Summer starts early in San Antonio and we're ready for it all! Bring on the sunshine, riverside breezes, top attractions, and rooftop views, and so much more.

Patio brunches, splashy boat rides, and theme park thrills, there are so many ways to celebrate the season’s arrival in the Alamo City.

So pack your sunglasses and your sense of adventure. Here are our favorite ways to jumpstart your summer in San Antonio:

📅 Special Events & Cultural Celebrations to Kick Off Your San Antonio Summer

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Crowd gathering in front of stage with Tower of the Americas in background.

La Semana Alegre at Hemisfair

May 1-2, 2025

Celebrate the start of summer with La Semana Alegre, San Antonio’s Party in the Park, happening May 1-2, 2025 at Hemisfair’s Civic Park. Enjoy free general admission, live music on two large stages, local food and drinks, artisanal vendors, and non-stop Fiesta vibes.
 

ARCSA Asian Festival at Civic Park

May 24, 2025

Experience one of San Antonio’s premier family-friendly events celebrating the diverse Asian cultures represented in the city. Hosted by the Asian Resource Center of San Antonio, this one-day festival features live performances, cultural entertainment, and delicious food from across the Asian diaspora. It’s a vibrant, welcoming way to spend a Saturday in May.

 

River barge with rainbow hearts and people floating on River Walk

Pride River Parades & Celebration

May 31, 2025

Enjoy live music, dancing, and entertainment at La Villita’s Arneson River Theatre, and catch two colorful river parades, one along the Museum Reach and one through downtown.

The Pride River Parades and Celebrations are bringing the energy and countless dazzling barges. It’s a vibrant celebration of inclusion and community right on the water.

🚤 Cruise into Summer on the River Walk

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Nothing says “vacation mode” like a breezy boat tour along the San Antonio River. Hop aboard a GO RIO cruise and enjoy colorful commentary, downtown views, and plenty of photo ops.

Or kick it up a notch with a themed cruise. Themes rotate seasonally, so be sure to check which cruise options are available during your time with us! 

🎢 Find Thrills in the Theme Park Capital of Texas

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Big thrills, water slides, and smiles for miles, you must be in the Theme Park Capital of Texas. San Antonio is packed with theme park fun for all ages.

Ride record-breaking coasters and catch live shows at Six Flags Fiesta Texas where they're now home to the largest DC Universe at any theme park in the country! 

Then, make a splash at SeaWorld San Antonio where younger adventurers can explore the all-new Rescue Jr. where animal conservation and fun collide. 

Then, everyone will have a great time exploring the fully inclusive Morgan’s Wonderland, the world’s first ultra-accessible theme park.

Just a short drive away, Schlitterbahn Waterpark's recently-opened Schatze's Storybrook Park in New Braunfels adds even more reasons to bring your swimsuit.

Planning a weekend getaway? Add multiple parks to your itinerary for the ultimate summer send-off.

🎶 Patios + Live Music = Summer Magic

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Looking for something relaxed? Check out Viola's Ventanas, a local favorite serving up Casero-style Mexican food and live acoustic music every evening at 6 pm, Tuesdays through Fridays. 

Warm nights, great food, and live music set the tone for laid-back evenings. Head to Texas River Bar for a spacious patio, river walk views, and a calendar of live music.

🍦 Beat the Heat with a Sweet Treat

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When the sun’s out, the desserts come calling. Cool off with creamy gelato at Justin’s Ice Cream, colorful raspas from a neighborhood stand, or a frozen margarita with a waterfront view. Bonus points if you pair your treat with a shady spot and a good playlist.

Want to make your sweet treat a little boozy? Head to Boozy Scoop Ice Cream for boozy sweet treats. Traveling with kids or not into boozy treats? Not to worry, they have regular options available too.  

🌳 Explore the Outdoors

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Conserfari at San Antonio Zoo

May brings the perfect balance of sunshine and breeze. Spend a morning at Brackenridge Park and then take a leisurely stroll at the San Antonio Botanical Garden where you can choose from delicious Mediterranean options at Jardín.

Later you can meet your favorite animals at the San Antonio Zoo. Did you know that they now offer Consefari Tours? Your safari adventures now live in San Antonio! 

🛍️ Markets, Makers, and Local Finds

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Man and woman walking through aisle at Historic Market Square

Shop the vibrant Historic Market Square for handcrafted treasures and fresh Mexican pastries, or head to the Pearl Farmers Market for local eats and artisanal goods.

These open-air markets are full of flavor and perfect for browsing early in the morning or midday.

🎭 Add a Little Culture to the Weekend

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Overhead view of food spread

Catch a Broadway show at the Majestic Theatre, dive into interactive fun at the Witte Museum, or discover your new favorite dish in a city known as the Culinary Capital of Texas.

Every experience adds something special to your getaway.

☀️ Summer Starts Now

Man and woman at pool laughing

From theme park thrills to chill moments on the river, San Antonio has everything you need to kick off summer right. Start planning, grab your crew, and make May the month of fun.