Elaine De Los Santos, interim executive director of the Rey Feo Consejo Educational Foundation, speaks during Friday’s Fiesta De Los Reyes media day at Historic Market Square, outlining 2026 event plans, enhancements, and scholarship impact.

Elaine De Los Santos, interim executive director of the Rey Feo Consejo Educational Foundation, speaks during Friday’s Fiesta De Los Reyes media day at Historic Market Square, outlining 2026 event plans, enhancements, and scholarship impact.

Raul Trey Lopez

Organizers and city leaders on Friday unveiled new details for the 15th annual Fiesta De Los Reyes, emphasizing enhanced safety measures, expanded entertainment and continued scholarship support during a media day event at Historic Market Square.

The announcement, held at Centro de Artes, outlined what visitors can expect when the 10-day celebration returns April 17–26 as part of Fiesta San Antonio.

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“This year, guests can expect an enhanced experience across the event footprint, with thoughtful updates to improve flow, seating and accessibility,” said Elaine De Los Santos, interim executive director of the Rey Feo Consejo Educational Foundation.

The annual event will again feature more than 150 local and international bands, along with a wide variety of food vendors, artisans and family-friendly entertainment that organizers say reflects the culture and spirit of San Antonio.

Proceeds from Fiesta De Los Reyes benefit the foundation’s scholarship program for local high school seniors. Organizers said the event has generated more than $11 million in scholarships over the years.

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Tickets, hours and access

Fiesta De Los Reyes will run daily from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m., with extended hours until midnight on April 25, following the Fiesta Flambeau Parade.

Organizers said the event will offer free entry during select hours each day, while a $5 cover charge will apply during peak times for guests ages 13 and older. Officials encouraged attendees to arrive early and plan.

Tickets are now available online. Click here

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Safety a top priority

San Antonio police Chief William McManus said the festival grounds at Market Square will be enclosed with fencing and limited entry points, with security screenings at each entrance.

San Antonio police Chief William McManus discusses security measures for Fiesta De Los Reyes 2026.

San Antonio police Chief William McManus discusses security measures for Fiesta De Los Reyes 2026.

Raul Trey Lopez

“We can’t do this job without the help of the community,” McManus said. “If you see something or feel something’s not right, let us know.”

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Officials said the measures are intended to maintain a safe and welcoming environment for the tens of thousands expected to attend the 10-day celebration.

Katie Reynolds, vice president of corporate affairs for Silver Eagle Beverages, emphasized responsible drinking and transportation planning during the festival, urging attendees to plan and avoid driving impaired.

Katie Reynolds, vice president of corporate affairs for Silver Eagle Beverages, encourages responsible celebration during Fiesta De Los Reyes.

Katie Reynolds, vice president of corporate affairs for Silver Eagle Beverages, encourages responsible celebration during Fiesta De Los Reyes.

Raul Trey Lopez

“We want you to get out, we want you to enjoy Fiesta, but we want you to have a plan. If you drink, do not drive,” she said. 

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Reynolds also encouraged attendees to take advantage of promotional rideshare discounts that will be shared through official Fiesta channels, saying the goal is to ensure everyone can enjoy the event safely and get home responsibly.

READ ALSO: 5 San Antonio restaurants that serve chicken on a stick year-round

Community and cultural impact

Dr. Damaso Andres Oliva Jr., also known as Danny Oliva, spoke after Reynolds, highlighting both his personal connection to the organization and its broader mission.

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Dr. Damaso Andres Oliva Jr., Rey Feo LXXVII, speaks about the cultural significance of Fiesta De Los Reyes.

Dr. Damaso Andres Oliva Jr., Rey Feo LXXVII, speaks about the cultural significance of Fiesta De Los Reyes.

Raul Trey Lopez

Oliva is an active member of the Rey Feo Consejo, an organization that supports fundraising efforts for the Rey Feo Scholarship Foundation and helps guide the selection and service of each year’s Rey Feo. He was nominated by the organization to serve as Rey Feo LXXVII and said he is honored to represent the title and support the community through its scholarship mission.

He expressed gratitude to the Rey Feo Scholarship Foundation for selecting him and emphasized his commitment to serving San Antonio through cultural tradition, community engagement, and education-focused fundraising.