3 Lubbock luminaries on what ignites the Hub City

Faces and Places

Photo courtesy of Visit Lubbock

In Lubbock, Texas, where locals have been pouring their livelihood into both the city and their craft, the community has created a Texas experience like no other. What sets apart a destination from others is the welcoming faces who meet travelers with open doors and a willingness to share the West Texas way of life with all who wander through.

CultureMap recently checked in with three Lubbock luminaries to learn what drew them to the city, what dreams they're making come true, and how visitors can take part in the magic.

Matt Bostick, sommelier and hospitality director of Llano Estacado Winery
Though his roots are in Texas, Matt Bostick found his passion for wine in Italy. While studying hospitality in Florence in 2011, he met Parisian sommelier Quinton Paillard, who encouraged his budding love of vino and set Bostick on the path toward becoming a sommelier himself.

After earning his degree in restaurant, hotel, and institutional management from Texas Tech University in 2012, Bostick joined Jackson Family Estates in Los Angeles. From there, he further honed his expertise as the lead sommelier for Pizzeria Mozza and Osteria Mozza, under the mentorship of Sarah Clarke A few years later, Bostick co-founded a restaurant called Baldoria and even developed a line of ready-to-drink cocktails with his business partner, David King.

"When David and I decided to create B&K Cocktail Company, our business venture brought us back to Texas," Bostick says. "With my family residing in Lubbock, it was a natural choice to settle here. Lubbock holds significant personal and professional values for me. It's my hometown, where I was born and raised, and where most of my family continues to live and contribute to this community."

Today, Bostick is the events director and sommelier at Llano Estacado Winery, Texas’ second oldest winery. Bostick guides visitors through a sensory journey, introducing them to the complexities of different wines, regions, and vintages while offering insights into history, production techniques, and the unique characteristics of each varietal.

"I help individuals identify tasting notes, appreciate nuances, and even recommend food pairings that enhance the overall culinary experience," he says.

Grape Day on October 21 is an ideal time to visit the winery to see Bostick in action. To celebrate the end of the harvest, which spans late July to early October, Llano features captivating self-guided tours, diverse art booths, delicious offerings from the finest local vendors, exciting games for kids, and a mesmerizing lineup of live music on the Lubbock Listening Room stage.

Admission is free, but for $35 attendees will receive a commemorative Grape Day wine glass along with two tickets redeemable for a glass of wine. Pre-sale drink tickets will also be available for purchase in a bundle of three tickets for $15 (otherwise each ticket is $8 at the event).

"Grape Day holds immense significance to me. It's a celebration that represents the culmination of hard work and a sense of community," Bostick says. "Llano Estacado Winery has not only been a pioneer in the Texas wine industry but has also contributed to our local community's growth. Events like this shine a light on the rich heritage and traditions of winemaking, connecting our community to a broader narrative of craftsmanship and appreciation for the finer things in life."

Ian Timmons, pitmaster and third-generation owner of Tom & Bingo’s BBQ
It's been called a West Texas legend since 1952, and as soon as you step inside Tom & Bingo's BBQ, you'll understand why. This old-school barbecue joint — and Lubbock’s oldest restaurant — is packed with nostalgia and dishes out authentic barbecue that would make original owners Tom and Bettye Clanton proud, and current owner Ian Timmons intends to keep it that way.

While studying at Texas Tech, Timmons worked under Dwayne Clanton (Tom and Bettye's son, who gained ownership of the restaurant in 1980) and earned hands-on experience as a pitmaster. Upon graduation, he moved to Denver with his wife, Kristi, where he worked at Denver Biscuit Company.

"I’ve always worked in restaurants," says Timmons. "From my first job at Dairy Queen to a local restaurant called Orlando’s, where I was a server and got fired for making pizzas during my shift."

Timmons' wife also happens to be Dwayne and Liz Clanton's daughter, making him the obvious choice to carry on the legacy when the couple was ready to retire in 2017.

Now, Timmons pays homage to Tom & Bingo's 70-year legacy by smoking modern bark-on-brisket, his own coarsely ground smoked beef sausage, and pork spare ribs on the original brick pits the predecessors used for decades. He's also expanded the menu to include scratch-made potato salad and slaw, but one item remains a constant since the early days of the restaurant: the steak burger.

"This fall we are switching from our legendary brick pits to a new Centex offset smoker, so it’s back to square one for us," reveals Timmons. "This fall will be a learning season for us! But we are excited to see what a new smoker can do for us."

You can also catch the eatery's new food truck out and about and look forward to more biscuit collaborations with Monomyth Coffee (inspired by Timmons' time in Denver, of course). "We'll also hopefully open a Biscuit Club location to help grow the breakfast scene in Lubbock," Timmons hints.

