Interested artists can apply online to be feature in this year’s Luminaria. Photo by Mike Farquhar, courtesy Luminaria
Attention artists: Luminaria recently put out a call for artists for their next Luminaria Contemporary Arts Festival tentatively scheduled for Saturday, October 19, 2024. The locations is TBA later but all interested artists are welcome to apply online. (Luminaria, 2024)
Visual artists, theater performers, digital artists, installation artists, musicians, poets, and all other form of artists interested in showcasing their artwork at the Luminaria Contemporary Arts Festival 2024 can apply. There are stages and buildings eagerly waiting to be filled with the talented work of a few creative and passionate artists to be selected by extraordinary curators.
Applications will be evaluated by a curatorial committee made up of local working artists and art experts. Featured Artists will be notified in April followed by site-visits, consultations, mentorship, a photo shoot, spotlight videos, media interviews, and networking opportunities. A public announcement of the festival line-up will be held in September.
Luminaria is a dynamic nonprofit arts organization dedicated to producing and promoting the arts to the city of San Antonio. Luminaria is an inclusive organization celebrating the visual and multimedia arts in San Antonio through public engagement and active support for artists. It was founded in 2008 by local arts advocates wanting to create a communal celebration for the city’s arts organizations and artists. Since adopting a new strategic plan in 2021, Luminaria is dedicated to the innovative interpretation of San Antonio’s culture, history, and environment through creative placemaking and site-specific arts integration. Luminaria coordinates with anchor arts institutions, cultural and heritage organizations, and other community partners to foster a vibrant and internationally resonant arts culture in the city.
Cenote at twilight at Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk. Photo: Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk, used with permission.
As April approaches, there will be plenty of events happening in San Antonio. Since it falls in the path of the 2024 solar eclipse on April 8, all eyes will be on Texas. San Antonio will be one of the few cities to witness the totality of the solar eclipse and Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk is hosting a celestial themed Solar Brunch on the rooftop with signature cocktails to watch the moon as it passes between the sun and the Earth. Then at the end of the month, the annual San Antonio Fiesta returns, showcasing the city’s rich Latin heritage and culture with Thompson playing host to a neighborhood Block Party. (Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk, 2024)
Solar Eclipse
Experience the highly anticipated solar eclipse set to cross the U.S in 2024, as San Antonio will be one of the few cities to witness a total eclipse. On April 8, total darkness will be cast as the sun’s rays will be blocked by the passing moon, which won’t occur again until 2045. San Antonio, being the largest city in the path of totality, is a prime place for visitors to witness the natural phenomenon as tours and campgrounds are already being reserved.
From Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk, a modern retreat soaring 20 stories above San Antonio’s celebrated River Walk, guests can witness the Solar Eclipse. Signature restaurant The Moon’s Daughters, inspired by the Greek goddess of the moon, will be hosting a Solar Brunch from 11a.m. – 1:30p.m. on April 8. Guests and locals alike are invited to the enchanting indoor-outdoor rooftop lounge and bar that dazzles from its 20th-story perch over the city for a special celestial experience. To celebrate the extraordinary event, the brunch will include themed cocktails, entertainment, as well as custom Solar Eclipse glasses for all guests to enjoy.
Fiesta
San Antonio’s Fiesta celebration is one of the largest festivals in the U.S., providing countless special events that showcase the city’s rich Latin heritage and culture. The tradition of celebrating Fiesta started in 1891 as a parade event to share memories with loved ones and honor the memory of the heroes of the Alamo and the Battle of San Jacinto. The city’s signature event, which is sponsored by various nonprofit organizations, returns to San Antonio for another year with a festival from April 18-28, 2024.
Guests of Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk will have a perfect view of the Flambeau parade on the San Antonio River Walk, America’s largest illuminated parade featuring decorated floats, musical performances, food, and more. In addition, the Thompson hotel will host a Block Party to kickoff Fiesta season, complete with a coffee bar, mimosas, breakfast tacos, family-friendly activities, and more.
