Category: Community news

Taco Cabana launches two new Double Crunch Pizza flavors

The new Double Crunch Pizza options launch Thursday, February 2, 2023. Photo: Taco Cabana, used with permission.

Due to popular demand, Taco Cabana will add two all-new Double Crunch Pizza (DCP) flavors this February following the release of its first-ever pizza in December 2022. Launching February 2, 2023, a Chorizo and Egg Double Crunch Pizza, available all day – perfect for breakfast, lunch or dinner – and a Shredded Chicken Double Crunch Pizza will be added to the TC menu. The new flavors will continue TC’s tradition of culinary innovation and will be available for just $4.99 at all Texas Taco Cabana locations. (Taco Cabana, 2023)

“Over the last 30 days, since the launch of our Ground Beef Double Crunch Pizza in mid-December, the TC guest response and engagement has been incredible. Our guests immediately began asking us for more DCP options and we listened and responded. We’re excited to launch two new, available all-day DCP line extensions, and we will continue to develop within our innovation culinary pipeline across a number of different platforms for the future as well.” – Ulyses Camacho, Chief Operating Officer, Taco Cabana

TC’s Double Crunch Pizzas are composed of two crispy tortillas blended with corn and flour, layered with the guest’s choice of seasoned ground beef, flavor-packed shredded chicken or chorizo and egg, refried beans, chipotle ranch dressing, and Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese, topped with Pico de Gallo, shredded cheese and drizzled with sour cream. Guests 21 years of age or older can complement their Double Crunch Pizza selection with their choice of one of TC’s 12 refreshing margarita options available for $3 each all day, every day at TC’s Margarita Headquarters. This flavor-filled combination is not to be missed.

All menu items can be ordered in-restaurant, via online ordering for front counter and curbside pick-up, in the drive-thru or by mobile order when ordering online or by using the MY TC!® App.

Since Valentine’s Day is right around the corner, here is some menu news for the big day. Meat lovers and crispy flauta fans alike will find much to enjoy at Taco Cabana this Valentine’s Day. Food is the way to the heart, and fortunately, Taco Cabana is paving the way. Foodie couples looking for some bites will have the choice of a Shredded Chicken Taco Plate, a Ground Beef Taco Plate, or a three-pack Flauta Plate for just $10.99. Each plate comes with an array of tasty rice, refried beans or black beans, shredded lettuce, guacamole, and two tortillas.

Guests 21 years of age or older can pair their special meal with one of Taco Cabana’s many frozen margarita flavors or a sweet treat such as TC’s delectable Oreo Churros.

Taco Cabana, a subsidiary of YTC Enterprises, LLC, was founded in 1978. The brand specializes in Tex-Mex-inspired food including enchiladas, fajitas, quesadillas, flautas, tacos, flour tortillas and a selection of made-from-scratch salsas and sauces. Restaurants feature open-display cooking, a selection of bottled beer and signature $3 tequila margaritas, patio dining, drive-thru windows, curbside pick-up, delivery and catering. As of January 19, 2023, Taco Cabana operates 143 company-owned restaurants in Texas.

 

Gift ideas for Valentine’s Day

Hiatus Spa + Retreat has Valentine’s Day Spa Packages available. Photo: Hiatus Spa + Retreat, used with permission.

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner so if you need some ideas to celebrate, consider the following from Carriqui, Bakery Lorraine, San Antonio Museum of Art, iFLY Indoor Skydiving, and Hiatus Spa + Retreat:

Carriqui will host its inaugural Valentine’s Day dinner Tuesday, February 14 from 4p.m. to 9p.m. In addition to the regular menu, a three-course tasting menu is also available for $85 per person. Romantic add-ons are available online or can be requested upon arrival at the restaurant. The add-ons include house-made chocolate truffles or long-stem chocolate covered strawberries from the Carriqui pastry team ($25), fresh cut flower bouquet from Statue of Design ($50), and a bottle of Delamotte Brut champagne ($100).