But perhaps the tastiest way to experience Tom & Bingo's, besides visiting the restaurant itself, is by sampling its goods at the Texas Monthly BBQ Fest in November. Held in Lockhart, November 4-5, the event helps raise funds for Feeding Texas and a network of food banks across the state.

Yung Cry Baby, aka Aaliyah Limon, resident artist with Charles Adams Studio Project
Full-time musician and vocalist Aaliyah Limon was born and raised in Lubbock, but when she was younger, she didn't feel the city had a place for her yet. After graduation, the aspiring talent took off to explore both coasts, working as a model and artist, but after a while realized she wasn’t as fulfilled as she had hoped and missed her family.

"I needed a break from my fast-paced lifestyle," she says. "I came back home to be with family, take a step back, and reassess what I really wanted to do with my life. When I moved back, my music took off much faster than I ever anticipated."

Now Limon is professionally known as Yung Cry Baby and serves as a resident artist with the Charles Adams Studio Project, a nonprofit that supports working artists in Lubbock.

"Because I'm passionate about it and motivated by the people who resonate with what I sing about, I've kind of kept with the momentum of things," Limon says. "I'm excited about what I do, and I love helping people heal through my music. Even if it only helps a little, it gives me a lot of joy knowing I can maybe help someone not feel alone."

Fans can see Yung Cry Baby perform not only at the karaoke bar she hosts at, but also at First Friday Art Trail, a monthly arts festival located in downtown Lubbock with a mission to bring together collectors, artists, and community friends for an evening of art, music, and fun. Participants are ever-changing, offering something for everyone.

"I love doing community-based things, especially when it comes to art," Limon says. "First Friday is always a blast for me."

Yung Cry Baby is currently working on her first full album, following the earlier release of her EP. Follow her on social media for updates.

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Experience the people and places of Lubbock yourself by planning your next vacation here.

Photo courtesy of Visit Lubbock

Matt Bostick helps visitors appreciate the wine at Llano Estacado Winery.

Austin Food + Wine Festival Facebook

Traverse Texas this fall and winter for festivals, food, art, and more

Hit the Road

One of the perks of living in Texas is having a handful of other big, fun cultural cities within driving distance. Perhaps you've already blown through your PTO or still have some vacation time you're looking to fill — why not hop in the car and drive to one of Texas' big five?

We're talking Austin, Dallas, Fort Worth, Houston, and San Antonio, and boy do these cities have a full calendar coming up to close out 2023.

Whether you're looking to experience the holiday spirit in another area code or are tempted by one of the local festivals, fall and winter are the ideal times to visit your Lone Star neighbors.

Here's a month-by-month look at what's happening around the state:

Austin Food + Wine Festival Facebook

Austin Food + Wine Festival is back this November.

September

AUSTIN: Pecan Street Festival
The Pecan Street Festival, a twice-yearly arts festival, is returning to downtown Austin on September 16-17. Over 300 local artisans and vendors will be selling their handmade art, crafts, clothing, and more in booths lined along 6th Street between Brazos Street and I-35 for the weekend. Live performances by local musicians are also scheduled throughout the weekend. And the best part? The festival is free.

DALLAS: Autumn at the Arboretum
This yearly festival features 100,000 pumpkins, gourds, and squash hailing from the pumpkin capital of Texas, Floydada, and 150,000 beautiful fall-blooming plants throughout the garden. For its 18th year, running September 16-November 5, the theme is "It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown" with the return of the Peanuts Gang, themed pumpkin houses that make up the Pumpkin Village, a hay bale maze, and plenty of special events.

FORT WORTH: Oktoberfest
This three-day, Munich-style celebration of German culture includes a ceremonial tapping of the kegs, carnival rides, dachshund races, a brat-eating contest, bier barrel-rolling, stein-hoist competition, the Oktoberfest Run Und Ride, and plenty of polka bands. It's held in Trinity Park September 21-23.

HOUSTON: Houston International Jazz Festival
Head to the Miller Outdoor Theatre on September 16 for this celebration of jazz in Houston, this year featuring the Duke Ellington Orchestra directed by Charlie Young. Special guests Paul Mercer Ellington (Duke's grandson) and Tierney Malone will be there, along with the featured work of acclaimed artist Jack Whitten.

