celebracion!
8 fantastic San Antonio ways to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month's finale
Hispanic Heritage Month is still in full swing and what better way to celebrate the Hispanic Americans who have influenced our nation than to attend one of the varied cultural events taking place around San Antonio?
This observation first began in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week under President Lyndon B. Johnson. In 1988, it was expanded to cover a 30-day period by President Ronald Reagan. The idea of starting on September 15 and ending on October 15 was to observe the many Latin American countries who had won independence during this time on the calendar of world history.
Considering the Hispanic and Latinx community is so multifaceted, we've selected eight of the most diverse events for you and your familia to enjoy. From lectures, to food and music festivals, to art exhibits to rock concerts, this is the month to surrender to the famous grito heard around this great nation of ours.
The McNay Museum presents "La Revolución Mexicana: 100 Years Later"— now through November 24
In Mexico, the rigged 1910 election spurred the outbreak of the Mexican Revolution, catapulting dictator Porfirio Diaz and revolutionary leader Emiliano Zapata further into the political spotlight. A century later, Artemio Rodriguez, known as one of the greatest living Mexican printmakers, created a portfolio of linoleum block prints to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Mexican Revolution. These classic black and white prints include fascinating portraits of the leaders on both sides of the revolution. Check out how Rodriguez's portrait of Diaz and the European influence of his rule starkly contrasts the image of Zapata, riding his horse in rural Mexico with small farms and mountains on the horizon. Artwork like this is an example of Zapata’s lasting legacy in the social, political, and cultural life of modern-day Mexico and, for some, San Antonio.
Gloria Trevi: Diosa de la Noche Tour — October 11
Through brow-raising scandals and outrageous fashion faux pas, Mexican singer Gloria Trevi has demonstrated her tremendous staying power with her fanciful musical storytelling and larger-than-life personality. Her latest tour, aptly titled Diosa de la Noche, will delight San Antonio fans at Freeman Coliseum on National Coming Out Day. Colombian singer Karol G will entertain with her popular Reggaeton tunes before the showbiz goddess makes her grand entrance. Think Cyndi Lauper meets Madonna, but in Spanish. Tickets range from $39.95 to $299.
Tejana Atómica — October 11-13
If you’re new to the terms “Latinx” and “Chicanx,” this show may prove to be both entertaining and educational. Jump-Start Theatre's latest offering is an evening of original multimedia performances featuring Marisela Barrera, Anna De Luna, and Amalia Ortiz. De Luna’s August show, My Arab Fall , beautifully showcased both her political and cultural storytelling prowess. In Tejana Atómica, she will perform excerpts from her new show Carmen from Mexico, which details her mother’s immigration experience. Jump-Start is one of the last venues in town that consistently takes the term “original theater” to a whole new level. As an added treat, nationally recognized solo theatre artist Ruby Nelda Perez will make an appearance on Sunday’s closing performance. Friday and Saturday at 8 pm, Sunday at 5 pm. $15-$25.
Poets & Paella— October 12
Those fortunate enough to experience Pachanga de Palabras, the West Side book festival that took place last month at Plaza Guadalupe, may agree that San Antonio’s poetry scene is having a moment. Carmens De La Calle Cafe seriously has the look and feel of what the beatnik poetry gatherings must have been like in 1950s Greenwich Village. In a salute to Spanish poet and playwright Federico García Lorca, Poets & Paella will serve up sangria and the aforementioned European dish while spectators snap it up at this high-end word party. 8:30-11 pm. Free admission.
Taco Truck Throwdown — October 12
Puffy, soft, or crispy? The correct answer is “yes.” Twisted Tea will once again present the best taco vendors in the state at Essex Modern City. The event is free and will feature live music, mural art, and boutique and artisan vendors. There will also be activities and games for the kids making this a taco-licious family-friendly affair. 2-10 pm. For $60, VIP tickets offer the star taco treatment.
Noche de Esplendor Latino — October 12
The Hispanic Heritage Society, a nonprofit that aims to enhance and promote the richness and diversity of Hispanic heritage through training in music and dance, presents its annual gala dinner and show at the Exclusive Reception Hall. This elegant affair will feature gourmet cuisine, a DJ, and live musical performances. The organization stays active by offering year-round language and cultural arts training beyond the Mexican and Spanish traditions. Tickets $60. Cocktail attire is requested. 7 pm to midnight.
Sociedad Cultural Hispanoamericana presents Hispanic Trails Cultural Festival — October 13
The whole family will certainly enjoy this free festival at Wonderland of the Americas in Balcones Heights where 14 different Hispanic and Latin American countries will be represented through arts and crafts, traditional food, and live performances. Organizers encourage folks to bring their blankets and lawn chairs to enjoy an afternoon of live music and inspired folkloric dances. 1-8 pm.
Natalia Lafourcade— October 13
Traditional music from Latin America is evolving and the work of the talented Natalia Lafourcade could be a glowing example of that. The Mexican singer-songwriter, who will perform at 7 p.m at the Aztec Theatre, won a 2015 Grammy for her album Hasta la Raíz . Tickets range from $84-$99.