Sweeten your Valentine’s Day with special offerings from Bakery Lorraine. Photo: Bakery Lorraine, used with permission.
Valentine’s Day is right around the corner, and if you are still looking for inspiration on how to celebrate the big day, here are a couple of suggestions from Bakery Lorraine and iFLY Indoor Skydiving. Whether you like celebrating with something sweet or looking for something adventurous, unique, and special to do with a significant other or friends, read on for more details. (Bakery Lorraine, iFLY Indoor Skydiving, 2024)
Bakery Lorraine is adding an extra touch of romance to the big holiday. For foodies looking forward to delectable Valentine’s sweets, Bakery Lorraine has pastries exclusive to the Valentine’s Day holiday available in-store at all locations.
The sweets include:
Strawberry Pop Heart
Heart Moonpie
Japonaise
Berry Tart
In addition to themed desserts, Bakery Lorraine is offering Valentine’s Day bouquets with macarons for pre-order now onlineuntil 12p.m. on Sunday, February 11. Pickup is on Valentine’s Day at the Bakery Lorraine location noted on the order.
For guests in San Antonio, Bakery Lorraine at Pearl will have a flower pop up tent from 4p.m. to 7p.m. on Valentine’s Day (February 14) with beautiful florals available for purchase.
Bakery Lorraine is a San Antonio favorite and nationally recognized pastry shop famous for its colorful macarons and exquisite French pastries. Owned by chefs Anne Ng, Jeremy Mandrell, and operator Charlie Biedenharn, Bakery Lorraine was named one of the best new bakeries in the U.S. by Food & Wine as well as one of the “13 Destination Bakeries” by Conde Nast Traveler. Bakery Lorraine serves handmade French pastries and macarons using the finest ingredients. The bakery serves an all-day menu including items like its Croque Madame, the quiche Lorraine, an assortment of salads and soups and artisan sandwiches. Bakery Lorraine has four locations in San Antonio including one in the Historic Pearl district, one in the Medical Center, one in the RIM shopping center, and one inside The DoSeum. Bakery Lorraine also has an Austin location at the Domain NORTHSIDE and a Boerne location.
In celebration of Valentine’s Day, iFLY Indoor Skydiving is spreading the love by offering a special “Love Is in the Air” package for first-time flyers that includes four flights and two videos shared by two people. This package is a perfect idea for adventurous couples, friends, and families seeking a thrill this Valentine’s Day. Whether it’s for a unique Valentine’s Day date night or a one-of-a-kind Valentine’s Day celebration, iFLY brings loved ones together for an unforgettable experience.
The exclusive package is available for purchase online and at iFLY tunnels from now through February 19. Flights must be purchased, booked and used at a participating U.S. iFLY Indoor Skydiving location within the promotional timeframe (2/1/24 – 2/19/24) for flights to be redeemable.
iFLY is a sports and recreation company with the mission to deliver the dream of flight. The company pioneered the body-flying “indoor skydiving” experience and is the world leader in vertical wind tunnel technology. Guests don’t need to be athletes or in the best shape of their lives. iFLY’s world-class instructors are pros at making flying safe and fun for everyone. Prices vary per iFLY location.
Austin-based iFLY Holdings, LLC, is the world leader in the design, manufacturing, sales and operations of wind-tunnel systems for indoor skydiving. The company has flown more than 9,000,000 people in a dozen countries and at sea since launching the modern vertical wind-tunnel industry in 1998. iFLY has over 70 facilities operating worldwide and close to 40 in the U.S. iFLY supports and utilizes the safety and training guidelines set out by the International Bodyflight Association (IBA) to ensure the safety and progression of the sport of indoor skydiving.
For a totally unique Valentine’s Day gift idea, consider iFLY Indoor Skydiving. Photo: iFLY Indoor Skydiving, used with permission.
Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk has Valentine’s Day and Galentine’s Day specials to help you celebrate in style. Photo: Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk, used with permission.
Now that February is here, it’s time to start planning for this month’s celebrations. Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk is having Valentine’s Day / Galentine’s Day specials this month. So whether you are celebrating with your Valentine or want to plan a special occasion friends, here are some ideas if you plan to be in San Antonio. (Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk, 2024)
For the Couples
Couples can book the new SuiteHeart Romance Package for a $200 Property Romance Credit to be used at the full-service Thompson San Antonio Spa, dining at signature restaurant Landrace, minibar, or parking. Guests will also arrive to a beautiful rose petal setup and a bath/shower welcome amenity for deserving R&R with their loved one. Offer Code = SATROM for Booking Dates: 1/4/2024 – 2/14/2024; Stay Dates: 2/9/2024-2/18/2024.
Couples can also indulge in the epitome of romantic bliss with the property’s highly sought-after CabanaCuddle Up, an experience that seamlessly melds ultimate relaxation with unparalleled luxury. Begin your journey with an opulent 80-minute massage for two in the exquisite couples’ room, where tranquility and connection intertwine. Following the rejuvenating session, continue the enchantment as you and your favorite person nestle into the sumptuous embrace of one of the poolside daybed cabanas. Here, amid the soothing ambiance, revel in the shared joy of sipping on chilled champagne and partaking in a curated picnic, where every bite is a celebration of love and indulgence.
For the Gals
Perfect for Galentine’s Day with friends and family, up to 20 guests can have private access to Thompson San Antonio Spa when booking The Late Night Escape Spa Party package. You bring the party, and Thompson brings the pampering.
This package includes access to all spa facilities (Eucalyptus Steam Room, Dry Sauna, Scrub Bar, Locker Rooms, Relaxation Area, and the showstopping Cenote Pool Deck), complimentary champagne, handcrafted dessert board, massage services for up to two hours by one expert therapist, and valet service. Guests can call the spa at 210.942.6027 to book the experience and discuss how they can customize their special Galentine’s celebration.
Not to be missed: cocktails, live music and twinkly city and star views at The Moon’s Daughters, the enchanting indoor-outdoor rooftop restaurant and bar floating high above the River Walk that dazzles from its 20th-story perch over the city.
Get on board ‘Don’t Let The Pigeon Drive The Bus!,’ a rollicking musical based on Mo Willems’ contemporary classic. Photo: Magik Theatre, used with permission.
Coming up at the Magik Theatre, hop on an unforgettable ride in ‘Don’t Let The Pigeon Drive the Bus! The Musical!,’ a hilarious play based on the beloved book by Mo Willems. When the Bus Driver has a crisis that threatens to make her passengers late, a determined Pigeon sees his chance to take the wheel. It’s up to the audience to convince him that even though it’s not the best idea, there is something he can do. With catchy songs, colorful characters, and a heartwarming message about responsibility, this production promises to be a joyous experience for young audiences and adults alike. Even VIA, San Antonio’s transit authority, is joining in the fun with a bus-themed opening night party at Hemisfair Park to get the show rolling. (Magik Theatre, 2024)
Featuring a hilarious script co-written by Willems and Tom Warburton, catchy songs by Deborah Wicks La Puma, and an innovative mix of actors and puppets, ‘Don’t Let The Pigeon Drive the Bus! The Musical!’ plays off Willems’ madcap rhythm and playful vibe.
“In order to give the musical a dramatic arc, Willems has explored WHY the Pigeon cannot drive the bus. He also creates conflict around the Pigeon finding his ‘thing.’ Everyone seems to have one except for the Pigeon. Can the bus driver help the Pigeon figure it out?” – Anthony Runfola, Magik Theatre Artistic Director
Local musical theatre veteran Heather Hooten and Charlie Smith play the wily Pigeon and put-upon Bus Driver, respectively. Costume designer Marshall Chase and accomplished set and lighting designer Katherine Stepanek recreate Willems’ signature visual style for the stage. The result is a gleeful, engaging performance sure to delight fans of musical theater and Mo Willems alike. As always, local students are well taken care of, with matinee performances and a digital resource guide customized for educators. Suitable for children ages 4 and up, ‘Don’t Let The Pigeon Drive The Bus! The Musical!’ is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI), who also supplies all authorized performance materials.