SAN ANTONIO: McNay Art Museum presents "Dreamland: Tim Burton's The Nightmare Before Christmas"
In the exhibition, a 30th-anniversary celebration of filmmaker Tim Burton’s 1993 stop-motion animated film, visitors can reacquaint themselves with Burton’s awkwardly charming cast that includes Sally, Oogie Boogie, Bone Crusher, and the beloved hero, Jack Skellington. Also meet unusual characters created by artists from the McNay’s collection, including José Clemente Orozco Farías, Julie Heffernan, Eugene Berman, Marilyn Lanfear, Willem de Kooning, Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, Julie Speed, and others. The exhibition runs through January 14.

October

AUSTIN: Austin Film Festival
During the eight-day festival, held October 26-November 2, audiences can view screenings of film and television premieres galore, plus competition films, documentaries, shorts, and more, with all-star line-ups and Q&As by your favorite writers, actors, and filmmakers.

DALLAS: State Fair of Texas
The State Fair of Texas begins its run in Dallas September 29, with 24 days of live music, carnival games, fried food creation competitions, and more. Luckily for CultureMap readers, here's a thorough guide to getting every possible discount at the fair this year.

FORT WORTH: Art Worth
This festival on the lawn at Will Rogers Memorial Center, now in its second year, celebrates visual arts and classical music October 20-22. Expect artists' exhibitions plus demonstrations of decorative arts disciplines,such as glassblowing, metal pours, potters wheel, and wood-turning.

HOUSTON: Bayou City Art Festival
A juried art festival that's responsible for raising more than $3.7 million in support of local nonprofit organizations. The outdoor festival attracts more than 20,000 attendees, offering the opportunity to meet with exhibiting artists, buy one-of-a-kind art, and enjoy food, music, and entertainment.

SAN ANTONIO: Tasting Texas Wine + Food Festival
Culinaria and Visit San Antonio head up this four-day epicurean experience that allows food and wine lovers alike to explore the unique flavors of Texas for themselves. Guests can look forward to enjoying live music, educational panels, and sampling a variety of cocktails, wines, and craft beers from October 26-29. The best part is that it’s a party with a purpose — the James Beard Foundation is the beneficiary, with $250,000 committed to support culinary students in Texas.

November

AUSTIN: Austin Food & Wine Festival
The 12th Annual Austin Food and Wine Festival will feature chefs, restaurants, and wine and spirits experts over two days, November 4-5. Festival highlights include the new Made In Texas Saturday night event; the return of the Hands-On Grilling event with chef Tim Love; the Fire Pit, featuring bites hot off the flames; cooking demonstrations and conversations; samples of signature dishes from local chefs and restaurants; wine, beer and cocktail tastings; live music; and more.

DALLAS: Chi Omega Christmas Market
A 46-year tradition, this massive market will feature more than 200 merchants and is expected to welcome more than 10,000 shoppers in search of the holiday spirit on November 15-18. Browse holiday decor, women’s clothing and accessories, home accents, children’s clothing and toys, food items, and more. All proceeds from ticket sales, merchant booth fees, and donations are donated to vetted local charities.

FORT WORTH: Lone Star Film Festival
Since its founding 16 years ago by local film advocates and legendary actor and Fort Worth native Bill Paxton, the Lone Star Film Society has provided film education programs for hundreds of students interested in filmmaking in the Fort Worth area. The festival itself has grown into a premier destination for filmmakers, producers, industry professionals, and film enthusiasts, with the honor of being ranked a “Top 50 Film Festival” by MovieMaker Magazine. Catch it November 2-5.

HOUSTON: Nutcracker Market
The 43rd annual Nutcracker Market will host more than 270 merchants from across the country — including more than 30 new merchants — showcasing a curated collection of unique holiday items, gourmet food, apparel, jewelry, accessories, home decor, gifts, toys, and more. Go shopping November 9-12 at NRG Park.

SAN ANTONIO: Cirque du Soleil Bazzar
Cirque du Soleil’s first return to San Antonio since 2006, and the first time the city will welcome a Big Top show, Bazzar is a dazzling homage to the Cirque du Soleil legacy that highlights its awe-inspiring acrobatic displays, adroit dancers, and talented musicians. Inspired by a traditional Middle Eastern bazaar, the production captures the bustling kinetic environment of the centuries-old, open-air market setting through its ensemble of diverse characters. It runs November 5-December 3 at Nelson W. Wolff Municipal Stadium.

December

AUSTIN: Trail of Lights
What began as a small gathering in 1965 known as the Yule Fest, a gift to the city of Austin from Austin Parks and Recreation Department, has now grown into a community wide celebration of the unique spirit and people of Austin. In the 59 years since the first Yule Log was lit, the Trail now features more than 2 million lights illuminating the park, 96 lighted holiday trees, and more than 70 other holiday displays and lighted tunnels. You can visit December 8-23.

