Category: community events

New Year’s Eve events in San Antonio and surrounding area

A New Year’s Eve concert at JL Bar Ranch, Resort & Spa in Sonora is just one option for ringing in the new year. Photo: JL Bar Ranch, Resort & Spa, used with permission.

It is time to start making plans for the biggest party of the year: New Year’s Eve. If you are in the San Antonio area, or plan to be, here are three ideas to get you ready to ring in the new year. JL Bar Ranch, Resort & Spa in Sonora, Texas is hosting a concert, Carriqui at the Pearl will debut its New Year’s Eve House Party, and Thompson – San Antonio Riverwalk is celebrating the New Year in style with an epic firework show at the iconic rooftop restaurant & bar, The Moon’s Daughters. So whether you want to celebrate with a concert, at a party, or with fireworks atop a rooftop restaurant, get ready to party in style. (JL Bar Ranch, Resort & Spa, Carriqui, The Moon’s Daughters; 2022)

On Saturday, December 31, guests of JL Bar Ranch, Resort & Spa will dust off their cowboy boots, raise a glass, and celebrate the coming of 2023 with a night to remember. The concert will begin with an opening set by local Texas band, Jukebox Preachers. Nashville powerhouse and country music star Aaron Tippin will then take the stage to wrap up 2022: 

  • Doors/Bar Open: 6:30p.m.
  • Performance Times:  
    • Jukebox Preachers, 7:30p.m.
    • Aaron Tippin, m.
  • Ticket Options:
    • General Admission Ticket: $75 per person
    • VIP Private Table (8 tickets included + 2 drink tickets per person): $1,500 

For those enjoying a concert together with an overnight stay, guests can embrace the true Texas lifestyle with horseback riding, cowboy cookouts, ATV adventures, trail and bike riding, archery, and more. Guests can book their weekend stay online.

To help grant more music lovers the opportunity to attend, JL Bar has also partnered with surrounding hotels offering availability and will be providing shuttles to/from Sonora: 

  • Quality Inn, Sonora Location – $100-110/night**
    • Shuttle Services to and from Sonora: $20 per person
    • Shuttles depart Quality Inn at 4:15pm and 6:00pm
  • Holiday Inn Express, Junction Location – $100/night**
    • Shuttle Services to and from Junction: $30 per person
    • Shuttles depart Holiday Inn Express at 4:00pm
  • **Mention the JL Bar Resort for quoted rate, limited rooms per location, first come basis.

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Potluck Hospitality is excited to announce that Carriqui (239 E. Grayson St) will debut its New Year’s Eve House Party on December 31, 2022. In addition to standard dinner service (last seating at 9p.m.), the house party will  kick off at 10p.m. and run until 2a.m. In anticipation of 2023, Carriqui is taking inspiration from the building’s past as Boehler’s Garden. Fifty years ago, the historic building that is now Carriqui was owned and operated by Aubrey Kline and his brothers. Kline was affectionately known as “Mr. Pearl,” entertaining and hobnobbing with movie stars, politicians, and dignitaries. Upon his retirement from Pearl in 1972, he turned his attention to making Boehler’s Garden the place for a good time. 

Carriqui’s NYE House Party turns up the volume on good times and pays homage to the 1970s (period attire encouraged, but not required). Tickets are $25 each and can be purchased through Tock. The experience includes live music from beloved local favorites Buttercup and DJ Steven Lee Moya, appetizer stations, a champagne toast at midnight and breakfast tacos as a parting gift.

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For the second year in a row, Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk is celebrating the New Year in style with an epic firework show at the iconic rooftop restaurant & bar, The Moon’s Daughters. This year’s theme is “Celestial Ball,” paying tribute to the Goddess of the Moon, Celine. Perched on the 20th floor of the hotel floating high above the River Walk, The Moon’s Daughters dazzles with views of the twinkling city lights of the San Antonio skyline. Guests will dance the night away with celebrity performer DJ JAX, who has spun for the Latin Grammy’s WMC, UMF, and many other festivals and has recently opened for the Chainsmokers.

