Celebrate Fiesta at Otto’s Ice House with limited-time cocktails, Tejano music, and exclusive metals. Photo: Otto’s Ice House, used with permission.
Viva Fiesta! 3 Must-Visit San Antonio Events This Week
If you’re still looking for the perfect way to celebrate Fiesta, San Antonio is delivering in spades. From ice house hangouts to high-end champagne dinners, here are three ways to soak up the spirit of the season. (Otto’s Ice House, Pearl, Hilton La Cantera Resort & Spa, 2026)
1. Sip and Celebrate at Otto’s Ice House
Chef Levi Goode’s newest concept, Otto’s Ice House, is going all out with seasonal flair. Whether you’re hunting for a free collectible medal or a refreshing drink, this is your go-to spot.
The Drinks ($12):
River City Rosè: Vodka, honeysuckle liqueur, lemon, strawberry, and sparkling water.
Como la Flor: A smoky-sweet blend of Tequila, mezcal, orgeat, lime, and Aperol.
The Swag: Spend $40 or more to snag an exclusive Fiesta medal for FREE, or purchase one for $10.
The Party: On Friday, April 24, catch live Tejano music immediately following the Battle of Flowers parade.
When: Now through Sunday, April 26 Where: 111 Newell Avenue, San Antonio, TX 78212
2. Viva Pearl: Family Fun in the Heart of the City
For those wanting a vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere,Viva Pearl returns this Friday. It’s the perfect post-parade landing spot to keep the energy high.
The Activities: Get creative with maraca painting and papel picado postcard making.
The Atmosphere: Browse curated local vendors and enjoy live musical performances throughout the evening.
The Food: Local food vendors will be on-site serving up South Texas favorites.
When: Friday, April 24 | 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM Where: 303 Pearl Pkwy, San Antonio, TX 78215
3. An Elevated Alternative: Lanson Champagne Dinner
If you’re looking to escape the crowds for a more intimate, sophisticated evening, head to Signature Restaurant at Signia by Hilton La Cantera Resort & Spa.
Chef John Carpenter has designed a seven-course tasting menu specifically paired with five selections from Lanson Champagne. Highlights include:
Hamachi with watermelon yuzu granita.
Scallop & Caviar in a champagne beurre blanc.
Texas Wagyu Ribeye and Gulf Redfish.
Malva Pudding to round out the evening.
When: Thursday, April 23 | 6:00 PM Where: Signature Restaurant (La Cantera Resort & Spa) Booking: This is a one-night-only event with limited seating. Find more details and book your table here.
Pro Tip: If you’re heading to the Battle of Flowers parade on Friday, plan your route early! Both Otto’s and Pearl are expected to be busy immediately following the festivities.
Bakery Lorraine’s Fiesta medial will be available starting this Wednesday April 8. Photo: Bakery Lorraine, used with permission.
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.
Achieve an all day buzz at The Newstand Coffee & Sandwiches in San Antonio. Photo: Alejandro Deleon, used with permission.
The Newstand Coffee & Sandwiches: Your All-Day Destination for Caffeine, Crust, and Corks
Whether you’re looking for a sunrise spark or a sunset sip, The Newstand has officially cemented itself as the ultimate community hub. Known for an ever-evolving menu that dances between artisanal coffee and approachable wines, it’s the rare neighborhood gem where you can truly “stay a while.” (The Newstand, 2026)
The Morning Jolt: Innovative Sips & House-Milled Eats
The Newstand built its reputation on more than just a standard cup of joe. By pairing house-milled grains with inventive flavor profiles, they’ve turned the daily breakfast run into an art form.
The Bakery: Don’t miss the hand-made breads or the fan-favorite sticky buns and chocolate chip cookies.
Signature Brews: If you’re chasing a caffeine high, the menu features creative staples like:
Cosmo & Wanda: An iced matcha latte topped with pink strawberry syrup and sweet cream cold foam.
Paper Route: A decadent iced caramel latte with sweet cream cold foam and a caramel drizzle.
Shake it Off: The team’s signature take on the brown sugar shaken espresso.
Tang Ten: A bright fusion of Texas tangerine syrup, Kyoto matcha, and vanilla cold foam.
