It began in 1891 to honor the fallen Texans at the battles of the Alamo and San Jacinto. Today, that homage continues, in addition to celebrating San Antonio’s Mexican heritage, But the 18 days of Fiesta San Antonio April 16–26 encompasses so much more. Several parades roll throughout the city, in addition to a Mexican rodeo, art exhibits, galas ball and the annual Battle of the Flowers—108 events in total! This long-running colorful festival known as a “Party With a Purpose” since it supports San Antonio’s nearly 100 local nonprofit organizations, celebrates 135 years this April. For a full schedule, visit fiestasanantonio.org.
Stay
New to the reimagined Hemisfair District is The Monarch San Antonio, a 17-story, 200-room hotel just steps from the River Walk and Alamo. In addition to its contemporary architecture, rooftop views and spa, the hotel complex which opened in March includes La Mariposa, a $2 million public art installation found at the base of the hotel.
Wear
Like Louisiana’s Carnival, residents and tourists alike dress up for Fiesta. Look for bright, colorful spring outfits, Mexican-inspired garments, sequined clothes and flowers as headdresses and adorning hats.
One of the trademark elements of Fiesta are the medals and you’ll spot them on participants everywhere. Many are works of art, some limited edition and all unique to that year’s festivities. The Fiesta organization doesn’t sell the medals; purchase the official Fiesta medals from Monarch Trophies. Other medals are generated by individuals, organizations and Fiesta events and may be purchased from them. It’s not unusual to spot ones you love on other Fiesta-goers so have plenty on hand to trade.
Dine
It sounds like it belongs in Louisiana—except for the spelling—and guests will discover some Creole-Cajun crossovers on the menu, but Boudros stands out as a pure Texas bistro, combining regional flavors such as mesquite-grilled dishes with fresh Gulf seafood. And it’s right on the River Walk which adds to its charm. For true Tex Mex cuisine accompanied by strolling mariachis and exquisite local artwork, don’t miss La Margarita at historic Market Square. The restaurant famous with locals is located inside the largest Mexican Market outside of Mexico, so lots to discover after enjoying a meal.
Fiesta culinary events include the Fiesta Oyster Bake, the Taste of the Republic highlighting six regions of Texas, NIOSA (A Night in Old San Antonio), the Ford Mariachi Festival and more.
Enjoy Parades
The 135th Battle of Flowers Parade on April 24 dates to the festival’s inception when a group of women created a parade in front of The Alamo to honor the men who fought for Texas independence. Today, the parade serves as a cornerstone of Fiesta with auxiliary events. Other parades include the Texas Cavaliers River Parade on April 20 that flows down the San Antonio River cheered on by visitors watching from the River Walk, the illuminated nighttime Fiesta Flambeau Parade on April 25 and the Fiesta Military Parade.
Flowers and Crown!
Fiesta happens in the apex of spring so flowers, both paper and authentic, will be seen everywhere. In addition to wearing your flower crown, or “corona,” check out Fiesta royalty at numerous events (and you thought Louisiana did queens in a big way!). The Women’s Club of San Antonio hosts the national juried Fiesta Flower Show at The Woodward Mansion and the 38-acre San Antonio Botanical Gardens presents Viva Botanical with play stations for children.
Don’t miss the four-legged fun
The San Antonio Humane Society crowns canine royalty at April 18’s El Rey Fido Coronation, the Fiesta Pooch Parade featuring the Therapy Animals of San Antonio happens Saturday morning, April 25, and the Festival de Animales runs all day Sunday, April 26, at the San Antonio Zoo.
