Category: community events

Taco Rumble returns to San Antonio

Taco Rumble returns to San Antonio with Texas Throwdown this September. Photo: Texas Wood & Fine Alliance, used with permission.

An all-star crew of Texas’ best taqueros and chefs will clash Thursday, September 15, 7:30p.m. -10p.m. as Taco Rumble returns to the Alamo City. Tickets for the sell-out fundraiser are on sale now for $75. Proceeds benefit the South Texas culinary community through the San Antonio Food & Wine Alliance’s (SAFWA) vibrant grant program. (San Antonio Food & Wine Alliance, 2022)

This year, the sizzling competition will take over the picturesque grounds of the San Antonio Museum of Art. Conveniently located downtown, the museum graces the historic former Lone Star Brewery on the Museum Reach of the San Antonio River Walk. 

Expanding on last year’s San Antonio vs. Austin battle, taco talent from across Texas will be turning up the heat in celebration of one of Texas’ most beloved dishes.

Firing up the comal will be:

  • Chef Thomas Bille — Belly of the Beast (Houston)
  • Chef Victoria Elizondo — Cochinita & Co. (Houston)
  • Chef Rick Lopez — La Condesa (Austin)
  • Chef Julio Paz — Fairmont Austin
  • Chefs Jacob Gonzales & Matt Garcia — The Fajita Lounge
  • Chef James Moore — Full Belly Café + Bar
  • Chef Nicola Blaque — The Jerk Shack
  • Chef Jesse “Kirk” Kuykendall — Milpa
  • Chef Tony Ibarra — La Mina (Dallas)
  • Chef James Ballentine — Ninja Pig (Austin, 2021 Texas Food & Wine Alliance grant recipient)
  • Chef Carlos Gonzalez — Panfila Cantina
  • Chef Ceasar Zepeda — Sangria on the Burg
  • Chef Paul Morales — Tacos Cucuy
  • Taquero Daniel Cobos — Vaquero Taquero (Austin)

“We are delighted to showcase some of San Antonio’s finest chefs and welcome stellar culinary talent from across the state. Guests can expect traditional and unconventional takes on the dish that Texas does best.” – Texas Food & Wine Alliance Communications Director Brandon Watson.

In addition to showcasing the best in taco craftsmanship, Taco Rumble will feature sweet treats, an impressive selection of wines, craft beer, and premium spirits tastings. The Alliance will announce more chefs in the upcoming weeks.

The Taco Rumble VIP experience includes access to the Casa Noble lounge at Tre Trattoria and early entry at 7p.m. Guests will enjoy specialty cocktails and exclusive bites from celebrity chef Jason Dady paired with Casa Noble’s award-winning tequila portfolio — including the new ultra-premium offering Marqués de Casa Noble. A skillful blend of 21 añejos and extra añejos, Marqués de Casa Noble is meticulously crafted from start to finish for an unrivaled taste.

The Taco Rumble VIP experience is $150, and limited passes are available. Tickets are expected to sell quickly and are available for online purchase now. 

Taco Rumble is a signature fundraiser for the San Antonio Food & Wine Alliance, the culinary nonprofit dedicated to fostering awareness, support, and innovation in the South Texas food and beverage community. Proceeds from the signature tasting event will help SAFWA give back to the local culinary community through a vibrant grant program for entrepreneurs and nonprofits focused on culinary innovation and community giveback. 

The San Antonio Food & Wine Alliance is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering awareness, support, and innovation in the South Texas culinary community through grants, educational programming, and events. Guided by an all-volunteer board of directors and committees made up of culinary- and community-minded professionals, the Alliance’s commitment is to support, inspire, and showcase Texas and beyond through the power of our diverse culinary communities.