Valentine’s Day Dinner at Carriqui
239 E. Grayson, San Antonio, TX 78215
Tuesday, February 14 – 4p.m. to 9p.m.

The three-course tasting menu includes:

1st Course – Choice of avocado and tomato salad with arugula, goat cheese, Texas Black Garlic Vinaigrette or Gulf Shrimp bisque with grilled toast and chive cream. 2nd Course – Choice of Marinated Redfish with charred broccolini, avocado mousse and kale chips, Smoked grilled ribeye with crispy potatoes and horseradish cream, or Braised cauliflower with fennel-spiced corn crumble and chili butter. 3rd Course – Choice of chocolate cake with caramel mousse, and almond sesame brittle or lime cheesecake with coconut graham cracker crust.

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Valentine’s Day Sweets & Flowers for pre-order at Bakery Lorraine
All San Antonio locations
Pastries available from Saturday February 11 to Tuesday February 14
Pre-order Flowers by Emma Lily Flowers from Wednesday January 25 to Friday February 10

For foodies looking forward to delectable Valentine’s sweets, Bakery Lorraine has pastries exclusive to the Valentine’s Day holiday at all of their San Antonio locations from Saturday, February 11 to Tuesday, February 14. The sweets include Chocolate Raspberry Tart, Grapefruit Tiramisu, Heart Moonpie, Raspberry Rose Japonaise, Strawberry Pop Heart, and Fraisier. In addition to their themed desserts, Bakery Lorraine is also partnering with Flowers by Emma Lily Flowers for guests to pre-order a set of 12pk of macarons with a bouquet for only $70 or a flower box including six macarons for only $40. Macaron flavors include raspberry, pistachio, chocolate, and strawberry rose. Preorders are available from Wednesday, January 25 until Noon on Friday, February 10, and can be ordered on the Bakery Lorraine website. Pickup for pre-orders will be on Tuesday, February 14 at the chosen location.

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Valentine’s Day Silver Trunk Show at the San Antonio Museum of Art
200 West Jones Avenue
San Antonio, TX 78215
Saturday, February 11, 2023 from 10a.m. to 2p.m.

Couples shopping for a unique gift and stunning for their Valentine can head to the shop at the San Antonio Museum of Art on February, 11, 2023 from 10a.m. to 2p.m. where the latest in silver jewelry from Sarah Roberts, Micha Gonzalez, Moose Pablos, and Spratling are waiting to be discovered. The gorgeous works will be available for purchase and will make the perfect addition to any Valentine’s day surprise.

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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 will include 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 is 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 will be available for purchase online from February 2 through February 19. Flights must be purchased, booked and used at a participating U.S. iFLY Indoor Skydiving location within the promotional timeframe (2/2/23 – 2/19/23) for flights to be redeemable. Prices vary per iFLY location.

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The award-winning Texas day spa Hiatus Spa + Retreat has Valentine’s Day packages available.

Signed, Sealed, Delivered (I’m Yours)
Send your sweetheart off on a “choose your own spa adventure” only to return more rejuvenated and relaxed than ever before. They’ll get to pick any 3 of our Essential Services — The Signature Massage, The Tailor-Made Facial, The One & Only Mani/Pedi, The Body Wrap, The Body Glow,* or Acupuncture.*
$299 ($350 value) *available only at specific Hiatus spa locations

The Love Birds (EarlyBird CBD Partnership)
Begin with a crushed rose petal and organic sugar foot soak, heartwarming hot stone shoulder massage then relax side-by-side in a couples massage with our house-blended love potion of rose, jasmine, vetiver and coco butter. Then take flight with EarlyBird Full Spectrum CBD Gummies and float through the rest of your day feeling chill and relaxed.
($350 / $279 H-Circle Member)

Cupids Bow
1 Syringe of Restylane Kysse, Dysport Lip Flip (10 units), $686 / $617 H-Circle ($795 value)

In addition to Valentine’s day packages, Hiatus will also be offering a couple of gift card deals in the upcoming months.