Several Table Packages, named after the hotel’s monthly cosmic night series, will range from $400 to $100,000; the ultimate experience includes flights and a three-night stay at any other Hyatt property in the world. From Cosmic to The Universe, select from the VIP packages to enjoy an open bar, champagne, spirits, and magnum bottles to toast the New Year.

From 10p.m. to 2a.m., the night promises to bring unforgettable firework views, a stellar atmosphere, and a celebrity DJ to match. Tickets are available for purchase on Eventbrite.

 

William Chris Vineyards’ upcoming events

Events include story time with Mrs. Claus and annual NYE Black Eyed Pea Cook Off. Photo: William Chris Vineyards, used with permission.

William Chris Vineyards is a winery in Hye, Texas that features a visitors center, contemporary tasting rooms, and a patio café. The winery frequently hosts events and with the holiday season in full bloom, these are some of the events scheduled. (William Chris Vineyards, 2022)

FREE EVENT: Story Time with Mrs. Claus | December 18 at 4:30p.m.

The event will feature letters to Santa Claus, Cookie Decorating Station, Storytime with Mrs. Claus, Christmas Carols, and a Christmas tree for pictures. Guests can sip on Grinch Punch, hot chocolate or indulge in their chocolate fountain, plus much more. Wine and bottle service will be available throughout the event as well. Reservation is requested and can be made online.

Annual New Year’s Day Black Eyed Pea Cook Off | January 1, 2023 at 1p.m. – 4p.m. 

The annual Black-Eyed Pea Cook-Off is a New Year’s tradition that draws WCV fans. Join us for a Southern-style celebration and help us crown our 2022 champion on Saturday, January 1st, 2023 at 1p.m. All tickets include; A New Year’s toast with our winemaking team, barrel tastings, a meal by the WCV in-house culinary team, wine tasting tickets, an exclusive WCV Black-Eyed Pea t-shirt, a sampling of all black-eyed pea dishes, one vote to cast for your favorite dish, and live music throughout the event.

Tickets can be purchased here for $50 (kid tickets: 21 and under for $12) If interested in entering your black eyed pea dish, contestant entry costs $75 and will include a greeter wine, plate of food & T-shirt. Contestants will be expected to arrive at 10a.m. to start cooking. There will be trophies for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place ordered plus cash/wine prizes including:

  • 1st – $500, Case of Wine
  • 2nd – $250, 6 Bottles
  • 3rd – 4 bottles of wine

Additionally, William Chris Vineyards began their new dinner experience, Supper Club, taking place weekly at the Hye Tasting Room

Join WCV in-house culinary team weekly for an expertly crafted dinner experience paired with Texas wine. Chef Daniel Todd is preparing a new menu each Wednesday and is inviting you to this Hye dining experience. Dinner includes glasses of William Chris wine that are hand selected to pair with the courses served. All wines featured will be available for purchase at the dinner. 

REASONS TO LOVE THIS EXPERIENCE: The moment you pull off Highway 290 onto the William Chris grounds, you cannot help but be in awe of the natural beauty of the Texas Hill Country. From the simple charm of our original farmhouse to the modern tasting room surrounded by an active vineyard – all elements of our property are beautifully suited to their terroir and expressive of our reverence for the past and vision for the future.

It began in the Hill Country as a collaboration between William “Bill” Blackmon and Chris Brundrett; one that is based on a shared winemaking philosophy and a vision of the Texas wine industry’s capabilities. Bill and Chris agree that excellent wines are not made, but grown in the vineyard. They also believe that wine should be inspired by the pleasure that is shared with an extended community of friends and family over a bottle. Today, William Chris Vineyards continues to reach for a level of quality that represents the very best of Texas in each new vintage. It is with confidence in our process and pride in our team, community, and the special place we call home, that we inscribe each bottle of William Chris Vineyards wine with this greeting: We are pleased to share a piece of our world.

