Your Ultimate Guide to Fiesta San Antonio
Get ready to crack your cascarones! Fiesta San Antonio 2026 is officially hitting the streets from April 16–26, 2026. This 10-day “Party With A Purpose” celebrates the city’s rich culture with iconic parades, live music, and enough street food to last a lifetime.
Whether you’re a lifelong medal collector or a first-timer looking for the best river parade views, the city is buzzing with local specials. Here is your guide to the must-visit spots and exclusive events for Fiesta 2026. (Bakery Lorraine, La Panadería, The Gunter Hotel, Kimpton Santo, Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa, 2026)
🎖️ The Medal Trail: Where to Score This Year’s Swag
Half the fun of Fiesta is the “clink” of medals on your sash. Start your collection at these local favorites:
- Bakery Lorraine: Starting Wednesday, April 8, pick up their 2026 medal for $12 at all locations. Best of all, proceeds benefit Cornyation, one of Fiesta’s most beloved charitable traditions.
- La Panadería: Launching April 8, grab a new Fiesta medal for $10. While you’re there, don’t miss their limited-edition Fiesta Mini Conchas—the perfect colorful treat to kick off the festivities.
🏨 Hotel Hotspots & Party Hubs
The Gunter Hotel: Jazz, Tequila, and Selena
The Gunter is going all out with a packed calendar of events in the heart of downtown:
| Date | Event | Highlights |
| Apr 16–26 | Photo-Op Installation | A curated lobby display perfect for your Fiesta outfit. |
| Apr 18 | Cumbia Night | Vinyl Ambassador and live music by Vanita Leo at Bar 414. |
| Apr 19 & 26 | Jazz Brunch | The Dirty River Jazz Band performs at Jots. |
| Apr 21 | Noche de Tequila | Fiesta-themed cocktails and free chicharrónes at Keystone Club. |
| Apr 22 | Bidi Bidi Fiesta | A Selena-inspired night with a themed cocktail menu. |
Pro Tip: Visit Paris Baguette inside the hotel; they are giving away a complimentary Fiesta medal with any cake purchase (while supplies last).
Kimpton Santo: Rooftop Views & Parade Parties
For an elevated experience (literally), head to the Kimpton Santo and their rooftop bar, Tenfold:
- Dean’s Fiesta Reserve (Apr 16–24): Enjoy a Santo Steak and receive a complimentary Fiesta medal. Add a Spanish wine flight for $65.
- Palomas & Paletas (Apr 20): Watch the Texas Cavaliers River Parade with $5 paletas and $16 Palomas.
- Battle of Flowers Edition (Apr 24): Rooftop tastings with Rincon de Dios and DJ sets starting at 5 PM.
- Casa De Sol Pool Party (Apr 26): Close out the festivities with a rooftop pool party. Tickets are $11.99 via Posh.
Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa: A Garden Sanctuary
Looking for a slightly more refined celebration? Plaza San Antonio offers a “Fiesta Sanctuary”:
- Viva Corinne: From April 16–26, enjoy mini Chile Rellenos, a La Villita Margarita, and a Fiesta Medal for $26.
- Garden of Fiesta: Head to the Anaqua Garden Bar for the $125 Fiesta Table Package, bubbles, medals, and great vibes.
- Staycation Alert: The Viva La Plaza hotel package puts you right in the center of the action with maximum comfort.
🎊 Mark Your Calendars
Don’t miss the “Big Three” parades that define the Fiesta experience:
- Texas Cavaliers River Parade
- Battle of Flowers® Parade
- Fiesta Flambeau® Parade (The largest night parade in the country!)
Viva Fiesta 2026! How many medals are you planning to collect this year?
SA Examiner 