What originally started in 1891 as a “Battle of Flowers” parade to commemorate pivotal battles for Texas independence has become an annual, citywide, multiday celebration with 100-plus events, ranging from outdoor festivals to black-tie galas. Each Fiesta event raises funds for a local nonprofit or community cause. This year’s Fiesta officially runs April 20-30. This is a noncomprehensive guide.
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
Admission
The cost varies by event, and some activities are free to enter. The Fiesta Commission urges revelers to explore individual event websites for admission and other details at www.fiestasanantonio.org/official-fiesta-event-calendar.
Shopping and souvenirs
Find Fiesta merchandise online at www.vivafiesta.com. Some proceeds go to Fiesta participating member organizations. Fiesta medals can be found at events, through individual organizations and at www.fiestamedalssa.com.
Parking
While most Fiesta events are in the downtown area, attendees are urged to check event details on available public parking, take rideshares, or check www.viainfo.net to use VIA Metropolitan Transit, which will offer special Fiesta ride rates.
What to wear
The Fiesta Commission suggests Fiesta revelers don vibrant, colorful and comfortable attire to enjoy the party atmosphere and warm spring weather, including:
- Colorful hats
- Comfortable shoes
- Flower crowns—or coronas
- Fiesta medal sashes and medals
- Guayaberas, or traditional Mexican shirts for men
- Embroidered blouses and dresses for women
- April 22: Fiesta Castle Hills, 209 Lemonwood Drive, Castle Hills
- April 22: King’s Cup Polo Party, San Antonio Polo Club, 490 W. Specht Road
- April 22: Loteria para Lideres (Lottery for Leaders), Estancia del Norte San Antonio, 37 N. Loop 410 E., San Antonio
- April 23: Olé Bazaar, Luncheon and Style Show, Westin San Antonio North, 9821 Colonnade Blvd., San Antonio
- April 25: Taste of the Northside, SSFCU Event Center, 15000 W. I-10., San Antonio
- April 26: First Tee Invitational, Canyon Springs Golf Club, 24405 Wilderness Oak, San Antonio
- April 26: Fiesta Hat Contest and Luncheon, Westin San Antonio North, 9821 Colonnade Blvd., San Antonio
NORTHEAST SAN ANTONIO METROCOM EVENTS
- April 20: Fiesta Happy Hour, Olympia Hills Golf Course, 12900 Mt Olympus, Universal City
- April 22: Pickles y Sombreros, Morgans Wonderland, 5223 David Edwards Drive, San Antonio
- April 22: Fiesta Women and Co-Ed 45th Annual Soccer Tournament, Star Soccer Complex, 5103 David Edwards Drive, San Antonio
- April 22: Fiesta Especial Inclusion 5K Run and Parade, 8601 Midcrown Drive, Windcrest
- April 22: El Rey Fido Coronation, 13838 Jones Maltsberger Road, San Antonio
- April 30: Fiesta Paw Parade, Main City Park, 18001 Park Drive, Live Oak
FIESTA MAIN EVENTS
Here are some Fiesta events that are happening citywide. Check www.fiestasanantonio.org for details.
April 20
- Annual Fiesta Exhibit: A World of Inspiration at the Witte
- Fiesta Fiesta
- Taste of the Republic
April 21
- Fiesta de los Reyes
April 22
- Fiesta Women & Co-ed 45th Annual Soccer Tournament
- El Rey Fido Coronation
- A Taste of New Orleans
- Fiesta Oyster Bake
- The Investiture of King Antonio
April 23
- Deco Fiesta
- Fiesta de los Ninos
- The Chili-Queens Chili Cook-off
April 24
- Texas Cavaliers River Parade
April 25
- Ford Mariachi Festival
- Cornyation 2023
April 27
- Pacfest
- Battle of Flowers Band Festival
- St. Philip's College CultureFest & Rib Cook-off
April 28
- Battle of Flowers Parade
- Fiesta Family Blues Festival
April 29
- Fiesta Pooch Parade
- Festival de Animales
- King William Fair
- Mission Fest
- Fiesta Flambeau Parade
April 30
- Festival de Cascarones
- Annual Fiesta Concert
- Feria de las Flores