Galentine’s Gift Card Sale
Available: February 13 & 14
Offer: Buy $75 for only $50

Valentine’s Gift Card Sale
Available: January 13 – February 15
Offer: Buy $250 for only $199

The JL Bar Ranch, Resort & Spa’s Annual Lonestar Lover’s Weekend

The JL Bar Ranch, Resort & Spa’s Annual Lonestar Lover’s Weekend will take place on February 10 – 12. Photo: The JL Bar Ranch, Resort & Spa, used with permission.

Join The JL Bar Ranch, Resort & Spa for their Annual Lonestar Lover’s Weekend on February 10 -12. On Saturday, February 11, The LCR Culinary Team will be offering an exquisite 5-course romantic dinner for two in celebration of Valentine’s Day. Extend the celebration with your sweetheart by booking for the weekend in one of the luxury cabins or spacious guest room accommodations. To further enhance your stay for you and your special someone, take advantage of the wide assortment of activities and spa services available. Our guest service team will be happy to assist you in planning the ultimate Lonestar Lover’s Weekend experience. (The JL Bar Ranch, Resort & Spa, 2023)

That special day is quickly approaching, so make sure and plan ahead. Make your reservations now to ensure you are ready to celebrate your love in luxury with The JL Bar team. To make reservations for the Lonestar Lover’s Dinner for Two or schedule activities for your weekend, email guest services or call (855) 414-3337. Seating options: 6p.m. and 8p.m. – $150 per couple. Dining menu available online.

Photo: The JL Bar Ranch, Resort & Spa

Concert featuring Michael Ray at The JL Bar Ranch, Resort & Spa

Tickets are now available for the Michael Ray concert at The JL Bar Ranch, Resort & Spa. Photo: The JL Bar Ranch, Resort & Spa

On Saturday, April 22, The JL Bar Ranch, Resort, & Spa is excited to welcome Michael Ray as part of the JL Bar Concert Series lineup for 2023. The concert will take place at the FBO Private Airport Hanger and tickets are available now. Michael Ray is a singer, songwriter currently signed to Warner Music Nashville and has released two albums: Michael Ray and Boats and Hoes. (The JL Bar Ranch, Resort & Spa, 2023)

Guests can turn this Saturday night event into a well-deserved weekend getaway by reserving a room in the luxury guest accommodations and booking other activities known to enhance The JL Bar experience. Additional event details are available online.

Event details:
Venue doors and bar open at 6:30p.m. (times subject to change)
Opening and featured performance: details coming soon

Concert reservations:
General Admission tickets: $55
VIP private table: $999 (includes 8 event tickets and 2 drink tickets per person – 16 tickets per table)

Partnered hotel availability: (mention The JL Bar Event when making reservations)
Quality Inn, Sonora location: $100/night (single); $120/night (double)
Holiday Inn Express, Junction location: $100/night

Shuttle services:
Sonora location: $20/person
Junction location: $30/person

San Antonio Charter Moms hosts free School Discovery Day at The DoSeum

In celebration of National School Choice Week, families can visit with nearly 30 participating schools. Photo: San Antonio Charter Moms, used with permission.

San Antonio Charter Moms continues the School Discovery Day event series with its largest event yet to be held at The DoSeum on Saturday, January 21 from 11a.m. to 2p.m. In celebration of National School Choice Week (January 22 – January 28), families will have the opportunity to meet school representatives from nearly 30 top San Antonio choice schools, ask questions, get on interest lists and learn about application processes and deadlines. School Discovery Days are free events that connect families with schools in a face-to-face format that enables them to interact directly with multiple school representatives in one convenient location. Families can receive hands-on guidance from the San Antonio Charter Moms team on navigating the nonprofit’s online tools and resources designed to simplify the search and application process. (San Antonio Charter Moms, 2023)

With over 150 schools of choice in the San Antonio area alone, parents and caregivers can quickly become overwhelmed trying to find the right fit for their child’s individual learning needs. Considered the leading authority for assisting local families in their school search, San Antonio Charter Moms (SACM) is designed to help parents and caregivers make informed decisions by providing easy access to extensive school resources such as online discussion groups with over 10K 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. The series is the largest of its kind in San Antonio, a free school fair event series focusing on charter and choice schools in the area. The events are free, open to the public, and a huge asset to families trying to make sense of the myriad of great school options in San Antonio.