DALLAS: BMW Dallas Marathon
The annual event, held this year December 8-10, features a half-marathon (running and, new this year, walking), 50K ultra marathon, five-person marathon relay, and two-person half-marathon relay. There is also a 10K, 5K (running and walking), 5K team challenge, kids' 100-yard dash, and Oncor Kid’s Race on the following day, and return of the Friday Night Lights Mile. The weekend's events directly benefit Scottish Rite for Children. Since being named as the primary beneficiary in 1997, the Dallas Marathon Festival has donated more than $4 million to the organization.

FORT WORTH: Lightscape at the Fort Worth Botanic Gardens
Lightscape returns for its second year with 80 percent newly designed displays. Visitors will walk a one-mile-long path with suspended strands and tunnels of light, see a fire garden, undulating wave of bluebonnets, singing trees, treetop sculptures, and artistic installations, all while toasting marshmallows and drinking hot chocolate and other seasonal drinks at stations along the trail. It opens November 17 and runs through January 1, 2024.

HOUSTON: Moody Gardens Ice Land
Part of Holiday in the Gardens, Ice Land lets visitors experience the vibrancy of rainforests with the monkeys, birds, butterflies, and orchid, as Christmas-decked leaf-cutter ants lead you through a magical world intricately carved from ice. Go down the giant ice slide that transports guests from the canopy to the forest floor, past ancient ruins, and along river edges. There is even an opportunity to enjoy Shivers Ice Bar, featuring festive holiday spirits inside this ultra-cool bar made completely out of ice. Visit November 18-January 16, 2024.

SAN ANTONIO: Alamo Bowl
The 2023 Valero Alamo Bowl will be played at the 65,000-seat Alamodome and broadcast on ESPN on December 28, kicking off at 8:15 pm. Last year, the Valero Alamo Bowl and its partners awarded more than $1.2 million split between students representing every participating San Antonio-area high school and four-year university — a record-setting number.

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Photo courtesy of Visit Garland

Tip your hat to Garland, where diversity and cowboy culture blend

Hit the Road

Here's a fun fact for your next trivia night: If you own a Resistol or Biltmore hat, it was likely made in Garland, the cowboy hat capital of Texas.

You'll find more than 10-gallons here, though, thanks to a diverse community that pours its culture and history into not only unique shopping but also restaurants, arts, and a whole year's worth of fun festivals and cool celebrations.

Here's a glimpse at what else is waiting in this North Texas city:

The great outdoors
Take a stroll among the wildflowers at the Spring Creek Forest Preserve or cycle your way through the Rowlett Creek Bike Trails. Ready to try four wheels? Execute an ollie or a kickflip at The Jon Comer Skatepark.

For something less heart-pounding, perfect your swing on 63 holes of championship-caliber golf over three courses at Firewheel Golf Park.

Experience the ultimate in lake life — if even only for a day — at Lake Ray Hubbard, which spans 21,000 acres and is great for fishing, skiing, and boating.

Let's celebrate
No matter what time of year you visit, there's bound to be a festival or other special event happening.

The beloved Garland Guzzler 0.5K race and Oktoberfest happen on September 23, 2023.

In October, get ready to experience an unforgettable day of festivities at the grand opening of the Downtown Garland Square on October 14 from 10 am-9 pm. As the sun sets, prepare to be wowed by a special musical appearance from the one and only LeAnn Rimes. It’s a day of unity, culture, and fun, marking a new era for the beloved Downtown Garland Square.

Later in the month, stop by for the Wheels of Hope Car Show on October 21, 2023.

Honor departed loved ones on November 1's Día de Los Muertos, then usher in the holiday spirit with A Garland Christmas on December 7, 2023.

In the New Year, Big Art Day arrives on April 1, 2024, or enjoy some tunes when the heart of Downtown Garland Square comes alive with the vibrant rhythms of live music all year-round. Want more music? The Asian Music Festival is set for May 18, 2024.

Celebrate Black culture with the Juneteenth celebration on June 15, 2024, at Audubon Park and then America's birthday during the Star-Spangled Spectacular on June 30, 2024, at Firewheel Town Center.

Get ready to cheer on the DFW Asian American Soccer Tournament July 22-23, 2024, at Winters Park.

Get cultured
Located in the heart of historic downtown Garland, the Granville Arts Center complex includes two magnificent proscenium theaters: the award-winning Atrium banquet facility and the exquisite art deco Plaza Theatre, which is home to Garland Summer Musicals. All venues are city-owned and operated.

