number of years. Our funding is mostly from 1.5 percent of city capital improvement projects. In the 2022 bond election, we received 15.7 million dollars for new public artworks. We currently have 340 projects we're working on throughout the city. Our focus now is to bring art into neighborhoods, where people can see artists working around them and learn about the arts. But the way to see a concentrated collection of it all at once is to come downtown," said Jones.

Some recent pieces are in the city's Zona Cultural, a 44-block area including Main Plaza, Plaza de Armas, Market Square, the Alameda Theater and San Fernando Cathedral. "Echoes of Market Square" by Mike "Comp" Arguello and Eva Marengo Sanchez has turned eight 174-foot-tall concrete pillars under I-35 by Market Square into a vivid gallery celebrating the historic market's people, food and music. "The Spirit Within," by Ashleigh Garza and Hailey Marmolejo, stretches 155 feet across the side of the Farmer's Market building. Centro de Artes, an airy two-story building at the corner of Market Square, is full of work celebrating Hispanic culture and history. The city's Culture Commons space in nearby Plaza de Armas spotlights area artists. Christopher Montoya’s “Illuminaciòn de La Plaza," on a wall facing San Pedro Creek, conjures up spirits from the plaza's past in a tile mural.

Jones said she's excited about the April grand opening for "City Lights," two large sculptures she calls a beautiful blend of nature and the urban environment that will cast their light on the corner of Houston and Flores Streets. Acclaimed ceramicist Diana Kersey is working on a very hands-on Creatures of the Creek sculpture facing the Goodwill store by San Pedro Creek — "she knows kids and even adults will want to climb on it," she added.

Centro San Antonio's Art Everywhere initiative has been the catalyst for part of the public art proliferation downtown in the last few years. "I want to see art everywhere," said Centro's Vice President of Cultural Placemaking, Andi Rodriguez. While the City Department of Arts & Culture works with city-owned property, Rodriguez works with property owners in Centro's downtown footprint. When she locates a likely space and funding for the work, she

"Echoes of Market Square" by Mike "Comp" Arguello and Eva Marengo Sanchez, courtesy of City of San Antonio

“Blooms” by Leticia Huerta, courtesy of City of San Antonio

puts out a call for proposals to area artists. Once a proposal is selected, she manages it to completion. Art Everywhere started during the dark days of COVID-19 to add brightness to downtown, attract visitors and residents, and support local artists — a win-win. Since 2020, Rodriguez has overseen the creation of 182 public artworks, and more are in the pipeline.

In January, Centro unveiled “Freedom Isn't Free,” a mural by Greg "Ghost" Cazares honoring military veterans, on a bare building wall facing VFW Post 76. A few weeks later, artist Chris Montoya's “Love Letter,” an epic mural honoring San Antonio's history and HemisFair '68 that wraps around two sides of the Magik Theatre building in Hemisfair Park, was unveiled. “Por Vida,” a 95-foot-tall image of a traditional prayer candle with a tribute to the San Antonio Spurs by artist Andy Benavides with Nik Soupe and others, looms over the street from a Houston Street Parking Garage wall. Last May, Centro opened La Zona, a pop-up gallery and super-hip event space, in a neglected alley at 337 West Commerce Street. Monthly exhibits curated by local artists and organizations draw folks from all over the city to downtown. Another Centro project — a giant, shiny steel head of former Russian dictator Vladimir Lenin with a tiny female Mao dancing on his head installed near San Pedro Creek Culture Park, generated controversy and even a feeble attempt to blow it up.

"I know we're having an impact," Rodriguez said. "The first couple of years of this initiative, we sometimes had to beg business people to work with us. Now I have people calling me all the time asking for art. There's more development downtown, more people are living downtown, and we're creating a sense of neighborhood."

The San Antonio River Foundation has contributed fantastic art along the river. Artist Donald Lipski's landmark giant, glowing sunfish hanging from an underpass on the Museum Reach, imaginative "portals" to each of the UNESCO World Heritage Spanish Missions along the river, and the foundation's Confluence Park attract visitors from around the world. San Pedro Creek Culture Park is like a linear outdoor museum, with murals, mosaics and sound and light installations.

The San Antonio Botanical Center's current installation, "Reflections of Nature," features murals by 12 wellknown local and regional artists. Artist collectives, from the venerable San Anto Cultural Arts to the San Antonio Steet Art Initiative, MASA, and many others, keep adding energy to the creative scene.

In San Antonio, art IS everywhere — and there's more of it all the time.

“Stargazer (Citlali)” by Pedro Reyes, courtesy of City of San Antonio

Park

Take a virtual tour of public art all over San Antonio, with maps, photos, videos, information about artists, the works and locations, and how they were created:

Centro San Antonio

www.CentroSanAntonio.org/centro-art-everywhere/

City of San Antonio Department of Arts & Culture www.Events.GetCreativeSanAntonio.com/public-art/map/

San Anto Cultural Arts www.SanAnto.org/community-mural-program.html

San Antonio River Foundation

www.SARiverFound.org/art-along-the-river

San Antonio Street Art Initiative www.SanAntonioStreetArt.org/

For more information on Art Everywhere in San Antonio, scan the QR code.

San Pedro Creek Culture

"Confluence of Civilizations" by Juan O’Gorman, courtesy of City of San Antonio

“Love Letter” by Christopher Fonseca, courtesy of Centro San Antonio

ARTPACE

www.artpace.org

SPRING 2025 INTERNATIONAL ARTIST-IN-RESIDENCE OPENING RECEPTION

March 20

BRISCOE WESTERN ART MUSEUM

www.briscoemuseum.org

NIGHT OF THE ARTISTS OPENING WEEKEND

March 28-29

NIGHT OF THE ARTISTS

PUBLIC EXHIBITION & SALE

March 30-May 11

CONTEMPORARY AT BLUE STAR

www.contemporarysa.org

SIZHU LI MOONMENT –FINDING A WAY

Through May 4

THE DOSEUM

www.thedoseum.org

UNIQUELY US –UNDERSTANDING

RACE AND BUILDING UNITY

March 1 – April 20

BIG DAY OF PLAY

March 1

FREE FAMILY NIGHT

March 3, April 7, May 5

MEMBER MADNESS

March 5

FAMILY WORKSHOP

PINEWOOD DERBY

March 30

FIESTA FLOATS CAKES

April 26

AMAZING ANIMATION

May 24

LITTLE MAKER WORKSHOP

March 1, 5, 8, 12, 15, 19, 22, 26, 29

April 2, 5, 9, 12, 16, 19, 23, 26

May 3, 7, 10, 14, 17, 21, 24, 28, 31

MAKER WORKSHOP

March 1, 8, 15, 22, 29

April 5, 12, 19, 26

May 3, 10, 17, 24, 31

LITTLE ARTIST WORKSHOP

March 2, 7, 9, 14, 16, 21, 23, 28, 30

April 4, 6, 9, 12, 16, 19, 23, 26, 30

May 3, 7, 10

ARTIST WORKSHOP

March 2, 9, 16, 23, 30

April 4, 6, 12, 16, 19, 23, 26, 30

May 3, 7, 10, 14, 21, 24, 28, 31

GUADALUPE CULTURAL ARTS CENTER

www.guadalupeculturalarts.org

NOCHE DE ROMANCE

April 12

Guadalupe Plaza

43RD ANNUAL TEJANO CONJUNTO FESTIVAL

May 15-18

Rosedale Park

MCNAY ART MUSEUM

www.mcnayart.org

EYE OF A COLLECTOR: THE JORLY GENGER: STOMPING GROUND Through March 16

RASQUACHISMO: 35 YEARS OF A CHICANO SENSIBILITY Through March 30

SPOTLIGHT: SAN ANTONIO’S K-12 ARTISTS EMBRACE IAN DAWSON Through April 27

DERRICK ADAMS: EYE CANDY Through August 17

MICHAEL TRACY – THE ELEGY OF DISTANCE

March 1 – July 27

SPORT AND SPECTATOR

March 1 – July 27

SEEN AND UNSEEN SACRED AND SPIRITUAL DIMENSIONS IN CONTEMPORARY ART

March 2

SPECIAL PREVIEW RECEPTION FOR SPRING 2025 BANNER EXHIBITIONS

March 5

STORYTIME FLOW

March 7

WEDDING OPEN HOUSE

March 23

DESIGNING SHAKESPEARE THROUGH THE AGES

March 27 - July 6

MUSEUM OF WESTERN ART IN KERRVILLE

www.museumofwesternart.com

GLORY & GRIME: THE WORKS WILD WEST WINE WEDNESDAY

High Gun Wines

March 5

Becker Vineyards

April 2

Turtle Creek Vineyard

May 7

MINI CAMP

March 10

FAMILY FREE DAY

March 29, April 26, May 31

MOWA CRAFTERS

April 12, May 10

42ND ANNUAL EXHIBITION & SALE

April 25 – June 7

RUBY CITY

www.rubycity.org

UNSETTLED EYE Through April 27

IRRATIONALLY SPEAKING COLLAGE & ASSEMBLAGE IN CONTEMPORARY ART

Through August 31

SYNTHESIS & SUBVERSION REDUX

Through September 28

RUSSELL HILL ROGERS GALLERY

@ UTSA Southwest School of Art www.colfa.utsa.edu

CONTEMPORARY ART MONTH PERENNIAL

March 22 - April 12

UTSA MAIN CAMPUS ART GALLERY

www.utsa.edu

41ST ANNUAL JURIED STUDENT EXHIBITION

March 26 - April 11

SAN ANTONIO MUSEUM OF ART

www.sama.org

A LEGACY IN CLAY: PUBLIC TOUR - MUSEUM HIGHLIGHTS

March 2, 4, 16, 23, 30

April 6, 13, 27

2025 NATIONAL POETRY MONTH EKPHRASTIC POETRY CONTEST

March 5

MEMBER PREVIEW ENVISIONING THE HINDU DIVINE

March 7

LECTURE – MEETING SOME GODS CONTEMPORARY AND CLASSIC VISIONS OF HINDUISM WITH KATHERINE ANNE PAUL

March 7

SPECIAL EXHIBITION TOUR ENVISIONING THE HINDU DIVINE – EXPANDING DARSHAN AND MANJARI SHARMA

March 7, 9, 11, 16, 18, 23, 25, 30

April 1, 6, 8, 13, 15, 22, 27, 29

FREE SPRING BREAK FAMILY DAY - ENVISIONING THE HINDU DIVINE

March 11

OFF THE WALL THE ART OF BLACK HISTORY (PART 2)

March 18

HAVE YOU EATEN YET?

March 28

TRANQUILITY TOUR

April 8

UPCYCLED – DISCARDED & UNWANTED MATERIALS THAT BECAME ARTWORKS

April 22

TEAM LAB - THE WORLD OF IRREVERSIBLE CHANGE

Through March 23

LOVERS & FIGHTERS

PRINTS BY LATINO ARTISTS IN THE SAMA COLLECTION Through April 20

THE EXQUISITE ART OF SHIBATA ZESHIN LACQUERWARES AND PAINTINGS

Through April 27

SAMURAI SPIRIT SWORDS, ACCESSORIES AND PAINTINGS Through July 27

ANGEL RODRIGUEZ-DIAZ THE GODDESS TRIPTYCH REUNITED Through September 14

ENVISIONING THE HINDU DIVINE - EXPANDING DARSHAN AND MANJARI SHARMA

March 7-July 6

READYMADE REMIX NEW APPROACHES TO FAMILIAR OBJECTS

April 12 – April 12 (one year)

MAYA BLUE

ANCIENT COLOR, NEW VISIONS

May 10 – May 10 (one year)

LARRY BELL IMPROVISATIONS

August 29 - January 4

VILLA FINALE MUSEUM & GARDEN

www.villafinale.org

VILLA FINALE: BEHIND THE SCENES

March 15

HELLO FROM THE OTHER SIDE SPRING SEANCE WITH THE AUSTIN SÉANCE

March 29

HARDHAT TOUR AND MIXER

April 5

VILLA FINALE’S FRIENDS RETREAT AT THE KING WILLIAM FAIR

May 3

THE WITTE MUSEUM

www.wittemuseum.org

MARY VIRGINIA CARSON PIONEER ARTIST CAPTURING ROCK ART WITH WATERCOLORS Through March 23

BLACK COWBOYS AN AMERICAN STORY

Through April 6

STAYING ALIVE ANIMAL DEFENSES

March 1 – September 1

ROCK ART TOURS

White Shaman Preserve

March 1, 8, 15, 22, 29

April 5, 12, 19, 26

May 3, 10, 17, 24, 31

RIVERSIDE WATERCOLOR WONDERS

March 8, 11, 14, 15

Scan the QR code for links to expanded exhibit listings and information.

A SPIRIT OF PLACE PURO SAN ANTONIO

By Susan Yerkes

There's something special about San Antonio. Strolling the Museum Reach on a soft summer night, munching a taco at a festival in historic Market Square, or attending a Mariachi Mass in a 300-year-old Spanish mission, there's a sense of timelessness where centuries meet and meld in the spirit of place. It's one of the fastest-growing cities in the nation, but the fastpaced future doesn't eclipse the past. Visionary leaders and groups like the San Antonio Conservation Society have preserved many of the city’s most historic places and kept them fresh and alive. These places have a magical vibe that led Mark Twain to describe San Antonio as one of the four "unique cities" in America, along with New Orleans, Boston and San Francisco. Local folks wear the distinction with pride. They call it “Puro San Antonio.”

Photo courtesy of Visit San Antonio

FIVE PURO SAN ANTONIO PLACES

THE RIVER WALK

Long before humans arrived here, there was the river. The river drew Native Americans to this area they called Yanaguana, "place of refreshing waters." Spanish explorers named the river San Antonio for the patron saint of Padua. In the early 1900s, there was talk of paving over the stream that snaked through the downtown business district. But a young architect named Robert H.H. Hugman proposed a bold alternative — a plan to create an American Venice. He envisioned winding cobblestone paths, stone footbridges and stairways from street level, Spanish patios and gardens, shops and cafes, and gondolas to ferry tourists.

The Depression stalled the project, but in the '30s, with funds and labor from Roosevelt's WPA, the San Antonio River Beautification Committee broke ground with a golden shovel on the first section of the San Antonio River Walk. Committee chairman Jack White made a prophetic statement: "Other cities can have beautiful parks, great zoos, magnificent stadiums and other attractions, but we know of no other city that has a beauty spot such as we propose to make of the river." He got that right.

TOWER OF THE AMERICAS

Literally towering over downtown at a lofty 750 feet, the Tower of the Americas is an iconic symbol of San Antonio. (Lit up at night, it has also been mistaken for an invading alien spaceship by folks who overpartied.) Built as the ambitious centerpiece of HemisFair '68, an international event that changed the face of downtown, the Tower weighs in at 80 million pounds of concrete and steel. The top house took 18 months to build on the ground, then was hoisted up the shaft to the top. At one point, a cable broke, and the whole thing hung there halfway up, crazily tilted, until jerry-rigged oilfield cables saved the day.

You can whoosh to the top at 800 feet per minute in a glass-sided elevator in 43 seconds flat. (Vastly preferable to the 952-step stairs.) Get a real birds-eye view of the city from the glass-walled observation deck or take in a more leisurely panorama from the Chart House restaurant or bar. The top house makes one 360-degree rotation every hour, so you barely know you're moving — but you are. It's a new form of sightseeing — another Puro San Antonio experience.

Today's River Walk draws 14 million visitors a year. It's the most visited tourist attraction in Texas, with restaurants, shops, hotels and clubs along the flowering landscaped banks. The gondolas didn't work out, but brightly colored, lighted barges offer guided tours and dinner cruises. In recent years, the artfilled Museum Reach and an eight-mile Mission Reach have extended the River Walk to 15 miles of Puro San Antonio — the jewel in San Antonio's crown.

Photo courtesy of Visit San Antonio

MARKET SQUARE

San Antonio's historic Market Square is the largest Mexican market in the U.S. Looking for a piñata? Paper flowers? A Mexican dress or sombrero? From T-shirts to turquoise, fine art to funky, you'll find it at one of Market Square's 100-plus shops and stalls. Sip a margarita at La Margarita or sample the menudo at the famous Mi Tierra restaurant. If you're looking for a fiesta, you'll find one here, too, with live music and art events every weekend and major festivals throughout the year. The market covers three blocks, on a plaza the King of Spain gave to Canary Island colonists who settled here for their "use and entertainment” in 1730. A lively produce market thrived here for centuries, and Chili Queens and frontier cooks dished out their spicy fare. Today the plaza still swirls with colorful activity. Also, the shops are air-conditioned. The Chili Queens would have loved that.

LA VILLITA

Nestled in the heart of downtown, La Villita is one big artfilled block of the city's cultural heritage and history. This is the city's oldest neighborhood, revitalized as an arts district, and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Spanish settlers built their homes here, near the San Antonio de Valero Mission (the Alamo) and the fort. Successive generations of settlers from many countries brought their building skills and styles. Traditional adobes, early Victorian houses and traditional Texas limestone structures conjure images of the people who settled here. Now, they house boutiques, cafes and art galleries featuring everything from handmade soaps and scents to woodwork, upscale jewelry … and lots of fabulous Mexican folk art. Lush landscaping and shady plazas with cool fountains offer a retreat from the rush of a constantly changing downtown. The community still gathers in La Villita's plazas, where more than 200 events are held yearly.

Photo courtesy of City of San Antonio

Photos courtesy of City of San Antonio

THE MISSIONS

San Antonio's Spanish Missions are the only UNESCO World Heritage Site in Texas — on the elite list with the Statue of Liberty and the Grand Canyon. For years, the Alamo — Mission San Antonio de Valero — got all the glory. After all, it's the Cradle of Texas Liberty with an epic story of heroic martyrs. It's also ground zero for Fiesta® San Antonio, which began in 1891 as a flower parade marking Texas' victory in the battle for independence.

But the four other missions that share the World Heritage honor — Mission San José, Mission Concepción, Mission San Juan and Mission Espada, have their own powerful stories. Built along the San Antonio River, their rugged stone compounds and churches tell the stories of Spanish padres and Native Americans who lived and worked there and helped form San Antonio's melting pot of Latino, Native American and Western ways. Wandering through their quiet grounds and chapels, the farm fields of Mission Espada and its still-flowing acequia, or standing quietly under the magnificent archways of Mission San José can transport your imagination into another century. All four missions are still active Catholic parishes, where weekly Mariachi Masses delight visitors and parishioners.

A new World Heritage Center, where visitors can learn more about the missions, is a short walk from Mission San José, the "Queen of the Missions."