Krause’s Cafe & Biergarten announces Ugly Christmas Sweater Party and Contest

Celebrate the holidays with Krause’s Café & Biergarten at their ugly sweater party and contest. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Krause’s Café & Biergarten is excited to announce its Ugly Christmas Sweater Party and Contest happening on Thursday, December 15 from 6p.m. to 9p.m. sponsored by Lone Star Brewing. Guests are encouraged to come decked out in their ugliest Christmas sweater to compete for a chance to win a Lone Star Beer swag basket. The winner will be announced at 7:15p.m. Texas-based band Midnight River Choir will perform throughout the evening. (Krause’s Café & Biergarten, 2022)

Lone Star beer specials will also be available during the event and the festivities will continue with the annual New Braunfels Farmers Market Christmas Market taking place on the property. Attendance is FREE and open to the public.

Krause’s Café & Biergarten
148 S Castell Ave
New Braunfels, TX 78130

Krause’s Café & Biergarten is a New Braunfels historic restaurant opened in 1938 and successfully run until 1995. Today, Krause’s Café honors the previous traditions of the restaurant with the addition of a ‘Biergarten,’ live music, and more. The menu reflects New Braunfels’ German heritage as well as South Texas flavors. Over 100 beers are available on tap with local, regional, and international options. The restaurant also features cocktails and wines on tap. Krause’s Café is located at 186 S Castell Ave, New Braunfels, TX 78130, next to the popular New Braunfels Farmers Market.

Lone Star Brewing Co., the makers of Lone Star Beer “The National Beer of Texas” and Lone Star Texas Light Beer, has been proudly brewing beer in Texas since 1884. Since its founding, Lone Star has partnered with local communities throughout the state, supporting Texas-specific charities and organizations. Lone Star Brewing Co. is owned by Pabst Brewing Company, one of the largest independently owned American brewing companies.

Photo: Krause’s Café & Biergarten, used with permission.

Pearl announces this year’s holiday events

This year’s events include a special shopping event, a festive mariachi showcase and the 8th annual Chanukah at Pearl celebration. Photo: Pearl, used with permission.

Pearl is excited to announce this year’s holiday programming. In addition to the Wednesday Holiday Night Markets in December, Pearl will also host a holiday shopping event featuring artisan gifts, exclusive promotions, extended hours and more, as well as the property’s 8th annual Chanukah celebration and a new, festive mariachi showcase. (Pearl, 2022)

“From our beautiful holiday lights, Christmas tree, retail specials and restaurant offerings, combined with some of our most cherished annual traditions, like Holiday Night Markets and our Chanukah celebration in partnership with Young & Jewish San Antonio, Pearl is always a special place for friends and family to gather and celebrate during this season. This year, we are also thrilled to celebrate with a new Canciones de Navidad mariachi music showcase.” – CEO Mesh Milsap

See below for specific information on Pearl’s 2022 holiday programming:

Tastemakers – Thursday, December 8, hours vary per shop
Various locations throughout the property
This year, Pearl is encouraging its guests to support local businesses with a holiday shopping event featuring hand-picked gifts, exclusive promotions, extended hours, and more from retailers like Curio, Niche, Larder, LeeLee, The Twig, Adelante, Feliz Modern, Rancho Diaz, The Tiny Finch, Dos Carolinas, Ruby Road Gems and Ten Thousand Villages. Select retailers are making shopping easy with curated gift ideas for him, her, kids and more throughout the shops.

Some of the specials from the retailers include:
• Feliz Modern: 10% off carts over $150
• Larder: 15% off beer and wine
• Niche: 20% off full priced merchandise
• Ten Thousand Villages: Spend $50 and get a tote for free
• Rancho Diaz: 10% off carts over $150

Canciones de Navidad – Thursday, December 15, 6:30p.m. to 9p.m.
1100 Springs Plaza
This year, Pearl is introducing a new mariachi music showcase called Canciones de Navidad (The Songs of Christmas). The mariachi concert will feature the festive musical stylings of Mariachi Azteca de América, Guadalupe Cultural Arts Mariachi Academy, Mariachi Oro from Burbank High School and Mariachi Hacón from Harris Middle School. Guests can expect to hear familiar holiday songs and enjoy light snacks and drinks from La Gloria and Chilaquil in 1100 Springs Plaza.

Chanukah at Pearl – Wednesday, December 21, 6p.m. to 8p.m.
Shade Structure (located near Boiler House)
Pearl is excited to host the 8th annual Chanukah at Pearl celebration this year in collaboration with Young & Jewish San Antonio, Rabbi Eli Block, musician Yaakov Chesed and Chef Jason Goldblum. On the evening of Wednesday, December 21, guests are invited to gather at Pearl to enjoy the lighting of the menorah and a special message from Rabbi Eli Block. Guests will also be able to experience traditional Chanukah music and kosher foods including matzah ball soup as well as some south Texas favorites like churros and tamales. Mayor Ron Nirenberg will be in attendance to give special remarks. The menorah at Pearl will be on display at the shade structure from December 18 through the 26.

Twin Liquors’ whiskey tasting event and raffle

Whiskey Worth Knowing tasting event. Photo: Twin Liquors, used with permission.

Twin Liquors is hosting a Whiskey Grand Tasting Event and a raffle opportunity to purchase a bottle of Old Forester Birthday Bourbon in preparation of the Holiday season. There will be tasting stations located around the store that will feature Old Forester 86*, 100*, and 1897 Bourbon, Woodford Reserve Bourbons and Rye, Jack Daniels Single Barrel Whiskey, Slane Irish Whiskey and GlenDronach 12 yr. Single Malt Scotch. An engraver will be on site to personalize bottles, so make sure to bring your gift list. (Twin Liquors, 2022)

The event is taking place on Thursday, December 8 from 6p.m. to 8p.m. at Twin’s #68 store at 12955 San Pedro Avenue in San Antonio. Guests must be 21+ to participate and each person in attendance will receive 1 raffle opportunity and must be in attendance to win. Events subject to change without notice.

Born and raised in downtown Austin, Texas in 1937, family owned, Twin Liquors began as one small store and has emerged into a “home grown,” successful Austin company. Twin Liquors has a unique and well-respected reputation throughout the United States for having impeccable team members, outstanding customer service, conveniently located stores, extensive selections of fine wines and premium spirits from around the world, and substantial community involvement.

County Line Community Band holiday concert

The County Line Community Band will be performing a holiday concert this Sunday December 11, 2022. Photo: Google

Coming up this weekend is the County Line Community Band’s Christmas Concert “Holiday Magic” on Sunday, December 11, 2022 at 3p.m. Get in the holiday spirit and enjoy some festive holiday music. The concert will take place in the beautiful Buena Vista Theater on the UTSA Downtown Campus. The concert will feature dances from the Nutcracker Suite, “ ’Twas the Night Before Christmas,” a special guest narrator, and much more. This concert is free and open to the public. Parking is free at the Cattleman’s Square parking lot across the street from the theater. Come out and support community music in San Antonio. (County Line Community Band, 2022)

The CLCB is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and our mission and endeavor is to create an environment whereby our all-volunteer organization can further their musical education and enjoyment through the performance of concert and symphonic music, to further the efficacy of music as an integral piece of the culture of the local community, to advocate for the synergistic integration of music education, to work with our cultural partners in our communities for the advancement of the arts and to be a source of pride for our members and the communities we serve.

Donations greatly appreciated

Photo: County Line Community Band

Cowboy Christmas at the Briscoe Western Art Museum this Sunday

Meet Cowboy Claus and have free western holiday fun at the Briscoe’s Cowboy Christmas event this Sunday. Photo: Briscoe Western Art Museum, used with permission.

Unwrap Western fun and meet Cowboy Claus at the Briscoe Western Art Museum’s annual Cowboy Christmas, 10a.m. – 2p.m., Sunday, December 4. This year’s Cowboy Christmas falls on the museum’s monthly “Locals Day,” when the Briscoe greets locals with free general admission. Cowboy Christmas is also free, making the Briscoe the perfect way to enjoy holiday fun and make memories with your family. (Briscoe Western Art Museum, 2022)

Cowboy Christmas features a day of family fun exploring the museum with holiday crafts and visits with Cowboy Claus onsite 11a.m. – 1:30p.m. Families are welcome to snap pictures with Cowboy Claus, while a special 12 Days of Christmas scavenger hunt will lead you through the Briscoe’s fantastic collection. Christmas crafts, including ornament making, will give everyone a bit of the West to take home and of course, a stroll through the museum’s McNutt Sculpture Garden is the perfect path to enjoy the River Walk and all of its holiday beauty.

Everyone enjoying Cowboy Christmas can also get wild while they are at the Briscoe thanks to the museum’s fall exhibition. The museum is a photographic zoo featuring 40 of the renowned nature photographer Thomas D. Mangelsen’s most resonant photographs. Thomas D. Mangelsen – A Life In The Wild takes viewers on a journey across the West and around the globe. One of the most prolific nature photographers of our time, Mangelsen is an award-winning photographer whose images have been exhibited internationally and published in iconic mediums such as “National Geographic,” “Good Morning America,” and “60 Minutes.” The exhibition is open to the public through January 29, 2023, and is included in general admission, making it free for locals to enjoy on Locals Day.

To show how friendly the West is and to thank the San Antonio community for its continued support, the Briscoe Western Art Museum makes the first Sunday of each month “Locals Day,” greeting locals with free general admission. Bexar County residents can enjoy Cowboy Christmas and Locals Day by registering online.

Not a local? The Cowboy Christmas fun is included with general museum admission. As always, children 12 and under receive free admission at the Briscoe, as do active duty members of the military, making the museum a terrific spot for families to add to their holiday plans. Active duty military families receive half-price admission when accompanied by their active duty family member. Year-round, retired and former members of the military also received discounted admission.

The first weekend of each month is also Bank of America Museums on Us, allowing Bank of America, Merrill Lynch and U.S. Trust cardholders to gain one free admission to the museum. Through Museums for All, recipients of SNAP, WIC, and MAP receive free general admission to the museum through Museums for All.

For everyone looking to fill their gift lists, the Briscoe’s Hendler Family Museum Store features something for everyone on your list. Shopping the museum includes holiday finds, home décor, and gifts for men, women and children that are not available at traditional retailers. Something sure to be popular in Cowboy Claus’ bag of gifts this year: gift memberships to the Briscoe. Share the wide open spaces of the West – and all of the art, heritage and programming of Briscoe – with someone special on your gift list by giving them a museum membership. Membership includes free and discounted museum event admission, exclusive member events and so much more, all on the banks of the River Walk.

Free Family Saturday at the Contemporary at Blue Star

Contemporary at Blue Star presents Free Family Saturday on December 3, 2022. Photo: Contemporary at Blue Star, used with permission.

Contemporary at Blue Star, San Antonio’s first and longest running contemporary art nonprofit, proudly invites San Antonio families to Family Saturday on December 3 from 1p.m. to 4p.m. During this free event for families and kids of all ages, Red Dot Artists Ashley Perez, Andy and Yvette Benavides, and Ernesto Ibañez will inspire youth to look at and understand contemporary art through fun-filled hands-on activities and art making. Family Saturday is free and open to the public. There will be complimentary food and refreshments. Support for the Contemporary at Blue Star’s Family Saturday is provided by the King William Association. (Contemporary at Blue Star, 2022)

Currently on view at the Contemporary is the Red Dot Show. The exhibition presents and celebrates the work of over 100 San Antonio-based artists, offering the public an opportunity to start or expand their own art collections, with works on sale for a wide variety of tastes and budgets. Proceeds from art sales equally benefit artists and the Contemporary at Blue Star’s year-round exhibitions and expansive, no-cost art education programs, which inspire, nurture, and innovate through contemporary art.

The Contemporary was founded in 1986 for artists, by artists, through a grassroots movement sparked by the cancellation of the first major museum exhibition of contemporary art in San Antonio. Six arts supporters and artists founded Contemporary Art for San Antonio to provide an exhibition venue for artists and the public. With the support of donors and property developers Bernard Lifshutz and Hap Veltman, the founders, artists, and volunteers converted a warehouse into a gallery for the first annual Blue Star Exhibition. Over the years, the Contemporary has grown to include a professional staff, a robust calendar of onsite and offsite exhibitions, community collaborations, creative youth development programs, international exchange opportunities for artists, and public art projects. Formerly known as Blue Star Contemporary, the institution announced its mission-driven new name, graphic identity, and website in 2022. 

