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Major San Antonio Events & Festivals
Plan your San Antonio trip around a major festival or event listed below.
Smaller but no less important events are included in our comprehensive Calendar of Events.
Note: Please reconfirm dates and ticket information though the event organizer at the contact information below.
Ongoing
Every first Friday of the month
Art, music, performance, dance, food, people spill out into the streets, galleries, front porches, restaurants and clubs of San Antonio’s largest arts district, Southtown. Free. Learn more
Houston Street Fair & Market
Every last Saturday of the month
A street festival with hand-made art, local entertainment, wine from Texas wineries and extraordinary chalk art created right on the sidewalk. Free. Learn more
January
January – April: San Antonio SPURS Season
GO SPURS GO! The four-time World Champions take on their 2009 regular season from January through April in the AT&T Center. Admission. (210) 444-5000 www.attcenter.net
The game showcases the nation's top high school football players. Spot the talent that will be tomorrow's college and NFL superstars. A week of festivities leads up to the big game day.
Honoring the Civil Rights leader, this is the largest people's march in the country. Other events throughout the city include a rally, art exhibits, workshops and candlelight vigils. http://www.aclutx.org/projects/knowwhyyourem.php
31: Asian Festival at UTSA's Institute of Texan Cultures
This event honors Asian cultures and traditions from the Middle East to the Pacific Rim. With a variety of delicious foods (Chinese, Japanese, Thai, Vietnamese, Pakistani, Filipino and Polynesian, just to name a few!) and an array of performances, including martial arts and dance demonstrations. www.texancultures.com
February
Features great entertainment with star-studded country, rock 'n' roll and Latin artists during all 20 PRCA rodeo performances. This spectacular of fun also includes shopping, a carnival and livestock centers. AT&T Center. Admission. (210) 225-5851 www.sarodeo.com
SeaWorld San Antonio’s combination of unique animal attractions, entertaining shows that combine artistry, emotion and marine animals into amazing performances, the thrill of our state-of-the-art coasters and educational experiences for all ages make this park an exciting place to be! Admission. (800) 700-7786 www.seaworld.com
March
A pre-dawn commemorative ceremony honors the fallen on both sides from the Battle of the Alamo. Alamo Plaza. Free. (210) 273-1730 www.sanantoniolivinghistory.org
Let the fun begin. Check out themed rides, thrilling roller coasters, attractions and shows for every age, including opportunities to meet the Looney Tunes characters throughout the visually stunning 200-acre park. Admission. (210) 697-5050 www.sixflags.com
8 – 9: Remember the Alamo Weekend
This event is a dramatization of the events in the final two days (March 5 and 6, 1836) of the 13 day Alamo siege by General Santa Anna's Army of Operations, played out in Alamo Plaza. Free. (210) 273-1730 www.sanantoniolivinghistory.org
6 – 17: St. Patrick's Day Celebrations
The San Antonio River is magically transformed into the “River Shannon” (temporarily) as about 35 pounds of environmentally friendly green dye is released into the San Antonio River. Make sure to get a good spot on the River Walk for the St. Patrick's Day River Parade and then head over to the Alamo for solemn ceremonies to honor the fallen heroes. Free. (210) 227-4262 www.thesanantonioriverwalk.com
All manner of creative endeavors -- art, music, poetry, performance, light shows -- explode across San Antonio. The vortex is in the city center, where all the streets are closed to vehicles. Patterned after similar Paris and Madrid arts festivals, Luminaria features hundreds of local, national and international talent. Learn more
29: 11th Annual Komen San Antonio Race for the Cure
This event honors those who have survived the battle with breast cancer, those who have lost their lives, and the families and friends who support them. The annual race attracts tens of thousands of participants to help raise money for the continued fight to end breast cancer. Admission. Alamodome. www.sakomen.org
April
More than just a celebration of the strawberry, this festival is one of the oldest, most popular events in the state and is recognized as the largest agricultural festival in Texas. Located just south of San Antonio, the Poteet Strawberry festival includes concerts, dancing, rides, gunslingers, rodeo performances and of course lots of strawberries. www.strawberryfestival.com
More than 100 unique events satisfy every taste and interest and draw spectators from around the city, nation and world. Since 1891 when the first Fiesta event, the Battle of Flowers, honored the memory of our Texas heroes, Fiesta has expanded the initial commemoration to include the recognition and celebration of San Antonio's rich and diverse cultures. Come celebrate Fiesta San Antonio! (210) 227-5191 www.fiesta-sa.org
TBD: Splashtown San Antonio Opens for 2009 Season
Splashtown San Antonio is 20 landscaped acres of cool, clean water excitement just three minutes North of downtown on IH-35 at the Splashtown exit. www.splashtownsa.com