Fun fact: The World Heritage Missions are one of only two places in the world that partner with Spain's Camino Santiago de Compostela pilgrimage. Check in at the Catholic Archdiocese of San Antonio’s Camino Center by Mission SanJuan, walk the Mission Trail, and have your passport stamped along the way to get a Compostela certificate and 30-kilometer credit towards completing the Camino in Spain.

For more information on Puro San Antonio, scan the QR code.

The Alamo

Mission San Juan

Mission Concepción

Mission Espada

Mission San José

Photo courtesy of Bob Howen, Visit San Antonio

Photo courtesy of Bob Howen ,Visit San Antonio

Photo courtesy of Visit San Antonio

CHEERS TO REACHING NEW HEIGHTS

Taking in the View from San Antonio’s Trendiest Rooftop Bars

By Drew Henry

San Antonio is on the rise — to the tops of the rooftops, in fact! As our city skyline continues to grow and change, new rooftop bars are perching themselves atop some of the newest high-rises. These bars are serving up some of the iciest cocktails, creative bar bites and, of course, the best panoramic views of San Antonio. So, make sure to catch the next elevator because we’re taking it all the way to the top. We’ll meet you at the bar and save you a seat with a view.

RISING TO THE OCCASION AT THE FAIRMOUNT ROOFTOP OYSTER BAR

The rooftop bar trend is taking over the San Antonio social scene. After all, perched high above the city is the best place to see and be seen. But with every trend, there’s a trendsetter. And in the city’s rooftop cocktail sipping scene, that’s the Fairmount Rooftop Oyster Bar.

This rooftop bar is one of the first in the city. The historic Fairmount Hotel, dating back to 1906, is nestled across the street from Hemisfair Park in the heart of Downtown San Antonio. Standing proud at three stories tall, this OG rooftop haunt might not be as tall as the city newcomers, however, the views of the Tower of the Americas can’t be beat.

The bar bite menu features a selection of fresh-shucked East Coast oysters, which, of course, pair perfectly with an ice-cold martini — or a Bloody Mary if you’re starting early. Kick back and take in the view because it’s all sunshine and shakers from here.

Otro

Fairmount Rooftop Oyster Bar

PERCHED AMONG THE TREES OF THE CANOPY HOTEL AT OTRO

One of the most iconic features of the San Antonio River Walk is the towering cypress trees that shade its winding banks. While they’re beautiful to take in from river level, what would it feel like to perch in their branches and watch the boats go by? Well, that’s what it’s like to grab a drink at Otro.

Nestled among the cypress treetops at the Canopy Hotel along the River Walk, Otro offers a one-of-a-kind treehouse experience that’ll make you feel like a kid again. This Mexican-inspired menu offers an extensive collection of tequila, mezcal and Tex-Mex takes on classic cocktails. Imbibe in a fiery La Mula or refreshing Texas Sangria as you share bites of tuna tostadas and classic chips and guac.

PARTYING ON TOP THE PHIPPS AT PARAMOUR

There’s no party like a rooftop party, and nobody knows this better than Paramour. A favorite among San Antonians, Paramour sits four floors up on top of The Phipps building along the northern Museum Reach stretch of the river. The rooftop offers prime, panoramic skyline views. But the real reason people flock here is for the amazing party — which appears to be nonstop.

Paramour offers a selection of over 1,300 spirits (not to mention a Champagne vending machine) to fuel the night and carry the festivities into a rowdy brunch. Drag brunches are a weekend-long affair, bringing in some of the best performances in the city. Themed parties are hosted on the regular, and you can even book your own by reserving a VIP space or going all out to book your own private event.

At Paramour, you never know who you’re going to meet. And, you might just fall in love. However, one thing is for sure: you will have the time of your life.

GETTING A BIRD’S EYE VIEW OF TEXAN LORE AT 1WATSON

While city-slicker rooftop bars are popping up everywhere, this is still Texas. 1Watson holds true to Texas tradition and rises to the bar — 15 floors up to the top of the AC Riverwalk Hotel, to be exact.

This spot gets its name from an 1883 Texas poker game where a gunfighter named Thompson won a $200 marble tombstone from a stonecutter named Watson. This was the “1” and only time Thompson accepted winnings other than cold, hard cash. As luck would have it, he died in a shootout a week later. Take it as a lesson to place your bets on cocktail tables, not headstones.

Of course, this riverside rooftop offers prime views of the downtown skyline. They’re also serving up Texas-style bar bites, like chips and queso, cornbread, brisket tacos, and even a vegan chili. Here, the craft cocktails favor the cowboy choices of tequila and whiskey. But this full bar is pouring up something for everyone, no matter your spirit of choice.

Photo by Karissa Rangel

Photo by Josh Huskin

Paramour

1Watson

SOARING TO THE 10TH FLOOR OF THE KIMPTON SANTO AT TENFOLD

Let’s take things up a notch, or 10. Tenfold is San Antonio’s newest and trendiest rooftop bar. We’re taking the elevator 10 floors up to the top of the Kimpton Santo Hotel.

The Kimpton is situated between Downtown and Southtown, offering the best views of both. From this open-air rooftop, you can see iconic buildings of the San Antonio skyline, including the Tower Life Building, Hilton Palacio del Rio and, of course, the Tower of the Americas. While the views are amazing, the real perfect 10 score here is the menu.

The 10x Tour prix fixe menu delivers a culinary journey of 10 small bite courses from every corner of the globe. Options include bites like lobster crispy rice, wagyu gyoza, eggplant samosas and blue crab dolmas. Now, this sounds like a menu that deserves a toast. Luckily, Tenfold has you covered there, too.

The drink menu showcases tequila and mezcal and offers a range of cocktails for every palate, from frozen and sweet to stout and boozy. Every creation is a completely unique experience, making for 10x the fun.

FLOATING ATOP THE THOMPSON AT THE MOON’S DAUGHTERS

Saving the highest for last. The Moon’s Daughters is San Antonio’s tallest rooftop bar, sitting 20 stories up in the clouds above the Thompson Hotel. This may be the closest you can get to the moon and his cosmic offspring.

This high-class lounge offers terrace and indoor seating, all elevated by a backdrop of panoramic skyline views. Here, you can see just about every landmark San Antonio has to offer, from the Tower of the Americas to the “Big Red Enchilada” Library. Do yourself a favor and come for happy hour drinks and sunset, then carry the party into the starry night.

The kitchen here serves a bar bite menu inspired by the Mediterranean region, featuring dishes like lamb chops, za’atar chicken and a signature hummus. And the mixology menu doesn’t disappoint. The bar is stirring up a galaxy of concoctions, from a Skyline Sour to a non-alcoholic drink titled Pluto’s Revenge. Cheers to the cosmos!

If there’s one thing we’ve learned, it’s that life is better at the top!

For more information on the bars mentioned in this article, scan the QR code.

Tenfold

The Moon's Daughters

Photos by Garrett Smith

EXPLORE SAN ANTONIO’S MUSEUMS, GARDENS AND ZOO

FOR UNFORGETTABLE FAMILY FUN!

By Kimberly A. Suta

San Antonio is truly a playground of culture and creativity, offering families countless opportunities to explore, learn and make lasting memories together. Join us as we journey through these local gems, where family fun meets arts and culture in every corner of our vibrant city.

WITTE MUSEUM

At the Witte Museum, family fun takes on a whole new meaning this spring. This iconic Texas museum is more than just a place for history — it’s a living laboratory where nature, science and culture come together to spark curiosity in visitors of all ages. With interactive exhibits designed to engage young minds and evoke nostalgia for those cherished school field trips, the Witte Museum offers transformative experiences that celebrate Texas — from ancient fossils and dinosaur bones to modern-day marvels.

One of the museum’s newest highlights is the renovated HEB Science Treehouse. Once known as Body Adventure, this dynamic space now invites families to explore the power of wind and air through interactive exhibits. Kids can marvel at a wind tunnel display where a burst of air brings objects to life, or learn about engineering and physics with a bicycle exhibit that demonstrates how wind propels movement. Another imagina-

tive station uses colors, rocks and sand and lets visitors build their own mini sandcastles.

Spring also ushers in a host of special exhibitions. Starting March 1, “Staying Alive: Animal Defenses,” invites families to get up close with 17 live animals and interactive displays that showcase how creatures — from sloths and hedgehogs to lizards and geckos — protect themselves in the wild. It’s an immersive, tactile experience that encourages you to touch, feel and learn about animal survival in a unique way.

Adding to the seasonal excitement, “Fiesta Makes a Splash” launches on April 24 and runs until November 2. Celebrating San Antonio’s long-standing tradition of festivals and the timeless beauty of water, this exhibition features an exquisite collection of Fiesta dresses that capture the fluid artistry of water in motion. It’s a dazzling tribute to local culture and creativity that perfectly complements the museum’s focus on land, sky and water.

Photo courtesy of the Witte Museum credit Kurtis Kronk

SAN ANTONIO ZOO

At the San Antonio Zoo®, it’s the perfect season to explore the wonders of wildlife. This spring, the Zoo is putting on a special interactive exhibit called Wildlife Rescue. Located in Kronkosky’s Tiny Tot Nature Spot, this immersive experience features 12 lifelike, climbable sculptures of endangered animals — from the powerful black rhino to the agile cheetah and resilient Puerto Rican crested toad. As kids and adults climb, play and explore these detailed installations, they discover each creature’s unique story of survival and the importance of conservation.

Adding to the season’s excitement, the San Antonio Zoo will host its official Fiesta® event, Festival de Animales, from May

THE DOSEUM

3-4. This festive celebration brings together animals, culture and conservation in one unforgettable weekend. Visitors will be delighted by the colorful birds, playful primates and myriad other wonders of the animal kingdom. Best of all, Festival de Animales is included with standard admission and is free for Zoo members, and parking in the Zoo’s garage is free, too.

Whether you’re embarking on a hands-on conservation journey at Wildlife Rescue or soaking up the lively vibes at Festival de Animales, the San Antonio Zoo promises an engaging, family-friendly adventure that blends fun with education.

Celebrating its 10th anniversary this year, the DoSeum is a favorite San Antonio destination for curious minds. For a decade, this popular interactive children's museum has been a cornerstone of family fun and creative learning, sparking imagination through hands-on exhibits, inventive workshops and dynamic camps. It’s not just a museum — it’s a community hub where children and their families can grow together. Currently, the DoSeum is pulling out all the stops with a lineup of special events and exhibits. Kicking things off is the thought-provoking traveling exhibit, “Uniquely Us: Understanding Race and Building Unity,” running from March 1 to April 20. Designed to help children understand the beauty of diversity and the importance of inclusion, this interactive experience uses play-based learning to gently introduce big ideas about identity and equity. It’s a unique opportunity for

families to explore what makes each of us truly one-of-a-kind.

Plus, this spring and summer, the DoSeum is offering a series of engaging camps that mix fun with learning. Led by an enthusiastic team of educators, these camps cover everything from creative arts and clay adventures to culinary experiments and literacy explorations. Whether your child dreams of whipping up delicious recipes or getting lost in a world of imaginative play, these camps provide the perfect setting.

Adding a sweet twist to the festivities is the Family Workshop: Fiesta Cakes on April 26. Hosted in the DoSeum’s Culinary Lab, this workshop invites families to design and create their very own cake floats. With just a piping bag, spoon and spatula in hand, you and your little ones can craft edible masterpieces that pay homage to San Antonio’s rich Fiesta traditions.

BRISCOE WESTERN ART MUSEUM

The Briscoe Western Art Museum is a treasure trove of family-friendly fun that brings the spirit of the West to life! On Locals Days — which offers free admission every first Sunday of the month — families can dive into engaging programs like "Full STEAM Ahead" and join the ever-popular "Scout the Briscoe" scavenger hunt, which turns the museum into an interactive playground of Western history and art. Kids and adults alike will relish the hands-on activities and creative challenges that make learning about the frontier both fun and unforgettable.

The museum also hosts Community Days that celebrate the rich traditions of the West. One standout event is the National Day of the Cowboy on July 26, a lively celebration featuring cowboy-themed music, art and traditions in the scenic McNutt Sculpture Garden. Guests can try their hand

SAN ANTONIO BOTANICAL GARDEN

at lasso lessons, enjoy cowboy poetry, and savor chuckwagon treats, all while immersing themselves in the true essence of cowboy culture.

For those gearing up for Fiesta, the Briscoe has some special treats in store. Each year, the museum creates a charming medal featuring its beloved bison mascot, capturing the playful spirit of the celebration. To help everyone get into the Fiesta mood, the Briscoe is hosting a Fiesta wreathmaking class on April 13 — a perfect way to add a personal touch to your Fiesta decorations.

And don’t miss the museum’s River Parade watch party, offering a prime viewing spot with an amazing backdrop near La Villita and the Arneson stage. It’s a fantastic way to experience the exhilarating energy of Fiesta right alongside fellow locals.

As always, the San Antonio Botanical Garden is blooming into life this spring, inviting families to experience nature like never before. In celebration of its 45th anniversary, the Garden proudly presents the “Reflections of Nature” exhibition. Running from March 8 through October 27, this inspiring collection of large-scale murals transforms the 38 acres into an open-air gallery that highlights local artists and their interpretations on nature, plants, animals and the diverse people of South Texas.

Adding to the excitement, the Garden will host “Viva Botanica” on April 26. This family-friendly Fiesta event is a delightful

celebration of spring where visitors can explore activity stations guided by Garden educators.

For those looking to get even more hands-on, the Family Workshop: Spring Fairy Garden on March 15 offers a magical opportunity. Inspired by the “Reflections of Nature” murals, this workshop invites families to create their very own fairy gardens. With all materials provided — from containers and soil to plants and charming springtime decorations — participants can design a miniature garden oasis to take home, sparking creativity and delight in every child.

VISIT THEM ALL … AND MORE!

From the interactive exhibits at the Witte Museum and the wild hands-on adventures at the San Antonio Zoo and the DoSeum, to the inspiring artistry of the Botanical Garden and the rich Western heritage at the Briscoe Museum, San Antonio offers a kaleidoscope of family-friendly experiences that blend learning, creativity and fun. Don’t miss out!

For more information on the fun locations mentioned in this article, scan the QR code.

Photo courtesy of Bria-Woods-Photography

Wells Fargo Staggecoach

Witte Museum

Briscoe Western Art Museum

The DoSeum

San Antonio Zoo

San Antonio Botanical Garden

ALAMODOME

www.alamodome.com

NCAA MEN’S COLLEGE BASKETBALL FINAL FOUR

April 5-7

CONTEMPORARY AT BLUE STAR

www.contemporarysa.org

TACO TALK –SPRING EXHIBITIONS

March 7

TEEN NIGHT WITH THE CONTEMPORARY –COME AS YOU ARE

March 21

STITCH AND ‘WICH SERIES –FREE FORM CROCHET WITH CATARINA SUTTIN HOLDBROOK

March 23

FIESTA® SAN ANTONIO 2025

www.fiestasanantonio.org

TEXAS CAVALIERS RIVER PARADE

April 28

BATTLE OF FLOWERS PARADE

May 2

FIESTA FLAMBEAU NIGHT PARADE

May 3

Note - A complete listing of all 2025 Fiesta San Antonio events are included in this magazine.