The Evening Transition: A New Way to Wine
As the sun sets, The Newstand transforms. Under the guidance of Beverage Director and Sommelier Austin Tabbone, the shop has introduced a wine program that is as sophisticated as it is accessible.
Tabbone’s curated list moves away from stuffy labels, instead categorizing wines by their personality:
“Weighty and Textured” (Available by the bottle)
“Red and Berry Fruited” (Available by the glass)
From wines fermented with native yeasts to organically and biodynamically farmed vineyards, the goal is to offer unique bottles you won’t find in big-box stores.
For the curious but undecided, Tabbone offers mini flights, providing a low-pressure introduction to the world of natural and boutique wines.
Bites for the Night
No wine program is complete without the perfect pairing. The evening menu features house-made bites designed to complement Tabbone’s selections, including:
Jots at The Gunter Hotel will host a special Easter brunch. Photo: The Gunter Hotel, used with permission.
Whether you are craving a sweet pastry or a multi-course sit-down brunch, San Antonio is serving up some fantastic ways to celebrate Easter this year. With the holiday falling on Sunday, April 5, here are two local favorites you won’t want to miss. (La Panadería/The Gunter Hotel, 2026)
🥐 La Panadería: Festive Sweets & Spring Sips
La Panadería is leaning into the season with a mix of colorful treats and brand-new beverages. Whether you need a quick caffeine fix or a box of pastries to share, they have you covered.
Easter Specials
Mini Easter Conchas: These festive, pastel-colored treats come in three Easter egg-inspired hues. At $2.90 each, they are the perfect bite-sized addition to any Easter basket.
Availability: In-store only at all locations through Sunday, April 5.
New Spring Beverage Lineup
If you’re looking for a fresh way to “sip into spring,” check out these new additions:
Churro Cold Foam Latte: A cinnamon-vanilla latte topped with churro cold foam and a drizzle of cajeta.
Mojito Mocktail (Starting April 1): A refreshing blend of coconut water, lime, mint, and honey.
Mangonada Mocktail (Starting April 1): A tropical mix featuring coconut water, mango juice, and agave.
Mojito and Mangonada MocktailsEaster mini conchas
🥂 Jots at The Gunter Hotel: A Curated Brunch
For those looking for a sophisticated dining experience, Jots at The Gunter Hotel is hosting a multi-course Easter brunch perfect for the whole family.
When: Sunday, April 5 | 7 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Pricing: $65 per person | $15 per child
The Menu
Course
Options
For the Table
Chef’s selection of fresh tea loaves, Crab Florentine Skillet, or Fried Green Tomatoes
Entrées
Three Little Pigs Benedict, Banana Foster French Toast, Traditional French Omelette, The Gunter Hash, Shrimp and Grits, Rosemary Prime Rib, Chicken and Waffles, or Pork Roulade
Dessert
Golden Hour Pineapple Cake, Cinder & Cocoa, or Citrus Quartet
Kids Menu
Choice of Kids Chicken and Waffles or Kids Plate
Pro Tip: If you’re planning on heading to The Gunter Hotel, be sure to make a reservation early, as Easter Sunday is one of the busiest brunch days of the year.
Trinity University is hosting the first PechaKucha of 2026. Photo: Ben Yanto, used with permission.
PechaKucha San Antonio Vol. 48: Celebrating 50 Years of KRTU
PechaKucha San Antonio, the global arts and culture series, is back! Kicking off the 2026 season is Volume 48, a special event honoring the 50th Anniversary of KRTU 91.7 FM. (PechaKucha San Antonio, 2026)
Join us for a night of rapid-fire storytelling, local flavors, and community celebration at the historic Laurie Auditorium.
Event Details
Date: Tuesday, March 31, 2026
Location: Laurie Auditorium, Trinity University (One Trinity Pl, San Antonio, TX 78212)
6:30 p.m. – Welcome Reception (Live music & bites)
7:30 p.m. – Presentations Begin
Tickets: $10 per person. Available at the door or online (online orders subject to fees).
A Golden Anniversary for KRTU
For five decades, Trinity University has been the heartbeat of San Antonio’s jazz and indie scene. Since flipping the switch as a modest 50-watt station in 1976, KRTU has grown into a cultural powerhouse. It remains a vital hands-on learning lab and holds one of the largest in-studio jazz collections in the nation. This Volume is our tribute to the “grooves” that have defined our city for 50 years.