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Celebrate Labor Day at Commodore Perry Estate

Commodore Perry Estate, Auberge Resorts Collection is having several events this long Labor Day weekend. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Commodore Perry Estate, Auberge Resorts Collection is celebrating the beginning of the end of hot summer days with a weekend full of music, Longhorn football and lots of delicious sips and bites. (Commodore Perry Estate, Auberge Resorts Collection, 2022)

Holiday weekend highlights:

  • KUTX Presents Walker Lukens (Friday, September 2): Guests can kick off the holiday weekend with a performance at the Estate’s historic Chapel with Walker Lukens, in partnership with Austin public radio station 98.9 FM KUTX, home to the Austin Music Experience. This is the first in a five-part series, each performance will help raise funds in support of HAAM Day.
  • Gameday Brunch at the Estate (Saturday, September 3): Wake up and gather with friends and family on game day for the resort’s delicious Saturday brunch at the Mansion, complete with lawn games and pre-game drink specials, such as mimosa bars, shaken carajillos, local beer buckets, and more.
  • Prometheus Pizza Pop-Up (Sunday, September 4): Fredericksburg pizza phenoms, Prometheus Pizza, is coming to the Estate for an all-day pizza party this Labor Day Weekend. Relax and indulge in a variety of their delicious pies – with classic pizza parlor creations from Chef Bradley and Chef Susana, such as garlic knots, the perfect Caesar salad and tasty cannoli. Members also have the option to do takeaway (pizza and wine only).

Planet Bluegrass announces Mabon, an autumn equinox concert series

Tickets are now on sale for Mabon, taking place September 16 – 18 in Lyons, Colorado. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Planet Bluegrass, organizers of Rockygrass, Lyons Folks Fest, and the famed Telluride Bluegrass Festival—which has coincided with the summer solstice for 5 decades—are pleased to announce Mabon, a new concert series programmed in conjunction with longtime Planet Bluegrass fan-favorite, Watchhouse. Mabon will take place September 16-18 in Lyons, Colorado, at the Planet Bluegrass Ranch during the Autumn equinox. Tickets are on-sale now. (Planet Bluegrass, 2022) 

The series kicks off on Friday, September 16 with Regina Spektor and a special duo set from hosts Andrew Marlin and Emily Frantz—aka Watchhouse. Saturday, September 17 continues with a could-only-be-at-Planet-Bluegrass billing of Emmylou Harris with Watchhouse as her backing band and sets from Thee Sacred Souls, Big Richard, and a performance from one half of Watchhouse, Andrew Marlin with his instrumental string band. Sunday will kick off with Yasmin Williams and fans will ease into the fall season and afternoon with Waxahatchee and The Lil’ Smokies. The weekend will be bookended by a final, full band Watchhouse set. 

“We are so excited to be curating this series with Watchhouse!,” says Grace Barrett, Planet Bluegrass’ director of partnerships and communications. “They are dear friends whose music has inspired us for years. The Planet Bluegrass calendar really functions around the sun, and we can’t think of a better way to say ‘so long’ to summer.” 

Frantz and Marlin share in that enthusiasm. They add, “We’ve been lucky enough to play so many festivals and events and have always loved the ones hosted by Planet Bluegrass. We haven’t been able to sit in on the curation side until now and we’re so grateful for the opportunity to reach out to artists whose songs have meant a lot to us over the years, or just recently. Autumn solstice feels like the perfect time to cozy up and sink into some feely songs together.” 

For over 30 years, Planet Bluegrass has been redefining the musical festival by creating exceptional experiences that protect the planet through environmental leadership and a strong community. Fiercely and decidedly independent, their three festivals make a unique musical mark: each takes place in breathtaking natural Colorado environments, each features the world’s finest musicians and songwriters, and each embraces a “Leave No Trace” ethic that defines Planet Bluegrass as a leader in Sustainable Festivation. Planet Bluegrass presents Telluride Bluegrass, Rockygrass, Rocky Mountain Folks Festival, all bucket list musical gatherings for artists and fans alike. Planet Bluegrass is invested in the next generation of songwriters and musicians as evidenced by Rockygrass Academy and Song School. 