FREEMAN EXHIBITION HALL

www.freemancoliseum.com

SAN ANTONIO LOW RIDER SUPER SHOW

March 15

HEMISFAIR PARK

www.hemisfair.org

SCHOOL DISCOVERY DAY HOSTED BY SA CHARTER MOMS

March 1

RUN THE ALAMO 13.1 AND MARATHON

March 2

SUNDAY BRUNCH MARKET HOSTED BY BOX STREET ALL DAY AND TEXAS MARKET

March 2, 9, 23

April 13, 20

May 4, 11, 18

STORYTIME AT HEMISFAIR WITH SAAACAM

March 4

April 1

May 6

GET FIT AT HEMISFAIR WITH FREE COMMUNITY YOGA

March 9

GET FIT AT HEMISFAIR WITH MACFIT ATHLETICS

March 29

NCAA MARCH MADNESS MUSIC FESTIVAL PRESENTED BY AT&T, CAPITAL ONE AND COCA-COLA

April 4-6

NCAA MEN’S FINAL FOUR TIP-OFF TAILGATE PRESENTED BY NISSAN

April 4-7

FESTIVAL OF INDIA, PRESENTED BY INDIA ASSOCIATION OF SAN ANTONIO April 19

HISTORIC

MARKET SQUARE

www.marketsquaresa.com

SPRING FEST March 8-16

FIESTA DE LOS REYES March 25 – May 4

MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND

May 24-25

INDOOR FOOTBALL LEAGUE

@ Freeman Coliseum www.sanantoniogunslingers.com

SAN ANTONIO GUNSLINGERS VS. TULSA OILERS

March 22

VS. VEGAS NIGHT HAWKS

April 26

VS. SAN DIEGO STRIKE FORCE

May 17

VS. BAY AREA PANTHERS

May 24

VS. QUAD CITY STEAMWHEELERS

June 7

VS. TUCSON SUGAR SKULLS

July 5

VS. ARIZONA RATTLERS

July 19

VS. NAZ WRANGLERS

July 26

HBCU ALL-STAR GAME

April 6

LA VILLITA HISTORIC VILLAGE

www.lavillitasanantonio.com

CRAFT TUESDAY

March 11

May 14

BUD LIGHT ST. PATRICK’S RIVER PARADES AND FESTIVAL

March 15-16

DANCING IN THE DARK

March 25

May 28

CRAFT TUESDAY – MEDAL FEST

April 8

STARVING ARTISTS ART SHOW

April 12-13

NIGHT IN OLD SAN ANTONIO April 29 – May 2

www.majesticempire.com

MAJESTIC & EMPIRE HISTORIC TOUR

March 8, 10

April 14

NBA BASKETBALL

@ Frost Bank Center

SAN ANTONIO SPURS VS. OKLAHOMA CITY THUNDER

March 2

VS. BROOKLYN NETS

March 4

VS. DALLAS MAVERICKS

March 10 & 12

VS. CHARLOTTE HORNETS March 14

VS. NEW ORLEAN PELICANS

March 15

VS. NEW YORK KNICKS

March 19

VS. PHILADELPHIA 76ERS

March 21

VS. BOSTON CELTICS March 29

VS. GOLDEN STATE WARRIORS March 30

VS. ORLANDO MAGIC

April 1

VS. CLEVELAND CAVALIERS April 4

VS. TORONTO RAPTORS

April 13

PEARL

www.atpearl.com

FARMER’S MARKET

March 1, 8, 15, 22, 29

April 5, 12, 19, 26

May 3, 10, 17, 24, 31

MAKER’S MARKET

March 2, 9, 16, 23, 30

April 6, 13, 27

May 4, 11, 18, 25

MOVIE MONDAYS

March 3, 10, 17, 24, 31

April 14

YOGA UNDER THE STARS

March 6, 20, 27

April 3, 10, 17, 24

May 1, 8, 15, 22, 29

MISS ANASTASIA’S PRE-WEEKEND STORY TIME

March 7, 14, 21, 28

April 4, 11, 18, 25

May 2, 9, 16, 23, 30

VIVALDI MUSIC CLASS

March 20

April 17

SAN ANTONIO BOTANICAL GARDEN

www.sabot.org

MARCH PLANT SALE

March 7

MEMBERS ONLY

REFLECTIONS OF NATURE

March 7

CELEBRATE MURALS

March 8

MEMBER EXCLUSIVE GRAD PHOTOS

March 15

MEMBER EXCLUSIVE

EASTER BUNNY PHOTOS

March 29

SAN ANTONIO ZOO®

www.sazoo.org

WILDLIFE RESCUE PRESENTED BY BANK OF TEXAS

March 1 – April 27

MONARCH FEST

PRESENTED BY BANK OF TEXAS

March 22-23

LOCAL DAYS

March 27

April 11

May 11

KIDS ZOO BALL

March 28

29TH ANNUAL ZOO-LA-LA! A TASTE OF SAN ANTONIO PRESENTED BY HIGGINBOTHAM

April 3

10TH ANNUAL EDUCATION 2 CONSERVATION CELEBRATION LUNCHEON

April 23

FESTIVAL DE ANIMALES PRESENTED BY BANK OF TEXAS

May 3-4

TEXAS LEAGUE BASEBALL

@ Nelson W. Wolff Municipal Stadium

SAN ANTONIO MISSIONS VS. AMARILLO SOD POODLES

April 4-6

VS. NORTHWEST ARKANSAS NATURALS

April 15-20

VS. CORPUS CHRISTI HOOKS

April 29 – May 4

VS. FRISCO ROUGHRIDERS

May 6-11

VS. WICHITA WIND SURGE

May 20-25

PGA GOLF

@ TPC San Antonio

VALERO TEXAS OPEN

March 31 – April 6

TOBIN CENTER

www.tobincenter.org

FITNESS | WELLNESS AT STRENGTH & SWEAT FITNESS WILL NAYLOR RIVER WALK PLAZA

March 1

April 5

May 3

STRETCH & RESET MOBILITY WILL NAYLOR RIVER WALK PLAZA

March 8

April 12

May 10

RHYTHM & MOVES CARDIO WILL NAYLOR RIVER WALK PLAZA

March 15

April 19

May 17

LADIES IN LEADERSHIP PHILANTHROPY IN ACTION

March 18

MINDFUL FLOW YOGA WILL NAYLOR RIVER WALK PLAZA

March 22

April 26

May 24

APRIL ANCIRA’S ACCESS TO THE ARTS TOBIN CENTER FUNDRAISER

March 31

April 30

May 31

UNITED FOOTBALL LEAGUE

@ The Alamodome

SAN ANTONIO BRAHMAS VS. HOUSTON ROUGHNECKS

April 27

VS. DC DEFENDERS

May 9

VS. MEMPHIS SHOWBOATS

May 16

UNITED SOCCER LEAGUE

@ Toyota Field www.sanantoniofc.com

SAN ANTONIO FC

VS. MONTERREY BAY F.C.

March 8

VS. PITTSBURGH RIVER HOUNDS SC

March 15

VS. PHOENIX RISING FC

April 6

VS. MIAMI FC

April 12

VS. COLORADO SPRINGS SWITCHBACKS FC April 23

VS. OAKLAND ROOTS SC1

May 10

VS. FC TULSA

May 28

¡VIVA FIESTA! ¡VIVA FIESTA!

MEET THE GRAND MARSHALS LEADING THIS YEAR’S CELEBRATIONS

By Drew Henry

2025 FIESTA® SAN ANTONIO

April 24 — May 4, 2025

Fiesta is San Antonio’s largest celebration, with more than three million people attending over 100 events during the 11-day festival. Participating groups host many activities, including parades, musical entertainment, food festivals and carnivals — all raising funds for their organizations. This year’s festivities run from April 24 to May 4, 2025.

If you’ve attended Fiesta in the past, you already know the magic of wearing flower crowns, cracking cascarones, waiting for that prized chicken-on-a-stick, and shouting, “Show us your shoes,” at the Battle of Flowers Parade. And if this is your first time, then you have a world of magic and fun in store.

The first Fiesta celebration dates back 134 years ago, with the first run of the Battle of Flowers Parade in 1891. Since then, the parades have only gotten bigger and better. Some of the Grand Marshals from past parades have included the company of NASA astronauts, First Ladies Laura Bush and Lady Bird Johnson, David Robinson of the San Antonio Spurs, country singer Pat Green, Baroness Maria Von Trapp, and other notable Texas figures such as governors, senators and even Olympians.

Let’s see what this year’s iconic parades and Grand Marshals have in store for us.

Photos courtesy of Benjamin Tijerina

80TH ANNUAL TEXAS CAVALIERS RIVER PARADE

Shine Bright: A Celebration of Light and Illumination for All Monday, April 28, 2025

This kickoff Fiesta parade happens each year on the first Monday of the festivities. Over 250,000 spectators line the banks of the River Walk, crowd on bridges, and tune into the city’s live broadcast to get a glimpse of more than 45 lively floats that make their way down the river. The floats bring music, confetti and fun along the way — all in the name of children’s charities. The Cavalier’s first parade rolled in 1941, coinciding with the completed River Walk revival project designed by architect Robert H.H. Hugman and carried out by President Roosevelt’s Works Progress Administration. This year’s theme is “Shine Bright,” showcasing the community leaders who bring illuminating hope to our city.

Remembering Your Grand Marshal: Rosemary Kowalski

Philanthropic community leader Rosemary Kowalski was named the 2025 Texas Cavaliers River Parade Celebrity Grand Marshal. She was a luminous example of compassion and generosity that brightened the lives of countless individuals, perfectly capturing this year’s parade theme. Sadly, she passed prior to this year’s Fiesta celebration. Tres Steves, Texas Cavaliers River Parade Marshal, will lead the parade in tribute to Rosemary. “Rosemary didn't just make an appearance in our city,” he reflects. “She claimed a profound place in its heart.” Paul Arthur Rohlfs, Jr. will preside over ceremonies as the 2025 King Antonio, cementing a three-generation family legacy by following in the footsteps of his grandfather, Porter Loring, Jr., who notably served as King Antonio LIII 50 years prior in 1975.

Photos courtesy of the Texas Cavaliers River Parade

134TH ANNUAL BATTLE OF FLOWERS PARADE

Melodies in Bloom — A Texas Serenade

Friday, May 2, 2025

With 10,000 participants and 500,000 spectators, the Battle of Flowers® is one of the most popular Fiesta events. What you may not know is that it was also the first. Without it, there wouldn’t even be a Fiesta! It all began on April 24, 1891, when congressman James L. Slayden’s wife, Ellen Maury Slayden, sought to honor the Alamo's heroes and commemorate the victory at San Jacinto, where Texas gained its independence from Mexico. From there, it grew into one of the oldest and largest parades in the country. Today, the Battle of Flowers Association is the only all-women, all-volunteer organization producing events of its kind, continuing to grow and shape the Fiesta experience for new generations. This year’s theme is "Melodies in Bloom," a serenade to Texas honoring the musical traditions of the Lone Star State, including Tejano, rock, hip-hop, zydeco, blues, mariachi, country and more.

Meet Your Grand Marshals: Josh Abbott Band

Starting Battle of Flowers on a high note, the Josh Abbott Band will bring the “Texas Serenade” to life as the Grand Marshals with a step-off time of 9:55am on the downtown streets of Alamo City. This year’s parade celebrates the roots of Texas music, showcasing the spirit of true Texas country legends. “It’s truly a big honor, and we are super excited,” said Josh Abbott. “We’ve played an event or two during Fiesta over the years, and so we understand how big of a cultural tradition it is in San Antonio, and this just feels like a one-of-a-kind opportunity and honor.” The Josh Abbot Band is from Lubbock and is most known for songs like “My Texas” and “Oh, Tonight.”

Photos courtesy of Battle of Flowers Association, Javier Fernandez, and Jon Alonzo

77TH ANNUAL FIESTA FLAMBEAU PARADE

Deep in the Arts of Texas

Saturday, May 3, 2024

The largest night parade in the country, Fiesta Flambeau™ runs a 2.6-mile route through the city lined by an audience of over 750,000, plus another 1.5 million watching at home on their television sets. The first Fiesta Flambeau Parade rolled in 1948. It was formed by Reynolds Andricks who took some inspiration from the lively Mardi Gras night parades in New Orleans. Now, Flambeau is one of Fiesta's most anticipated events. It has even been named one of the “Best in the World” by the International Festivals and Events Association. Illuminated floats shine bright, showcasing the best of Texas. This year’s theme is “Deep in the Arts of Texas,” highlighting Texan leaders of creative fields, including culinary arts, literature, art and mariachi music.

Meet Your Grand Marshal: Mateo Lopez

Get ready to meet this year’s youngest Grand Marshal, also known as the Mariachi Kid, Mateo Lopez. A San Antonio native, Mateo holds the Guinness World Record for being the youngest mariachi musician. He’s appeared on national television and performed around the world, and his hometown couldn’t be more excited for him to take on the big job of leading the country’s largest night parade. This year’s theme is all about celebrating the arts. Mateo will represent Texas music and San Antonio’s rich mariachi history and culture. Honorary Grand Marshals include Chef Johnny Hernandez — representing the culinary arts; Joe R. Villarreal — representing the visual arts; and Dr. Carmen Tafolla — representing the literary arts. This year’s parade is a chance to see just how creative Texans really are!

For more information on the parades mentioned in this article, scan the QR code.

IT’S FIESTA® TIME IN SAN ANTONIO!

By Steve Rosenauer

The Fiesta® San Antonio Commission, Inc. (Commission) is a non-profit, volunteer, self-supporting organization that plans, promotes, coordinates, and preserves Fiesta® San Antonio through support of its Participating Member Organizations in presenting a safe, educational, annual celebration of the diverse heritage, culture and spirit of San Antonio for its residents and visitors.

Miss Fiesta and Fiesta Queens on Fiesta float at Battle of Flowers Parade

The Commission will “Party with a Purpose” and celebrate a “Fiesta® for All” in 2025 beginning April 24 to May 4. This 11-day celebration, with more than 100 official Fiesta events held throughout the city of San Antonio, started in 1891 as a one-parade event to honor the memory of those who passed away in the Battle of the Alamo and the Battle of San Jacinto. That historic commemoration still takes place, but Fiesta has grown into a celebration of San Antonio’s rich and diverse cultures and, today, is one of this nation’s premier festivals.

Join 2.5 million guests from San Antionio and around the world to enjoy a variety of events like parades, music festivals, cultural celebrations, arts and educational programs, athletic events and much more that support San Antonio area charities. Each of these 100-plus official Fiesta events, coordinated by nearly 100 San Antonio area non-profit organizations, is unique and special to the overall Fiesta experience, and funds raised at these events provide services to San Antonio citizens throughout the year.

Fiesta events occur in all parts of San Antonio, and are truly a Party with a Purpose and celebration of a Fiesta for All as the Fiesta San Antonio Commission provides support to San Antonio area non-profit organizations that support:

• Student Scholarships

• Children’s Charities

• Military

• Health and Wellness

• Pets and Animal Welfare

• Diverse and Cultural Programs

• Special Needs Community

• Arts and Nature

• And many others

The Commission also recognizes nine diverse “Official Fiesta Royalty.” Two “Kings” and seven “Queens” represent diverse organizations and raise money for scholarships and community programs.

Mayor Ron Nirenberg, with Rey Feo, King Antonio and Fiesta President

The Official Fiesta Royalty are the following (listed in order of year established / recognized by the Fiesta Commission):

• Queen of the Order of the Alamo

• King Antonio

• Rey Feo

• Miss Fiesta

• Reina de la Feria de las Flores

• Fiesta Teen Queen

• Charro Queen

• Queen of Soul

• Miss San Antonio

The Commission recognizes its own Official Fiesta Royalty member, Miss Fiesta®. The purpose of this important role is to give a talented, hardworking, young woman an opportunity to serve as an ambassador to raise public awareness of Fiesta San Antonio and the Fiesta® San Antonio Foundation.

This year, the Miss Fiesta Program celebrates 75 years, and Kylie Rodriguez, a third-year Neuroscience Major at the University of Texas at San Antonio, was crowned the 2025 Miss Fiesta. She received a $10,000 scholarship from the Fiesta San Antonio Foundation and will enjoy a thrilling, community service-oriented reign attending dozens of Official Fiesta Events, which include riding on the Commission’s Float in the Battle of Flowers® and Fiesta Flambeau® Parades.

Fiesta will officially begin with Fiesta Fiesta presented by Toyota on Thursday, April 24, from 4:00 to 10:00pm in Travis Park in downtown San Antonio. This free admission festival will feature an opening ceremony with the Mayor of San Antonio, a military salute, live music, Fiesta favorite food — Chicken-on-a-Stick, Pin Pandemonium — an area to buy and trade Fiesta Medals, a People’s Parade, sponsor activations and much more.

To help promote each Fiesta Event Member Organization, the Commission is active on the following social media platforms posting daily “Did You Knows” that feature the purpose of the organization and its Official Fiesta event:

• https://www.facebook.com/FiestaSA

• https://www.facebook.com/MissFiestaSA

• https://www.facebook.com/fiestasafoundation/

• Fiesta Instagram: @fiestasa

• Miss Fiesta Instagram: @missfiestasa

So, when you attend Official Fiesta events and purchase items like medals and Chicken-on-a-Stick, you are supporting the San Antonio area non-profit community. For more information on Fiesta® San Antonio, visit www.fiestasanantonio.org.

Texas Cavaliers River Parade

2025 Miss Fiesta, Kylie Rodriguez

FIESTA® SAN ANTONIO EVENT DESCRIPTIONS

Did you know that every single one of the more than 100 official Fiesta® events is produced by a local non-profit or military organization?

One hundred thirty-three years ago, Fiesta® San Antonio began as a one-parade event with the Battle of Flowers to commemorate the heroes of The Alamo and the Battle of San Jacinto. Today, more than 100 local non-profits produce over 100 events during the 11 days of Fiesta. These nonprofits raise funds for causes like scholarships, medical research, historic preservation, and special needs for children and families. Fiesta is truly the way to "Have Fun AND Give Back" as the proceeds from these events go directly back into the community. With a variety of events ranging from music and art, to fitness and food, there is an event — if not several — for YOU! We encourage everybody to attend as many events as possible and to also add a few new events to your personal Fiesta 2025 schedule! Fiesta San Antonio would not be possible without the amazing non-profits that are dedicated to making Fiesta San Antonio an unforgettable experience while also spreading the news about their great causes. Join us in celebrating them and making 2025 Fiesta® San Antonio one for the books! VIVA FIESTA!

FIESTA TEEN QUEEN CORONATION

THE WOMAN’S CLUB OF SAN ANTONIO

MARCH 30, 2025, 3:00 P.M. – 5:00 P.M.

CARVER COMMUNITY CULTURAL CENTER

226 N Hackberry St, San Antonio, TX 78202

• Formal Coronation

• Participating Children from 4yrs. - 18 yrs. (senior in high school)

• Court members given titles

• Official Fiesta Royalty/Dignitaries invited Admission: Free www.thewomansclubofsa.org

ALL AMERICAN CANTEEN DANCE

FOUNDATION FOR SAN ANTONIO MILITARY HISTORY

APRIL 3, 2025, 7:30 P.M.– 11:00 P.M.

AGGIE PARK EVENT CENTER

6205 West Avenue, San Antonio, TX 78201

Support of Preservation and Historical data to Fort Sam Houston

• Supporting various military for JBSA

• Supports JBSA museum and 501C efforts

• Giving back to the military community

• Bring awareness to the history and community which we reside in

Tickets will be available on the website starting January 1, 2025, ticket prices have not been set. www.preservationfortsam.com

AIN’T GONNA RESTA ‘TIL AFTER FIESTA DANCE

EVA’S HEROES

APRIL 15, 2025, 6:00 P.M. – 8:30 P.M.

ESPEE

1174 East Commerce, San Antonio, TX 78205

Eva’s Heroes is dedicated to enriching the lives of individuals with intellectual special needs ages 14 and older!

• Interact: Teamwork promoted in a supportive environment fosters joy, builds self-esteem and encourages productivity.

• Grow: Inspiring individuals to set and pursue stretch goals, promotes responsibility and successful decision-making.

• Learn: Embracing new experiences and mastering challenges translates into contributions to the world around us.

• Love: Everyone can succeed with heartfelt guidance, support and encouragement from family, friends, mentors and teachers.

• Ain’t Gonna Resta ‘Til After Fiesta dance is a family-friendly, inclusive Fiesta celebration.

Admission: Free www.evasheroes.org

ANNUAL WITTE MUSEUM FIESTA EXHIBIT: FIESTA MAKES

A SPLASH

WITTE MUSEUM

APRIL 23 – NOVEMBER 2, 2025 10:00 A.M. – 5:00 P.M.

3801 Broadway, San Antonio, TX 78209

Since 1909, the Order of the Alamo has crowned a queen to reign over Fiesta. The tradition includes elaborate coronation robes, bejeweled gowns and dramatic trains worn by the queen, princess, 24 duchesses and their entourage, plus the Lord High Chamberlain. Each year, these garments reflect the court’s new theme. Over the past 117 years, many

coronation robes have depicted water’s timeless beauty and vitality. This exhibition celebrates our enduring connection to water, showcasing the stunning artistry and craftsmanship woven into each graceful train and shimmering gown. The Witte’s annual exhibition of Fiesta gowns, accompanied by informative interpretative signage, sparks the imaginations of visitors of all ages and from all backgrounds.

Founded in 1926, the Witte Museum is where Nature, Science and Culture Meet, through the lens of Texas Deep Time, and the themes of Land, Water and Sky. Located on the banks of the San Antonio River in Brackenridge Park, the Witte Museum is San Antonio’s premier museum promoting lifelong learning through innovative exhibitions, programs and collections in natural history, science and South Texas heritage.