The Volume 48 Presenters
Our lineup features seven diverse local voices, each sharing their passion in the signature 20×20 format:
Emcee: Bria Woods (Multimedia storyteller and Content Director at KRTU).
Live Music: JJ Lopez will be spinning soul, jazz, and disco-twist vinyl during the reception.
Food & Drink
Come hungry! The evening features complimentary bites from some of San Antonio’s favorites:
CheeseMé Charcuterie Boards
OK Kitchens
Roundabout
Olla Express Coffee
Tio Pelon’s Salsita
Cocktails and other beverages will be available for purchase.
What is PechaKucha?
Pronounced “PEH-chuh KOO-chuh,” this Japanese-inspired format (meaning “chit chat”) challenges speakers to be concise and engaging. Each presenter shows 20 images, and each slide advances automatically every 20 seconds. That’s exactly 6 minutes and 40 seconds to tell a story.
Since its San Antonio debut in 2011, PechaKucha has become a quarterly staple, bringing together architects, artists, and community leaders to share the ideas that move them.
Don’t miss the largest community band festival in Texas. Photo: Greater San Antonio Community Bands Association.
San Antonio Community Bands Unite for Texas’ Largest Musical Festival
Music is more than sound. It’s how a community hears itself.
Get ready for a day filled with harmony, heritage, and horns! The Greater San Antonio Community Bands Association (GSACBA)is proud to announce the 5th Annual Community Band Music Festival. (Greater San Antonio Community Bands Association, 2026)
Whether you’re a lifelong musician or just a lover of live performance, this event promises to be the premier musical gathering of the season.
📅 Event Details
When: Saturday, March 28, 2026
Time: 10:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Where: The Biergarten at Beethoven Maennerchor
Address: 422 Pereida St, San Antonio, TX 78207
Admission: Open to the public!
A Massive Scale of Talent
This isn’t just a local recital; it’s a massive collaborative effort. The GSACBA brings together 11 community bands from across the San Antonio area, featuring more than 500 musicians throughout the day.
Highlights include:
The Oldest German Band Outside of Germany: Experience a direct link to San Antonio’s rich cultural history.
The Heart of Texas Concert Band: Enjoy the sounds of this award-winning ensemble.
A Unique Venue: Relax in the historic King William District outdoors in the iconic Beethoven Maennerchor Biergarten.
Why the Music Matters
Beyond the notes on the page, these community bands serve a vital purpose in our city. They build strong bonds, connect generations, and preserve the traditions that make San Antonio unique.
“This festival highlights the effectiveness of our community bands in a way that brings people together and gives them a place to belong.”
By attending, you aren’t just listening to music, you’re supporting an ecosystem that strengthens the minds of performers and listeners alike while bringing joy to thousands.
Don’t miss out on the largest community band festival in Texas. Grab a seat in the Biergarten and help us celebrate the soundtrack of our community.
Photo: Greater San Antonio Community Bands Association
Family-friendly Easter in SATX includes egg hunts, brunch buffets, and sweet surprises. Photo: Corinne San Antonio.
Hop Into Spring: The Best Easter Brunch & Treats in San Antonio (2026)
With Easter Sunday arriving on April 5, San Antonio’s vibrant culinary scene is blooming with festive specials. Whether you are looking for whimsical pastries to take home or a refined rooftop brunch with skyline views, these local favorites have you covered.
Bakery Lorraine is bringing back its highly anticipated seasonal sweets, featuring bright spring flavors and adorable aesthetics.
Key Lime Coconut Tart: A graham cracker crust filled with sweet-tart key lime custard, topped with a toasted coconut “nest” and malt chocolate robin’s eggs.
Easter Egg Moon Pie: Graham cracker shortbread sandwich with lemon honey marshmallow fluff, dipped in white chocolate.
Gluten-Free Sticky Sweet Potato & Pecan Cake: Topped with toasted pecans, toffee sauce, and brown butter orange buttercream.
Chocolate Mousse Bunnies: Dark chocolate mousse shaped into bunnies on a vanilla shortbread base.
The Holiday Box: A curated sampler featuring all four seasonal desserts (Pre-order only).