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Autism Treatment Center to host Going to the Dogs event

Going to the Dogs dog adoption and dog shopping event is this Saturday August 27, 2022. Photo: Autism Treatment Center San Antonio

On Saturday, August 27 from 9a.m.- 1p.m., “Going to the Dogs,” the Autism Treatment Center (ATC) will host a dog adoption and dog-related shopping event. (Autism Treatment Center, 2022)

Event details:

  • Pet adoptions by: Austin Boxer Rescue and Lucky Spot Dog Rescue
  • Dog-themed décor and t-shirts by Autism Treatment Center Adult Services
  • Healthy Homemade Doggie Treats by Love Puppy Bakery
  • Handmade bandanas and bowties by Their Beautiful Voice
  • Pet sketches by artists

Location: Autism Treatment Center,15911 Nacogdoches Rd., Building 2, San Antonio, TX  78247

Event summary:

  • Whether you are looking for a dog to adopt or just want to shop for the one you have, “Going to the Dogs” has it all. You and your pooch are invited to join the fun at the Autism Treatment Center on Saturday, August 27 from 9a.m. to 1p.m. for this inside event.  Austin Boxer Rescue and Lucky Spot Dog Rescue will have a selection of dogs available for adoption. Austin Boxer Rescue is an affiliate of Lonestar Boxer Rescue, which serves all of Texas and the Austin chapter is the one that serves San Antonio.
  • You can also shop for healthy homemade dog treats and dog-themed gifts, décor, and clothing from partnering vendors. Be sure to bring a photo if you would like to get a custom sketch of your furry best friend.
  • Everyone is invited to visit with dogs that are available for adoption and shop for a variety of dog-related items: healthy homemade dog treats; doggie bandanas and bowties; and dog-themed gifts, home décor, and T-shirts made by adults with autism. We will also have an artist doing custom pet sketches. 
  • Whether you are looking for a dog to adopt or just want to shop for the one you already have, “Going to the Dogs” has it all.    

Why ATC is partnering with the rescue groups:

  • Dogs have a special way of making our lives better.  Everyone can benefit from their unconditional love and companionship and this is especially true for children and adults with autism.
  • That’s why the Autism Treatment Center is partnering with Austin Boxer Rescue and Lucky Spot Dog Rescue for “Going to the Dogs”, a sensory-friendly, pet-friendly adoption and shopping event at our facility on Nacogdoches Rd. on Saturday, August 27th.
  • The adults in ATC’s weekday program have created some dog-related products on sale. The clothing is bandanas and bowties for dogs and T-shirts for people. 
  • In addition, through the weekday program, they also have created wreaths, terrariums, home décor and customize items such as cups, bags, and T-shirts as part of their independent living and live skills training. 

The Children’s Ballet of San Antonio hosts open call for auditions

The Children’s Ballet of San Antonio is hosting auditions on Saturday August 27, 2022. Photo: The Children’s Ballet of San Antonio, used with permission.

The Children’s Ballet of San Antonio is searching for San Antonio’s most talented vocalists, dancers (ballet, tap, folklorico, jazz, hip-hop and contemporary), gymnasts, actors, performing artists, and special needs artists ages 3-19 as they host auditions for the Children’s Nutcracker on Saturday, August 27, 2022. Young artists will have a chance to train with the best of the best and perform in this spectacular professional level production at the grand Lila Cockrell Theatre. The production combines the cherished, traditional holiday ballet with Broadway style musical theatre, showcasing multidisciplinary art to include singing, dancing, acting and more. (The Children’s Ballet of San Antonio, 2022)

The award-winning Children’s Ballet of San Antonio (CBSA) is holding open auditions for The Children’s Nutcracker at the Dance Center of San Antonio on Saturday, August 27, from 12p.m. – 6p.m. Dancers from various disciplines including ballet, tap, folklorico, jazz, hip-hop and contemporary along with gymnasts, actors, vocalists, and performing artists ages 3-19, including those with special needs, are invited to register for an audition time online. All performers will be cast in roles that showcase and highlight their individual talents and strengths and allow them to shine.

The Children’s Nutcracker has become a beloved holiday tradition filled with all the joyful sights and sounds that fans have come to know and love. Taking place at the Lila Cockrell Theatre, on December 9 and 10, this world-class production will have something for the whole family. From a pre-show holiday market to spectacular digital and physical scenery, captivating special effects and interactive elements, The Children’s Nutcracker is designed to make spirits merry and bright.