Special Events and Performances Opening Night Party in the Park | Saturday, February 10, 4:30p.m., show at 6p.m. Get your little ones in their finest duds and frocks to join the flock (and Pigeon himself) as Magik rolls out the red carpet for this big shot event. Guests will enjoy live music by Billy Ray Shepherd, interactive crafts, live pigeons, raffle prizes, and a special treat courtesy of party partner Hemisfair. Thanks to show sponsor VIA Metropolitan Transit Authority, pint-sized bus enthusiasts can explore VIA’s fully restored, vintage 1966 GMC Dreamliner bus parked outside the theatre, meet the organization’s mascot Primo, and grab a snack from VIA’s bus shaped Grillig food truck.
In celebration of Black History Month, Magik goers can take in VIA’s temporary exhibit highlighting the role of transit in the Civil Rights Movement and the many African American trailblazers whose contributions made a long-lasting impact on the industry. At 5:30p.m., special guest Jeffrey C. Arndt, VIA President and CEO will start the journey with a special story time reading of Willem’s cherished tale, ‘Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus!’
Educator Appreciation Performance | Sunday, February 11, 3p.m. Educators and school faculty are eligible for one free ticket to this performance with proof of I.D. Additional tickets are available to purchase for these performances at a discount of 50% off the regular ticket prices with promo code THANKYOU50.
Sensory-FriendlyPerformance | Saturday, February 24, 10a.m. Audience members on the autism spectrum and those with sensory issues can take in a special performance designed just for them. Kids and adults are free to be themselves in this relaxed, judgment-free theatre experience.
Pay What You Wish Performance | Sunday, February 25, 3p.m. As part of Magik Theatre’s mission to make theatre accessible to everyone, the organization holds one donation-based performance. Tickets are only available at the door on February 25.
American Sign LanguageInterpreted Performance | Saturday, March 9, 2p.m. Patrons who communicate with ASL can attend this performance featuring Robert Cardoza, the San Antonio theatre community’s primary American Sign Language interpreter.
Transit Driver Appreciation Discounts | Sunday, March 17, 3p.m. (Closing Day) and Beyond Magik celebrates San Antonio’s hard-working transit drivers with special discounts on its closing day performance, Sunday, March 17. With proof of I.D., all transit drivers (including taxi, trolley, bus and rideshare drivers as well as pilots) are eligible for a 15% discount off the regular ticket price by using promo code TDAD15. It’s Magik’s way of kicking off Transit Appreciation Day, celebrated every March 18, to thank and appreciate transit drivers around the nation.
As a special thank you to the show sponsor, VIA Metropolitan Transit Authority, all VIA employees are eligible for 20% off the regular ticket price through the run of the show by using discount code VIA20 with proof of I.D.
Purchase bundles, flex passes, and single tickets online, via phone (210) 227-2751, and in person at Magik Theatre’s Box Office (420 S Alamo, 78205). Box Office hours are Monday-Friday, 9a.m. – 5p.m. If a child under 2 uses a seat, even a car or booster seat, the patron must pay for a general admission ticket. Group rates are available for parties of ten or more people. For further inquiries, contact Magik Theatre.
The Holocaust Memorial Museum of San Antonio will host the Hate Ends Now: The Cattle Car Exhibit from January 29 through February 20, 2024. Photo: The Holocaust Memorial Museum of San Antonio.