Signature Carrot Cake: A 7″ double-layer cake with pineapple, coconut, walnuts, and cream cheese frosting.
Pro Tip: Pre-orders are open through Monday, March 30. Limited items will be available in-store from March 23 to April 5.
Spend your holiday in one of San Antonio’s most iconic luxury settings. Gallery on the Park is offering a sophisticated menu focused on the fresh flavors of spring.
Featured Entrée: Pan Seared Chilean Sea Bass with fresh spring accompaniments.
Featured Dessert: Strawberry Shortcake Pavlova—light, elegant, and perfectly seasonal.
Hands-on ‘Bug Squad’ exhibition lands at The DoSeum for Spring. Photo: The DoSeum, used with permission.
Adventure Awaits: Meet the “Bug Squad” at The DoSeum!
Looking for the perfect Spring Break destination for the family? Look no further. Bug Squad, a hands-on, high-energy exhibition exploring the extraordinary world of insects, has officially crawled into The DoSeum. (The DoSeum, 2026)
This isn’t just a science lesson, it’s a superhero origin story. The touring exhibition features talking animatronic members of the Bug Squad, each with their own unique storylines that highlight their incredible “super” abilities and biological traits.
Interactive Play & Sensory Exploration
The Bug Squad exhibition is designed to be a fully sensory experience, blending education with active play. Your little explorers can burn off some energy while learning how the tiny world works:
Spider Web Escape: Scale the web and zoom down the slide.
Ant Colony Climber: Navigate the tunnels just like a hard-working ant.
Dragonfly Flight: Take to the skies in a virtual reality experience to see the world through a dragonfly’s eyes.
Plan Your Visit: Bug Squad is open now through April 5.
More to Explore at The DoSeum
With over 90,000 square feet of interactive space, The DoSeum is a powerhouse for STEM, literacy, and the arts. Beyond the bugs, make sure to check out these fan-favorite galleries:
Little Town – Organized by a mix of businesses along a wide, encircling boulevard, Little Town includes child-scaled immersive environments. each a familiar, themed space where kids learn by role-playing the adults in their lives.
Semmes Foundation Spy Academy – Step into the world of espionage and intrigue as you embark on the ultimate quest to become a Master Spy.
Calm Corner – Calm Corner offers a peaceful retreat to unwind and recharge for little ones, and adults alike.
Imagine It! – This exhibit provides multiple ways to explore story-making, with “try-on” characters, environment-based scenarios, and connections to the written word.
Sensations Studios – Through intuitive learning and experimentation, Sensations Studio makes light and sound come alive.
About The DoSeum
Since 1995, The DoSeum has served as San Antonio’s premier museum for children. With 68,000 square feet of indoor exhibitions and 55,000 square feet of outdoor space, it is a cornerstone of interactive learning, empowering families to explore, create, and discover together.
During home stage renovations, the beloved children’s theatre brings fan-favorites to venues across San Antonio. Photo: Magik Theatre, used with permission.
The Show Must Go On: Magik Theatre Takes the City by Storm
In the theatre world, they say “the show must go on” even when there is no theatre. Magik Theatre, San Antonio’s premier theatre company for young audiences, is serving up a tasty solution to that very dilemma. While their iconic Beethoven Hall venue undergoes renovations in early 2026, the magic is moving to stages across the city. (Magik Theatre, 2026)
Starting February 28, San Antonians can devour the popular production of Dragons Love Tacos at three local venues. Looking for something that comes to you? Magik on the Road is also booking performances of Red Riding Hood for educational and family events.
🌮 Dragons are Flying to a Location Near You
In keeping with Magik’s mission to make professional children’s theatre accessible, Dragons Love Tacos, based on the best-selling book by Adam Rubin, will land at three distinct locations this spring:
1. Jo Long Theatre (Carver Community Cultural Center)
Where: 226 N Hackberry, San Antonio, TX 78202
When: Saturday, Feb 28 @ 2 p.m. | Sunday, March 1 @ 3 p.m.
Tickets: Available via Ticketmaster or in-person at the venue.
You might wonder: how can a short picture book fill an entire hour? The team at Magik has been cooking up some “spicy” additions to make the illustrations fly off the page. This production features:
An all-new cast and original choreography.
