Your Guide to Fiesta San Antonio
Discover Fiesta San Antonio! Enjoy parades, live music, Fiesta medals, and vibrant traditions at one of Texas's top cultural celebrations. Plan your visit today!
WHAT IS FIESTA SAN ANTONIO?
Fiesta San Antonio is a city-wide celebration that started in 1891. A group of locals wanted to honor the heroes of the Alamo and the Battle of San Jacinto with their own Battle of Flowers. So, they put on a parade complete with horse-drawn carriages, bicycles covered in fresh blooms, floats carrying children dressed up like flowers, and everyone threw flowers at each other.
The Battle of Flowers Parade was a hit, and it still continues today. It’s also one of the only parades in the U.S. that’s planned and directed entirely by women, and it’s the second-largest parade nationally. As the years went on, more events were added like a carnival, balls, dances, and more. Today, there is Fiesta royalty and numerous groups and organizations involved in the 11-day long festival that celebrates the rich and diverse culture of the city.
WHEN IS FIESTA SAN ANTONIO?
Fiesta San Antonio fills the city with fun for 11 days. As one of the nation's premier festivals, Fiesta brings together more than 2.5 million people a year each April. The Battle of San Jacinto was fought on April 21, 1836, so Fiesta takes place every April. This year, Fiesta will run from April 24th through May 4th.
SHOW US YOUR SHOES
The Battle of Flowers and Flambeau Parade royalty ride on floats in long dresses. During the parades, you’ll hear viewers yell, “Show us your shoes!” The royalty will lift their dresses and display their elaborate shoes. This tradition has inspired many Fiesta attendees to wear fancy footwear like boots with whimsical designs.
FIESTA MEDALS
The history of Fiesta medals is as colorful as the medals themselves. People collect them every year to show their San Antonio pride. There are a lot of fun ways to wear them around your neck, pinned to your hat, and however else you can think. You can get medals at various events throughout the 11-day celebration! Wear your most colorful clothing, comfy shoes, and a sash to pin your medals on.
FIESTA SAN ANTONIO EVENTS
The number of Fiesta events varies each year, but typically there are 105-120 events! Check out some of the best ones:
FIESTA® FIESTA
April 24
Fiesta® Fiesta, the official kickoff to Fiesta San Antonio, takes place on Thursday, April 24, 2025, and promises an unforgettable celebration of the city’s vibrant culture and traditions. This free event features live entertainment, exciting carnival rides, games, and an array of delicious food, setting the stage for the festivities to come. Attendees are encouraged to embrace the spirit of Fiesta by donning colorful outfits, showcasing their medals, and bringing plenty of enthusiasm to this joyful occasion. For the latest updates, visit the Fiesta San Antonio website.
April 24
Taste of the Republic, held on April 24, 2025, from 5 to 9PM at the Briscoe Western Art Museum, is a must-attend Fiesta San Antonio event celebrating Texas's diverse culinary heritage. This exclusive 21+ experience features dishes crafted by 13 top chefs, each representing one of six distinct Texas culinary regions curated by Chef Brian West. Guests can enjoy expertly paired wines, spirits, and beer, along with live music and a vibrant Fiesta atmosphere. Proceeds support the San Antonio Fiesta Commission and the West Point Culinary Institute.
April 25
Día en la Sombrilla, formerly Fiesta UTSA, is a cherished annual tradition at the University of Texas at San Antonio, celebrating its 46th year in 2025. Hosted at Sombrilla Plaza and Central Plaza, this free event brings together student organizations to raise funds through food, drinks, games, and services, supporting their activities throughout the year. It also offers students a chance to develop essential skills like project management, communication, and teamwork. Guests can enjoy a lively atmosphere while making purchases using cash, Cash App, or Venmo.
April 25 - May 4
Fiesta de los Reyes, hosted at San Antonio's historic Market Square, is a lively celebration filled with daily live music on multiple stages, showcasing genres like Tejano, Conjunto, Latin jazz, and country. Guests can enjoy delicious food from over 30 booths, featuring favorites like Mexican cuisine, chicken on-a-stick, and funnel cakes. Highlights include Military Monday on April 28, 2025, honoring service members with discounts and special performances, and "Take Me Back Tuesday" on April 29, 2025, featuring nostalgic 80s and 90s hits. With free admission and festivities from 10AM to midnight (1AM on Saturdays), the event supports the Rey Feo Consejo Educational Foundation's scholarship efforts.