Featured Speakers: (in order of appearance): Nehemia “Nammie” Ichilov, President and CEO, Jewish Federation of San Antonio Leslie Davis Met, Director, Holocaust Memorial Museum of San Antonio Mayor Ron Nirenberg, City of San Antonio Todd Cohn, CEO, Hate Ends now
Holocaust Memorial Museum of San Antonio 12500 NW Military Hwy. San Antonio, TX 78231
The Hate Ends Now Exhibit is presented through a traveling cattle car replica with moving holographic images and narration by survivors. During a 30-minute, 360-degree immersive presentation for groups of 20-30, students and visitors will be exposed to the development and aftermath of the Holocaust through a collection of imagery and footage dating from 1933-1945. It includes recorded testimonies of Holocaust survivors sharing their personal stories in a holographic virtual presentation. The exhibit will encourage visitors to reflect on the depth of evil while inspiring thoughtful conversations about genocide and indifference.
The cattle car exhibit will be in San Antonio from January 29-February 6 open for free public tours, private tours, visits to local middle schools, and Trinity University. Following its tour in San Antonio, the exhibit will spend two days respectively in Austin, Corpus Christi, McAllen, and Laredo.
Title Sponsors include: The Lubetzky Family Foundation, Texas Holocaust, Genocide and Antisemitism Advisory Commission, Texas Historical Commission. Additional support of the exhibit from The Bar-Yadin Family Foundation, Arlene and David Starr, Spurs Sports and Entertainment, and Dr. Elizabeth Glazier and Dr. Michael Piesman.
The Holocaust Memorial Museum of San Antonio, the only museum of its kind in South Texas, opened its doors in 2000. Since then, thousands of guests have continued to visit and engage in interactive educational programming, customized tours, and intergenerational discussions, bridging the lessons of the past to a brighter future.
Through its customized tours, intergenerational conversations with survivors and their children, and creative educational programming, the Holocaust Memorial Museum aims at forming a community of “Upstanders” throughout South Texas – those who stand up for each other and are not bystanders. Today, the Holocaust Memorial Museum impacts over 40,000 students and visitors annually.
Unite for One Night: UME announces the ultimate music experience on South Padre Island featuring Deadmau5, Wax Motif, Tom & Collins, and more. Photo: UME, used with permission.
The highly anticipated electronic dance music event, The Ultimate Music Experience (UME), is set to make its triumphant return to the Rio Grande Valley on Saturday, March 30, 2024. UME is thrilled to announce an electrifying lineup, featuring some of the biggest names in the EDM world, along with regional artists to be revealed soon. (Magnum PR, 2023)
Headlining this unforgettable night of music and celebration are none other than the iconic Deadmau5, Wax Motif, and Tom & Collins. The event promises to deliver a sonic journey like no other, captivating the hearts and souls of attendees, and leaving them with memories to last a lifetime.
UME will take place at the picturesque Beach Waterpark on South Padre Island, Texas, located at 33261 State Park Rd 100. This stunning beachfront location will provide the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable night under the stars, surrounded by the beauty of the Gulf Coast.
In addition to the main event, UME organizers are planning an exciting pre-party to kick off the festivities. Details for the pre-party will be announced at a later date, anticipating even more excitement for EDM enthusiasts.
Paul Magee, founder of UME and CEO of Global Groove Events, expressed his excitement about bringing the event back to the Rio Grande Valley, saying, “We are absolutely thrilled to be returning to the Rio Grande Valley for UME 2024. UME has always been about uniting people through the power of music, and this year’s lineup is guaranteed to do just that. Get ready for an unforgettable night of music, community, and pure energy.”
Secure your tickets, starting at $50, for the Ultimate Music Experience online and prepare to embark on a journey through the sounds of EDM like never before.
Don’t miss out on the most anticipated electronic music event of the year. Get ready to unite and celebrate music under the stars at UME 2024!