General Admission is $16 for adults, $15 for seniors and teens (13-18), $11 for children (4-11). Admission to the Fiesta Exhibition is included with General Admission. www.wittemuseum.org

SAN ANTONIO CACTUS & XEROPHYTE SOCIETY SHOW AND SALE

SAN ANTONIO CACTUS & XEROPHYTE SOCIETY

APRIL 24

SAN ANTONIO GARDEN CENTER 3310 N. New Braunfels Ave., San Antonio, TX 78209

• Cactus and succulent vendors

• Artisan pot vendor

• Landscape vendor that specializes in using xerophytes

within the landscape

• Silent Auction Thursday and Friday

• Fiesta Medals

• Educational Displays

• Kid Zone

The proceeds from the Fiesta event support various scholarships that we extend each year to high school and college students. The SACXS Legacy Project’s purpose is to update the goals of the original SACXS Mission through education and promotion of native and nonnative xerophyte species. The mission statement: To increase the knowledge of, to propagate, to identify, and to conserve all species of xerophtyes, and to encourage others to do the same.

Admission: Free

www.sacxs.org

ANNUAL WITTE MUSEUM FIESTA EXHIBIT: FIESTA MAKES A SPLASH

WITTE MUSEUM

APRIL 23 – NOVEMBER 2, 2025, 10:00 A.M. – 5:00 P.M.

WITTE MUSEUM

3801 Broadway, San Antonio, TX 78209

www.wittemuseum.org

2025 Fiesta Events

Fiesta Teen Queen Coronation

Sunday, March 30, 2025, 3:00 – 5:00 PM

The Public Theater San Antonio

Fiesta Flower Show

Friday, April 25, 2025, 2:00 – 5:00 PM Saturday, April 26, 2025, 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

The Woodward Mansion

Fiesta Hat Contest and Luncheon

Wednesday, April 30, 2025, 10:30 AM – 2:00 PM

The Westin North San Antonio

FIESTA® FIESTA PRESENTED BY TOYOTA

FIESTA SAN ANTONIO COMMISSION

APRIL 24, 2025, 4:00 P.M. – 10:00 P.M.

TRAVIS PARK

301 E Travis St. San Antonio, TX 78205

Get ready to Fiesta like never before, San Antonio, and let’s celebrate a Fiesta For All in 2025!

Whether you’re a Fiesta veteran or a first-timer, this event promises something for everyone — from thrilling carnival rides and games, live entertainment that’ll have you dancing the night away, to delicious food that epitomizes the spirit of Fiesta. Wear your brightest Fiesta gear, pin those medals, bring your biggest smiles, and let’s make this kickoff a celebration to remember!

Admission: Free www.fiestasanantonio.org www.alamodome.com

TASTE OF THE REPUBLIC

TEXAS CULINARY ALLIANCE

APRIL 24, 2025, 5:00 P.M. – 9:00 P.M.

JACK GUENTHER PAVILION AT THE BRISCOE

210 W Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205

Come out to the Taste of the Republic!

• Explores the 6 culinary regions of Texas

• South Texas - TexMex

• Central Texas - Smoked Meats

• Coastal Bend - Gulf Seafood

• East Texas - Southern Comfort

• North Texas - Cattle Country

• West Texas - Native American meets Vaquero

• Local chefs express their creativity

• Every ticket is VIP - an All-Inclusive ticket gets food, wine, beer & cocktails

• 14 Food stations - 13 food & 1 dessert

• Wine pairing with every food station

• Live DJ Donnie

Ticket sales begin December 15, 2024 www.tasteoftherepublic.ticketspice.com/taste-of-the-republic

FIESTA CARNIVAL

FIESTA SAN ANTONIO COMMISSION

APRIL 24 – MAY 4, 2025, TIMES VARY

ALAMODOME LOT C

100 Montana Street, San Antonio, TX 78205

• Thursday, April 24, 5:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m., $32 – Ride

Wristband Price

• Friday, April 25, 5:00 p.m. to Midnight, $32 – Ride Wristband Price

• Saturday, April 26, Noon to Midnight, $37 – Ride Wristband Price

• Sunday, April 27, Noon to 11:00 p.m., $37 – Ride Wristband Price

• Monday, April 28, 5:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m., $32 – Ride

Wristband Price

• Tuesday, April 29, 5:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m., Two Dollar Tuesday

– All Rides Are $2 Each

• Wednesday, April 30, 5:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m., $32 – Ride

Wristband Price

• Thursday, May 1, 5:00 p.m. to Midnight, $32 – Ride Wristband Price

• Friday, May 2, Noon to Midnight, $37 – Ride Wristband Price

• Saturday, May 3, Noon to Midnight, $37 – Ride Wristband Price

• Sunday, May 4, Noon to 11:00 p.m., $37 – Ride Wristband Price

• $28 – Ride Wristband Regular One – Day Advance Sale Price Thru April 24 at 5:00 p.m.

For more information visit Wade Shows or Fiesta® San Antonio Commission websites.

SAN ANTONIO CACTUS & XEROPHYTE SOCIETY SHOW AND SALE

SAN ANTONIO CACTUS & XEROPHYTE SOCIETY

APRIL 24 - 26, 2025, 9:00 A.M. – 5:00 P.M.

SAN ANTONIO GARDEN CENTER

3310 N. New Braunfels Ave., San Antonio, TX 78209

www.sacxs.org

ANNUAL WITTE MUSEUM FIESTA EXHIBIT: FIESTA MAKES A SPLASH

WITTE MUSEUM

APRIL 23 – NOVEMBER 2, 2025, 10:00 A.M. – 5:00 P.M.

WITTE MUSEUM

3801 Broadway, San Antonio, TX 78209

www.wittemuseum.org

FIESTA DE LOS REYES

REY FEO CONSEJO EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION

APRIL 25 – MAY 4, 2925, 10:00 A.M. – MIDNIGHT (SATURDAYS 1:00 A.M.)

MARKET SQUARE

514 West Commerce Street, San Antonio, TX 78207

Join us for Fiesta De Los Reyes at Historic Market Square!

• The Rey Feo Consejo Educational Foundation is a membership-based nonprofit founded in 1982 by Rey Feo XXXII Logan Stewart.

• Rey Feo Consejo Educational Foundation has almost over 200 members.

• Rey Feo Consejo Educational Foundation has participated in the Fiesta Flambeau Parade for over 43 years.

• The organization’s mission is to uphold the traditions of the Rey Feo, increase awareness and support the fundraising efforts of the Rey Feo Scholarship Foundation.

Admission: Free www.fiestadelosreyes.com

DIA EN LA SOMBRILLA

UTSA

APRIL 25, 2025, 11:00 A.M. – 3:00 P.M.

1 UTSA CIRCLE, MAIN CAMPUS – SOMBRILLA PLAZA AND CENTRAL PLAZA San Antonio, TX 78249

Día en la Sombrilla is celebrating 47 years of entertaining thousands and cracked more than 50,000 cascarones!

• Día en la Sombrilla (formerly Fiesta UTSA) started in 1978.

• The primary focus of Día en la Sombrilla remains to create a space for student organizations to raise funds by selling food and drinks, host games, and providing services.

• Funds raised by organizations are used for their tournaments, conferences, events and supplies throughout the year.

• Provide student organization leaders project management opportunities – namely, the coordination of the event as well as individual group fundraising efforts.

• Ensure this opportunity challenges student leaders to build skills in communication, teamwork, and budget management.

Admission: Free

All items are sold on site via cash, cashapp and Venmo. www.utsa.edu

FIESTA FLOWER SHOW

THE WOMAN’S CLUB OF SAN ANTONIO

APRIL 25, 2025, 2:00 P.M. – 5:00 P.M.

THE WOODWARD MANSION 1717 San Pedro Ave, San Antonio, TX 78212

Since 1913, The Woman’s Club of San Antonio has hosted their Annual Flower Show!

• A National Flower Show judged by accredited National Flower Show Judges.

• Beautiful Floral Arrangements based on the theme.

• Elegant Place Settings, with floral enhancements.

• Exquisite Horticultural Displays.

• The Woman’s Club of San Antonio will have a ribbon cutting for their Annual Flower Show event on Friday, April 25 at 1:00 p.m.

Admission: Free www.thewomansclubofsa.org

A TASTE OF NEW ORLEANS

SAN ANTONIO ZULU ASSOCIATION

APRIL 25 – 27, 2025

SUNKEN GARDEN THEATRE

3875 N. St. Mary’s Street, San Antonio, TX 78212

Friday, April 25, 2025, 5:30 p.m. – 11:00 p.m.

Saturday, April 26, 2025, Noon – 11:00 p.m. Sunday, April 27, 2025, Noon – 10:00 p.m.

Enjoy New Orleans-style food, Gumbo, Etouffee, Jambalaya and Alligator at A Taste of New Orleans!

• Enjoy the different music of Jazz, Zydeco, Dixieland, Blues and Brass Bands.

• Mardi Gras Themed event that takes you to the Big Easy, Beads and all.

• Family-Friendly event with face painting, bounce houses, clowns and fun for all ages.

• The mission of the San Antonio Zulu Association is to promote positive images for our community focusing on SelfImage and expressing the value of Education.

• SAZA is an all-volunteer staff with no paid employees.

• 100% of your proceeds go directly towards supporting the youth and citizens of the San Antonio community.

Admission: $22, Kids 12 and under: Free Tickets can be purchased at H-E-B, Joint-Base San Antonio ITT Locations

www.saza.org

FIESTA OYSTER BAKE®

ST. MARY’S UNIVERSITY ALUMNI ASSOCIATION

APRIL 25 – 26, 2025, APRIL 25: 5:00 P.M.– 11:00 P.M.,

APRIL 26: NOON – 11:00 P.M.

ST. MARY’S UNIVERSITY

One Camino Santa Maria, San Antonio, TX 78228

Fiesta Oyster Bake will be celebrating its 109th Anniversary this year!

• Fiesta Oyster Bake was founded in 1916.

• Oyster Bake proceeds go directly towards scholarships for St. Mary’s students, averaging a donation of $500,000 each year.

• We rely on more than 7,000 amazing volunteers who contribute over 50,000 volunteer hours.

• We serve over 100,000 oysters and 32,000 chicken on a stick with jalapeno.

• Fiesta Oyster Bake is one of the safest events, not only during Fiesta, but internationally, winning multiple awards from Texas Festival Events Association and International Festival Events Association for the best risk management plan.

Admission: Presale (March 1 to March 31): $25, At the gate: $30, 2 Day Admission: $40. Tickets can be purchased at Etix, H-E-B and at the gate.  www.oysterbake.com

FIESTA CARNIVAL

FIESTA SAN ANTONIO COMMISSION

APRIL 24 – MAY 4, 2025, TIMES VARY

ALAMODOME LOT C 100 Montana Street, San Antonio, TX 78205

REY FEO PUBLIC CROWNING

REY FEO SCHOLARSHIP FOUNDATION

APRIL 25, 2025, 5:30 P.M. – 6:30 P.M.

MAIN PLAZA 115 N. Main Ave, San Antonio, TX 78205

Celebrate Rey Feo 76 at the Public Crowning! The Rey Feo public crowning is a vibrant and cherished event held

annually in San Antonio, Texas. It is a significant part of the city’s Fiesta San Antonio, a festival lasting more than a week that celebrates the diverse culture and history of the region.

Rey Feo, which translates to “Ugly King,” is a festive title given to a prominent local figure who fulfills a charitable role. The event’s purpose is multifaceted. Primarily, it aims to raise funds for scholarships awarded to deserving students, particularly those pursuing higher education.

Throughout the year, Rey Feo engages in various events and activities to generate donations and increase community awareness. This crowning ceremony formally acknowledges the individual’s commitment and efforts in supporting education. The public crowning itself is a lively occasion, filled with music, parades and traditional pageantry.

Local businesses, community groups and citizens gather to celebrate and honor the Rey Feo’s contributions. This tradition not only spotlights the importance of education but also reinforces community spirit and cultural pride. The event is an opportunity for people of all backgrounds to unite and celebrate the shared goal of advancing educational opportunities for the youth.

Admission: Free www.reyfeoscholarship.com

ALAMO HEIGHTS NIGHT 2025®

ALAMO

BUFFALO SOLDIERS SAN ANTONIO FIESTA DE MOTOCICLETA 2025

BUFFALO SOLDIERS MOTOR CYCLE CLUB OF SAN ANTONIO

APRIL 25 – 26, 2025

MEET & GREET: FRIDAY, APRIL 25, 2025, 6:00

TEXAS PRIDE BARBECUE 2980 E Loop 1604 S Access Rd, Adkins, TX 78101

Buffalo Soldiers Motorcycle Club of San Antonio Texas is dedicated to investing in the future by providing scholarships that help local students pursue their dreams.

• Buffalo Soldiers Motorcycle Club of San Antonio Texas recognizes and celebrates the courage and contributions of the Buffalo Soldiers, honoring their legacy and the role they played in shaping our nation’s history.

• Music is at the heart of our community, and we strive to promote its power to bring people together and inspire.

• Buffalo Soldiers Motorcycle Club of San Antonio Texas shares a passion for the art and craftsmanship of motorcycles, fostering a community that appreciates both the beauty and wind therapy.

• Proudly supports the Alzheimer’s Association and its mission to provide care and support for those living with Alzheimer’s disease, while advancing research for a cure.

Admission: Free www.texaspridebbq.net

WEBB PARTY

SAN ANTONIO AIDS FOUNDATION

APRIL 25, 2025, 6:30 P.M. – 10:00 P.M.

110 BROADWAY BUILDING OFFICE

110 Broadway, San Antonio, TX 78205

Join Us for the Premier LGBTQ+ Event in San Antonio!

• WEBB Party supports the services of the San Antonio AIDS Foundation, where we provide sexual health and wellness for all, with a special focus on the LGBTQ+ community.

• WEBB was founded in 1993 as a “Family Reunion.”

• Supports HIV and STI education and prevention

Tickets range from $175-$225

Purchase Online at www.sanantonioaids.org

CROWNING CELEBRATION

REY FEO CONSEJO EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION

APRIL 25, 2025, 7:00 P.M. – MIDNIGHT

TOBIN CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS

100 Auditorium Cir, San Antonio, TX 78205

Celebrate the Crowning of El Rey Feo!

• Celebration of the Crowning of King Rey Feo LXXVI, Fabian Castillo, Sr.

• Live Music

• Catered Food Buffet

• Open Bar

• Dancing

• Proceeds of this event helps support scholarships to local High School Seniors who are planning to attend a College, University and Trade School.

Admission is $200

Tickets are available at www.reyfeoconsejo.org.

ANNUAL

WITTE MUSEUM FIESTA EXHIBIT: FIESTA MAKES A SPLASH

WITTE MUSEUM

APRIL 23 – NOVEMBER 2, 2025, 10:00 A.M. – 5:00 P.M.

WITTE MUSEUM

3801 Broadway, San Antonio, TX 78209 www.wittemuseum.org

BREAKFAST FOR THE BRAVE

THE ROCK AT LA CANTERA

APRIL 26, 2025, 7:00 A.M. – 1:00 P.M.

THE ROCK AT LA CANTERA

1 Spurs Wy, San Antonio, TX 78256

Join us at Breakfast for the Brave!

• An Official Fiesta Event!

• Free Breakfast for Veterans and First responders up to 350 meals

• Free event to the Community

• This event is a fundraiser for our Veteran Supportive Services

• Fiesta Royalty Appearances, Medal Giveaways, Live Music & Folklorico Performances

• Pet-friendly!

Admission: Free www.therockatlacantera.com

TEXAS CORVETTE ASSOCIATION OPEN CAR SHOW

ST. JUDE’S RANCH FOR CHILDREN - SJRC TEXAS

APRIL 26, 2025, 8:00 A.M. – 4:00 P.M.

BOERNE MAIN PLAZA

Main Street, Boerne, TX 78006

Folks from all over Texas and the nation drive into the quaint Hill Country town of Boerne to show off their special rides at the Annual Open Car Show!

• Last year, there were 447 pre-registered cars, 394 vintage classics, muscle cars and Corvettes.

• A San Antonio Fiesta event, TCA Open Car Show proceeds benefit SJRC Texas, a charity caring for children and families affected by trauma, abuse and neglect.

• The show will also include the Back to the Future Time Machine, silent auction and 50/50 raffle.

Admission: Free www.sjrctexas.org

47TH ANNUAL FIESTA WOMEN & CO-ED SOCCER TOURNAMENT

WSA-WOMEN’S SOCCER ASSOC.

APRIL 26, 2025, 8:00 A.M. – 7:00 P.M.

STAR SOCCER COMPLEX 5103 David Edwards Dr., San Antonio, TX 78233

• Watch Great Soccer Adult Games!

• Women & co-ed teams from other cities & states playing

• Food trucks

• Playground for children, but must be supervised by an adult

• Bring your chair to enjoy the view of a beautiful soccer complex

• Event helps support: High school & college teams to play free in our league

• Partial scholarships for text books to a player who has played with WSA at least 5 years. Pays team’s entry fees to out of town tournaments Pays for travel & hotel rooms to out of town tournaments.

Admission: Free www.wsasa.org

OLLU CONFETTI 5K RUN / WALK

OUR LADY OF THE LAKE UNIVERSITY

APRIL 26, 2025, 8:30 A.M. – 11:00 A.M.

OUR LADY OF THE LAKE UNIVERSITY, MAIN BUILDING, FRONT WALK 411 S.W. 24th Street, San Antonio, TX 78207

Lace up your sneakers and join us for OLLU Confetti 5k Run & Walk!

• Kids Fun Run starts at 8:30 a.m. and 5K starts at 9:00 a.m.

• We have over 800 participants.

• We have the cutest Mascot named Lago.

• We have very appealing Finisher Medals.

• We use 300 pounds of Confetti and we recycle it!!

• This 5K is a favorite for Scotty Dog, a Running Legend. He participates in over 100 5K’s a year.

Ticket Information: No Refunds – Registration closes April 20!

If you register by April 12, 2025: $35, Register between April 12 and April 20: $40, You may register on race day in cash: $45 Virtual Kids Run: FREE, 12yrs and under, Kids must be registered. www.ollusa.edu

WALK FOR AUTISM

ANY BABY CAN OF SAN ANTONIO

APRIL 26, 2025, 9:00 A.M. – 11:00 P.M.

PALO ALTO COLLEGE

1400 W Villaret Blvd, San Antonio, TX 78224

Walk for Autism is about empowering community! This event focuses on raising awareness, supporting autism, community support, raising funds, uniting for change, and spreading hope for brighter futures.

Admission: Free www.anybabycansa.org

ALPHA PI ZETA FIESTA TRACK MEET

ZETA PHI BETA SORORITY, INCORPORATED, ALPHA PI ZETA CHAPTER

APRIL 26, 2025, 9:00 A.M. – 1:00 P.M.

SAM HOUSTON HIGH SCHOOL 4635 East Houston Street San Antonio, TX, 78220

Alpha Pi Zeta Chapter has hosted the Fiesta Track Meet since 1984!

• Alpha Pi Zeta Chapter president at the 1984 inaugural event was Gaynell Gainer.

• Alpha Pi Zeta Foundation sponsors the Fiesta Track Meet.