School Discovery Day at the DoSeum (Flagship Event | National School Choice Week)
The theater at The DoSeum, 2800 Broadway, San Antonio, TX 78209
School Discovery Day is a free event in The DoSeum’s theater space. Guests will be greeted by the beats of the young DJs of The AM Project. With admission, guests can navigate The DoSeum’s 68,000 square feet of wow-worthy galleries designed to cultivate curiosity, ignite learning, and discover the power of play through interactive fun.

National School Choice Week, January 22–28, is a celebration of the process of allowing every family to choose the K–12 educational options that best fit their children. SACM will host nearly 30 schools during this, the flagship event of the series.

Participating Schools: Anne Frank Inspire Academy, BASIS Charter Schools, Brooks Academies of Texas, CAST Schools, Compass Rose Public Schools, Edgewood ISD Schools of Innovation, Essence Prep, The Gathering Place, Great Hearts of Texas, Harmony Public Schools, IDEA Public Schools, Jubilee Academies, KIPP Texas – San Antonio, Learn4Life Edgewood, Legacy Traditional Schools – Texas, Lighthouse Public Schools, New Frontiers Public Schools, Pre-K 4SA, Prelude Prep, Promesa Academy, Royal Public Schools, SA Prep, SAISD Choice Schools, School of Science and Technology and Southwest Prep.

Other scheduled events:
School Discovery Day at Second Baptist Church – Saturday, February 4, 11a.m. – 2p.m.
Second Baptist Church Community Center, 3310 E. Commerce St., San Antonio, TX 78220
Second Baptist Church is a historic Black congregation dating back to 1879 now located on the Eastside of San Antonio near the AT&T Center. Inside the Community Center, event guests can sample specialty hot dogs by Doolittle’s Mobile Kitchen, dance to the beats of The AM Project, catch Once in a Wild mobile zoo’s animal program, and get creative with face painting.

School Discovery Day at Hangar 9 – Saturday, February 18, 11a.m. – 2p.m.
Hangar 9 at Brooks, 8081 Inner Circle Dr., San Antonio, TX 78223
Hangar 9, built in 1918, is the oldest wooden aircraft hangar of its kind still standing in its original location; now it is an event space at Brooks, a vibrant community on the site of a former Air Force base. Guests at School Discovery Day at Hangar 9 can meet with 25 top schools as they sample specialty hot dogs by Doolittle’s Mobile Kitchen, dance to the beats of The AM Project, catch Once in a Wild mobile zoo’s animal program, and get creative with face painting.

School Discovery Day at Hemisfair (Spring) – Saturday, March 4, 11a.m. – 2p.m.
Central Games Plaza in Yanaguana Garden at Hemisfair, 434 S. Alamo St., San Antonio, TX 78205
Hemisfair is a landmark park in downtown San Antonio. Families visiting School Discovery Day at Hemisfair can meet with over 15 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.

SAMA presents Roman Landscapes: Visions of Nature and Myth from Rome and Pompeii

Roman Landscapes: Visions of Nature and Myth from Rome and Pompeii opens at the San Antonio Museum of Art in February 2023. Photo: Google

The San Antonio Museum of Art (SAMA) recently announced that it will present Roman Landscapes: Visions of Nature and Myth from Rome and Pompeii in February 2023, the first exhibition in the United States to explore landscape scenes as a genre of ancient Roman art. Serving as a contrast to the typical works of antiquity with which most museum audiences are familiar—the larger-than-life statues venerating gods or heroes, or scenes of battle or ritual found on friezes or pottery—these works instead depict artists’ idyllic visions of a countryside dotted with seaside villas and rural shrines, where gods and mythological heroes mingle with travelers, herdsmen, and worshippers. (San Antonio Museum of Art, 2023)

Organized by and presented exclusively in San Antonio, Roman Landscapes features more than 65 works, including major loans from museums in Italy, France, and Germany, many of which have never before been shown in the United States. The exhibition was curated and organized by Jessica Powers, SAMA’s Interim Chief Curator and Gilbert M. Denman, Jr., Curator of Art of the Ancient Mediterranean World, and will be on view at SAMA from February 24 through May 21, 2023.

