Are you Fiesta-ready? Whether this is your first year, or you're a Fiesta San Antonio expert, we have the intel on how to Fiesta like a pro in San Antonio.
Fiesta San Antonio
Join Us for Annual 11-day Citywide Celebration
In San Antonio, culture doesn’t just shine; it sings, dances, and throws a citywide party! For 11 unforgettable days, Fiesta San Antonio takes over the streets with dazzling parades, mouthwatering food festivals, and electrifying local entertainment. We trade and collect medals like badges of honor, each one a symbol of our city’s spirit.
What began in 1891 as a tribute to Texas’ legendary defenders has evolved into a larger-than-life celebration of our heritage, community, and culture. But Fiesta is more than just fun; it’s a party with a purpose, supporting local nonprofits and scholarships while bringing people together in the most San Antonio way possible.
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Fiesta San Antonio Returns
April 16 - 26, 2026
Kick off the festivities with Fiesta® Fiesta at Hemisfair, an opening ceremony complete with locally-themed medal exchanges. Make plans to attend the one-of-a-kind Texas Cavaliers River Parade, The Battle of Flowers Parade, and the Fiesta Flambeau Parade.
For fun with food and drinks, do not miss NIOSA (A Night in Old San Antonio), Fiesta Oyster Bake, the Taste of the Republic, and more.
Then, explore distinctive cultures with deep roots at events like A Day in Old Mexico & Charreada, the Ford Mariachi Festival, and more.
Fun Fact: Did you know the city is home to over 100 Fiesta events, including parades, culinary pop-ups, exhibits, observances, and more? Finding a Fiesta event in San Antonio that speaks to your taste is easy. Attending them all may be hard!
Plan Your Fiesta San Antonio Getaway Now
Make sure you're Fiesta-ready ahead of time! Nab your tickets now and don't forget to pack your Fiesta medals! You can find tickets to the following iconic events at the link below!
- The Battle of Flowers Parade®
Get your Battle of Flowers Parade® VIP Tickets Here
- The Fiesta Flambeau Parade®
Get your Fiesta Flambeau Parade ®VIP Tickets Here
- The Texas Cavaliers River Parade®
- Fiesta® San Antonio VIP Parade Experience
- Fiesta Carnival
Plan Your Fiesta San Antonio Route
Intersection Closure: COMMERCE ST. at SANTA ROSA will be closed to thru traffic from Monday, April 21 – Sunday, May 4 for Fiesta accommodations. Pedestrian access to Market Square will be maintained.
Visit saspeakup.com/zonacultural for more information.
Plan ahead: Take public transportation, rideshare, taxis, bike, walk, or consult Google Maps or Waze before you leave.
- Visit the "Know Before You Go" website for helpful resources and information.
- Via Metropolitan Transit will offer Park & Ride service.
A Brief History of Fiesta San Antonio
The very first Battle of Flowers parade dates back to 1891, when a group of women from San Antonio sought a way to commemorate and pay their respects to the brave individuals who fought and died in the Battle of the Alamo and the Battle of San Jacinto.
This inaugural parade took place in front of the Alamo, where participants threw flowers at each other to reenact each battle. Each year, the celebration grew in duration. Today, Fiesta has grown into an 11-day event full of medals, vibrant colors, live music and entertainment, delicious food, and so much more.
Fiesta San Antonio FAQ
What should I wear to Fiesta?
Fiesta is bright – and so is the clothing! Grab the most colorful items in your closet, your flower crown or “corona” and remember to bring a sash for your medal collection. We recommend comfortable shoes for all the walking and dancing you will be doing! Check out more Fiesta fashion.
What is with all the medals?
As a long-standing tradition, people go on a mission to obtain and wear as many Fiesta medals as possible. You will see people wearing their weight in medals – fastened to sashes, jackets, hats and more. Get your own Fiesta medals at various events throughout the 11-day celebration!
What is Fiesta Royalty all about?
Each year, new kings, queens, princesses, and more are added to the Fiesta Royalty Court. These members of the Fiesta court are selected by committees based on their charitable work.
What is the best way to get to downtown Fiesta events?
Grab the VIA Park and Ride to events like NIOSA and the parades. Rideshare is also a good option to get to Fiesta events. Should you choose to drive, take cash, as many parking lots do not accept credit cards.
Fiesta San Antonio is a vibrant tradition that celebrates the history and culture of San Antonio, Texas. This annual April event blends history, culture, music, food, and plenty of pageantry and fun!