Fiery special effects and “controlled chaos.”
Director’s Note:“I want the audience to feel like they’re part of the dragon taco party,” says director Angie Hernandez. “Partying with dragons is never boring!”
Pro-Tip: Discounts are available for seniors, first responders, military, educators, and students. Look for the “four-pack” ticket deals to save on family outings.
🐺 Invite Red Riding Hood to Visit You
If you can’t make it to the theatre, Magik will bring the theatre to you. From now through July, Magik on the Road is booking Allison Gregory’s dynamic retelling of Red Riding Hood. Magik on the Road performances are not available March 7-15, May 23-31.
The Vibe: A fresh, funny take where the scariest thing about the wolf is his ego.
The Setup: Can be performed indoors or outdoors—all that’s needed is a 20’ x 20’ space.
The Highlights: Costume quick-changes, prop transformations, and interactive storytelling.
Booking Information: To schedule a show, email Magik Theatre or call (210) 227-2751. Note: Touring shows may be eligible for grants covering up to 50% of the booking fee via the Texas Commission on the Arts.
Ready to join the party?
Visit Magik Theatre to grab your tickets before they’re gone!
The Study at Dean’s. Photo: Kimpton Santo, used with permission.
More Valentine’s Day Ideas in San Antonio 💕
San Antonio is turning up the romance this Valentine’s season. From heart-themed desserts and intimate chef-driven dinners to luxe hotel packages and festive Galentine’s gatherings, the city is full of ways to celebrate love — whether that’s with a partner, your best friends, or yourself.
Here’s your guide to more Valentine’s happenings around town.
🍰 Bakery Lorraine
Valentine’s & Galentine’s Treats 📅 February 1 – 15 📍 All Bakery Lorraine locations
Bakery Lorraine is offering a collection of sweet (and slightly edgy) Valentine’s treats perfect for gifting or indulging.
One highlight? Proceeds from the chocolate cherry macaron will benefit the San Antonio Food Bank throughout February, so your dessert does some good, too.
Available In-Store:
Sugar Skull Shortbread Cookies – Vanilla shortbread decorated with fondant and royal icing accents (individually bagged and gift-ready).
“Love You to Death” Vanilla Raspberry Skull Cakes – Moist vanilla cake with tart raspberry filling and buttercream flower eyes.
Heart Shortbread Cookie Stack – Pink vanilla shortbread cookies tied with string.
Dark Cherry & Chocolate Tiramisu – Coffee-soaked ladyfingers layered with dark cherry compote and mascarpone.
Raspberry Rose Japonaise – A delicate macaron filled with raspberry rose and mascarpone, topped with fresh raspberries and rose petals.
Celebrate Galentine’s in garden glam style with creative cocktails, interactive games, and playful activations. Expect a lively atmosphere designed for connection and fun.
Highlights Include:
Photo station
Temporary tattoo station
Lip gloss charm station
Bic lighter decorations
Hair tinsel & braid bar
Large Confession Burn Book
Card games at every table, including “We’re Not Really Strangers”
📅 Saturday, February 14 🎹 Live music from 9 PM – 12 AM
Toast to friendship at this speakeasy-inspired lounge inside The Gunter Hotel.
San Antonio–born pianist and vocalist Chris Guerrero will perform classic and guest-requested love songs, blending refined jazz with crowd-favorite sing-alongs.
Esencia is offering prix fixe menus ideal for couples and Galentine’s gatherings alike. Guests can enjoy shared appetizers, two entrées, and a shared dessert, thoughtfully crafted and priced per person.
📍 111 Newell Ave, San Antonio, TX 78212 🕚 Open daily at 11 AM
Located in the Historic Pearl District, Otto’s Ice House offers a casual, riverside setting perfect for low-key Valentine’s plans.
For something sweet, Goode Co.’s Brazos Bottom Pecan Pies are available to ship nationwide. Each pie comes in a handcrafted keepsake box with one of three limited-edition messages:
“Pie Love You”
“Ride or Pie”
“Bless Your Heart”
💲 $60 per pie
Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a luxe dinner reservation, or a festive Galentine’s night out, San Antonio offers something for every kind of love story this season. 💗
SA Examiner 