Roman Landscapes will be accompanied by a richly illustrated catalogue published by the museum, featuring essays by Powers; Bettina Bergmann, Professor Emeritus of Art History at Mount Holyoke College; Verity Platt, Professor of Classics and History of Art at Cornell University; Lynley J. McAlpine, Mellon Foundation Postdoctoral Curatorial Fellow at SAMA; Timothy M. O’Sullivan, Professor of Classical Studies at Trinity University; and Thomas Fröhlich, Director of the Library at the German Archaeological Institute in Rome. In conjunction with the exhibition, Trinity University will dedicate its spring Lennox Seminar Lecture Series to subjects explored in the museum’s presentation.

Developed through several years of research that began with Powers’ explorations of works in SAMA’s own notable collection, Roman Landscapes will feature an array of wall paintings, sculptures, mosaics, and cameo glass and silver vessels created in Roman Italy between 100 BC and AD 250. The exhibition will introduce visitors to their cultural and archaeological contexts and highlight the artistic conventions that distinguish Roman landscape scenes, including fluid, almost impressionistic brushwork and the use of bird’s-eye perspective.

The exhibition is organized around five thematic sections. The first, “Garden Landscapes,” brings together paintings and sculptures from houses in Pompeii and nearby villas on the Bay of Naples to evoke the experience of a Roman peristyle garden. “Coastal Views and Cultivated Landscapes” and “Sacred Landscapes” present mural paintings and relief sculptures that depict seascapes and rustic shrines, images that show how landscape scenes once decorated lavish Roman residences. In “The Dangerous Landscapes of Myth,” mythological paintings then reveal landscape scenes as settings for hazardous encounters between humans and the gods, presenting visually the oft-told stories that served as warnings about individual or community behavior. The last section, “Landscapes in the Tomb,” compares wall paintings from communal tombs in Rome with those from houses and explores the adaptation of landscape imagery for funerary settings.

San Antonio is the nation’s seventh-largest city and is consistently listed as one of its fastest-growing. The Museum is housed in the historic Lone Star Brewery on the Museum Reach of San Antonio’s River Walk and is committed to promoting the rich cultural heritage and life of the city. It hosts hundreds of events and public programs each year, including concerts, performances, tours, lectures, symposia, and interactive experiences. As an active civic leader, the Museum is dedicated to enriching the cultural life of the city and the region, and to supporting its creative community.

Niche at Pearl now carrying men’s apparel

Local designer and clothing store announces the addition of a man’s section in store, including a limited men’s clothing selection from the brand. Photo: Niche, used with permission.

Beloved local clothing store Niche is excited to announce the addition of a men’s section to their storefront at Pearl as well as a limited collection of men’s clothing designed by the brand. Up until now, Niche has exclusively designed and carried women’s apparel, known for its modern look including clean lines, rich textures and textiles and distinctive architectural details. (Niche, 2022)

“Niche’s men’s line is inspired by the same thing we think about for the core collection: clean designs and luxe fabrics that feel really good on,” said Niche Co-Owner Ayse Derman.

The fashion brand was founded in 1997 by mother/daughter team Nilgün and Ayse Derman and recently celebrated 25 years in business. The men’s section at Niche will feature button up shirts, golf shirts, light jackets, flannels, hats, wallets, soaps, and other gift items. Niche’s line will start with button-up shirts and pullovers and will add more items over time. Additional brands carried in-store include Raised by Coyotes, Passion Lille, Man Ready Mercantile, and Duke Cannon.