UME is a premier electronic dance music event that brings together EDM fans from all over the world to celebrate the power of music and unity. Founded by Paul Magee and organized by Global Groove Events, UME is known for its spectacular lineups, breathtaking venues, and unforgettable experiences. UME 2024 promises to be the ultimate EDM event, featuring top-tier artists and regional talent, all set against the backdrop of South Padre Island, Texas.
The Classic Theatre of San Antonio presents ‘A Raisin in the Sun’ for Black History Month. Photo: The Classic Theatre of San Antonio, used with permission.
The Classic Theatre of San Antonio is proud to present its first production of the new year for Black History Month, Lorraine Hansberry’s ‘A Raisin in the Sun,’ a timeless piece about the Black experience. Performances will take place at The Classic Theatre of San Antonio’s new performance space at San Pedro Playhouse, the former Cellar Theater. Performances begin on February 8 and close on February 25. Showtimes are at 7:30p.m. on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, and 2p.m. on Sundays. (The Classic Theatre of San Antonio, 2024)
Lorraine Hansberry’s iconic drama is a powerful theatrical masterpiece that explores the dreams, struggles, and resilience of a Black family living on the south side of Chicago in the 1950s. It weaves a poignant narrative around the Younger family as they grapple with racial discrimination, economic hardship, and the pursuit of their aspirations. As the family receives a life-changing insurance check, their divergent dreams and desires clash, sparking a profound examination of identity, equality, and the American dream. With compelling characters and a stirring narrative, this play explores hope and the enduring human spirit.
“I am honored to guide the vision and direction of this sacred, timeless piece. ‘A Raisin in the Sun’ serves as a repository of Black American experiences, difficulties, intricacies, and intersectionalities. In this production, anticipate a supernatural noir that immerses you within the essence of the story and its compelling, reflective characters. Trust me, you don’t want to hear about this production — you want to be there.” – Darcell Andre, Director
The cast for ‘A Raisin in the Sun’ includes: Lena Younger (Mama) — Cassandra L. Small* Walter Lee Younger — Jeremiah Jordon Beneatha Younger — Jessica Winston Ruth Younger — Danica McKinney Travis Younger — Keith Tubbs Joseph Asagai — Ty Price George Murchison — Joshua Cook Bobo — Carl E. Brooks Karl Lindner — Byrd Bonner Mrs. Johnson — Nerryl Williams
* Member of Actors’ Equity Association, the Union of Professional Actors and Stage Managers in the United States.
The Classic Theatre will offer some exciting nights in celebration of ‘A Raisin in the Sun.’
● Champagne Opening Night — Thursday, February 8, 2024 at 7:30p.m. ● Pride Night — Friday, February 9, 2024 at 7:30p.m. ● Student Night — Wednesday, February 14, 2024 at 7:30p.m. ● ASL Performance — Sunday, February 18, 2024 at 2p.m. ● Student Night — Wednesday, February 21, 2024 at 7:30p.m.
Ticket information: Tickets for The Classic Theatre of San Antonio are $39 (Adult), $35 (Military, Older Adults 60+, First-Responders), and $24 (Students) are available online or by phone at (210) 589-8450. The Classic Theater is wheelchair accessible.
Classic Theatre at San Pedro Playhouse 800 West Ashby Place San Antonio, TX 78212
The Classic Theatre of San Antonio is a nonprofit professional theatre in San Antonio, Texas, committed to producing theatre that is relevant, diverse, entertaining, and transformative. They produce five main stage shows a year, as well as the Second Series, a series of smaller productions, partnering with local and national artists. The Classic Theatre of San Antonio was founded in 2008 by Chris Cheever, Asia Ciaravino, Anthony Ciaravino, Diane Malone, Rick Malone, Terri Peña Ross, and Allan S. Ross, and counts among its credits more than 70 Alamo Theatre Arts Council (ATAC) Awards.
Families enjoy a FREE day at the DoSeum during SACM’s School Discovery Day to kick off National School Choice Week. Photo: SACM, used with permission.