Let's eat (and drink)
The food scene here includes Pangea, a restaurant owned by chef Kev Ashade who raise to fame after beating celebrity chef Bobby Flay on his own TV show.

Ferah Tex-Med Kitchen dishes up “modern Mediterranean with a Texas twist,” and the Garland Pho Real Trail boasts more than 20 authentic, family-owned Vietnamese restaurants.

Newcomers include Latham Bakery, Scoop n' Boba, and Fortunate Son.

Take your pick from two breweries: Lakewood Brewing Co. is a pioneer brewery and one of the original breweries that came on board when craft beer first emerged. Intrinsic Smokehouse & Brewery, meanwhile, offers delicious barbecue and craft beer in downtown Garland.

Shop 'til you drop
Wear your walking shoes, because Firewheel Town Center provides premier outdoor shopping, dining, and entertainment with more than 110 stores.

But there's also plenty of unexpected shopping to be found here, where you can find rare and one-of-a-kind products.

Fall in love with your beginner or vintage guitar at Jimmy Wallace Guitars. Visit The Frocksy and Karin Wiseman Collection to discover marvelous and quirky items for you and your home. Stop by the Best Cowhides showroom and find exquisite, genuine leather rugs and purses. Or put together the perfect vintage outfit at Boogie Nights Vintage.

Rest your head
The most affordable hotel rates in the Dallas-Fort Worth area are in Garland. Hotels here are dedicated to cleanliness and have convenient access to President George Bush Highway, I-635/LBJ Freeway, and I-30. Many hotels are also within walking distance of Garland’s many diverse dining options.

Plan your perfect Garland getaway here.

Photo courtesy of Visit Garland

Live music takes over Downtown Garland Square year-round.

Photo courtesy of Visit Mesquite

March to a different beat this season with the Mesquite Symphony Orchestra

Hit the Road

Classical music may not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about the Rodeo Capital of Texas, but don’t be fooled — Mesquite has more to offer than legendary rodeos and barbecues.

This community also prides itself on enjoying the finer things in life, and the Mesquite Symphony Orchestra (MSO) is a unique, cultured experience unlike any other in Texas.

Found only 15 minutes from Dallas, the Mesquite Symphony Orchestra is a hidden gem that’s been bringing music to Texas since 1987.

Based at the Mesquite Arts Center, the MSO isn’t your average orchestra. It’s a volunteer-driven ensemble, steeped in the European tradition of community orchestras and dedicated to making memorable experiences through music.

The symphony is made up of talented musicians from North Texas who infuse their passion and expertise into every performance. Since 2018, the Orchestra has been led by Felix Torres, who previously served as the apprentice conductor of the Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra and the executive director of the East Texas Youth Orchestra.

Under the baton of Torres, the MSO embraces the true Mesquite spirit of unpretentious sophistication. This isn’t your typical symphony, with stuffy dress codes and stifling regulations. In Mesquite, they believe music is for everyone and you are welcome to come as you are, whether that's dressed to the nines or however you feel comfortable.

That welcoming spirit doesn’t stop at the dress code. Visitors are encouraged to emulate the atmosphere of the early days of classical music, which more closely resembled a modern rock concert than a modern symphony.

All are invited to express the emotions brought on by the music during the performance, be it through clapping or cheering. Additionally, MSO endeavors to present diverse programs that are impactful for people of all backgrounds, including populations that are historically excluded.

The 2023-24 season is a series of enchanting performances, kicking off with Short Ride in America featuring works by John Adams, Antonin Dvorak, and William Grant Still.

The season continues with The Adventures of Youth, A Winter Celebration, Her Story, and Fantasy Unleashed, and culminates in the grand finale, Into the Fire, featuring pieces by Victor Agudelo and Igor Stravinsky.

Much like the community that hosts it, the Mesquite Symphony Orchestra isn't about the glitz and glamor; it’s about genuine charm and fostering an appreciation for live performance.

Here is the season at a glance:

Short Ride in America - September 16, 2023
7:30-8:30 pm
Featuring John Adams’ "Short Ride in a Fast Machine," Antonin Dvorak’s "Cello Concerto" with soloist Tsun-yuet Emmanuel Kwok, and William Grant Still’s "Afro-American Symphony."

The Adventures of Youth - October 28, 2023
7:30-8:30 pm
Featuring John Williams’ "The Adventures of Indiana Jones," a world premiere by local composer Nicolas Miranda, Juliea Wolfe’s "Fountain of Youth," and the bilingual version of Sergei Prokofiev’s "Peter and the Wolf (Pedro y el lobo)."