• Alpha Pi Zeta Foundation Chair is Wynell Mann; her father, Iva Mann, was one of the early Fiesta Track Meet pioneers.

• The sportsmanship award is named in his honor. Alpha Pi Zeta Chapter member, Ethel Garrett and her dearly departed spouse, Frank Garret served as early Fiesta Track Meet pioneers.

• The overall participation award is named in his honor.

Admission: Free www.zpbsa.org

SAN ANTONIO CACTUS & XEROPHYTE SOCIETY SHOW AND SALE

SAN ANTONIO CACTUS & XEROPHYTE SOCIETY

APRIL 24 – 26, 2025, 9:00 A.M. – 5:00 P.M.

SAN ANTONIO GARDEN CENTER 3310 N. New Braunfels Ave., San Antonio, TX 78209 www.sacxs.org

EL REY FIDO CORONATION

SAN ANTONIO HUMANE SOCIETY

APRIL 26, 2025, 9:45 A.M. – 11:00 A.M.

HOPS N HOUNDS 1123 Ave B, San Antonio, TX 78247

The SAHS mission is to protect and improve the lives of dogs and cats!

• SAHS provides shelter, care, adoption, rescue, spay/neuter programs and community education.

• The SAHS shelters, medically treats, and rehabilitates thousands of dogs and cats every year.

• As a no-kill organization, every treatable pet in our care stays in our care until they find a home or necessary placement with another no-kill organization.

• El Rey Fido began in 2002 as a feel-good spin on the already long-established Fiesta Royalty title of a similar name: Rey Feo.

• The fundraising competition’s top fundraising dog will be bestowed the honor of the crown and title El Rey Fido XXIII, www.ArtsCultureFun.com

with four runners-up joining the Royal Court (Prince/Princess of the Food Bowl, Duke/Duchess of the Chew Toy, Duke/ Duchess of the Fire Hydrant, and Knight/Maiden of the Royal Court).

• The El Rey Fido and the Royal Court get to be dressed in true royal attire (velvet, sequins and all).

• Don’t miss your chance to support homeless pets in your community and become a part of over twenty years of SAHS Fiesta tradition!

• Bring your furry friends, this is a pet-friendly!

Admission: Free www.sahumane.org

FIESTA DE LOS REYES

REY FEO CONSEJO EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION

APRIL 25 – MAY 4, 2925, 10:00 A.M. – MIDNIGHT (SATURDAYS 1:00 A.M.)

MARKET SQUARE

514 West Commerce Street, San Antonio, TX 78207

www.fiestadelosreyes.com

FIESTA CASTLE HILLS

CASTLE HILLS COMMUNITY ORGANIZATION

APRIL 26, 2025, 10:00 A.M. – 5:00 P.M.

207 Lemonwood Dr, Castle Hills, TX 78213

Come out to Fiesta Castle Hills!

• Local parade with bands and dance groups

• 40+ Artisan vendor booths

• Children’s area with games

• Happy Tails Petting Zoo

• Food Court

• Margarita booth

• Live Music

• Pet-friendly!

Admission: Free www.castlehillscommunityorganization.org

FIESTA FESTIVAL

VOLUNTEER SERVICES COUNCIL STATE SUPPORTED LIVING CENTER

APRIL 26, 2025, 10:00 A.M. – 4:00 P.M.

SAN ANTONIO STATE SUPPORTED LIVING CENTER 6711 S New Braunfels Ave, San Antonio, TX 78223

Fiesta Festival event was created to include residents with intellectual and developmental disabilities and bring the Fiesta festivities to their home.

• A friendly family oriented, alcohol-free event.

• Free entrance and free parking.

• The first event catered for the enjoyment of people with disabilities, children and elderly friendly.

• Fiesta Parade begins at noon great food booths, vendor booths, games and live music entertainment.

Admission: Free

No outside food, no outside drinks, no weapons allowed on premises. www.hhs.texas.gov

THE CIRCLE FOR LIFE MOTORCYCLE RIDE

THE CIRCLE FOR LIFE

APRIL 26, 2025, 10:00 A.M. – NOON

JAVELINA HARLEY-DAVIDSON

29078 Interstate 10 Frontage Rd, Boerne, TX 78006

Join Us for The Circle for Life Motorcycle Rally!

• The Circle for Life Motorcycle Rally raises awareness for organ and tissue donations.

• Historically, a lung and/or double lung recipient will sing our National Anthem.

• Police escorted motorcycle rally and ends up in a savory spot.

Tickets are $45  www.givebutter.com/fiesta-moto2025

EARTH DAY SAN ANTONIO 2025

CITY OF SAN ANTONIO PARKS & RECREATION DEPARTMENT

APRIL 26, 2025, 10:00 A.M. – 2:00 P.M.

WOODLAWN LAKE PARK

1103 Cincinnati Avenue, San Antonio, TX 78201

Earth Day offers the community an opportunity to come together and celebrate nature, conservation and sustainability while enjoying a free, fun-filled event!

• Earth Day will feature over 70 community partners.

• The event offers numerous hands-on family activities.

• Engaging dance and musical performances.

• Tree and Plant giveaways.

• Vegetarian and Vegan Food Options.

• Fishing, fitness activities and more.

• Earth Day is also a low-waste Fiesta event.

• Pet-friendly event!

Admission: Free www.saparksandrec.com

SAN JACINTO VICTORY CELEBRATION

DRT ALAMO HEROES CHAPTER

APRIL 26, 2025, 10:00 A.M. – 11:30 A.M.

ALAMO PLAZA

300 Alamo Plaza, San Antonio, TX 78205

Founded in 1891, the Daughters of The Republic of Texas is the Oldest Patriotic Women’s organization in Texas and one of the oldest in the nation.

• The objectives of the association are to perpetuate the memory and spirit of the people who achieved and maintained the independence of Texas and to encourage historical research into the earliest records of Texas, especially those relating to the revolutionary and republic periods.

• One of the association’s early projects was to persuade the Texas legislature to purchase the land on which the battle of San Jacinto was fought.

• In 1986 the Daughters buried a time capsule containing memorabilia of the Sesquicentennial celebration at the Cradle in Galveston. The capsule is to be opened during the Texas Bicentennial in the year 2036.

• The DRT worked with artist Benjamin Knox to create the artwork for the Native Texan License Plate.

Admission: Free

FIESTA ARTS FAIR

UTSA ALUMNI ASSOCIATION

APRIL 26 – 27, 2025, SATURDAY, APRIL 26: 10:00 A.M. – 6:00 P.M.,

SUNDAY, APRIL 27: 11:00 A.M. – 5:00 P.M.

UTSA SW CAMPUS

300 Augusta St, San Antonio, TX 78205

The 50th Anniversary of Fiesta Arts Fair!

• Fiesta Arts Fair is a nationally ranked art fair with a strong following located on the historic UTSA Southwest Campus.

• Fair features contemporary art from more than 100 juried artists from across the U.S.

• Live music by local and regional performers on two stages featuring The Texases.

• Young Artists Garden providing opportunities for budding artists to learn, explore, and express their creativity!

• Enjoy your favorite fiesta foods!

Admission: $20

www.utsa.edu/alumni/events-programs/fiesta-arts-fair

FIESTA FLOWER SHOW

THE WOMAN’S CLUB OF SAN ANTONIO

THE WOODWARD MANSION 1717 San Pedro Ave, San Antonio, TX 78212

TOP TEENS OF AMERICA HEALTHY CHOICE CONFERENCE

TOP TEENS OF AMERICA, SAN ANTONIO METROPOLITAN CHAPTER

APRIL 26, 2025, 10:00 A.M. – 2:00 P.M.

SECOND BAPTIST CHURCH COMMUNITY CENTER 3310 E Commerce, San Antonio, TX 78220

Join us at Top Teens of America Healthy Choice Conference!

• Encourage High Academic Scholarship.

• Encourage Healthy Lifestyles Develop Pride in Self, Home and Community.

• Encourage Participation in Workshops which Address Current Trends Develop Concerns for all Teens, Senior Citizens, Status of Women, Community Partnerships and Community Beautification.

Admission: Free

CELEBRATION OF TRADITIONS POW WOW

UNITED SAN ANTONIO POW WOW, INC.

APRIL 26, 2025, 11:00 A.M. – 4:00 P.M.

ST. PHILIP’S COLLEGE - WILLIAM ALLEN HUDGINS HEALTH AND WELLNESS BUILDING

1801 Martin Luther King Dr, San Antonio, TX 78203

Through the pow wow the American Indian can pass these traditions to their children and grandchildren so that the Culture can be maintained and enriched – Learning the honored ways of the past.

• Celebrations of Traditions Pow Wow is an official Fiesta event, which will provide all who attend, individuals and families, the opportunity to view and participate in the American Indian culture and traditions of dance and music at an official Native American Pow Wow. The pow wow promotes tribal traditions, culture and the opportunity for Native people to gather in celebrating their rich heritage with one another.

• To promoted the traditions and culture of the American Indian in the most positive manner possible. Provide Indian people the opportunity to participate, practice, teach and exchange tribal traditions among all tribes. Enlighten the non-Indian about the history and culture of America’s first inhabitants. Dispel stereotypes created about the American Indian. All donations are tax deductible [Federal 501(c)(3) organization] to the full extent allowed by law.

Admission: Free www.unitedsanantoniopowwow.org

UNITED WAY KIDS FESTIVAL

UNITED WAY SAN ANTONIO & BEXAR COUNTY

APRIL 26, 2025, 11:00 A.M. – 2:00 P.M.

ROSEDALE PARK

303 Dartmouth St., San Antonio, TX 78237

Only 100% free family-friendly Fiesta event, with no costs for any food, activities or experiences!

• Families receive free books, children’s activities and games to promote learning outside of the classroom.

• Puts families in direct contact with over 60 local service providers.

• Entertainment, hat making competition, bubble station, and more for the kids.

• Families take home fresh fruit, healthy foods to combat food insecurity

• Sensory Safe Space on festival grounds.

• Kid and pet friendly event.

Admission: Free www.uwsatx.org

LOTERÍA PARA LÍDERES

GIRL SCOUTS OF SOUTHWEST TEXAS

APRIL 26, 2025, 11:00 A.M. – 2:00 P.M.

EMBASSY SUITES BY HILTON SAN ANTONIO BROOKS

7610 S New Braunfels Ave, San Antonio, TX 78235

Girl Scouting builds girls of courage, confidence and character who make the world a better place!

• Proceeds support the West Side Girl Scout Leadership Center.

• One of a kind Girl Scout themed Loteria game cards.

• Girl Scouts of Southwest Texas serves nearly 10,000 girls from every ZIP code in San Antonio and the Southwest Texas area.

• Our council has one of the largest percentages of Hispanic girl members in the country, and many are considered at-risk.

Tickets will be available to purchase starting March 1, 2025 www.girlscouts-swtx.org

FIESTA CARNIVAL

FIESTA SAN ANTONIO COMMISSION

APRIL 24 – MAY 4, 2025, TIMES VARY

ALAMODOME LOT C

100 Montana Street, San Antonio, TX 78205

FIESTA KINGS POLO MATCH

SAN ANTONIO POLO CLUB

APRIL 26, 2025

SAN ANTONIO POLO CLUB

490 W. Specht Road, San Antonio, TX 78260 www.sanantoniopoloclub.org

CHAPARRAL MUSIC & HERITAGE FESTIVAL

SAN ANTONIO PARKS FOUNDATION

APRIL 26, 2025

www.saparksfoundation.org

BUFFALO SOLDIERS SAN ANTONIO FIESTA DE MOTOCICLETA 2025

BUFFALO SOLDIERS MOTOR CYCLE CLUB OF SAN ANTONIO

APRIL 25 - 26, 2025

MEET & GREET: FRIDAY, APRIL 25, 2025, 6:00 P.M – 10:00 P.M.

DAY PARTY: SATURDAY, APRIL 26, 2025, NOON – 8:00 P.M.

TEXAS PRIDE BARBECUE

2980 E Loop 1604 S Access Rd, Adkins, TX 78101

www.texaspridebbq.net

A TASTE OF NEW ORLEANS

SAN ANTONIO ZULU ASSOCIATION

APRIL 25 – 27, 2025

FRIDAY, APRIL 25, 2025, 5:30 P.M. – 11:00 P.M.

SATURDAY, APRIL 26, 2025, NOON – 11:00 P.M.

SUNDAY, APRIL 27, 2025, NOON – 10:00 P.M.

SUNKEN GARDEN THEATRE

3875 N. St. Mary’s Street, San Antonio, TX 78212

www.saza.org

FIESTA OYSTER BAKE®

ST. MARY’S UNIVERSITY ALUMNI ASSOCIATION

APRIL 25 – 26, 2025, APRIL 25: 5:00 P.M.– 11:00 P.M.,

APRIL 26: NOON – 11:00 P.M.

ST. MARY’S UNIVERSITY One Camino Santa Maria, San Antonio, TX 78228 www.oysterbake.com

PIÑATAS IN THE BARRIO

AUEDA - ACTION UNITED FOR ENTERTAINERS AND DIVERSE ARTISTS

APRIL 26, 2025, NOON – 9:00 P.M.

GUADALUPE PLAZA

1327 Guadalupe St, San Antonio, TX 78207

Join us at Pinatas in the Barrio!  Proceeds go to Scholarship Programs for Diverse Artists

• Free Parking

• Free Admission

• Live Entertainment

• Food Vendors

• Arts and Crafts Vendors

• Crowning of Senior Citizen King and Queen of the Barrio by Rey Feo

Admission: Free www.aueda.org

UTSA SPRING FOOTBALL GAME

UTSA

APRIL 26, 2025, 1:00 P.M. – 5:00 P.M.

ALAMODOME

110 Montana Street, San Antonio, TX 78203

Join the Roadrunners for the UTSA Fiesta Spring Football Game!

• UTSA’s inaugural season was in 2011, making the 2025 season its 15th in program history.

• UTSA has been bowl eligible for five straight seasons.

• The Roadrunners are 29-3 at the Alamodome under Head Coach Jeff Traylor.

• UTSA’s unique Hispanic Heritage uniform is displayed in the College Football Hall of Fame in Atlanta.

• UTSA has had four players selected in the NFL Draft including Marcus Davenport in the first round in 2018. Tickets are TBD www.utsa.edu

CHANCLAS Y CERVEZAS

BROOKS GIVES BACK

APRIL 26, 2025, 5:00 P.M. - 11:00 P.M.

THE GREENLINE

2532 Sidney Brooks, San Antonio, TX, 78235

Join us at our Community Event with great Entertainment and FREE Admission!!!

• We are family and pet -friendly environment.

• We have a Petting Zoo for the little ones.

• Shop with Local Food and Art Vendors!  Admission: Free www.brooksgives.org

THE INVESTITURE OF KING ANTONIO

THE TEXAS CAVALIERS

APRIL 26, 2025, 6:15 P.M. – 7:30 P.M.

THE ALAMO

300 Alamo Plaza, San Antonio, TX 78205

In 1989, the Texas Cavaliers developed the Texas Cavaliers Charitable Foundation to benefit and support local children. The Texas Cavaliers have distributed more than $8 million to Texas charities.

• Founded in 1926 by John B. Carrington, the Texas Cavaliers consist of over 500 business, civic and community leaders who promote and preserve the bravery and independence for which the heroes of the Alamo died.

• The Texas Cavaliers named our first King Antonio in 1927. Sterling Clinton Burke was elected by his peers to pay tribute to Alamo heroes, attend the first King’s Ball, and preside over city-wide Fiesta activities. A King Antonio has been selected from the ranks of the Texas Cavaliers in every subsequent year except for those when our country was at war and Fiesta events were canceled.

• Since the King’s early days, the honor has evolved into a platform from which the Cavaliers’ monarch can distribute charitable funds; deliver a positive, healthy message to schoolchildren; and merrily greet all royal subjects at numerous ceremonies, parties and special appearances during 10 action-packed days.

• The investiture ceremony, which dates back to 1927, honors the memory of the matchless heroes who fell at the Alamo and also recognizes new members inducted into the Texas Cavaliers each year.

• By tradition, this highly celebrated investiture ceremony is held in front of the Alamo on the first Saturday evening of Fiesta. With the Shrine of Texas history as a backdrop, the new ruler of merriment is administered the oath of office and “crowned” with the plumed hat of King Antonio by his immediate predecessor.

• Wearing his cape, saber and the official headgear, the new King Antonio is ceremoniously welcomed by the Mayor and given the key to the city. King Antonio responds by paying homage to the Alamo’s defenders and formally accepting the reins for the Fiesta Week’s activities.

Admission: Free www.texascavaliers.org

PATRIOTIC AND HISTORICAL BALL

STATE ASSOCIATION OF TEXAS PIONEERS

APRIL 26, 2025, 7:00 P.M. – 11:00 P.M.

THE VENUES AT SAN FERNANDO, SAN FERNANDO BALLROOM 231 W Commerce St, San Antonio, TX 78205

Best bargain for a Fiesta Ball!

• Fiesta King and Cavalier escort

• Fiesta Military and Royalty guests

• Fiesta Royalty introduction to our Pioneer Honorary Lady Chairman with gift exchange ceremony

• San Antonio Pipes and Drums ceremony

• Sons of the American Revolution Color Guard

• Folklorica dancers

• Live music and dancing, including The Grand March

• Silent Auction

• Selfie Wall

Tickets can be purchased on Ticketmaster, date TBA www.texaspioneers.org

FIESTA ON FRENCH

APRIL 26, 2025, 7:00 P.M. – MIDNIGHT

415 W FRENCH PLACE

415 W French Pl., San Antonio, TX 78212

Join us at a Fiesta Mardi Gras Party!

• All you can eat crawfish Delicious Cajun Food (Seafood, Chicken, Beef) Glutton Free and Vegan Grazing Table Open Full Bar including Margaritas and Hurricanes.

• Beautiful Historical Home in Monte Vista

• Great DJ Music all Night for dancing

• Live Auction

• San Antonio Social Gathering

Tickets are $150 and can be purchase online www.fiestaonfrench.com

MIDNIGHT IN THE GARDEN OF GOOD AND EVIL A MASQUERADE EXTRAVAGANZA

FIESTA YOUTH

APRIL 26, 2025, 7:00 P.M.– 11:00 P.M.

