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It's rodeo season in San Antonio, which means it's time to bust out your cowboy boots and, apparently, your wallet.
A new report from Trinity University reveals the astounding economic impact of San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo on the city. The 18-day affair brings in $253 million a year, which is more than the projected sales tax revenue for all of San Antonio, says the report.
The four-year study defines economic impact as the expenditure "generated by participants in activities outside the rodeo but within the San Antonio area."
In 2015, the rodeo brought in $252,816,879 from attendees and participants. The impact of volunteers alone is valued at $14 million, unsurprising given that the rodeo wrangles more than 6,000 volunteers each year.
While the annual event is beloved by locals, Ticketmaster reveals that 45 percent of ticket purchases come from residents outside Bexar County. And we should welcome those visitors, as they spend more than twice that of local attendees.
The rodeo runs through February 28. You can buy tickets here.
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Weekend Event Guide
Start the most wonderful time of the year with an agenda full of can’t-miss entertainment for all ages and interests. Celebrate the season at Noche Buena, or take a Christmas-inspired trip to the Natural Bridge Caverns with the family in tow. Check out the top seven things to do in San Antonio this weekend. For a complete list of events, visit our calendar.
Thursday, December 5
Laugh Out Loud Comedy Club presents Carlos Mencia
Latino comedian Carlos Mencia is the latest guest performer on the Laugh Out Loud Comedy Club stage. Since his rise to fame within the L.A. comedy circuit, Mencia is best known for his appearances on In Living Color, Moesha, and An Evening at the Improv. Shows are scheduled through December 8. Tickets are available now.
Friday, December 6
Trinity University presents Christmas Concert
The annual Christmas Concert returns in festive fanfare to Trinity University. The show will feature combined performances by Trinity Choirs, Trinity Symphony Orchestra, Symphonic Wind Ensemble, and Handbell Ensemble. Guests will also enjoy pre-concert musical performances by the Trinitones, the AcaBellas, and the Trinity String Quartet. To round out the evening of music, The Trinity Jazz Ensemble will play holiday favorites as visitors exit the concert through the lobby. Concert admission is free.
Saturday, December 7
Pan African Cultural Community presents 15th Kwanzaa Market Festival
Learn about and celebrate Kwanzaa at this Barbara Jordan Community Center event. Highlights of the Kwanzaa Market Festival includes live performances by musicians, dancers, and poets throughout the day. Get a full schedule of events and more details on Eventbrite.
Natural Bridge Caverns presents Christmas at the Caverns
Celebrate the season with a Christmas-themed trip to the Natural Bridge Caverns. Activities include appearances from Santa & Mrs. Claus, the Trail of Lights, a Reindeer Roundup Maze, caroling, and more. Christmas at the Caverns is open through December 23. Tickets are available now.
Main Plaza Conservancy presents Noche Buena
Experience the annual tree lighting ceremony with the whole family at Main Plaza. Guests can shop at the local vendors market, participate in craft activities, and enjoy "Wishes with Santa Claus." The event will also showcase performances by the Children’s Chorus of San Antonio, youth bands from the Music on Magnolia school, and holiday standards by Henry Brun & his trio. Admission to Noche Buena is free and open to the public.
Mariachi Extravaganza Concert featuring Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitlán
The finest mariachi talent from the U.S. and beyond comes to the Lila Cockrell Theatre for a world-class competition finale. Fans will get the chance to see performances by Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitlán from Mexico City and the National Competition Winners. Tickets are available now.
Sunday, December 8
Sustenio presents Monic Reyes: 3rd Annual "Interlacing Thoughts”
Sustenio invites guests to an evening of art, fashion, and silent auction opportunities at the 3rd Annual "Interlacing Thoughts” event. Guests will get an exclusive look at a fashion exhibit by Malen Reyes Couture and can indulge in complimentary champagne and hors d'oeuvres. A silent auction will also be held to benefit the Ferrari Kid Organization. Admission is free.