A Winter Celebration - December 16, 2023
5-6p m, 7:30-8:30 pm
Featuring John Williams’ "Three Holiday Songs from Home Alone," A Musicological Journey Through the 12 Days of Christmas, Coleridge-Taylor’s "Ballade," and more.

Her Story - February 17, 2024
7:30-8:30 pm
Featuring Florence Price’s "Piano Concerto" with soloist Evan Mitchell and Nicolai Rimsky-Korsakov’s "Scheherazade."

Fantasy Unleashed - April 6, 2024
7:30-8:30 pm
Featuring music from the Harry Potter universe, Video Games Live, Katahj Copley’s "Equinox," and more.

Into the Fire - May 18, 2024
7:30-8:30 pm
Featuring Victor Agudelo’s "Algo va a suceder" and Igor Stravinsky’s "The Firebird."

Photo courtesy of Visit Mesquite

Felix Torres has led the MSO since 2018.

Tickets can be purchased at MesquiteSymphony.org. The Mesquite Arts Center is located at 1527 N. Galloway Ave. Find more to do and enjoy in Mesquite here.

Photo courtesy of the artist

Prolific photography exhibition puts Latinx life in focus for San Antonians

From SA to SA

Now is your chance to see more than 200 works from 20 award-winning Latin American and Latinx photographers living in South, Central, and North America taking on the topics of immigration, indigenous realities, aftereffects of the COVID pandemic, and women’s rights.

“From SA to SA: From South America to San Antonio” is an exhibition that demonstrates the power of documentary photography as a direct representation of our realities and as a force of social change.

On display at the Centro de Artes Gallery through December 30, 2023, the exhibition is put on by the City of San Antonio’s Department of Arts & Culture

Photo courtesy of the artist

Tamara Merino "Isolated Soul."

Curated by San Antonio multi-disciplinary artist and educator Guillermina Zabala, the artworks focus on the interconnected weaving of individual and collective stories depicted in appealing, powerful, and thought-provoking photographic images.

"As an Argentine-American artist and curator, I wanted to bring part of my history and culture to San Antonio,” Zabala says. “With this exhibit I present a glimpse of a wider panorama of sociopolitical and economic realities emerging from Latin America and Latinx communities in the U.S. Through striking imagery and compelling storytelling, I want to invite the audience to immerse themselves in the stories, the places, and the people."

The exhibition features work by Rodrigo Abd, Sara Aliaga, Eliana Aponte, Guillermo Arias, María Paula Avila, Verónica Gabriela Cárdenas, María Eugenia Cerutti, Francisco Cortés, Ana Carolina Fernandes, Mariana Greif, Sáshenka Gutiérrez Valerio, Adeline Lulo, Tamara Merino, Sandro Pereyra, Natacha Pisarenko, Joseph Rodriguez, Jorge Saenz, Claudio Santana, Yvonne Venegas, and Martín Zabala.

“Images are an illuminating component in storytelling and these artists expertly use their cameras to document social change, historical events, and everyday life,” says Department of Arts & Culture executive director Krystal Jones. “At first you may think the photography on display is straightforward, yet when you take a closer look you quickly discover alternative ways of viewing the world through these talented artists’ eyes.”

There will be an Artist Talk on Thursday, October 26, from 6-8 pm, and a virtual option on Wednesday, November 15, from 6-8 pm.

Centro de Artes is free to visit and open to the public Wednesdays through Fridays from 10:30 am-5 pm, plus Saturdays and Sundays from noon- 5 pm. The gallery is closed on Mondays, Tuesdays, and City holidays.

Located in Historic Market Square, Centro de Artes is dedicated to telling the transnational story of the Latino experience in the U.S. with a focus on San Antonio and South Texas through local and regional art, history, and culture.

For more information, visit sanantonio.gov/arts and follow on social at @getcreativesa, #CentrodeArtesSA, and #FromSAtoSA.

Photo courtesy of Garrison Brothers

Raise a glass — and funds — in September with Garrison Brothers Bourbon

Old Fashioned Fun

Forget the drink of the summer — it's finally time for the drink of the fall, and because September is National Bourbon Heritage Month, an OId Fashioned seems exactly the right choice.

To celebrate, Garrison Brothers Bourbon is mounting its Hye Fashioned Takeover, a month-long festivity of flavor, tradition, and innovation where bars and restaurants across the country showcase their mixology mastery with creative Old Fashioned specials.

But the takeover isn't just about creative cocktails. With every Instagram or Facebook post you share about your #hyefashioned experience, Garrison Brothers will make a donation of $2 to Boot Campaign to support their life-changing programs for veterans and military families.

