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
First Friday Art Walk
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
  Rides, face painting, storytelling, hand-made art and crafts by local artist, drinks, foods and more. Downtown every month, see dates below. Free. Learn more
  

January – April: San Antonio SPURS    

GO SPURS GO! The four-time World Champions take on their 2008 regular season from January through April in the AT&T Center. Admission. (210) 444-5000 www.attcenter.net

January 31 – February 17: San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo    

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

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February 23: Houston Street Fair & Market    

One-day event that takes place monthly and offers San Antonians and their families a place to come together and have fun. The fair features rides, face painting, storytelling, hand-made art and crafts by local artist, drinks, foods and more. Free. (210) 841-3217 www.houstonstreetfairandmarket.com

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March 8: SeaWorld San Antonio    

Get ready to make a splash as SeaWorld San Antonio, the world's largest marine life adventure park, opens its doors for the 2008 season featuring more than 25 major shows, rides, exhibits and attractions. The park is open from early March through Thanksgiving weekend. Admission. (800) 700-7786 www.seaworld.com

March 6: Dawn at the Alamo

This event is a pre-dawn commemorative ceremony honoring the fallen on both sides from the Battle of the Alamo. Alamo Plaza. Free. (210) 273-1730 www.sanantoniolivinghistory.org

March 8: Six Flags Fiesta Texas  

Let the fun begin as Six Flags Fiesta Texas opens for its 2008 season. 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

March 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. Alamo Plaza. Free. (210) 273-1730 www.sanantoniolivinghistory.org

March 14 – 17: Guinness Dyeing O' the River Green/St. Patrick's Day River Parade    

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

March 14, 2009: Luminaria—Arts Night in San Antonio

Visual, performing, multi-media, theatrical, and all other artistic forms will engage audiences throughout San Antonio.

March 29: Houston Street Fair & Market

One-day event that takes place monthly and offers San Antonians and their families a place to come together and have fun. The fair features rides, face painting, storytelling, hand-made art and crafts by local artist, drinks, foods and more. Free. (210) 841-3217 www.houstonstreetfairandmarket.com

March 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 11th annual Race will be held on March 29, 2008, attracting more than 27,000 participants to help raise money for the continued fight to end breast cancer. Admission. Alamodome. www.sakomen.org

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April 5 – 7: NCAA Division I Men’s Final Four®

Get ready for the ultimate in college basketball! The Alamodome plays host to this year’s Final Four tournament as the final four teams remaining in the NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball contend for a shot at the national championship game. www.ncaamarchmadness2008.com

April 11 – 13 : Poteet Strawberry Festival

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

April 18 – 27: Fiesta San Antonio!    

Fiesta San Antonio is a 10-day citywide celebration, which includes exciting carnivals, spectacular sports, fantastic fireworks, lively entertainment, ethnic feasts, art exhibits and sparkling parades that glide down San Antonio's River Walk and streets. More than 100 unique events satisfy every taste and interest, drawing 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

April 19: Splashtown San Antonio Opens for 2008 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

April 26: Schlitterbahn Waterpark Resort
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

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May: 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 2008 season. AT&T Center. Admission. (210) 444-5000 www.attcenter.net

May 2 – 5: Cinco de Mayo Events    

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

May 8 – 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

May 16 – 17: 9th Annual Soul Food Festival & 2nd Annual Gospel on the Plaza Competition

This event kicks off with a gospel choir competition and continues with amazing food, arts, crafts, family events and more.
www.lavillita.com/soulfoodfest

May 16 – August 9: Fiesta Noche Del Rio

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

May 31: Houston Street Fair & Market     

One-day event that takes place monthly and offers San Antonians and their families a place to come together and have fun. The fair features rides, face painting, storytelling, hand-made art and crafts by local artist, drinks, foods and more. Free. (210) 841-3217 www.houstonstreetfairandmarket.com

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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

June 13 – 15: Texas Folklife Festival   

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

June 19 – 21: 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

June 28: Houston Street Fair & Market    

One-day event that takes place monthly and offers San Antonians and their families a place to come together and have fun. The fair features rides, face painting, storytelling, hand-made art and crafts by local artist, drinks, foods and more. Free. (210) 841-3217 www.houstonstreetfairandmarket.com

June 30 – July 4^th: 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

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July: Contemporary Art 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

July 26: Houston Street Fair & Market    

One-day event that takes place monthly and offers San Antonians and their families a place to come together and have fun. The fair features rides, face painting, storytelling, hand-made art and crafts by local artist, drinks, foods and more. Free. (210) 841-3217 www.houstonstreetfairandmarket.com

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 August 28-30: 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

 August 16: 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

 

 

One-day event that takes place monthly and offers San Antonians and their families a place to come together and have fun. The fair features rides, face painting, storytelling, hand-made art and crafts by local artist, drinks, foods and more. Free. (210) 841-3217 www.houstonstreetfairandmarket.com

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September: FOTOSEPTIEMBRE USA    

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

September 8 - 11: European Film Festival

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

September 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

September 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

September 20 – 21: Jazz'SAlive    

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

September 27: Houston Street Fair & Market    

One-day event that takes place monthly and offers San Antonians and their families a place to come together and have fun. The fair features rides, face painting, storytelling, hand-made art and crafts by local artist, drinks, foods and more. Free. (210) 841-3217 www.houstonstreetfairandmarket.com

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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

 

 

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

October 11 - 12: International Accordion Festival   

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

October 12 – 13: 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

October 20 - 26: AT&T Championship   

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 25: Houston Street Fair & Market    

One-day event that takes place monthly and offers San Antonians and their families a place to come together and have fun. The fair features rides, face painting, storytelling, hand-made art and crafts by local artist, drinks, foods and more. Free. (210) 841-3217 www.houstonstreetfairandmarket.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

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November 2: El Dia de los Muertos   

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

 

November 4 – 9: The San Antonio New World Wine & Food Festival    

Giving wine and food aficionados one more thing to be thankful for this November, the Festival will showcase the Alamo City's finest restaurants and chefs as well as celebrity guests from Mexico, Miami, Manhattan and all over Texas as it celebrates San Antonio as a premier wine and food destination and an important culinary and cultural gateway to Mexico and Latin America. (210) 822-9555 www.nwwff.org

November 16: San Antonio Rock ‘N’ Roll Marathon & ½ Marathon  

Don’t miss the inaugural Rock ‘n’ Roll San Antonio Marathon on Nov 16, 2008! 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

November 28: Ford Holiday River Parade and Lighting Ceremony    

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

November 29: Houston Street Fair & Market    

One-day event that takes place monthly and offers San Antonians and their families a place to come together and have fun. The fair features rides, face painting, storytelling, hand-made art and crafts by local artist, drinks, foods and more. Free. (210) 841-3217 www.houstonstreetfairandmarket.com

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December 5 – 7: 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

December 5 – 7, 12 – 14, 19 – 21: Ford Fiesta de las Luminarias   

Experience the Holiday serenity of the River Walk as you 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 Holy Family. This centuries old tradition begins at dusk Friday, Saturday & Sunday only. (210) 227-4262 www.thesanantonioriverwalk.com

December 13: 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
 

December 13: 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

December 27: Houston Street Fair & Market    

One-day event that takes place monthly and offers San Antonians and their families a place to come together and have fun. The fair features rides, face painting, storytelling, hand-made art and crafts by local artist, drinks, foods and more. Free. (210) 841-3217 www.houstonstreetfairandmarket.com

December 29: Valero Alamo Bowl    

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

December 31: Celebrate San Antonio    

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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