TBD: Schlitterbahn Waterpark Resort Opens for 2009 Season
The original Schlitterbahn, in New Braunfels, just 20 minutes north of San Antonio, wins recognition, year after year, as the world's top waterpark. With over 65 acres of tube rides, water slides and uphill water coasters there is plenty of fun for the whole family. www.schlitterbahn.com
May
All Month: S.A. Dance Umbrella Celebrates Dance Month
San Antonio Dance Umbrella will celebrate Dance Month with numerous performances around the city. Some of the highlights of the month long dance celebration include: "The Cloggers' Showcase,” "Dance Around the World,” and "WIP Crème.” (210) 212-6600 www.sadu.org
May – August: WNBA - San Antonio Silver Stars
Go Silver Stars Go! San Antonio’s WNBA team will continue to rock the AT&T Center as they kick off their 2009 season. AT&T Center. Admission. (210) 444-5000 www.attcenter.net
5: Cinco de Mayo
Celebrations commemorate the Mexican Army's defeat of the invading French at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862. Events include a festival with music and food at historic Market Square, concerts and other commemorations. (210) 207-8600 www.marketsquaresa.com
6–10: Tejano Conjunto Festival en San Antonio
A three-day festival featuring live performances by more than 20 of the best musical groups from traditional Conjunto to progressive Tejano. Rosedale Park. Admission. (210) 271-3151 www.guadalupeculturalarts.org
The third oldest tournament on PGA TOUR (orginated and played in San Antonio since in 1922). It has been one of the top-three most charitable PGA tournaments on TOUR for the last several years. 72-hole. Admission. (210) 345-3818 www.golfsanantonio.org
This event kicks off with a gospel choir competition and continues with amazing food, arts, crafts, family events and more.
www.lavillita.com/soulfoodfest
A San Antonio tradition, this performance features songs and dances of Mexico, Spain, Argentina and Texas and occurs Friday and Saturday evenings at the River Walk’s historic Arneson River Theatre. (210) 226-4651
www.alamo-kiwanis.org/FiestaNoche.html
June
2 – 27: TeatroFest
The 4th Annual TeatroFest is a month-long festival celebrating Hispanic Theater and Performing Arts, Guadalupe Theater and other theatrical venues. Sponsored by the Guadalupe Cultural Arts Center. Admission. (210) 271-3151 www.guadalupeculturalarts.org
Join in the celebration of all things Texas at the 37th annual Texas Folklife Festival. Hosted at UTSA's Institute of Texan Cultures in HemisFair Park (a short walk from the Alamo and the River Walk), this three-day cultural extravaganza brings more than 40 ethnic groups together in one place to showcase their authentic food (150 dishes), great music (65 bands), colorful dance (50 folk dance groups) and authentic craft (50 craft demonstrators and 50 craft vendors). Come celebrate your heritage and share in a Texas tradition. (210) 458-2224 www.TexasFolklifeFestival.org
19: Juneteenth
Observances throughout the city, including a picnic, festival, Freedom Fair, and cultural celebrations honoring the date, June 19, 1865, the day that Texas slaves received word of the Emancipation Proclamation. (210) 527-1830 www.juneteenthsanantonio.com
30 – July 4th: Fourth of July Celebration
Enjoy festivals, concerts and fireworks at locations across San Antonio celebrating Independence Day. Some highlights include Freedom Fest at Market Square, an arts and crafts show along the River Walk and extravaganzas at local theme parks. www.marketsquaresa.com
July
All Month: 
The month-long celebration of contemporary arts features more than 400 exhibitions and involves more than 50 venues. Events take place in galleries, museums, neighborhoods and studios. Some events have an admission charge. (210) 223-5310 www.camsanantonio.org
August
TBD: Texas Football Classic
Ten of the top high school football teams in the state compete at this weekend football rumble in the Alamodome. Included schools have played in 12 state championships. Admission. (210) 207-3663 or (800) 884-3663 www.alamodome.com
TBD: FORD Canoe Challenge
Over 90 canoe teams including local celebrities, city officials, corporate teams and Boy Scouts & Girl Scouts compete in the FORD Canoe Challenge. River Walk. (210) 227-4262 www.paseodelrio.com
September
This annual international photography festival is a unique, eclectic, month-long celebration of the photographic arts. Dozens of exhibits showing traditional photographs, digital images, photography based works, photographic installations, funky camera, and alternative processes, are presented in galleries, museums, art centers and other exhibition spaces throughout San Antonio, the Texas Hill Country and in the festival’s web galleries. Free. (210) 737-8255 www.fotoseptiembreusa.com
Twenty five films preview at the Palladium IMAX, IH-10W and Hwy. 1604. Festivals include the Consulates of France, Fermany, Greece, Italy, Spain and Switzerland. Free. www.europeanfilmfestival.us
11: Dos Equis Pachanga del Rio
Ticket holders enjoy sampling culinary offerings from 20 participating River Walk establishments from 6:00pm until 8:30pm. Then, all party-goers are encouraged to go to to the Post-Party. (210) 227-4262 www.thesanantonioriverwalk.com/events
16: Diez y Seis Events