The Children’s Nutcracker 2022 offers young performers the chance to train with the best of the best, from Master Ballet Teachers to internationally acclaimed dance artist and choreographer David Bagley. Bagley has had the honor of training with over 80 acclaimed dance institutions throughout the world, working alongside celebrities such as Sandra Bullock, Jerry Lewis, Twenty One Pilots, and more. Performers will also have the unique opportunity to work with Vanessa Bessler, former Prima Ballerina, and founder of CBSA. Bessler, who has earned the Youth America Grand Prix Outstanding Teacher Award for the past seven consecutive years, is world-renowned for discovering and cultivating young, local talent. Under her tutelage, these elite artists have had the privilege to train in some of the world’s best academies including the Royal Ballet School in London, the Bolshoi Ballet in Russia, and the School of American Ballet in New York City, to name a few. Through recognition, awards, and scholarships from the most prestigious ballet competitions and schools in the world for many of its dancers, CBSA has elevated San Antonio to the world stage, making it a strong player in the performing arts world.

Awards and accolades aside, what sets CBSA apart is that it is the only professional-level dance company in Texas to offer lead roles to dancers as young as eight-years-old. Designed to bridge the gap between young students and professional dancers, it serves as a gateway for young artists interested in pursuing a professional dance career, pointing their toes in the right direction.

Dance Center of San Antonio
126 W. Rector, Suite 120
San Antonio, TX 78216

A Night at the Chef’s Table: four San Antonio Chefs come together for a good cause

Landrace’s A Night at the Chef’s Table will kick off Hunger Action Month. Photo: OpenTable

Enjoy an extraordinary evening with four acclaimed San Antonio chefs and James Beard Award nominees on Wednesday August 31 when they join forces to collaborate on one unforgettable dinner. Chef Steve McHugh welcomes friends and culinary talents to the kitchen at Landrace: John Russ of Clementine; David Caceres of La Panaderia; and Esaul Ramos of 2M Smokehouse. (Landrace, 2022)

This diverse culinary lineup will prepare a special four-course dinner to kick off Hunger Action Month in September, an initiative dedicated to raising awareness about food insecurity in San Antonio. With a portion of event proceeds going to the San Antonio Food Bank, guests can help fight hunger and feed hope together.

The evening begins with a welcome cocktail at 6:30p.m. followed by dinner at 7p.m. Tickets are $400.00 per person with a wine pairing add-on available. Book on OpenTable.

 

Texas Book Festival announces Janet Evanovich appearance

Best-selling author will be appearing at this year’s Texas Book Festival in November. Photo: Texas Book Festival

Texas Book Festival is proud to host author Janet Evanovich, “the most popular mystery writer alive” (NYT) and author of 42 New York Times bestsellers, as she presents her new novel, “Going Rogue,” on Sunday, November 6 at 2:30p.m., at the 2022 Texas Book Festival. With “Going Rogue,” the mega-bestselling author returns with the latest book in her massively popular Stephanie Plum series. (Texas Book Festival, 2022)

Book tickets to see this beloved author are now available. Each book ticket includes one copy of “Going Rogue” and admits one person to the conversation and the book signing session. Proceeds from book ticket sales support the annual Festival and our year-round literacy programs, as well as keep the Festival free. A book signing session will immediately follow the event.

Texas Book Festival
First Baptist Church
901 Trinity St.
Austin, TX 78701

BOOK TICKET: $37 | Includes one copy of Going Rogue and admission to the session and the signing line.
SEATING: Seating for book ticket holders will open at 1:45p.m on Sunday, November 6. Book tickets are required to attend this session.
SIGNING: A book signing session will follow the event on-site.

Over the last twenty-six years, Janet Evanovich has written a staggering forty-two New York Times bestsellers. In addition to her #1 bestselling Stephanie Plum novels and many other popular books, Janet is the author of “The Recovery Agent,” the start of a blockbuster new series.

Superhero Adventure Night at San Antonio Museum of Art

San Antonio Museum of Art’s Choose Your Destiny: A Superhero Adventure Night will be this Friday, July 29, 2022. Photo: San Antonio Museum of Art, used with permission.