FIESTA FESTIVAL
April 26
Fiesta Festival, held on April 26, 2025, from 10AM to 4PM at the San Antonio State Supported Living Center, is a family-friendly, alcohol-free event celebrating Fiesta with a focus on inclusivity for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The day features a lively parade at noon, along with food booths, vendor stalls, games, and live entertainment. With free admission and parking, the festival offers a welcoming environment for all ages to enjoy.
April 25 - 27
The San Antonio Zulu Association (SAZA) hosts the annual "A Taste of New Orleans," a vibrant celebration of culture, food, and music, happening April 25–27, 2025, at the Sunken Garden Theater in Brackenridge Park. This family-friendly event brings the flavors and sounds of New Orleans to San Antonio with authentic cuisine, live music, and entertainment for all ages. Proceeds support SAZA’s scholarships and community outreach programs, highlighting their dedication to education and giving back to the community.
April 26
The Fiesta Masquerade Party, hosted by the Psi Alpha Scholarship Foundation, Inc., will take place on April 26, 2025, at The Westin San Antonio North. This multicultural celebration invites guests to wear festive masks, with prizes awarded for the best dressed. Attendees can enjoy delicious food, drinks, lively music, and a chance to meet Fiesta royalty. Tickets are $60 and available online, with proceeds supporting scholarships.
April 26 & 27
The Fiesta Arts Fair, marking its 50th year, takes place at the UTSA Southwest Campus. This family-friendly event showcases over 100 artists from across the country, offering a variety of contemporary and traditional art, including ceramics, glass, paintings, photography, and jewelry. Guests can enjoy live music on two stages, a diverse selection of food like gorditas and roasted corn, and the Young Artists Garden, where children can create their own art through hands-on activities. Admission is $20 for adults, with discounts for students and children, and advance tickets are available for $18 through April 14. Proceeds support UTSA Arts' community programs and educational initiatives.
April 28
The Texas Cavaliers River Parade, a beloved Fiesta San Antonio tradition, takes place on April 28, 2025, from 7 to 9PM, featuring dazzling, illuminated floats drifting down the San Antonio River to the sound of festive music. With this year’s theme, “Shine Bright: A Celebration of Light and Illumination for All,” the event draws around 250,000 spectators annually. Proceeds benefit local children's charities through the Texas Cavaliers Charitable Foundation. Tickets, including reserved seating, are available online, making this one of Fiesta’s most unforgettable experiences.
Fiesta Especial® Celebration Day
April 29
Fiesta Especial®, hosted by disABILITYsa, is a unique Fiesta® San Antonio event that celebrates inclusivity by providing enriching experiences for individuals with physical, cognitive, and developmental differences, as well as their families and friends. Highlights include the Royal Court Coronation on January 23, 2025, and the Celebration Day on April 29, 2025, at the Alamodome Parking Lot C. This family-friendly event features a one-day carnival, an Inclusion 5K, and a parade, all in a safe, alcohol-free, smoke-free, and welcoming environment that ensures everyone can enjoy the spirit of Fiesta.
A Night in Old San Antonio (NIOSA)
April 29 - May 2
A Night In Old San Antonio® (NIOSA®) is a lively four-night festival taking place April 29 to May 2, 2025, in the historic La Villita district. Hosted by The Conservation Society of San Antonio, this event celebrates the city’s rich cultural heritage with over 155 booths offering diverse foods, beverages, and crafts, along with live music and entertainment across multiple stages. As the nation’s largest fundraiser for historic preservation, NIOSA supports efforts to conserve San Antonio’s historical sites and traditions. Tickets are available online, with paper coupons used for purchases at the event.
Fiesta Gartenfest at the Beethoven
April 30 - May 2
Fiesta Gartenfest, hosted by the Beethoven Männerchor, is a vibrant celebration of German culture held during Fiesta San Antonio. Attendees can enjoy live performances by the Beethoven Concert Band and German Dance Band, as well as sing-alongs led by the Männerchor and Damenchor. Traditional German foods like bratwurst, Bavarian pretzels, and potato pancakes pair perfectly with a selection of German beers, wines, and soft drinks. Tickets are $8 in advance or $10 at the gate, with free admission for children under 12, military personnel, first responders, and others. Proceeds support the preservation of German traditions in South Texas.
May 1
Senior Fiesta is a free event designed for seniors aged 55 and up, offering a lively day of fun and entertainment as part of Fiesta San Antonio. Held on April 25, 2024, from 9AM to 1PM at Wonderland of the Americas Mall, the event features live music, including mariachi and Tejano performances, along with over 50 exhibitors showcasing senior-focused products and services. Highlights include the Mr. and Mrs. Senior Fiesta competition and coronation, making it a festive and engaging experience for all attendees.
10th Street River Festival
May 2 - 3
The 10th Street River Festival, hosted by VFW Post 76—the oldest VFW Post in Texas—celebrates Fiesta San Antonio with live music, dancing, and community spirit. Held May 2–3, 2025, from 12:00 pm to 2:00 am along the San Antonio Riverwalk, this free, family-friendly event features a variety of food and drinks for purchase and performances ranging from Tejano and Oldies to Blues and Country Western. Pets are welcome, but outside food, beverages, and coolers are not permitted, with bag checks at the entrance ensuring a secure and enjoyable experience for all.
May 2
The Battle of Flowers® Parade, the original event of Fiesta San Antonio, takes place on Friday, May 2, 2025, starting at 10:30AM. This year's theme, "Melodies in Bloom: A Texas Serenade," celebrates the state's vibrant musical heritage and the beauty of spring. Organized entirely by women volunteers, the parade features flower-covered floats, giant helium balloons, military units, and performances by student marching bands and pep squads, attracting over 550,000 spectators. Proceeds from this historic event support educational, artistic, and philanthropic initiatives while preserving Texas history and traditions. The parade begins at East Locust Street and North Main Avenue and ends at West Martin Street and North Santa Rosa Street.
May 2
The Ford Mariachi Festival, a highlight of Fiesta San Antonio, brings vibrant mariachi music and Folklorico dancing to the San Antonio River Walk. Each evening from 6:00 to 8:30 PM, decorated boats carrying high school and college mariachi bands, along with local dance groups, float along the river, offering free performances for visitors enjoying riverside dining or strolling along the banks. Established in the late 1970s by Belle and Juan Ortiz, founders of Mariachis Campanas de América, the festival continues to celebrate San Antonio's rich cultural heritage in a festive and pet-friendly atmosphere.
May 3
The King William Fair in San Antonio’s historic King William District, is a lively, family-friendly event celebrating the city’s cultural heritage. The day begins with the King William Parade at 9AM, showcasing creative floats and performances inspired by the theme "Our Olympic Culture." Visitors can enjoy live entertainment across five stages, explore art and craft vendor booths, and indulge in delicious food and drinks. For families, the Kid’s Kingdom offers games, carnival rides, and free arts and crafts activities. Proceeds from the event support local fine art programs, scholarships, and historic preservation efforts in the district.
May 2 - 4
The Fiesta Artisan Show, held along the scenic San Antonio River Walk, is a free event showcasing the work of over 40 talented artisans. Visitors can explore a variety of handmade creations, including pottery, textiles, jewelry, woodwork, paintings, and beadwork, making it a perfect spot to find unique gifts. This pet-friendly event offers a delightful way to enjoy Fiesta San Antonio while supporting local and regional artists.
La Reina de la Feria de las Flores Reception
May 4
The Reina de la Feria de las Flores Reception honors the Feria de las Flores Queen, who plays a key role in Fiesta San Antonio as the official queen to El Rey Feo. This celebration recognizes her efforts in supporting the community through visits to schools, nursing homes, and hospitals. The program focuses on education, with the queen title awarded to the candidate who raises the most funds for scholarships. This free event supports the Rey Feo Scholarship Foundation’s mission to provide educational opportunities for students.
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