Even better: Every post counts as an entry for a chance to win one of 10 unique Garrison Brothers prize packages, which includes a custom engraved barrel stave, four Garrison Brothers glencairn glasses, an embroidered Garrison Brothers apron, and a $50 gift card from Boot Campaign to to be used on Shop.BootCampaign.org.

To officially enter:

1. Take a picture of your Hye Fashioned cocktail (heck, take a few!).
2. Tag and follow @garrisonbros and @bootcampaign.
3. Make sure to use the hashtag #hyefashioned to showcase your love for this iconic cocktail and help raise money for Boot Campaign.

Ten winners who post the most during September 1-31 will be selected at the conclusion of the program.

Wondering where to go in San Antonio to get your Hye Fashioneds? Here's where to toast and taste America's favorite cocktail during September:

To learn more and see the official rules, visit: hyefashioned.com.

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Official Texas Fashion Week sashays into San Antonio with top emerging designers

BURSTING AT THE SEAMS

Few among us have the clout to sidle up to Anna Wintour on Loewe’s front row, but one doesn’t need the ear of the legendary editor-in-chief to gain fashion inspiration. As Paris Fashion Week winds down in October, the locally hosted Texas Fashion Week is just kicking off.

The annual affair — the official fashion week of the state’s emerging fashion industry — strutted into San Antonio on October 1 and will inspire through October 7 with a full slate of runway shows, educational programs, and glamorous celebrations. A collaboration between the state nonprofit Texas Fashion Industry Initiative and the Council of Fashion Designers of America, the event aims to give promising designers a chance to showcase their ideas.

KLRN’s TV studios at 501 Broadway will be the epicenter of four days of presentations highlighting inspiring new collections. The shows kicked off with a college night featuring Lillian Jenae Designs, Brøc, and Aubrey Frey Apparel, labels created by Texas university students.

“Texas Fashion Week aims to provide a platform for emerging designers to showcase their innovative designs, including students,” said Texas Fashion Industry Initiative Vice President Saige Thomas in a release. “Fashion students deserve a chance to stage their work as well, without the standard financial limitations holding them back.”

In addition to soaking in wardrobe inspiration, local fashionistas can enjoy fashion and beauty panels, a high school sustainability competition, exhibitions, and networking opportunities. An educational program on October 2 covers topics such as branding and drag.

The jam-packed days lead up to the Texas Fashion Industry Awards at the Tobin Center on October 6. A curated brunch at Kiki’s Coffee on October 7 gives gala guests one last chance to congratulate the winners.

The full schedule of events can be found at texasfashionindustry.org. A limited number of all-access and single-day passes are still available.

Comedian Chris Tucker returns to road after a decade with a stop in San Antonio

Comedy Comeback News

Comedian Chris Tucker will make San Antonio's Majestic Theatre one of the stops on his first major tour in North America since 2011, performing at the venue on Thursday, November 2.

The 33-city" Legend" Tour 2023 will kick off in Charleston, South Carolina on September 8, continuing through January 12.

This new date in San Antonio was added due to high demand, as well as a second date in Houston (November 4-5). Tucker will also perform in Irving on November 1.

"I started my career doing stand-up in comedy clubs and it's stand-up comedy that prepared me for all of my movie roles," said Tucker in a statement. "I'm looking forward to getting back to my roots. I love performing live, there's nothing like the energy of a live crowd and making people laugh."

Tucker’s career began in the early 1990s when he became a favorite on Russell Simmons’ HBO Def Comedy Jam. He is best known for his role in the Rush Hour action-comedy film franchise, as well as Friday and The Fifth Element.

He's been in only a few films since the Rush Hour series ended, but recently had a prominent role opposite Ben Affleck, Matt Damon, and Viola Davis in Air.

Tickets will be available on Tuesday, October 3, at 10 am on Ticketmaster.

THE LEGEND TOUR DATES (*new show):