Magik Theatre presents The Velveteen Rabbit

Put some Magik in your holidays with The Velveteen Rabbit, a cherished holiday classic. Photo: Magik Theatre, used with permission.

The holidays are all about family, love, hope, and a little magic. Magik Theatre will celebrate all of that and more with its production of The Velveteen Rabbit, taking place from now until December 24, 2022. Written by Margery Williams and adapted by Michelle Hoppe-Long, this classic, heartwarming tale about a child’s favorite toy that comes to life has been delighting both the young and young-at-heart for 100 years, thanks to its timeless message. Revisit this family favorite for yourself, or share it with a whole new generation during the theatre’s special rendition. (Magik Theatre, 2022)

“There’s no better time than the holidays to add a little Magik to your life. And there’s no more magical story than that of The Velveteen Rabbit.” – Anthony Runfola, Artistic Director, Magik Theatre

From the time it was published in 1922, the story of The Velveteen Rabbit has touched the lives of readers young and old. It tells the story of a boy and his stuffed rabbit that, like many a beloved toy, grows more worn and bedraggled with love until one day, it becomes “real.” The story strikes a universal chord with its message of love and friendship, reminding us that it is only through vulnerability and opening ourselves to the connection that we become our authentic selves.

Just as the story of The Velveteen Rabbit has delighted generations of the same families for decades, so has Magik Theatre. Children who once filled the seats are now bringing their children and grandchildren to experience the joy of seeing the stories they love brought to life on stage by professional actors.

This production of The Velveteen Rabbit marks the directorial debut of one of Magik Theatre’s veteran actors, Rosa Gardner. A member of the company since 2016, Gardner has been entertaining audiences with her outstanding performances in Junie B. Jones: Toothless Wonder, Charlotte’s Web, Snow White, and Knufflebunny, to name a few. Now she is directing her own talented team. Rounding out the cast are John Michael Hoke as Nana and the Velveteen Rabbit, Alyssa Cavazos as The Child, and Alaia Adriana as Mother and The Fairy. The crew includes Stage Manager, Alyssa Snow, Scenic Design by Chris Boneta, Costume Design by Sarah Steele, Lighting Design by Armando Chavez, Sound Design by Carolyn Orosco, and Original Music and Arrangements by John Michael Hoke.

Magik Theatre is committed to educating through entertainment—and no child or family is ever left out. “We are here to make theatre accessible to every family and take away any barrier that exists,” says Villani. In keeping with that commitment, the 2022-23 season boasts some upgrades to include the following special performances below.

SPECIAL PERFORMANCES

American Sign Language Interpreted Performance
Saturday, November 26, 2p.m. – Robert Cardoza, the San Antonio theatre community’s primary sign language interpreter, will be available during this performance for patrons that require ASL as their primary form of communication.

Sensory-Friendly Performance
Saturday, December 3, 10:30a.m. – Sensory-friendly performances are designed to create a welcoming environment for people who are on the autism spectrum or who have other sensory sensitivities. By modifying elements of the production to accommodate individuals with sensory needs, we create a welcoming space where families and friends of those with autism or other disabilities can enjoy an authentic performance experience together.

Pay What You Wish Performances
Friday, November 25, 2p.m. and Friday, December 16, 6:30p.m. – Magik’s way of giving back to the community and providing an opportunity for families to experience live theatre with a donation of any amount.

Mask Required Performances
Tuesday, November 22 at 10:30a.m., Saturday, December 3 at 2p.m. and Tuesday, December 20 at 2p.m. – If you would like to attend a mask-required performance, this option is for you. We have adopted a model that allows us to go above and beyond standard schedules. It also provides you with peace of mind knowing that all of our performers and staff continue to follow strict health and safety protocols including the option to select your experience while in the theatre.

2022-23 Season Subscriptions and Flex Passes are on sale now, priced at $48, $60, $75, and $87. Single Tickets are $18.50 for children (ages 2-17), Military, Seniors, and Educators | $22.50 for adults | Children under 2 years old are free. Season Subscriptions, Flex Passes, and Single Tickets are available online or by calling (210) 227-2751. You can also purchase at the box office, 420 S. Alamo, from 9a.m.- 5p.m., Monday thru Friday. 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 to parties of ten or more people

A professional theatre for young audiences established in 1994, Magik Theatre’s mission is to use the power of theatre to create Magikal storytelling for children that Activates imagination, Grows young minds, and Inspires creativity and a love of learning that is the Key to a more literate future for our community.