DOSEUM

2800 Broadway, San Antonio, TX 78209

11th Annual Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil: An Official Fiesta Masquerade Ball benefiting Fiesta Youth! Sponsored by Community First Health Plans Prepare to be enchanted and amazed at the 11th Annual Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil; an Official Fiesta Masquerade Extravaganza to benefit Fiesta Youth, San Antonio’s Premier LGBTQ Teen and Young Adult Non-Profit Organization.   Join us at the innovative DoSeum this year as we turn it into an adult Fiesta playground. We will have indoor and outdoor fun in a masquerade setting where we will take in the night. Tickets include an open bar of specialty cocktails, wine, and cold beer along with Fiesta themed food and desserts. Be delighted with the company of friends both old and new! Tickets are available at https://ticketstripe.com/FYMidnight2025 info@fiesta-youth.org

Fiesta Youth is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) and all contributions are tax deductible as allowed by law. Your support of this lifesaving and life-changing organization is vital to its continued existence and future growth. This is a 21+ fundraising event only. All sales are final. This is a rain or shine event.

2025 Entertainment Line-up, E7 Band, DJ Rook, LynZ Andrews Entertainment After Party at the Bonham Exchange www.fiesta-youth.org

FIESTA MASQUERADE PARTY

OMEGA PSI PHI FRATERNITY, INC. PSI ALPHA CHAPTER

APRIL 26, 2025, 8:00 P.M. – MIDNIGHT

THE WESTIN SAN ANTONIO NORTH 9821 Colonnade Blvd, San Antonio, TX 78230

Join us at the Fiesta Masquerade Party! Proceeds support Scholarships!

• Multicultural event

• Masks are part of the attire

• Best Dressed prizes

• Plenty of Food, Drink, and Music

• Get to meet Fiesta Royalty

Admission: $60.00 per ticket and can be purchased online. www.psialphachapter.com

ANNUAL WITTE MUSEUM FIESTA EXHIBIT: FIESTA MAKES A SPLASH

WITTE MUSEUM

APRIL 23 – NOVEMBER 2, 2025, 10:00 A.M. – 5:00 P.M.

3801 Broadway, San Antonio, TX 78209 www.wittemuseum.org

47TH ANNUAL FIESTA WOMEN & CO-ED

SOCCER TOURNAMENT

WSA-WOMEN’S SOCCER ASSOC. APRIL 27, 2025, 8:00 A.M. – 7:00 P.M. STAR SOCCER COMPLEX 5103 David Edwards Dr., San Antonio, TX 78233

FIESTA DE NINOS PORT SAN ANTONIO

APRIL 27, 2025, 10:00 A.M. – NOON BOEING CENTER AT

+ TECH = FAMILY FUN!

FIESTA DE LOS REYES

REY FEO CONSEJO EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION

APRIL 25 – MAY 4, 2925, 10:00 A.M. – MIDNIGHT (SATURDAYS 1:00 AM)

MARKET SQUARE

514 West Commerce Street, San Antonio, TX 78207 www.fiestadelosreyes.com

FIESTA OLE

PAN AMERICAN LEAGUE

APRIL 27, 2025, 10:00 A.M. – 2:00 P.M.

THE WESTIN SAN ANTONIO NORTH 9821 Colonnade Blvd, San Antonio, TX 78230

The Fiesta Ole Style Show and Bazaar has become a beloved tradition in San Antonio. It draws a vibrant crowd every year and contributes to the excitement of the Fiesta® season!

• The style show will highlight unique fashions crafted by Graciela, a well-known stylist in San Antonio, bringing her creative flair to the event.

• The models showcasing the designs are prominent women from San Antonio, adding a touch of local pride and representation to the runway.

• All net proceeds from the event will directly support the Pan American League’s charitable initiatives, including scholarships and community social services.

• The bazaar features 40 local artisan vendors, each offering unique crafts, including jewelry, fashion accessories, and items that reflect the vibrant Fiesta spirit.

• Attendees can immerse themselves in the lively atmosphere of Fiesta, with spirited music and festive decor enhancing the experience throughout the venue.

• The event celebrates San Antonio’s rich cultural heritage, showcasing the artistry and talent of local designers and artisans.

Tickets are $100 and will be available starting on February 1, 2025.

www.panamericanleague.com

CHAMPAGNE AND DIAMONDS

LO BELLO WOMEN’S ASSOCIATION

APRIL 27, 2025, 10:30 A.M. – 2:00 P.M.

847 E. Hildebrand Ave., San Antonio, TX 78212

Join us for Fiesta’s Most Beloved Brunch!

• Raise funds for scholarships with a focus on trade schools.

• Donate funds for University Hospital Foundation Nursing program.

• Our Events Change Lives.

Tickets range from $225-$10,000

Purchase your tickets online at www.lobello.org

MISSION REACH FLOTILLA FIESTA

SAN ANTONIO RIVER FOUNDATION

APRIL 27, 2025, 11:00 A.M. – 3:00 P.M.

ACEQUIA PARK

8500 Mission Pkwy, San Antonio, TX 78223

Only Official Kayak Event of Fiesta!

• Family friendly

• Free fishing

• Lots of great music

• Games for the kids

• Great food for purchase

Admission: Free www.sariverfound.org

A DAY IN OLD MEXICO AND CHARREADA

ASOCIACIÓN DE CHARROS DE SAN ANTONIO

APRIL 27, 2025, 11:00 A.M. – 7:00 P.M.

RANCHO DEL CHARRO

6126 Padre Drive, San Antonio, TX 78214

Join us at Day in Old Mexico!

• Day in Old Mexico event helps raises money to support the San Antonio Charro Association, a local non-profit organization.

• There will be over 30 vendors that will include food, drinks and shopping.

• Rey Feo and his Royal Court will be attending on April 27.

• King Antonio and his Royal Castle will be attending on May 4.

• Military and Community Leaders will be attending this great event.

• Watch and listen to mariachis, ballet folklorico dancers, dancing horses or much more.

Admission: $20 Adults, Tickets are only available at the door, day of the event. Children 12 and under are free. www.sacharros.org

FIESTA ARTS FAIR

UTSA ALUMNI ASSOCIATION APRIL 26

UTSA SW CAMPUS 300 Augusta St, San Antonio, TX 78205

www.utsa.edu/alumni/events-programs/fiesta-arts-fair

FIESTA CARNIVAL

FIESTA SAN ANTONIO COMMISSION

APRIL 24 – MAY 4,

FIESTA DE LA FAMILIA

ST. GREGORY THE GREAT CATHOLIC SCHOOL

APRIL 27, 2025, NOON – 7:00 P.M.

ST. GREGORY CATHOLIC CHURCH

700 Dewhurst, San Antonio, TX 78213

Join us at Fiesta de la Familia!

• Rides for all ages

• Entertainment

• Games for all ages

• Indoor and outdoor entertainment

• Silent Auction

• ATM

• Family friendly Fiesta

Admission: Free

www.stgregorysa.org

DECO FIESTA®

NETWORK FOR YOUNG ARTISTS

APRIL 27, 2025, NOON – 8:00 P.M.

211 Beal St San Antonio, TX 78201

2025 will be the 10th Anniversary of Deco Fiesta!

• Deco Fiesta is presented by Network for Young Artists (NYA), a performing arts education program that provides cultural performing arts opportunities year-round for students in marginalized communities.

• We partner with SA Local Market every year to curate our event vendors.

• NYA programs promote and enhance Latino Arts and combine them with a diverse and inclusive culture to create a unique environment for personal and artistic growth.

• NYA students have the opportunity to perform live music for the first half of the event, and the second half of the event features local bands and dancers from San Antonio and the surrounding area.

Admission: Free

www.nya.us

A TASTE OF NEW ORLEANS

SAN ANTONIO ZULU ASSOCIATION

APRIL 25 – 27, 2025

FRIDAY, APRIL 25, 2025, 5:30 P.M. – 11:00 P.M.

SATURDAY, APRIL 26, 2025, NOON – 11:00 P.M.

SUNDAY, APRIL 27, 2025, NOON – 10:00 P.M.

SUNKEN GARDEN THEATRE

3875 N. St. Mary’s Street, San Antonio, TX 78212 www.saza.org

ANNUAL FIESTA CONCERT- FIESTA: A MUSICAL FUSION IN SAN ANTONIO

SAN ANTONIO SYMPHONIC BAND

APRIL 27, 2025, 3:00 P.M. – 4:30 P.M.

DIANE BENNACK CONCERT HALL 4301 Broadway, San Antonio, TX 78209

Our goal is to elevate the art of performance by showcasing music’s rich diversity; to delight audiences with captivating performances; and to deepen the appreciation of various music styles and genres for symphonic band repertoire.

• The San Antonio Symphonic Band is the “Official Band” of the City of San Antonio.

• We have a new conductor: Dr. Esteban Montalvo.

• We plan to travel to New York in the summer to perform on the Intrepid.

• We have musicians in the ensemble ranging in age from Age 18 – 80+.

Admission: Free www.sanantoniosymphonicband.com

ANNUAL WITTE MUSEUM FIESTA EXHIBIT: FIESTA MAKES A SPLASH

WITTE MUSEUM

APRIL 23 – NOVEMBER 2, 2025, 10:00 A.M. – 5:00 P.M.

3801 Broadway, San Antonio, TX 78209

www.wittemuseum.org

FIESTA DE LOS REYES

REY FEO CONSEJO EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION

APRIL 25 – MAY 4, 2025, 10:00 A.M. – MIDNIGHT (SATURDAYS 1:00 A.M.)

MARKET SQUARE

514 West Commerce Street, San Antonio, TX 78207 www.fiestadelosreyes.com

AIR FORCE DAY AT THE ALAMO

UNITED STATES AIR FORCE

APRIL 28, 2025, 11:00 A.M. – NOON

ALAMO PLAZA

300 Alamo Plaza, San Antonio, TX 78205

Celebrate Airforce Day at The Alamo!

Youngest Branch of the Military

The Air Force was officially established on September 18, 1947, making it the youngest branch of the U.S. Armed Forces. Before that, it was part of the Army and known as the Army Air Corps.

Largest Air Force in the World

The U.S. Air Force operates the largest fleet of aircraft and has the most advanced technology compared to any other air force globally. It includes fighter jets, bombers, reconnaissance planes and transport aircraft.

Space Beginnings

The Air Force was instrumental in the U.S. space program, contributing to the development of space exploration and satellite technology. Many early astronauts were Air Force pilots, including Buzz Aldrin and Gus Grissom.

It’s Not Just About Planes

The Air Force has a wide range of roles beyond piloting aircraft, including cyber operations, space command, engineering, and even band performances through the U.S. Air Force Band.

Air Force One

“Air Force One” isn’t a specific plane — it’s the radio call sign for any aircraft carrying the President of the United States. However, the specially equipped Boeing 747s designated for presidential use are among the most recognizable aircraft in the world.

Admission: Free www.aetc.af.mil

ANNUAL PILGRIMAGE TO THE ALAMO

ALAMO MISSION CHAPTER, DRT

APRIL 28, 2025, 4:00 P.M. – 5:00 P.M.

300 Alamo Plaza, San Antonio, TX 78205

• The Pilgrimage to the Alamo began in 1918 as a replacement for the Battle of Flowers Parade which did not occur that year due to the United States’ involvement in World War I. In place of the military, which was not available to participate in the Battle of Flowers Parade, Boy Scouts led the procession to the Alamo.

• The Pilgrimage to the Alamo is a solemn and silent procession for 6 blocks from the Vietnam War Memorial to the Alamo, in which all participants in The Pilgrimage Walk as members of the groups represented, carrying floral tributes to be placed on the Alamo green, before taking a set in Alamo Plaza.

• The program in Alamo Plaza honors those who died defending the Alamo on March 6, 1836, which made it possible for Texans to be victorious at San Jacinto and win for Texas its independence as a Republic which endured nearly 10 years.

• Participants in The Pilgrimage to the Alamo represent approximately 75 different organizations, or groups in the San Antonio area, and include the San Antonio Command of the six branches of the US Military, the San Antonio Mayor and members of City Council, the Bexar County Judge and members of the Commissioners Court, the Bexar County Clerk, the Bexar Historical Commission, the Texas General Land Office, the Alamo Trust, the Alamo Mission Chapter DRT, and other chapters of the Daughters of the Republic of Texas, members of the Sons of the Republic of Texas, the San Antonio Fiesta Commission, King Antonio and the Texas Cavaliers, Rey Feo and his Court, Miss Fiesta and other Fiesta royalty, the Battle of Flowers Association, the Order of the Alamo, The Greater Chamber, the Military Fiesta Ambassadors, various lineage societies, various historical organizations, other Fiesta PMOs, other invited groups.

• The keynote speaker represents the Command of Joint Base San Antonio, alternating years between the Army and the Air Force. For 2024, it will be the Air Force. Words of greeting will also come from the President of the Fiesta Commission, the President of the Alamo Mission Chapter DRT and other dignitaries. The 6-block procession from Vietnam Memorial to the seating be led by a riderless horse from Fort Sam Houston.

Admission: Free www.alamomissionchapter.com

FIESTA CARNIVAL

FIESTA SAN ANTONIO COMMISSION

APRIL 24 – MAY 4, 2025, TIMES VARY

ALAMODOME LOT C

100 Montana Street, San Antonio, TX 78205

SAN ANTONIO COLLEGE MULTICULTURAL CONFERENCE

SAN ANTONIO COLLEGE

APRIL 28 - 30, 2025, TIMES VARY

1819 N. Main Ave., San Antonio, TX 78212

San Antonio College is Celebrating 20 years hosting the Multicultural Conference!

• This year will feature representatives from the Irish and Mexican consulates of San Antonio.

• Another key guest is Emilie Dujour, the Media Relations Manager at Visit San Antonio.

• This year’s theme is “More than meets the eye.”

• In the past San Antonio College has hosted poets’ laureate, graphic novelists, and other artists local to San Antonio.

April 28, Noon – 1:30 p.m.

Documentary screening: The Least of my Brothers with a Q & A with Director and Screenwriter Matthew Kordelski. The Least of My Brothers tells the story of the desegregation of Vidor, Texas, and the murder investigation of the first African American man to move there.

April 28, 6:00 p.m., Fiesta room on SAC Campus

San Patricios: Music and Presentation

Come listen to Irish folk music and learn about the historic San Patricios, a group of Irish immigrants who fought in the Mexican-American war of 1846-1848.

Admission: Free

THE TEXAS CAVALIER RIVER PARADE

THE TEXAS CAVALIERS

APRIL 28, 2025, 7:00 P.M. – 9:00 P.M.

SAN ANTONIO RIVER WALK

San Antonio Riverwalk, TX 78205

Started in 1941 after a group of Texas Cavaliers witnessed boats and barges decorated with flowers in the “floating gardens” of Mexico City.

• The first Texas Cavaliers River Parade included a number of boats for schools, local businesses, civic organizations and the army.

• Over 250,000 viewers.

• Founded in 1926 by John B. Carrington, the Texas Cavaliers consist of over 500 business, civic and community leaders who promote and preserve the bravery and independence for which the heroes of the Alamo died.

• In 1989, the Texas Cavaliers developed the Texas Cavaliers Charitable Foundation to benefit and support local children. The Texas Cavaliers have distributed more than $8 million to Texas charities.

Ticket prices vary, for more information, please contact (210)227-4837, info@texascavaliers.org www.texascavaliers.org

FIESTA ESPECIAL® CELEBRATION DAY

DISABILITYSA

APRIL 29, 2025, 10:00 A.M. – 2:00 P.M.

FIESTA CARNIVAL, ALAMODOME PARKING LOT C

100 Montana Street, San Antonio, TX 78203

Join us at Fiesta Especial for a unique and inclusive Fiesta® San Antonio experience! Designed for children and adults with physical, cognitive, and developmental disabilities, our event is more than just a celebration. It’s a chance to immerse in the rich culture and diversity of Fiesta® in a way that is educational, accessible and fun. Come be a part of an amazing community that celebrates inclusivity and learning. Let’s create unforgettable memories together at Fiesta Especial.

Fiesta Especial Celebration Day features numerous amenities that support families which include people with disabilities from a universal changing station, sensory escape room, disability-friendly first-aid station, additional seating, orientation and navigation supports, disability information, free games and rides, low lights & sounds on the rides, disability-friendly volunteers, reduced pricing on foods & beverages, and more!

Ticket Information: Event is FREE, but advanced registration is required. NO general admission at the gate.

ANNUAL WITTE MUSEUM FIESTA EXHIBIT: FIESTA MAKES A SPLASH

WITTE MUSEUM

APRIL 23 – NOVEMBER 2, 2025, 10:00 A.M. – 5:00 P.M.

3801 Broadway, San Antonio, TX 78209 www.wittemuseum.org

FIESTA DE LOS REYES

REY FEO CONSEJO EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION

APRIL 25 – MAY 4, 2025, 10:00 A.M. – MIDNIGHT (SATURDAYS 1:00 A.M.)

MARKET SQUARE

514 West Commerce Street, San Antonio, TX 78207 www.fiestadelosreyes.com

ARMY DAY AT THE ALAMO

UNITED STATES ARMY

APRIL 29, 2025, 11:00 A.M. – NOON

THE ALAMO

300 Alamo Plaza, San Antonio, TX 78205

Admission: Free www.jbsa.mil

SAN ANTONIO COLLEGE MULTICULTURAL CONFERENCE

SAN ANTONIO COLLEGE

APRIL 29, 2025, NOON – 9:00 P.M.

1819 N. Main Ave., San Antonio, TX 78212

FIESTA CARNIVAL

FIESTA SAN ANTONIO COMMISSION

APRIL 24 – MAY 4, 2025, TIMES VARY

ALAMODOME LOT C

100 Montana Street, San Antonio, TX 78205

A NIGHT IN OLD SAN ANTONIO® (NIOSA®)

THE CONSERVATION SOCIETY OF SAN ANTONIO

APRIL 29 – MAY 2, 2025, 5:30 P.M. – 10:30 P.M.

LA VILLITA HISTORIC ARTS VILLAGE

227 S Presa Street, San Antonio, TX 78205

• Through the magic of 155+ food, drink and atmosphere booths and entertainment stages; continuous live music acts; decorations; souvenirs; and many dedicated volunteers, NIOSA brings the city’s heritage alive in its 14 cultural areas.

• San Antonians have consistently voted NIOSA as their favorite event; it was listed the #1 Fiesta event by The San Antonio Current, which called it an “essential experience.”

• NIOSA is the top fundraiser for historic preservation in the United States, living up to its motto as a “Celebration for Preservation.”

• It is solely produced by and benefits The Conservation Society of San Antonio (one of the nation’s oldest and most active historic preservation organizations).

Admission: $25 at the gate. Discount tickets for $20 available online, HEB, and other locations listed on website. Children 12 and under are free when accompanied by an adult. niosa@niosa.org www.niosa.org

ART IN THE GARDEN

SAN ANTONIO BOTANICAL GARDENS

APRIL 29, 2025, 6:00 P.M. – 10:00 P.M.

555 Funston Pl, San Antonio, TX 78209

Art in The Garden is San Antonio’s premiere Art Auction benefiting San Antonio East Young Life! Join us for a live and silent art auction featuring local and national artists, live music, food, and drinks. San Antonio East Young Life is a non-denominational ministry that works directly with Eastside adolescents from St. Philip’s College and Healy Murphy High School. They strive to build relationships, provide mentorships, and develop the leadership skills of the students. They provide meals; provide a safe environment to build meaningful community and teach life skills through training. Staff members and volunteers aim to lead with a servant’s heart and set an example for their teens. Our founder, Andrea, was first introduced to Young Life by a friend who knew she was about to take on motherhood alone. After volunteering for many years, she transitioned into a fundraising role as her way of giving back to an organization that gave so much to her.

The first Art in The Garden event was held at Weathered Souls Brewery in 2019.

Ticket Information: $150, Tickets are available for purchase at www.artinthegardensa.com

FIESTA CORNYATION 2025

APRIL 29 – MAY 1, 2025, 7:00 P.M. – 9:00 P.M. & 10:00 P.M. – MIDNIGHT EACH NIGHT

CHARLENE MCCOMBS EMPIRE THEATRE

226 N. St. Mary’s, San Antonio, TX 78205

Join us for a fun time at Cornyation 2025!

• Adult-oriented humor, no one under 18 admitted

• Nothing is sacred, we spoof anyone and anything

• Extremely topical

• Outrageous costumes

100 % Volunteer – almost all proceeds of event donated to the following: Robert Rehm Scholarship – provides annual scholarship for San Antonio high school graduates seeking further studies in art, performance, dance, music and theater (the scholarship follows the student for the next four years), San Antonio Aids Foundation, BEAT Aids and Thrive.

Ticket Information: Tickets range from $15 to $120

FORD MARIACHI FESTIVAL

VISIT SAN ANTONIO

APRIL

SAN ANTONIO RIVER WALK

849 E. Commerce, San Antonio, TX 78205

The River Walk has been producing the Ford Mariachi Festival since the late 1970’s.

• The festival was established by Belle Ortiz and Juan Ortiz who together created the well-known Mariachis Campanas de America.

April 29 - May 2, 2025 5:30pm - 10:30pm

• Each night, six boats carrying either costumed Mariachi groups or Folklorico dancers float for two hours on the River Walk.

• The groups are procured from local high school and college Mariachi groups who look forward to playing annually as a highlight of their school year.

• Local Folklorico groups and dancers of all ages delight the River Walk crowds.

• The event is free to the public and enjoyed by the crowds eating and drinking on River Walk bars, patios, and restaurants. Many guests view from their hotel balcony.

Admission: Free www.thesanantonioriverwalk.com

ANNUAL WITTE MUSEUM FIESTA EXHIBIT: FIESTA MAKES A SPLASH WITTE MUSEUM

APRIL 23 – NOVEMBER 2, 2025, 10:00 A.M. – 5:00 P.M. 3801 Broadway, San Antonio, TX 78209 www.wittemuseum.org

FIESTA DE LOS REYES

REY FEO CONSEJO EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION

APRIL 25 – MAY 4, 2025, 10:00 A.M. – MIDNIGHT (SATURDAYS 1:00 A.M.)

MARKET SQUARE 514 West Commerce Street, San Antonio, TX 78207 www.fiestadelosreyes.com

FIESTA SAN FERNANDO

SAN FERNANDO CATHEDRAL

APRIL 30, 2025, 10:00 A.M. – MIDNIGHT

MAIN PLAZA

115 Main St, San Antonio, TX 78205

Fiesta San Fernando, our Official Fiesta event is an event rooted deep in our city’s history where “fiestas” began over 260 years ago!

• Fiesta San Fernando is a celebration of family, food and fun, and it’s free!

• We feature live entertainment, family cooked food and beautiful arts and crafts.

• You have a great view of both parades they pass alongside our event! And you won’t have to go far to grab some great food and drink!

FIESTA HAT CONTEST AND LUNCHEON

THE WOMAN’S CLUB OF SAN ANTONIO

APRIL 30, 2025, 10:30 A.M. – 2:00 P.M.

Westin San Antonio North 9821 Colonnade Blvd, San Antonio, TX 78230

Bring your Fiesta theme hat & Join Us at the Fiesta Hat Contest and Luncheon!

• Official Fiesta Hat Contest and Luncheon held for 29 years.

• Competition in several individual and group categories.

• Contestants walk the runway and are judged by local celebrity judges.

• Rosette Ribbons are awarded to 1st-3rd place.

• Large silent Auction and Woman’s Club boutique shopping.

• Delicious Lunch – Cash bar.

• Fiesta Royalty in attendance as well as Military Ambassadors.

Ticket Information: $80 general admission; VIP may be available, please call The Woman’s Club at 210-732-4811 www.thewomansclubofsa.org

MARINE DAY AT THE ALAMO

UNITED STATES MARINES

APRIL 30, 2025, 11:00 A.M. – NOON

THE ALAMO

300 Alamo Plaza, San Antonio, TX 78205

Admission: Free

www.jbsa.mill

FIESTA GARTENFEST

BEETHOVEN MÄNNERCHOR, INC.

APRIL 30 – MAY 2, 2025, 4:00 P.M. – MIDNIGHT

BEETHOVEN HALLE UND GARTEN

422 Pereida St., San Antonio, TX 78210

Founded in San Antonio in 1867, the Beethoven Männerchor is the oldest active German singing society in Texas!

• Proceeds from Fiesta Gartenfest help the Beethoven preserve German music, language, customs and culture in South Texas.

• Entertainment includes the 50-piece Beethoven Concert Band and the Beethoven German Dance Band. The Beethoven Männerchor and Damenchor will lead sing-alongs of Biergarten favorites.

• Kings, queens and ambassadors: King Antonio will visit on Wed., April 30 and El Rey Feo on Fri., May 1.

• Beer, wine and soft drinks available, including 15 different German brews on tap

• What does it take to feed a hungry crowd? One ton of sausage, 5,000 buns and 800 pounds of sauerkraut… and that’s just to serve bratwurst! We’ve also got Reuben sandwiches, Leberkäse, German potato salad, Bavarian pretzels, potato pancakes and other German specialties.

Ticket Information: $8 in advance and $10 at the gate, Free admission for children under 12, active duty and retired military, “First Responders,” members of German-American organizations, Fiesta San Antonio Commission members and residents of the 78204 and 78210 zip codes.

FIESTA CARNIVAL

FIESTA SAN ANTONIO COMMISSION

APRIL 24 – MAY 4, 2025, TIMES VARY

ALAMODOME LOT C 100 Montana Street, San Antonio, TX 78205

A NIGHT IN OLD SAN ANTONIO® (NIOSA®)

THE CONSERVATION SOCIETY OF SAN ANTONIO

APRIL 29 – MAY 2, 2025, 5:30 P.M. – 10:30 P.M.

LA VILLITA HISTORIC ARTS VILLAGE 227 S Presa Street, San Antonio, TX 78205

FIESTA CORNYATION 2025

FIESTA CORNYATION

SAN ANTONIO COLLEGE MULTICULTURAL CONFERENCE

SAN ANTONIO COLLEGE

APRIL 30, 2025, NOON – 9:00 P.M.

1819 N. Main Ave., San Antonio, TX 78212

APRIL 29 – MAY 1, 2025, 7:00 P.M. – 9:00 P.M. & 10:00 P.M. – MIDNIGHT EACH NIGHT

CHARLENE MCCOMBS EMPIRE THEATRE 226 N. St. Mary’s, San Antonio, TX 78205

FIRST TEE INVITATIONAL GOLF TOURNAMENT

FIRST TEE – GREATER SAN ANTONIO

MAY 1, 2025, 8:00 A.M. – 2:30 P.M.

CANYON SPRINGS GOLF CLUB

24405 Wilderness Oak, San Antonio, TX 78260

2025 Golf Tournament—Canyon Springs Golf Club

• 8th Year as First Tee-Greater San Antonio’s Official Fiesta Event.

• Over the last 7 years, nearly $200K netted to First Tee.

• Carrabba’s has donated food for the last 5 years.

• Las Palapas has donated food for the last 4 years.

• All Tournament signs have been printed by Cruising Kitchens at no charge (for 7 years).

Ticket Information: Tickets are $800 (for a foursome) and will be available on the First Tee-Greater San Antonio Website in early 2025.

www.firstteesanantonio.org

SENIOR FIESTA®

CATHOLIC CHARITIES ARCHDIOCESE OF SAN ANTONIO, INC.

MAY 1, 2025, 9:00 A.M. – 1:00 P.M.

WONDERLAND OF THE AMERICAS 4522 Fredericksburg Rd, San Antonio, TX 78201

The only Fiesta-sanctioned event planned just for Seniors!

• Senior Fiesta supports Catholic Charities’ senior programs like Adopt-A-Senior, an outreach program visiting isolated seniors in their homes.

• Senior Fiesta promises live entertainment, senior lifestyle exhibitors, and vendors for our seniors to enjoy a day out, Fiesta style!

• Senior Fiesta is free to seniors over the age of 55.

• A Senior Fiesta court, a King and Queen and Prince and Princess from Catholic Charities” senior programs, will be coronated that day!

Admission: Free www.ccaosa.org

FIESTA DE LOS REYES

REY FEO CONSEJO EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION

APRIL 25 – MAY 4, 2025, 10:00 A.M. – MIDNIGHT (SATURDAYS 1:00 A.M.)

MARKET SQUARE

514 West Commerce Street, San Antonio, TX 78207

www.fiestadelosreyes.com

FIESTA SAN FERNANDO

SAN FERNANDO CATHEDRAL

APRIL 30, 2025, 10:00 A.M. – MIDNIGHT

MAIN PLAZA

115 Main St, San Antonio, TX 78205

Thursday, May 1, 2025 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

ADMISSION AND PARKING ARE FREE! Car Show • Food • Music • Entertainment

Proceeds from CultureFest help fund student scholarships. For more information, scan the QR Code below or visit: alamo.edu/spc/culturefest

ST. PHILIP’S COLLEGE CULTUREFEST AND RIB COOK-OFF

ST. PHILIP’S COLLEGE

MAY 1, 2025, 10:00 A.M. – 4:00 P.M.

ST. PHILIPS COLLEGE

1801 Martin Luther King Drive, San Antonio, TX 78202

This is the 30th Anniversary of CultureFest!

• All proceeds support student scholarships!

• Free admission, parking and rides.

• We will celebrate 127 years of service to the community on March 1.

• Accept the challenge to join our Rib Cook-Off Competition!

• Accept the challenge to join our Dessert Competition!  Admission: Free www.alamo.edu/spc/culturefest

ANNUAL WITTE MUSEUM FIESTA EXHIBIT: FIESTA MAKES A SPLASH

WITTE MUSEUM

APRIL 23 – NOVEMBER 2, 2025, 10:00 A.M. – 5:00 P.M.

3801 Broadway, San Antonio, TX 78205 www.wittemuseum.org

NAVY DAY AT THE ALAMO

MAY 1, 2025, 11:00

THE ALAMO

300 Alamo Plaza, San Antonio, TX 78205

Navy Day at the Alamo brings together Sailors, family members and the San Antonio civilian community with the goal to raise public awareness of the Navy’s mission in San Antonio and around the world.

Admission: Free www.jbsa.mil

2024 FIESTA CLAY TARGET SHOOT

MILITARY ORDER OF THE PURPLE HEART, CHAPTER 1836

MAY 1, 2025, 11:00 A.M. – 5:00

SAN ANTONIO GUN CLUB

928 E. Contour Drive, San Antonio, TX 78212

Support Military Order of the Purple Heart at the Fiesta Clay Target Shoot!

• Great Comradeship

• Competitions

• Fine Meal

• Live Auction

• Great Trophies

Ticket Information: Shooting Competition $500 / Team, 4 Person Team, 50 Targets, Ammunition included.

Registration starts at 10:00 a.m., Shooting begins at 11:00 a.m., ***Shooters must provide own gun, and eye/ear protection***

PACFEST

PALO ALTO COLLEGE

MAY 1, 2025, NOON – 11:00 P.M.

PALO ALTO COLLEGE

1400 W. Villaret Blvd, San Antonio, TX 78224

Join Us at the Largest Fiesta event on the Southside of San Antonio!

• Largest Scholarship Fundraising event for Palo Alto College

• Over 20 Student Organizations on site

• PACfest has been an Official Fiesta® event since 2003

• The largest Fiesta event on the Southside of San Antonio

• Best Fiesta party for the price of $10 admission

• Free Parking

• Visits from Fiesta Royalty

Ticket Information: Admission is $10 and can be purchased at the door, the day of the event!

FREDSTOCK 2023

THE MUSIC BUSINESS PROGRAM AT SAN ANTONIO COLLEGE

MAY 1, 2025, 2:30 P.M. – 10:00 P.M.

SAN ANTONIO COLLEGE, JEAN LONGWITH RADIO, TELEVISION AND FILM BUILDING

121 Courtland Place, San Antonio, TX 78212

• Student organized and run

• Family Friendly

• Great local and national bands

• Fun Music Event

• Official Fiesta San Antonio Event

Admission: Free www.fredstockatsac.com

10TH STREET RIVER FESTIVAL

VFW POST 76

MAY 1 – 3, 2025, 3:00 P.M. – MIDNIGHT

10th Street, San Antonio, TX 78215

VFW Post 76 is the oldest VFW Post in Texas, chartered in June 1917.

• VFW Post 76 hosts the three-day Fiesta event known as the “10th Street River Festival” during the second week of Fiesta on Thursday thru Saturday.

• The family friendly event is free and open to the public; with live entertainment, dancing, and camaraderie (food and beverage for purchase).

• The proceeds from our Fiesta event funds our veteran programs, youth scholarships, recognition awards for our local law enforcement and first responders and community events.

• VFW Post 76 mission is to serve our fellow Veterans, the military and our community.

• VFW Post 76 provides a safe environment for combat veterans to foster meaningful relationships in a patriotic and friendly setting.

• VFW Post 76 is a local nonprofit organization that has supported our local community military, veterans, and their families through various means since 1917.

• VFW Post 76 is unique in that we own the historical Petty House along the Museum Reach of the Riverwalk at the end of 10th Street and our building and Canteen are open to the public.  We also provide live music performed by a DJ or band offered free of charge on the weekends.

Admission: Free www.vfwpost76.org

FIESTA GARTENFEST

BEETHOVEN MÄNNERCHOR, INC.

APRIL 30 – MAY 2, 2025, 4:00 P.M. - MIDNIGHT

BEETHOVEN HALLE UND GARTEN

422 Pereida St., San Antonio, TX 78210

FIESTA CARNIVAL

FIESTA SAN ANTONIO COMMISSION

APRIL 24 – MAY 4, 2025, TIMES VARY

ALAMODOME LOT C

100 Montana Street, San Antonio, TX 78205

A NIGHT IN OLD SAN ANTONIO® (NIOSA®)

THE CONSERVATION SOCIETY OF SAN ANTONIO

APRIL 29 – MAY 2, 2025, 5:30 P.M. – 10:30 P.M.

LA VILLITA HISTORIC ARTS VILLAGE

227 S Presa Street, San Antonio, TX 78205

FORD MARIACHI FESTIVAL

VISIT SAN ANTONIO

APRIL 30 – MAY 1, 2025, 6:00 P.M. – 9:30 P.M.

SAN ANTONIO RIVER WALK

849 E. Commerce, San Antonio, TX 78205

BATTLE OF FLOWERS® BAND FESTIVAL

BATTLE OF FLOWERS ASSOCIATION

MAY 1, 2025, 6:00 P.M. – 9:00

PRELUDE

ALAMO STADIUM

110 Tuleta, San Antonio, TX 78212

• The Band Festival began in 1936 and is now in its 89th year!

• It is the first and oldest high school marching band festival in the nation.

• Between 3,000 – over 4,000 band students participate each year.

• The Band Festival supports high school performing and musical arts by providing opportunities for band students to learn and perform together in celebration of Texas history.

• Celebration of Music grants are awarded for outstanding participation. Participants have the opportunity to learn from guest conductors from Texas collegiate music programs. Originally called Battle of the Bands, the friendly competition among bands continues today.

• It’s a tradition for generations of families to participate as participants and spectators!

Ticket Information: Tickets are $8.00 – $21.25 www.battleofflowers.org

BRIGHTON CENTER’S TASTE OF THE NORTHSIDE

BRIGHTON CENTER

MAY 1, 2025, 6:00 P.M. – 10:30 P.M.

THE ROCK AT LA CANTERA

1 Spurs Way, San Antonio, TX 78256

The Oldest Taste event in San Antonio!

• Benefits more than 4,000 children with disabilities annually.

• Brighton is the largest nonprofit serving children with disabilities in San Antonio.

• While Taste of the Northside has been a signature Fiesta event for 25 years, Brighton Center has been helping children and families for more than 50 years.

• Brighton Preschool has been providing Inclusive Preschool since 1969.

Ticket Information: Tickets are $300 www.tasteofthenorthside.org

FIESTA CORNYATION

2025 FIESTA CORNYATION

APRIL 29 – MAY 1, 2025, 7:00 – 9:00

226 N. St. Mary’s, San Antonio, TX 78205

BATTLE OF FLOWERS® PARADE

BATTLE OF FLOWERS ASSOCIATION

MAY 2, 2025, VANGUARD AT 9:55 A.M. / PARADE AT 10:30 A.M.

STARTS AT SAN ANTONIO COLLEGE / ENDS ON COMMERCE STREET

The theme for the 2025 Battle of Flowers Parade is “Melodies in Bloom: A Texas Serenade.”

• The Battle of Flowers Parade in the founding event of Fiesta

• The Battle of Flower Association is ALL women and ALL volunteers.

• This year we are producing our 134th parade.

• In 1891, a flower parade was staged in memory of the fallen heroes of the Alamo and Goliad and to commemorate the victory at the Battle of San Jacinto, where Texas gained its independence from Mexico.

• It is the largest parade put on entirely by women and one of the largest parades in the United States.

• Approximate 12,000 participants in parade this year.

• Approximately 70% of our participants are high school students which equates to about 7,000 in our parade this year.

• Roughly 4,500 band members.

• Just over 200 horses different cavalcade units are in the parade.

Ticket Information: Ticket prices vary from $20-$40 www.battleofflowers.org

FIESTA DE LOS REYES

REY FEO CONSEJO EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION

APRIL 25 – MAY 4, 2025, 10:00 A.M. – MIDNIGHT (SATURDAYS 1:00 A.M.)