Fri Sep 08 – North Charleston, SC – North Charleston Performing Arts Center
Sun Sep 10 – Norfolk, VA – Chrysler Hall
Wed Sep 20 – Louisville, KY – The Louisville Palace
Fri Sep 22 – Memphis, TN – The Orpheum Theatre Memphis
Sun Sep 24 – Durham, NC – DPAC
Sat Sep 30 – Oakland, CA – Paramount Theatre-Oakland
Tue Oct 03 – Denver, CO – Paramount Theatre
Wed Oct 04 – Inglewood, CA – YouTube Theater
Thu Oct 05 – Phoenix, AZ – Arizona Financial Theatre
Sat Oct 07 – Los Angeles, CA – Hollywood Pantages Theatre
Tue Oct 10 – Columbus, OH – Palace Theatre Columbus
Wed Oct 11 – Cincinnati, OH – Aronoff Center
Thu Oct 12 – Cleveland, OH – State Theatre at Playhouse Square
Wed Oct 18 – Philadelphia, PA – The Met Philadelphia
Thu Oct 19 – Pittsburgh, PA – Benedum Center
Sun Oct 22 – Baltimore, MD – Hippodrome at France-Merrick Performing Arts
Thu Oct 26 – Nashville, TN – Ryman Auditorium
Wed Nov 01 – Irving, TX – The Pavilion at Toyota Music Factory
Thur Nov 02 — San Antonio, TX — Majestic Theatre*
Sat Nov 04 – Houston, TX – Bayou Music Center
Sat Nov 05 – Houston, TX – Bayou Music Center*
Tue Nov 07 – Oklahoma City, OK – Criterion Theater
Wed Nov 08 – Kansas City, MO – Music Hall Kansas City
Tue Nov 14 – Jacksonville, FL – Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts - Moran Theater
Wed Nov 15 – Orlando, FL – Dr Phillips Center for the Performing Arts
Fri Nov 17 – New York, NY – Beacon Theatre
Sat Nov 18 — New York, NY — Beacon Theatre*
Wed Nov 29 – Chicago, IL – The Chicago Theatre
Sat Dec 02 – Indianapolis, IN – Murat Theatre at Old National Centre
Mon Dec 04 – St. Louis, MO – Stifel Theatre
Thu Dec 07 – Washington, DC – The Anthem
Tue Jan 09 – Toronto, ON – Meridian Hall
Fri Jan 12 – Detroit, MI – Fox Theatre

Hopdoddy mooves toward regenerative meats, nixing plant-based substitutes

86 the Beyond Patties

Hearty Central Texas-based chain Hopdoddy Burger Bar has unveiled a new lineup of regenerative burgers that are supposed to be better for the planet and the consumer.

The term ‘regenerative burger’ could cause a few head-scratches: Some may think of lab-grown or 3D-printed meat, while others think of plant-based alternatives but it’s neither. It is grass-fed meat, sourced a bit differently. "Regenerative farming" is a term used to describe farming and grazing practices that claim to restore and rebuild degraded soil, resulting in better-quality air and water.

Hopdoddy’s vice president of culinary Matt Schweitzer explained that it all began with with a sense of obligation to do better as a brand for the consumers and the ecosystem.

“We felt like we could really take a stand and look to move our entire supply chain in a regenerative fashion, so we could really be proud of the work we’ve done and we could hopefully leave the animals, the farmers, the ranchers, the native grasslands, and our planet a better place than before we started,” says Schweitzer.

The new menu items include the "Roosevelt Burger" with grass-fed regenerative bison; the "Nashville Hot Sandwich" with regenerative raised chicken; the "Regenerative Royale," which is a play on a classic double quarter-pounder with cheese; the "Mother Nature" with grass-fed regenerative beef; and the "Buffalo Bill" also uses regenerative bison, but appears not to be grass-fed.

The five burgers are available at all Hopdoddy locations nationwide. The beef and bison are sourced from Texas-based regenerative company Force of Nature, while the chicken is from Cooks Venture.

With this launch, Hopdoddy removes all plant-based meat substitutes from its menu, significantly reducing the options for vegans and vegetarians. The company felt the ingredients and ethos of the alternative meats — describing some such as Beyond Meats as "falsely advertised" regarding nutrition in a press release — no longer aligned with its values and mission. However, the house-made veggie patty remains on the signature "El Bandito" burger.

Schweitzer says the regenerative burgers have received positive feedback, as people are excited to know where their food comes from, how it gets to their table, and what type of impact it causes. Regarding the future of regenerative meat, he says there is no doubt it could become mainstream soon.

“I think the flavor profile, the eating experience, the story, the mission, the purpose, really speaks for itself," says Schweitzer. "So, I really think it’s a matter of time until 'regenerative' is talked about in the same way that 'organic,' or 'sustainable,' or those type of buzzwords are talked about."

To further show its commitment to regenerative agriculture, Hopdoddy is also one of the sponsors of Common Ground, a documentary about the pioneers of the regenerative movement, premiering October 4 in Austin. The "uplifting" film, according to a release, features well-known actors Laura Dern, Rosario Dawson, Jason Momoa, Woody Harrelson, Ian Somerhalder, and Donald Glover, emphasizing that this motley crew does share one thing in common: a strong belief in regenerative agriculture.

For more information about the new regenerative burgers, visit hopdoddy.com.

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