It's that time of year again. The smell of fresh flowers is in the air, and people are gearing up for all of the excitement at Fiesta San Antonio. While each day of the festival is packed with too many happenings to list, here are some of the highlights of this year's festival. Check out the Fiesta calendar for more details on each event.
Fiesta Fiesta
Celebrate the launch of Fiesta at this free annual affair featuring live entertainment and a meet-and-greet with Fiesta royalty and special guests. Don't miss traditions like the cutting of the ugly tie and the breaking of the cascarón. You can also buy, sell, or trade Fiesta pins and medals at Pin Pandemonium. New this year is the Taste of Texas, a food event from chef Brian West featuring bites from all across the Lone Star State. Advance tickets are $75 and include access to all the dishes, as well as beer and wine tastings; individual plates can also be purchased for $5-$6.
April 20 at Hemisfair
Fiesta de los Reyes at Market Square
One of the largest free Fiesta events promises something for everyone, from live music to tasty treats from over 30 vendors.
April 21-30 at Market Square
Taste of New Orleans
This three-day fest hosted by the San Antonio Zulu Association is piping hot with the tastes and sounds of New Orleans. Savor authentic Cajun dishes with a side of smooth jazz and Zydeco. Tickets are $12 in advance and $15 at the gate; admission is free for children 10 and under.
April 21 at the Japanese Tea Gardens
Fiesta Arts Fair
Peruse stunning artwork from over 100 different makers and creators at this two-day showcase, which also includes music, food, and kid-friendly fun. Proceeds benefit the Southwest School of Art.
April 22-23 at Southwest School of Art
Incognito
South Texan and Brazilian heritage intersect at Incognito, a Carnaval-style masquerade ball and street fair. Enjoy food, drinks, kid activities, live music, and more courtesy of Urban-15. Come dressed in your best for your chance to win sweet swag in the costume contest.
April 22 at Urban-15's Studio and Grounds
The Texas Cavaliers River Parade
Hailed as the "most unusual river parade in America," this annual extravaganza is a mixture of spectacle and fun. Over 45 floats will be decked out in this year's theme: "Kaleidoscope." Admissions is $14-$26; tickets can be purchased through the Texas Cavaliers Office.
April 24 at the River Walk
NIOSA (A Night in Old San Antonio)
Hundreds of vendors representing San Antonio's vast and colorful heritage will set up shop in La Villita for this four-day fest of handmade goods, fresh foods, traditional tunes, and more. Tickets are $12 in advance and $15 at the gate; admission is free for children 12 and under if accompanied by an adult.
April 25-28 at La Villita
Battle of Flowers Parade
The Battle of the Flowers Parade is one of the crowning events of every Fiesta. The theme for this year is "Blazing Trails" to honor the "trailblazing people, events, and ideas that have made our city, state, and nation great." Admission is $12-$25; tickets are available online and at the Fiesta Store.
April 28; parade begins at the intersection of East Grayson and Broadway streets
Fiesta Flambeau Parade
The following night is Fiesta's second crowning event: Fiesta Flambeau Parade. The evening affair will light up downtown San Antonio in accordance to the 2017 theme "City Lights and Celebrations." Admission is $16.50-$30; tickets are available online.
April 29; parade begins at the intersection of East Grayson and Broadway streets
The Fiesta lineup can be little overwhelming. Here's a handy guide to our favorite events.