MARKET SQUARE

514 West Commerce Street, San Antonio, TX 78207 www.fiestadelosreyes.com

FIESTA SAN FERNANDO

SAN FERNANDO CATHEDRAL

MAY 2, 2025, 10:00 A.M. – MIDNIGHT

MAIN PLAZA

115 Main St, San Antonio, TX 78205

ANNUAL

WITTE MUSEUM FIESTA EXHIBIT: FIESTA MAKES A SPLASH

WITTE MUSEUM

APRIL 23 – NOVEMBER 2, 2025, 10:00 A.M. – 5:00 P.M. 3801 Broadway, San Antonio, TX 78205 www.wittemuseum.org

FIESTA ARTISAN SHOW

VISIT SAN ANTONIO

MAY 2 – 4, 2025, 11:00 A.M. – 11:00 P.M.

SAN ANTONIO RIVER WALK 849 E. Commerce, San Antonio, TX 78205

• The San Antonio River Walk is the number one attraction in Texas.

• Many Artisans display their art, jewelry or goods at the show.

Admission: Free www.thesanantonioriverwalk.com

FIESTA CARNIVAL

FIESTA SAN ANTONIO COMMISSION

APRIL 24 – MAY 4, 2025, TIMES VARY

ALAMODOME LOT C 100 Montana Street, San Antonio, TX 78205

10TH STREET RIVER FESTIVAL

VFW POST 76

MAY 1 – 3, 2025, 3:00 P.M. – MIDNIGHT 10th Street, San Antonio, TX 78215

FIESTA JAZZ BAND FESTIVAL

ST. MARY’S UNIVERSITY DEPARTMENT OF MUSIC

MAY 2, 2025, 1:00 P.M. – 10:00 P.M.: MAY 3, 2025, 8:00 A.M. – 6:00 P.M.

ONE CAMINO SANTA MARIA San Antonio, TX 78228

The Fiesta Jazz Festival is one of Texas’ oldest events presenting the finest in Jazz, offering a unique educational and musical performance experience for over 500 middle school, high school and college jazz student performers from across the state. At the same time, it gives the Fiesta audience and the San Antonio community an admission free event.

Admission: Free www.stmarytx.edu

FIESTA GARTENFEST

BEETHOVEN MÄNNERCHOR, INC.

APRIL 30 – MAY 2, 2025, 4:00 P.M. – MIDNIGHT

BEETHOVEN HALLE UND GARTEN

422 Pereida St., San Antonio, TX 78210

A NIGHT IN OLD SAN ANTONIO® (NIOSA®)

THE CONSERVATION SOCIETY OF SAN ANTONIO

APRIL 29 – MAY 2, 2025, 5:30 P.M. – 10:30 P.M.

LA VILLITA HISTORIC ARTS VILLAGE

227 S Presa Street, San Antonio, TX 78205

FIESTA SQUARE DANCE AND ROUND DANCE

ALAMO AREA SQUARE AND ROUND DANCE ASSOCIATION

MAY 2, 2025, 7:00 P.M. – 10:00 P.M.

TRIPOINT CENTER

3233 N. St. Mary’s, San Antonio, TX 78212

Join Us at the Alamo Area Square and Round Association Fiesta Dance!

• Every Dancer is a New Friend

• Have a fun time dancing!

• Feel energy from dancing

• Excellent exercise

• Is good for the Heart

Admission: Free www.alamoarea.org

ANNUAL WITTE MUSEUM FIESTA EXHIBIT: FIESTA MAKES A SPLASH

WITTE MUSEUM

APRIL 23 – NOVEMBER 2, 2025, 10:00 A.M. – 5:00 P.M. 3801 Broadway, San Antonio, TX 78205

www.wittemuseum.org

RUN TO REMEMBER WITH BEARD VS BEANS

ALZHEIMER’S ASSOCIATION: SAN ANTONIO AND SOUTH TEXAS CHAPTER

MAY 3, 2025, 7:30 A.M. – NOON

COMANCHE PARK

2600 Rigsby Ave, San Antonio, TX 78222

All proceeds from this event benefit the Alzheimer’s Association of San Antonio and South Texas.

• This is a great way to end Fiesta and run off all the beer and chicken on a stick.

• We have a kids’ .5k run

• All participants will receive a shirt and finisher medal.

• We have a .5k BEER run!!

• A healthy body helps keep a healthy mind!

• Walkers and Runners are welcome.

• Come for the community and stay for the food and beverages.

Ticket Information: Tickets vary from $15-$45, Registration is open now www.alz.org/sanantonio

FIESTA JAZZ BAND FESTIVAL

ST. MARY’S UNIVERSITY DEPARTMENT OF MUSIC

MAY 2, 2025,1:00 P.M. – 10:00 P.M.: MAY 3, 2025, 8:00 A.M. – 6:00 P.M.

ONE CAMINO SANTA MARIA San Antonio, TX 78228

FIESTA POOCH PARADE

THERAPY ANIMALS OF SAN ANTONIO

MAY 3, 2025, ENTRY AT 7:30 A.M., PARADE STARTS AT 9:15 A.M. – NOON

ALAMO HEIGHTS SWIMMING POOL

250 Viesca Street, San Antonio, TX 78209

Parade of Playful Pooches featuring King Anbarkio, King Anbarkio In Waiting and Spectacular Sponsors!

• Costume Contest with Cool Categories

• Dazzling Demonstrations and Trainer Talks

• Fantastic Food Trucks

• Bountiful Booths

Ticket Information: Advance tickets: Individual $30.00, Family up to 6, $35.00, one t-shirt (guaranteed size). After May 3: Individual $35.00, Family up to 6 $40.00, one t-shirt (no size guaranteed). Online ticket sales will be available on the Eventbrite App. Tickets can be bought in person at the event on May 3, 2025 using the Eventbrite App. www.therapyanimalssa.org

KING WILLIAM FAIR

KING WILLIAM ASSOCIATION

MAY 3, 2025, 8:00 A.M. – 6:00 P.M.

122 Madison Street, San Antonio, TX 78204

Join us in the Historic King William District in San Antonio for the Annual King William Fair! Welcoming more than 30,000 fairgoers, the King William Fair has something for everybody! The mission of the King William Fair is to support the arts, education, and community improvements with family fun in Texas’ first residential historic neighborhood.

• The day starts with the best little parade in Texas! A mile and a half meander through the neighborhood, which will include political parodies, parading pooches, marching bands and belly dancing.

• About 200 Art & Craft vendors sell original hand-crafted items, which include stained glass, wind chimes, paintings, photography, ceramics, apparel, home-made foods, home accessories and more!

• The streets will be filled with the aroma of sizzling fajitas as families amble the streets enjoying funnel cakes, sausage on a stick, snow cones, kettle corn and more!

• Food and Beverage booths will be conveniently located throughout the entire neighborhood.

• Spend the afternoon enjoying soulful sounds and happy harmonies while listening to lyrical melodies of local and imported bands at five distinct venues.

• Kids can play at Kid’s Kingdom, which offers a mix of children’s activities from crafts to basketball games and rides; as well as a rock-wall climbing in a tree-shaded park setting.

Ticket Information: Admission is $20 and can be purchased online.

www.kwfair.org

CHROMOSOME 18 STARFISH DASH 5K RUN / WALK & HEALTH FAIR

THE CHROMOSOME 18 REGISTRY & RESEARCH SOCIETY

MAY 3, 2025, 8:30 A.M. – 10:30 A.M.

UT HEALTH

7413 Merton Minter, San Antonio, TX 78229

• Based in San Antonio for over 33 years, the Chromosome 18 Registry and Research Society is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting special-needs children, adults and their families affected by rare chromosome 18 conditions.

• The only research center in the world for chromosome 18 conditions is right here in San Antonio at UT Health.

• The Chromosome 18 Registry & Research Society serves 4000 members in the U.S. and another 2000 international.

• Chromosome 18 conditions can mean a variety of complex medical issues for affected children and individuals including cognitive and physical disabilities, autism, and vision and hearing impairment.

• The Chromosome 18 Registry & Research Society was started by a mother of a chromosome 18 child, Dr. Jannine Cody.

• Starfish Dash 5K Run/Walk & Health Fair is a free, familyfriendly Fiesta event at the UT Health campus.

• All ages and abilities welcome with a children’s fun run race before the 5K Run/Walk begins.

• There will be free health and wellness services like blood pressure testing, health screening and vaccines.

• Enjoy free coffee and donuts, a military band, cosplayers, local vendors and much more!

• Come out and help raise awareness about chromosome 18 conditions and fundraise to support vital Chromosome 18 Research.

Admission: Free www.chromosome18.org

FESTIVAL DE ANIMALES

SAN ANTONIO ZOO

MAY 3 – 4, 2025, 9:00 A.M. – 7:00 P.M. 3903 N. St. Mary’s Street, San Antonio, TX 78212

Join San Antonio Zoo’s Official Fiesta e, celebrating animals, culture and conservation.

Ticket Information: $31.99 for adults / $27.99 children 3-11 This event is FREE for Members and included with Zoo admission.

Plus, parking is FREE at the Zoo parking garage. www.sazoo.org

FIESTA SAN FERNANDO

SAN FERNANDO CATHEDRAL

MAY 3, 2025, 10:00 A.M. – MIDNIGHT

MAIN PLAZA

115 Main St, San Antonio, TX 78205

FIESTA EAST

CHERICE COCHRANE MENTORING FOR SUCCESS FOUNDATION

MAY 3, 2025, 10:00 A.M. – 7:00 P.M.

DIGNOWITY HILLS, LOCKWOOD PARK 801 North Olive Street, San Antonio, TX 78202

• Fiesta East, Originated & Sponsored by the Historic Neighborhoods Development Corporation (a Non-Profit Corporation) performs Charitable, Educational, Social & Cultural Activities within and for the Eastside Community.

• We have a family-oriented event.

• Live music will be ongoing until the event ends!

• Great food & assorted beverages!

• Official Fiesta® Royalty appearances!

• Prize Giveaways throughout the day!

Admission: Free

FIESTA DE LOS REYES

REY FEO CONSEJO EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION

APRIL 25 – MAY 4, 2025, 10:00 A.M. – MIDNIGHT (SATURDAYS 1:00 A.M.)

MARKET SQUARE 514 West Commerce Street, San Antonio, TX 78207 www.fiestadelosreyes.com

FIESTA ARTISAN SHOW

VISIT SAN ANTONIO

MAY 2 – 4, 2025, 11:00 A.M. – 11:00 P.M. San Antonio River Walk 849 E. Commerce, San Antonio, TX 78205 www.thesanantonioriverwalk.com

FIESTA CARNIVAL

FIESTA SAN ANTONIO COMMISSION

APRIL 24 – MAY 4, 2025, TIMES VARY ALAMODOME LOT C 100 Montana Street, San Antonio, TX 78205

10TH STREET RIVER FESTIVAL

VFW POST 76

MAY 1 – 3, 2025, 3:00 P.M. – MIDNIGHT 10th Street, San Antonio, TX 78215

FIESTA DE LOS SPURS RUN

SPURS GIVE

MAY 3, 2025, 6:30 P.M. – 8:30 P.M.

Fiesta de Los Spurs Fun Run is the only run that runs the Fiesta Flambeau Night Parade route!

• Run through the route as thousands of patrons cheer you on.

• Spurs Give is the official 501(c)(3) organization of the San Antonio Spurs.

• Through Spurs Give, we have been able to invest over 28 million since its start in 1988.

• We are committed to investing in our community through financial support, volunteer opportunities, in-kind experiences and resources that advance the impact priorities of access, healing and belonging.

Tickets are available online! www.spursgive.org

FIESTA FLAMBEAU® PARADE

FIESTA FLAMBEAU PARADE ASSOCIATION, INC.

MAY 3, 2025, 7:15 P.M. – 11:00 P.M VANGARD AT 7:15 P.M., PARADE AT 7:45 P.M.

STREETS OF SAN ANTONIO

Join us May 3, 2025, for America’s Largest Illuminated Night Parade in the U.S. the Fiesta Flambeau® Parade in beautiful downtown San Antonio!

The idea of a lighted parade, was the brainchild of civil engineer Reynolds Andricks. ‘Flambeau’ is a French word meaning a tall candlestick or burning torch. Each year, the Fiesta Flambeau Parade has a specific theme that guides the designs of floats and performances. This year’s theme celebrates Texas’ rich and diverse array of offerings such as art events, cultural arts, landmarks or culinary arts, “Deep in the Arts of Texas.” Our premier band, The University of Texas Longhorn Band, has led the Fiesta Flambeau Parade for 77 years The parade makes its way through the charming and historic downtown area, drawing in over 800,000 excited spectators along its 3.1-mile route. Furthermore, the event is broadcast and livestreamed, captivating an audience of more than 1.5 million viewers around the globe on KSAT. com. The Fiesta Flambeau Parade has been named “Best Parade in the World” by the International Festivals and Events Association, and “Best in Texas” by the Texas Festivals and Events Association.

The Fiesta Flambeau Parade Association, Inc.’s mission statement is to plan, organize, produce, and stage the Fiesta Flambeau Parade annually during Fiesta San Antonio. The Association shall do so to enhance the celebration for the San Antonio community and its visitors. It is a non-profit organization with 75 members and more than 300 volunteers. Flambeau supports a variety of events around Texas like Laredo’s Washington Birthday Celebration, and McAllen’s Holiday Parade Mascot “Torchy” is our official mascot. Torchy is a year-round parade symbol spreading goodwill and

cheer as well as representing the Association’s charitable foundation, encouraging reading, literacy and education by visiting elementary schools. This year, Torchy has a new coloring book in English and Spanish.

The Fiesta Flambeau Parade is the premier event of the 11 days of Fiesta San Antonio.

Ticket Information: Ticket prices are $30-40.00. Bleacher seat tickets will be sold online.

www.flambeau.org

FESTIVAL DE ANIMALES

SAN ANTONIO ZOO

MAY 3 – 4, 2025, 9:00 A.M. – 7:00 P.M.

3903 N. St. Mary’s Street, San Antonio, TX 78212

ANNUAL WITTE MUSEUM FIESTA EXHIBIT: FIESTA MAKES A SPLASH

WITTE MUSEUM

APRIL 23 – NOVEMBER 2, 2025, 10:00 A.M. – 5:00 P.M.

3801 Broadway, San Antonio, TX 78205 www.wittemuseum.org

MISSIONFEST 2025

MISSION SAN JOSE CATHOLIC CHURCH

MAY 4, 2025, 9:00 A.M. – MIDNIGHT

701 Pyron, San Antonio, TX 78214

MissionFest 2025 is in the shadow of a Historical Landmark, Mission San Jose!

• Festive music, flavorful food, located on the Southside of San Antonio.

• MissionFest is one of the last Fiesta Events.

Ticket Information: Admission is $10 and can be purchased at Mission San Jose.  www.missionsanjosechurch.org

FIESTA DE LOS REYES

REY FEO CONSEJO EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION

APRIL 25 – MAY 4, 2025, 10:00 A.M. – MIDNIGHT (SATURDAYS 1:00 A.M.)

MARKET SQUARE

514 West Commerce Street, San Antonio, TX 78207 www.fiestadelosreyes.com

A DAY IN OLD MEXICO AND CHARREADA

ASOCIACIÓN DE CHARROS DE SAN ANTONIO

MAY 4, 2025, 11:00 A.M. – 7:00 P.M. 6126 Padre Drive, San Antonio, TX 78214

Join us at Day in Old Mexico!

• Day in Old Mexico event helps raises money to support the San Antonio Charro Association, a local non-profit organization.

• There will be over 30 vendors that will include food, drinks and shopping.

• Rey Feo and his Royal Court will be attending on April 27.

• King Antonio and his Royal Castle will be attending on May 4.

• Military and Community Leaders will be attending this great event.

• Watch and listen to mariachis, ballet folklorico dancers, dancing horses or much more.

Ticket Information: $20 Adults, Children 12 and under are free Tickets are only available at the door, day of the event.

FIESTA ARTISAN SHOW

VISIT SAN ANTONIO

MAY 2 – 4, 2025, 11:00 A.M. – 11:00 P.M.

SAN ANTONIO RIVER WALK

849 E. Commerce, San Antonio, TX 78205 www.thesanantonioriverwalk.com

FIESTA CARNIVAL

FIESTA SAN ANTONIO COMMISSION

APRIL 24 – MAY 4, 2025, TIMES VARY

ALAMODOME LOT C 100 Montana Street, San Antonio, TX 78205

ALL VETERANS MEMORIAL SERVICE

ALAMO CHAPTER #366 VIETNAM VETERANS OF AMERICA

MAY 4, 2025, 1:00 P.M. – 2:00 P.M.

VIETNAM WAR MEMORIAL 451 Jefferson, San Antonio TX 78205

• 32nd Anniversary Memorial in 2025

• Hosted by Vietnam Veterans Patriotic

• Music Event Solemn salute to Veterans of all Wars

• 1 hour event rain or shine

Admission: Free

www.vva366.org

FESTIVAL DE CASCARONES

TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY-SAN ANTONIO

MAY 4, 2025

ONE UNIVERSITY WAY San Antonio, TX 78224

Admission: Free

www.tamusa.edu/festival-de-cascarones

PRAISE DANCE CELEBRATION

ALPHA TAU OMEGA CHAPTER OF ALPHA KAPPA ALPHA SORORITY INC.

MAY 4, 2025, 4:00 P.M.– 6:00 P.M.

CARVER COMMUNITY CULTURAL CENTER

226 Hackberry, San Antonio, TX 78202

Praise Dance Celebration is a Diverse Community Event!

• Praise Dance performers range in age from 5-90 years.

• Praise Dance event is free and open to the public.

• Our PMO organization ATO is celebrating 93 years in San Antonio.

• Praise Dance Celebration began in 2002 and became an official Fiesta event in 2005.

• Praise Dance Celebration presents authentic expressive movements in dance, mime and music.

Admission: Free www.Atoaka.com

REINA DE LA FERIA DE LAS FLORES RECEPTION

REY FEO SCHOLARSHIP FOUNDATION

MAY 4, 2025, 4:00 P.M. – 7:00 P.M.

THIRD COAST BANK ROOFTOP 420 Broadway, San Antonio 78205

Celebrate La Reina de la Feria de las Flores!

• All Fiesta Royalty in attendance including Rey Feo and King Antonio.

• This is the last official day of Fiesta.

• Supports scholarship awareness.

Admission: Free www.reyfeoscholarship.com

arts + CULTURE Fun

L IVING LA VIDA local

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www.baptisthealthsystem.com

www.battleofflowers.org

www.briscoemuseum.org

www.cpsenergy.com

www.cre8ad8.com

www.dosequis.com

www.fiestastore.com

www.fiestasanantonio.org

www.gamezlawfights.com

www.maddogsgroup.com

www.tasteoftherepublic.com