Niche products come in a wide price range that allows each customer to find what works for them. The flagship store carries an extensive selection of Niche clothing alongside a curated collection of accessories, gifts, home decor, kids’ toys and clothing, fabrics, and plants. Stitch at Niche, a curated fabric store & project space, is also located within the boutique where you can find unique DIY kits, gorgeous textiles by the yard, trims, interesting buttons, and sewing thread.

Photo: Niche, used with permission.

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.

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.

Yanaguana Indian Arts Festival at the Briscoe this Saturday

The annual Yanaguana Indian Arts Festival is this Saturday November 19 at the Briscoe Western Art Museum. Photo: Briscoe Western Art Museum, used with permission.

Showcasing Native American heritage and its influence on the American West, the Briscoe Western Art Museum invites everyone to enjoy its free annual Yanaguana Indian Arts Festival, Saturday, November 19, 10a.m – 5p.m. Highlighting the continued vibrancy and artistic traditions of Native American communities, the event is free and includes admission to the Briscoe. The festival is a perfect way to mark Native American Heritage Month and celebrates the important role Native Americans played in shaping the West. (Briscoe Western Art Museum, 2022)

The free community festival features storytelling, artist demonstrations, pottery and carving, as well as Native American-inspired food, including REZR’vation Only, a food truck featuring Native American-inspired cuisine that is owned and operated by a registered member of the Navajo Nation. Yanaguana Indian Arts Festival also features workshops and lectures celebrating traditional and contemporary Native American culture. The event starts with a special blessing, followed by a ceremonial drum circle that invites everyone to join.

The annual event is named in honor of the Payaya people who were indigenous to the San Antonio area. “Yanaguana” was the word they used to describe what is now known as the San Antonio River. The festival has been held annually since the museum opened.

Yanaguana Indian Arts Festival highlights include:

  • An opening spiritual blessing United San Antonio Pow Wow, Inc.
  • A Pow Wow-style drum circle kicks off the day, with United San Antonio Pow Wow, Inc. and Enemy Horse Drumming demonstrating and explaining common pow wow dance styles. Another Pow Wow-style drum circle features the Great Promise Dancers in the afternoon, also demonstrating and explaining common pow wow dance styles.
  • Live music by Native American artists including flute player Tim Blueflint Ramel. An enrolled member of the Bad River Band of the Lake Superior Chippewa, a federally recognized American Indian Tribe, Blueflint has opened for and shared the stage with Grammy Award Winner Mary Youngblood and a wide variety of artists.
  • Stories from Amy Bluemel, a Chickasaw storyteller and the great-granddaughter of Eastman Kaney, an original Dawes Commission enrollee. Bluemel shares Chickasaw customs, and those of other southeastern tribes, through elaborate storytelling.
  • Ledger art with artist George Curtis Levi, showcasing how ledger art captures a moment in time. A type of art that originated amongst the Cheyenne in the late 1840s, ledger art utilized pages of repurposed record books to depict everyday life. A member of the Southern Cheyenne tribe in Oklahoma, Levi also has ties to the Arapaho and Oglala Lakota communities.
  • Pottery making with artist Jereldine Redcorn showcasing Caddo pottery, an art form she single-handedly revived. A member of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, Redcorn’s father was Caddo and her mother was Potawatomi. In 2009, First Lady Michelle Obama selected one of her pieces to decorate the Oval Office.
  • Kachina carving with Kevin Horace Quannie, a Hopi/Navajo contemporary artist. Living on the Hopi reservation, Quannie specializes in carving contemporary kachina dolls using cottonwood roots.
  • Crafts and demonstrations include making your own drum, creating a community weaving basket, paper bead necklaces, pottery making, loom weaving, wood carving and leather stamping.

Festival visitors also enjoy free admission to the Briscoe, including exhibitions highlighting the stories of the American Indian, cowboys, pioneering women and others that define the West. The museum’s fall exhibition highlights the wildlife and landscape of the West, 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.