Ready to put down some roots? San Antonians can snag one of more than 1,000 free trees during the 2025 Día del Árbol – Texas Arbor Day Celebration on November 8 at the South Side's Mission Marquee Plaza.
The festivities honor San Antonio’s urban forest and are designed to highlight and encourage the planting, care, and appreciation of trees. According to organizers, trees not only provide beautiful scenery, but they also offer shade, improve air quality, help manage stormwater, and enhance overall livability.
Although the national Arbor Day celebrations are held in April, Texas celebrates it later in the year because of its often sweltering heat. Planting in cooler months allows young trees a better chance to establish before the heat sets in.
For residents, each household can pick up a free tree suited to the local climate and receive expert tips on how to plant and care for it. Available species include bur oak, cedar elm, desert willow, lacey oak, Mexican buckeye, pecan, and Texas redbud. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early, as the trees are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.
The free event begins at 10 am with a brief opening ceremony. From then until 1 pm, guests can browse the saplings and select one that fits their yard and needs. Meanwhile, the Agarita Chamber Ensemble, known for its outdoor, accessible classical music, will perform throughout the event. DJ Despeinada will provide an upbeat, energetic soundtrack during key hours of tree adoption and community activities.
Live falconry demos are part of the Día del Árbol fun.San Antonio Parks and Recreation/ Instagram
From 11:15 am to noon, Last Chance Forever, a birds-of-prey demonstration, will feature live raptors, including hawks, falcons, and owls, in flight or on display. The demonstration is designed to educate attendees about raptor biology, conservation, and the role of these birds in the ecosystem.
Immediately following the raptor demonstration, Miss Anastasia will host a storytelling session. The local children’s storyteller, AKA Anastasia McKenna, will offer a literary and educational segment suitable for children and their parents, making the tree-adoption event more inclusive for younger attendees. Sweet treats, tasty snacks, and coffee from Pour Box Coffee Cart and Fat Tummy Empanadas will make it more tasty for everyone.
Mission Marquee Plaza is located at 3100 Roosevelt Ave. Parking is free via the VFW Boulevard entrance. Alternatively, bus routes 42, 242, and 515 serve the location.
The festive bonbons at Midnight Chocolatier will delight anyone on your list.Midnight Chocolatier/ Facebook
Niche's cassette-themed t-shirts will get heavy play.Niche/ Facebook