A Wheelie Big Deal

World's tallest Ferris wheel may be rolling into San Antonio

The secret San Antonio Ferris wheel would clock in at 900 feet.

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For the past two days, the news cycle has been spinning: Could San Antonio be getting the world's tallest Ferris wheel? While details are scarce, the San Antonio Express News is reporting that the Federal Aviation Administration received a request for an official aeronautical study to construct a 900-foot Ferris wheel south of downtown San Antonio. If approved (and true) the new structure would be — ahem — revolutionary for the city.

Though the request was anonymous, the FAA did confirm that the ask came from a developer, and was submitted in early October. The property where the supposed wheel would be located is on land currently owned by CPS Energy. Though CPS did attempt to sell the land earlier this year, it has since removed the property from the market, and says it does not know who made the request.

Currently, the world's tallest Ferris wheel is Las Vegas' Holy Roller, which clocks in at an impressive 550 feet. The London Eye, arguably the most iconic wheel since Coney Island's Wonder Wheel, soars to a max height of 443 feet. (By comparison, the Wonder Wheel is a rather paltry 150 feet.)

When approached for comment by the Express News, it seems that no one in the city of San Antonio — including city and neighborhood leaders — know anything about the giant Ferris wheel. Just how this mystery rolls out remains to be seen. In the meantime, we'll enjoy this carnival of speculation.

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Ready for Harvest

New farmers market and yoga classes stretch into St. Paul Square

Photo courtesy of St. Paul Square

St. Paul Square is historic, but keeping up with the times.

San Antonians have a fresh way to pick up groceries and artisan goods at St. Paul Square with the addition of a new farmers market. It will be free to attend in the central courtyard every Sunday from 9 am to 2 pm.

Shoppers will be able to browse produce, handcrafted goods, and ready-to-eat treats by farmers, bakers, and artisans, according to a release. Suppliers will come from San Antonio and other places in South Texas.

This recurring event is just called the St. Paul Square Farmers Market. It's attributed directly to St. Paul Square, which is not just a neighborhood destination but an organization developing the historic district. Part of the purpose of the new programming is to support local businesses, as well as drawing in visitors.

The area was founded in 1778, and now includes all kinds of modern and retro attractions like the popular Francis Bogside bar, several eateries, 1902 Nightclub, and live music venue The Espee.

Donation-based yoga classes on Sundays from 9-11 am give even more to to do at The Espee's courtyard (1174 E. Commerce St.). They'll be led by Bendy with Lenny, and guests joining in will get to choose between a gentler slow flow in the earlier slot, and a higher energy class in the later slots.

“Our team is excited to introduce a series of new programs this winter aimed at enriching and uplifting our local community," said St. Paul Square managing partnerDon Thomas in the release. "We invite residents from across San Antonio to join us at St. Paul Square this Sunday to kick off the series and enjoy supporting local businesses as we enter the holiday season.”

The debut St. Paul Square Farmers Market takes place November 17 at17 Heiman Street.

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