Fiesta, San Antonio’s biggest party, runs April 16-26. Of course, it’s really a series of parties, parades and special events. A few, like Cornyation (April 21-23, Charline McCombs Empire Theatre), are intended for grown-ups, but the majority are family-friendly.
Here’s when several of Fiesta’s signature events will be happening this year:
Fiesta Oyster Bake: Switchfoot and Candlebox are the headlining acts at this first-weekend blowout, a celebration of mollusks and live music. April 17-18, St. Mary’s University, oysterbake.com
Texas Cavaliers River Parade: The theme of this year’s river parade, the first of Fiesta’s big three, is “Through the Decades: A Centennial Celebration.” The grand marshal is Leon McNeil, founder of City Kids Adventures. April 20, San Antonio River Walk, texascavaliers.org
Fiesta queens will respond to “Show us your shoes!” | Photo by Sam Owens
A Night in Old San Antonio: Wristbands are gone, but the lines still will be long for Maria’s tortillas and anticuchos at the city’s favorite street party, which raises money for historic conservation. April 21-24, La Villita, niosa.org
Battle of Flowers Parade: The founding event of Fiesta San Antonio remains its biggest showcase for marching bands and Fiesta royalty in their elaborate gowns. This year’s theme is “From Pages to Possibility.” 10:30 a.m. April 24, downtown, battleofflowers.org
Fiesta Flambeau Parade: Shamu, SeaWorld’s killer whale mascot, is the grand marshal of Fiesta’s nighttime illuminated parade. This year’s theme is “Adventures in Toyland.” 7:45 p.m. April 25, downtown, flambeau.org
The full schedule is available at fiestasanantonio.org.