Marking Mexico's independence from Spain, San Antonio celebrates September 16 with special events all over town including a street parade with floats and marching bands, a gala, Market Square celebrations, festivals, dance presentations and other special activities. (210) 207-8600 www.marketsquaresa.com
Dave Brubeck headlines an outdoor, two-day music festival. Some of the nation's top jazz entertainers, along with regional and local talent, take over Travis Park and dazzle the crowd with their smooth sounds. Travis Park. Free. (210) 212-8423 www.saparksfoundation.org
October
3 & 4; 10 & 11: Oktoberfest San Antonio
Head over to the Beethoven Halle & Garten to celebrate the ultimate German festival! Music, food and dancing plus German specilities like bratwurst, reubens and beer will be available to help put you in the spirit! Suggested donation is $5 at the gate. www.beethovenmaennerchor.com
A three-day festival of music, dancing, food and fun which celebrates the versatility of the accordion and accordion-based international styles of music. La Villita. Free. (210) 865-8578 www.internationalaccordionfestival.org
TBD: A Festival of Films™
Produced by Texas Independent Filmmakers, this event starts each year with a free public kick off party at the Cadillac Bar, 212 S. Flores. The second day of the event is held at Santikos Northwest 14 Theatre, 7600 W IH10. Filmmakers' workshops and independent movies are shown. Admission. (210) 736-FILM www.afestivaloffilms.com
The PGA Champions Tour returns to San Antonio for its 24th year. Nestled within 200 acres of majestic oak trees and rolling hills, the Oak Hills Country Club is the perfect setting for this tournament and charity event. Oak Hills Country Club. Admission. (210) 698-3582 www.pgatour.com
October 31 – November 9: Wurstfest
A unique celebration rich in German culture and full of Texas fun! During this 10-day salute to sausage, you’ll find a variety of entertainment options including a polka contest, games, rides, food and drinks on the Wurstfest Grounds in Landa Park as well as special events throughout New Braunfels and Comal County. New Braunfels at Landa Park. Admission. www.wurstfest.com
November
Translated literally as "the Day of the Dead," this Mexican cultural tradition is a celebration in which the family welcomes back departed loved ones, sharing the joys of life with them as their memories live on. Creative and respectful altars are set up around town at galleries, cultural centers, cemeteries and restaurants to commemorate loved ones who have passed on. Poetry readings, and calavera processions (participants dress as skeletons) are typical events as well. Citywide. Some events have an admission charge. Learn More
TBD: The San Antonio New World Wine & Food Festival
This one of a kind marathon features over 70 bands along the course which passes several historic missions and wraps up at the Alamodome. www.rnrsa.com
November 17 – January 6: Light the Way at the University of Incarnate Word
A million twinkling lights will illuminate the night sky at the University of Incarnate Word to celebrate the holiday season in style.This walking or driving experience has been going on for more than two decades and is truly a San Antonio-style holiday event. Free. www.uiw.edu
The day after Thanksgiving, the switch is pulled to turn on over 122,000 lights that illuminate the River Walk until New Year's Day. Decorated floats wind through the river in one of the country's only nighttime river parades. Admission for all river-level access. (210) 227-4262 www.thesanantonioriverwalk.com
December
TBD:: Hecho a Mano/Made by Hand
Fine art exhibit and sale is open to individual artists selling their own original work. In order to maintain a high quality of traditional and contemporary crafts sold every year, Hecho a Mano/Made by Hand is a juried show. Each year an invited panel of jurors selects the participating artists. Sponsored by the Guadalupe Cultural Arts Center. 210) 271-3151 www.guadalupeculturalarts.org
Stroll along the lush banks of the San Antonio River guided by more than 2,500 luminarias. Warmly glowing candles in sand filled bags line the walkways to symbolically mark the "lighting of the way" for the Holy Family. This centuries old tradition begins at dusk Friday, Saturday & Sunday only. (210) 227-4262 www.thesanantonioriverwalk.com
TBD: Art.i.copia
Locals on the lookout for creative and unusual gifts flock to the Southwest School of Art & Craft's annual shopping celebration. The setting -- a centuries-old convent on the banks of the San Antonio River -- will inspire a little holiday serenity. http://www.swschool.org/calendar.php
TBD: Bazar Sábado
Just in time for the holidays, the best in folk art from Mexico is displayed for enjoyment and acquisition (on a Saturday, of course). San Antonio Museum of Art. (210) 978-8100 www.samuseum.org
Major college football comes to the Alamodome in San Antonio. It features teams from the Big 12 and Big Ten conferences. (210) 226-2695 www.alamobowl.com
Ring in the New Year San Antonio style! Enjoy spectacular fireworks, live music on multiple stages, food booths, family activities and more. On S. Alamo between Durango and Market streets; La Villita and HemisFair Park. Free. (210) 212-8423. www.saparksfoundation.org
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