To kick off National School Choice Week, San Antonio Charter Moms (SACM) will be hosting its most popular event of the School Discovery Day series at the DoSeum on Saturday, January 20, from 11a.m. – 2p.m. The first 1,000 guests who register online for this free event will have the chance to meet with representatives from 37 of San Antonio’s top schools while also gaining complimentary access to The DoSeum’s 68,000 square feet of galleries. SACM representatives will provide hands-on guidance in navigating the nonprofit’s online school search tools, application materials and extensive, unbiased education resources while team members from MindshiftED provide additional guidance and interpretation for Spanish speakers. The event is free and open to the public. (San Antonio Charter Moms, 2024)
SACM’s School Discovery Day Series is the largest school fair series of its kind and is held annually during the height of San Antonio’s enrollment season for charter and choice schools, currently underway for the 2024-2025 academic year. National School Choice Week, January 21–27, 2024, is a national celebration of opportunities for all families to choose the K–12 educational options that best fit their children.
With more than 175 schools of choice, a booming population of new families, and a major “rightsizing” plan slated to close 15 schools in San Antonio ISD next year, San Antonio’s educational offerings have never been more diverse or important. Time is of the essence for families looking to explore their options. To prepare, SACM’s family-friendly School Discovery Days are an excellent place for families to make the most of their search window. San Antonio Charter Moms is designed to make the often overwhelming process of finding the right school less complicated for families. These events offer the perfect opportunity for parents and caregivers to ask questions, fill out applications, and learn about the enrollment process while enjoying some quality family time in the process.
“School Discovery Days are very valuable because you get to talk with school representatives in a relaxed environment and get a feel for their education philosophy and school community. Instead of just reading about a school or doing a quick tour, you have more time to get to know school staff and parents to further evaluate whether it would be a good fit for your child. For example, when you talk to a school leader, you can hear their passion or lack thereof. You can see if their philosophy is more traditional and formal or modern and relaxed. It’s all about gathering as much information as possible and trying to determine what it would be like to interact with the school’s administration and community on a frequent basis.” – Kat Gomez, local charter school parent and frequent contributor within SACM’s Facebook Discussion Group.
SCHOOL DISCOVERY DAY AT THE DOSEUM (Flagship Event | National School Choice Week)
Saturday, January 20, 2024, 11a.m. – 2p.m.
The DoSeum (Theatre Entrance) 2800 Broadway San Antonio, TX 78209
Guests will enter the theater, just to the left of the DoSeum’s main entrance, where they will be greeted by the beats of the young DJs from The AM Project. Once inside the theater, SACM team members will usher visitors to connect with and explore the participating schools. This year, the event will extend beyond the theatre and into the first and second floor galleries allowing families to come for the information and stay for the fun. Guests who complete the scavenger hunt can enter a raffle for a chance to win a $100 gift card. Families can see the list of participating schools, learn more about the fun activities planned for the day and find free onsite parking information by visiting SACM onlineto learn more.
A snapshot of future events in the School Discovery Day series is listed below.
SCHOOL DISCOVERY DAY AT SECOND BAPTIST CHURCH
Saturday, February 3, 2024, 11a.m. – 2p.m.
Second Baptist Church Community Center 3310 E. Commerce St. San Antonio, TX 78220
School Discovery Day at Second Baptist Church guests can head to the Community Center to dance to the beats of The AM Project, catch Once in a Wild mobile zoo’s animal program, and get creative with face painting. Nearly 25 schools will be available for families to meet during this free event. Click here for online registration.
SCHOOL DISCOVERY DAY AT HEMISFAIR
Saturday, March 2, 2024, 11a.m. – 2p.m.
Central Games Plaza in Yanaguana Garden at Hemisfair 434 S. Alamo St. San Antonio, TX 78205
Families visiting School Discovery Day at Hemisfair can meet with more than 30 top schools as they enjoy the fantastic amenities of Yanaguana Garden, including a splash pad, sand play area, table games, swings, climbing structures, picnic area, restaurants, and more. Guests are encouraged to register online. Considered the leading local school search authority on all learning models, SACM provides easy access to extensive, unbiased school resources such as online discussion groups with over 11K members, articles, live videos, enrollment guides, podcasts, a school finder app and perhaps the most anticipated and impactful of all, their in-person School Discovery Day Series held annually during enrollment season.
San Antonio Charter Moms (SACM) began as a blog in 2012 when Founder Inga Cotton was inspired to help San Antonio families more easily learn about high-quality school options. The blog has evolved into a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that shares fair information about all types of schools, be they charter, private, or public.
Freight Fried Chicken will be located in the food hall at the Bottling Department. Photo: A.J. Creative, used with permission.
Award-winning chef Nicola Blaque will open her latest concept, Freight Fried Chicken, at the Food Hall at Bottling Department at Pearl on Saturday, January 13, 2024. Chef Blaque, whose fried chicken recipe has caught the attention of Eater, San Antonio Express-News and others on numerous occasions, created Freight Fried Chicken as a homage to the rich culinary history and traditions shared amongst Black Americans. Freight Fried Chicken draws its inspiration from black women in post Civil War America that sold fried chicken to rail passengers traveling through Gordonsville, VA. The women became known as Waiter Carriers and their chicken recipes would attract travelers who would go out of their way just to try the famous chicken. The sale of fried chicken allowed formerly enslaved women to support their households and create racial progress in a time fraught with dissension. (Freight Fried Chicken, 2024)
Freight Fried Chicken will use a dry batter for its chicken, which is similar in style to what was served by the Waiter Carriers. The chicken will also be served with biscuits, just like it was served on those trains so many years ago. Guests can also expect to see fried chicken tenders, a fried chicken sandwich, biscuits, mac ‘n’ cheese, seasoned fries, a vegetarian sandwich option, and more on the menu. Freight Fried Chicken’s bone-in chicken is halal and all of its batter is gluten free.
Opening date: Saturday, January 13, 2024 Hours will be 10a.m. to 9p.m. Sunday – Thursday and 10a.m. to 10p.m. Friday and Saturday
The Food Hall at Bottling Department 312 Pearl Pkwy Building 6 San Antonio, TX 78215
Lattoia Massey, known professionally as Chef Nicola Blaque, is a restaurateur and chef based in San Antonio, Texas. Chef Blaque is the executive chef and owner of the Jerk Shack, a Jamaican-inspired restaurant in San Antonio. The restaurant offers fare like jerk chicken, braised oxtail and quickly became a staple after opening in 2018. She also opened Mi Roti, a Caribbean concept at the popular Pearl district in San Antonio, in the summer of 2020, which is now being redeveloped into her latest concept, Freight Fried Chicken.
In addition to running successful concepts that have been recognized by GQ, Eater and more, Chef Blaque is an Army Veteran, a graduate of The Culinary Institute of America in San Antonio, a private chef for members in the NBA, a wife and a mom. Having been born and raised in Jamaica until she was five years old, Chef Blaque is passionate about introducing people to the flavors of the Caribbean. Though she’ll be the first to tell you that the dishes she’s serving up aren’t always traditional Jamaican dishes, she’s passionate about infusing those flavors into cuisine her patrons know and love.
Pearl is a dynamic neighborhood built around the historic Pearl Brewery, located just north of downtown San Antonio on the banks of the San Antonio River. Pearl is home to architecturally significant buildings like the brewhouse and stable—both built in 1894—and numerous plazas. Today, Pearl is home to dozens of unique culinary concepts, one-of-a-kind retail, weekend markets, residential communities, innovative office tenants, the San Antonio campus of the Culinary Institute of America, and the award-winning Hotel Emma. Pearl is a vibrant district where the community gathers to play, work, and live; it is a place where things are made and celebrated with purpose and sincerity.
SA Examiner 