The San Antonio Museum of Art (SAMA) is calling all heroes and villains to enjoy its interactive Choose Your Destiny: A Superhero Adventure Night on Friday, July 29, 2022, from 6p.m. to 8:30p.m. in the Great Hall. Those brave enough to take on the challenge will be able to create their own path through the galleries by answering riddles, but make the wrong choice and players could meet their demise. This unforgettable evening is available for all ages and is free with Museum admission, following required pre-registration (free of charge). (San Antonio Museum of Art, 2022)

At sunset, friends and foes are encouraged to grab a blanket and head to the West Lawn for a screening of the cult classic ‘90s film Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (Rated PG). Fuzed will be onsite serving refreshing drinks, spirits, and paletas while Stone Bro’s Pizza will be offering the Ninja Turtle’s favorite hot and delicious pizza from 6p.m. through the end of the film. After the movie, guests can grab a photo with the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle van that will be positioned at the Museum’s entrance. SAMA is overjoyed to embrace art and superhero lovers alike for a one-of-a-kind evening.

 

Fiesta’s Taste of the Republic announces venue change

Fiesta’s VIP culinary kickoff party is moving to the Alamo for 2023. Photo: Taste of the Republic

Texas is home to one of the most diverse food cultures in America. Since 2017, Taste of the Republic has celebrated that culture as the VIP culinary kickoff party of Fiesta Fiesta, the official opening event of Fiesta San Antonio. Raising the standard even higher for Fiesta 2023, they are proud to announce that Taste of the Republic has a new home: The Alamo. (Taste of the Republic, 2022)

Join them at the Gardens of the Alamo from 6p.m. to 10p.m. Thursday, April 20, 2023. Guests will sample gourmet bites from 12 local chefs, with food representing each culinary region of Texas, accompanied by a wide selection of wine, beer, spirits and cocktail pairings as they mingle with Fiesta Royalty. A portion of each ticket will help support the Fiesta Commission and the Remember the Alamo Foundation.

“I am beyond thrilled that we’re bringing the premier celebration of Texas food to the ultimate symbol of Texas: The Alamo” said Chef Brian West, whose Texas Culinary Manifesto laid the foundation for Taste of the Republic and its Six Food Republics of Texas.

“San Antonio is recognized by UNESCO as a Creative City of Gastronomy, and it represents the confluence of cultures that makes Texas so unique,” Chef West said. “By being at the Alamo, we feel we’ve raised this event to the level it’s always deserved.” 

Taste of the Republic is supported by Tito’s Handmade Vodka, Patron Tequila, Dos XX Beer, Republic National Distributing Company, Sysco, Telemundo 60 and the Texas Culinary Alliance.

Courtesy photo, used with permission.

The Moon’s Daughters kicks off full moon series

The Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk’s signature rooftop lounge, The Moon’s Daughters is unveiling a new ‘Cosmic Night’ series this Wednesday, July 13, 2022. Photo: Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk, used with permission.

The Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk’s signature rooftop lounge The Moon’s Daughters is unveiling a new “Cosmic Night” series that will take place whenever a full moon lands each month. On July 13, hotel guests and the public alike can watch July’s full Buck Moon in all its glory, which will be the biggest and brightest supermoon of the year. (Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk, 2022)

Inspired by the Greek goddess of the moon, The Moon’s Daughters lives up to its name offering a full celestial experience with the Cosmic series, equipped with a telescope to see the moon glitter along with tarot insight curated by Astrologer & Card Reader Kate Wind. On July 13, guests will find a Cosmic Coaster under their cocktail inspired by the Buck Moon. The Cosmic Coaster adds a flair of entertainment where guests will have the chance to scan a QR code, receive a prompt to think of questions, followed by unique insights, and will conclude with a positive affirmation. The Cosmic Coaster is a perfect ice breaker for a group or first date while The Moon’s Daughters is the best way to experience the full moon overlooking San Antonio’s sparkling skyline.

The July 13 celebration of the full Buck Supermoon, named after the season that bucks grow their antlers, will be the biggest and brightest supermoon of 2022. Fitting for The Moon’s Daughters, the popular rooftop restaurant and bar will be illuminated by the moon, shining its brightest at 9:05p.m. from the top of Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk.