At the start of October, a slate of fall festivals has us wishing we could be in two places at once. Should we sip a Tempranillo in Gruene or watch water lanterns flicker on the waves? Or maybe munch on Japanese bites while celebrating a century of Jingu House? The choice is yours. Check out the top seven things to do in San Antonio this weekend. For a complete list of events, click over to our calendar.
Thursday, October 8
Broadway in San Antonio presents The Sound of Music
The iconic Broadway musical The Sound of Music comes to Majestic Theatre. Audiences can sing along to famous songs like “Edelweiss,” “Do-Re-Mi,” and “Sixteen Going on Seventeen” while following the von Trapp family and their governess Maria through life in 1930s Europe. Tickets for all shows are available now. Performances are scheduled through October 11.
Gruene Music & Wine Festival
Travel just outside the city for the Gruene Music & Wine Festival. The four-day event at Gruene Hall will include beer and wine tastings, various live music performances, food vendors, and more. This year’s music lineup includes Dos Barrachos with guests Kevin Fowler and Roger Creager, Robert Earl Keen, Shane Smith & the Saints, and others. Ticket prices vary by event. For a full schedule of events and to purchase tickets, visit the festival website.
Saturday, October 10
Frost Bank Center presents Journey in concert
Powerhouse rock band Journey takes the stage at the Alamodome. They make the stop in San Antonio as part of their farewell tour. Fans can enjoy an evening of Journey’s legendary discography, including their most recent album, Freedom. Go to Ticketmaster for more information.
Water Lantern Festival
Experience the Water Lantern Festival with family and friends at Elmendorf Lake Park. Highlights of the evening include a vendor market, live music, food, activities, and the chance to witness thousands of lanterns reflected upon the water after sunset. For a full schedule of events and to buy tickets, go to the festival website.
Japanese Tea Garden presents Jingu Festival
Celebrate 100 years of the Jingu House at the Japanese Tea Garden with an all-day festival of Japanese-inspired activities. Highlights include live entertainment, the opportunity to roam the garden grounds, and Japanese street food and beverages. Festival admission is free and open to the public.
The Strong Group Association presents 6th Annual JazzFunkSoul Fest
Jazz, soul, and funk fans alike are invited to the return of the Annual JazzFunkSoul Fest hosted by The Strong Group Assoc. Performers include Phillip "Doc" Martin, Don Diego & The Razz Band, Marium Echo, and Kyle Turner. A vendor area, local food trucks, and a cash bar will be available. For more information about the festival, check Eventbrite.
The Tobin Center presents H-E-B Cinema on Will's Plaza
Halloween cinema comes to the Will Naylor Smith River Walk Plaza at the Tobin Center. This month’s featured screening is the blockbuster 1998 witch film, Practical Magic. Arriving early and bringing your own lawn chairs or blankets is encouraged. A full bar and concessions will be available to complete the movie night. Admission is free.