Austin musician launches direct trade chocolate brand made with sustainably harvested cacao

Joaihú Craft Brazilian Cacao is a direct origin, craft chocolate company whose mission is to create the finest Brazilian tree-to-bar chocolate. Photo: Joaihú, used with permission.

Joaihú, a Direct Origin, Tree To Bar chocolate from the old-growth rainforest in Bahia, Brazil, hit shelves in stores this month throughout Central Texas and is available online across the US. CEO, Austin native, and songstress Kate Robberson says, “The story behind Joaihú is rich, much like the flavor it draws from the soil of the Atlantic Coastal Rainforest. It’s an honor to continue to build bridges between communities through sharing culture, art, and now chocolate.” Robberson’s business partner and Joaihu’s Co-founder, Charles Stewart, are explorers at heart. They have each traveled the world pursuing their individual passions: biology, music, community building, language, herbal medicines, and eventually –– cacao. They saw how deforestation and other unsustainable harvest methods were running rampant in the region and wanted to create a better, more equitable way for the earth and local community to share the tradition and artistry of chocolate. From there, the two chose to plant their chocolate grove in a climate that would yield craft-quality cacao and simultaneously allow them to bolster climate protection efforts. (Joaihú, 2022)

Joaihú is an ancient Tupi word that means “to love and be loved.” It is a verb, a way of being, a mutual care and respect that serves as the guiding philosophy for how the company treats its workers, its customers, and the earth. Joaihú is also the middle name of Stewart’s newborn son. He and Robberson ensure their entire team works in only the safest conditions and earns more than fair wages.

“I built this business with my son in mind. I want it to be sustainable –– not just ecologically, but in every aspect: socially, economically, environmentally, personally –– so that it will not only benefit my family, but the community at large, for generations.” – Charles Stewart

Joaihú’s farm, Fazenda Boa Vista, enjoys sweeping views of the rainforest and ocean, far from harmful toxins and pollution. To honor the precious surrounding ecosystem, Stewart enlisted a pair of visionary farmers to mentor him and help strategically design an agroforestry project that supports the forest’s natural rhythms. Their farmers are intentionally trained to be minimal and non-invasive in their maintenance of the grove, carefully trimming rotting limbs and only using organic methods of fertilization to keep the trees healthy and strong. 

The farm’s zero carbon footprint, regenerative agriculture practices and encompassing state-recognized wildlife preserve all speak to Joaihú’s commitment to serve as stewards of the earth. Joaihú aims to work in harmony with nature, respecting the give and take between harvest and growth instead of trying to standardize it.

Joaihú produces one of the purest expressions of Brazilian cacao on the market. Their award-winning chocolatier, Diego Badaró , minimizes additives to focus on the cacao trees as the primary source of flavor, meaning that vintages differ. Joaihú currently offers three percentages of chocolate ranging in intensity from 75% to 85% and 100%. The 100% bar is considered medicinal grade –– one of the most authentic Brazilian cacao bars available on the market. Each is wrapped in fully compostable packaging and share the complex and vibrant nutrient-rich flavors imparted by the Atlantic Coastal Rainforest.

Joaihú will be having a brand launch party on December 3, 2022 at Central Market North (4001 N Lamar Blvd) in Austin, Texas from 6p.m. to 9p.m. to celebrate the release of the chocolate in-stores.  The event will showcase the Brazilian culture the founders fell in love with, featuring live musical performances from Grupo Massa from 5:30p.m. – 6:30p.m. and Ley Line from 7p.m. – 8p.m. Guests will be able to enjoy Joaihú’s three chocolate expressions at the event while getting to experience an authentic aspect of Brazilian life. 

Joaihú Craft Brazilian Cacao is now distributed in stores across Central Texas, including Central Market, Tiny Grocer, Thom’s Market, Quickie Pickie, Try Hard Coffee, and Dia’s Market. It is also available online nationwide with direct-to-consumer shipping .