Category: Community news

Fall Flavors in San Antonio: Pumpkin Lattes, Fiesta Drinks & Live Fire Dining

Twang launches new Fiesta Lime Rimming Salt with red, white, and green visuals. Photo: Twang, used with permission.

Fall Flavors & Festivities in San Antonio

As the fall season approaches, San Antonio is brimming with festive flavors and seasonal celebrations. From pumpkin-spiced lattes to wood-fired feasts and zesty new drink pairings, here’s what’s happening around town this September.

🎃 Sip Into the Season at La Panadería

La Panadería is welcoming cooler weather and the holiday spirit with the launch of its Pumpkin Cold Foam Latte, debuting Friday, September 19. (La Panadería, 2025)

This fall-inspired treat features an iced cinnamon latte base, topped with house-made cold foam crafted from real pumpkin puree and maple syrup, and finished with a dusting of pumpkin spice.

Pair your latte with La Panadería’s beloved brunch menu, featuring:

  • House-made chilaquiles
  • Huevos rancheros
  • Avocado toast
  • Breakfast tortas
  • And of course, freshly baked pan dulce

🍹 Twang Launches Fiesta Lime Rimming Salt

San Antonio’s own Twang, known for bold, South Texas-inspired flavors, has introduced its latest innovation: Fiesta Lime Rimming Salt. (Twang, 2025)

Perfect for cocktails and mocktails, this zesty rimmer combines lime zest with a balanced salt mix, accented with red, white, and green crystals — a nod to Twang’s Mexican-American roots and the colorful spirit of celebrations.

  • Price: $5 each
  • Where to buy: Online (nationwide delivery) and select Spec’s locations

Because every drink deserves a little fiesta.

🔥 Live Fire Returns to Hotel Contessa

Hotel Contessa is bringing back its popular seasonal tradition, Live Fire, starting Saturday, September 20 at Ambler, the hotel’s River Walk patio restaurant. (Hotel Contessa, 2025)

This immersive culinary series celebrates Texas cuisine with dishes prepared over an open flame, paired with live music from local musicians.

Kickoff Event: September 20

  • 6 p.m. – Cocktail hour (drinks available for purchase)
  • 7–8 p.m. – Free country line dancing lessons (RSVP on Eventbrite)
  • 6–9 p.m. – Dinner reservations via OpenTable or 210-298-8040

Weekly Details

  • Every Saturday, 5–9 p.m. through mid-November (weather permitting)
  • Price: $79–$129 per person, depending on entrée
  • Format: Four-course, family-style meal featuring rotating seasonal menus

About the Chef

Executive Chef Michael Collins brings more than 30 years of culinary experience — and a decade spent in Texas — to this series. Through Live Fire, he showcases regional ingredients, time-honored techniques, and partnerships with local producers.

📍 Ambler River Patio
306 W. Market St., San Antonio, TX 78205

✨ Whether you’re craving pumpkin spice, a festive cocktail upgrade, or a true Texas feast by the fire, San Antonio has something flavorful waiting for you this fall.

La Panadería’s Pumpkin Cold Foam Latte. Photo: La Panadería, used with permission.

Celebrate Culture, Cuisine, and Community This Month at Pearl

Mariachi Mondays and Night Markets are back this September at Pearl. Photo: Pearl, used with permission.

September Pearl Happenings

Fall is here, and Pearl is buzzing with incredible events, live music, and family-friendly fun. From culinary experiences to cultural celebrations, here’s everything happening this September at Pearl. (Pearl, 2025)

✨ Events

Sabores de México

📅 Saturday, September 13 | 🕕 6–10 p.m. | 📍 Stable Hall | 💵 $125+
Join us for an unforgettable night of culinary expertise featuring Alejandro Gutiérrez, founder of the Mexican Society of Grillers. Experience the bold flavors of northern Mexico with storytelling, live fire cooking, live music, and a vibrant parrillada-style atmosphere.
👉 Tickets

Viva Dieciséis

📅 Monday, September 15 | 🕕 6–9 p.m. | 📍 Pearl Park | 💵 Free
Pearl honors Mexico’s Independence Day with a civic ceremony in partnership with the Consulate General of Mexico in San Antonio. Enjoy live mariachi performances, a local artist showcase, DJ sets, and family-friendly activities.

Ven A Brindar with Pati Jinich

📅 Friday, September 19 | 🕖 7–9:30 p.m. | 📍 Mezquite | 💵 $75
Spend an intimate evening of cocktails, conversation, and culinary inspiration with Pati Jinich, Emmy-nominated chef and James Beard Award-winning author. Guests will enjoy light bites and signature drinks as Pati shares her passion for Mexican cuisine and storytelling.

Texas Beer Collectibles Show

📅 Saturday, September 27 | 🕙 10 a.m.–3 p.m. | 📍 Otto’s Ice House | 💵 Free
Explore, buy, sell, and trade unique beer collectibles with fellow enthusiasts, from glassware and bottles to vintage posters, cans, and more.

👨‍👩‍👧 For the Family

Mariachi Mondays

📅 Every Monday, Sept. 15–Oct. 13 | 🕕 6–7 p.m. | 📍 Pearl Park | 💵 Free
Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with vibrant mariachi performances under the evening sky. Experience violins, trumpets, and guitars filling Pearl Park as local groups bring this beloved tradition to life—a perfect evening for families and friends.

Wednesday Night Markets Return!

📅 Every Wednesday, Sept. 17–Dec. 17 | 🕔 5–9 p.m. | 📍 Pearl | 💵 Free
The beloved Wednesday Night Markets are back! Stroll through Pearl and browse unique creations from local artisans, makers, and businesses.

🎶 Stable Hall News

Stable Hall—Pearl’s historic live music venue—welcomes Garrett Zimmerman as its new General Manager.

With 15+ years in venue management and event booking, Zimmerman brings a wealth of experience from venues such as TempleLive, Riverfront Live, Thompson House, and Top Cats. His expertise in venue renovations and event launches will help shape Stable Hall into a hub for unforgettable performances.

Once home to Pearl Beer’s legendary draft horses, Stable Hall now features 1,000 seats, six bars, and a world-class green room. Since opening, it has become a go-to destination for conjunto, blues, R&B, country, and more. Its mission: to honor Texas’s roots while spotlighting both emerging and established talent.

✅ Save the dates, bring your friends and family, and experience all that Pearl has to offer this September!

Photo: Pearl, used with permission.

September Vibes at Plaza San Antonio: Yoga, Jazz, Cocktails & More

Plaza San Antonio announces new First Friday Market, Happy Hour Deals, and more. Anaqua Garden Bar photo: Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa, used with permission.

September Happenings at Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa, Autograph Collection

Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa is excited to present a vibrant lineup of September events—ranging from happy hour specials and live music to yoga classes and unique wellness experiences. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly fun, relaxing spa time, or unforgettable entertainment, there’s something for everyone this month. (Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa, 2025)

🌿 Anaqua Garden Bar

First Friday’s Under the Trees

📅 Friday, September 5 | 5–8 p.m.
Celebrate the start of each month with $10 cocktails, live acoustic sets by Leon Sanchez, and local vendor pop-ups on the garden lawn. Perfect for sipping, strolling, and soaking in the First Friday energy.
👉 Reserve on OpenTable

Beats and Bubbles

📅 Every Saturday in September | 5–9 p.m.
Turn up the sparkle with a bubble party featuring a live vinyl DJ. Enjoy a $39 Disco Ball Cocktail to share, or sip champagne for just $9 a glass.
👉 Reserve on OpenTable

5•5•5 Sundays

📅 Every Sunday | All Day
$5 pool passes, $5 cocktails, $5 bites—plus $55 cabanas and shareable cocktails. A DJ keeps the vibes going in the lush downtown garden.
👉 Use code SUNDAY555 on Resort Pass for pool passes.
👉 Reserve on OpenTable

Tropic Like It’s Hot

📅 Friday, September 26 | 4–7 p.m.
Tropical cocktails, island-inspired bites, lei giveaways, and live music under the torches. A perfect tiki-inspired evening.
👉 Reserve on OpenTable

🧘 The Spa at Plaza San Antonio

Soul Flow Saturdays

📅 Every Saturday in September | 9:30–10:30 a.m.
Outdoor yoga led by Kristel Perry on the Oasis Lawn. Includes all-day pool, Zen Lounge, and fitness center access, plus 25% off same-day spa services.
💲 $17.85 via Eventbrite

Poses at The Plaza

📅 Sunday, September 28 | 10 a.m.
A 60-minute yoga flow with EnergyXFitness, followed by the Anaqua Tea Ceremony at 11 a.m. Includes pool and spa access, plus a reservation at Corinne San Antonio.
💲 $15 via Eventbrite

Moonlit Wellness: Floating Sound Bath Under the First Quarter Moon

📅 Friday, September 19 | 8:30–9:30 p.m.
Float in the spa pool while immersed in a 60-minute sound bath with crystal bowls and gongs by Caitlyn Garrison. Includes spa amenities, valet, and 25% off spa services.
👉 Reserve via Eventbrite

🍴 Corinne San Antonio

Corinne’s Sunset Sessions

📅 Friday, September 12 & 19 | 4–7 p.m.
Unwind with chef-driven bites, craft cocktails, and smooth live Latin jazz during golden hour.
👉 Reserve Sept. 12 | Reserve Sept. 19

4-5-6-7 Happy Hour

📅 Monday–Thursday | 4–8 p.m.
Enjoy $7 food and drinks, including Lobster Queso, Loaded Cauliflower Nachos, local Texas beers, and La Villita Margaritas.
👉 Reserve on OpenTable

📍 Venue Details

Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa
555 S Alamo St, San Antonio, TX 78205
🚗 Valet Parking: $15 for up to 3 hours

Sweet Treats & Sizzling Tacos: Labor Day Weekend Foodie Events in San Antonio

La Panadería announces Labor Day weekend celebration and new fall menu items launch. Photo: La Panadería, used with permission.

Celebrate Labor Day Weekend in San Antonio with Food, Music & Festivities

Labor Day Weekend is just around the corner and San Antonio is serving up plenty of flavor and fun. From new seasonal treats at La Panadería to a sizzling fajita showdown at Gimme Gimme, here’s where to celebrate the long weekend in style.

🍫 La Panadería: A Sweet Taste of Fall

Starting Friday, August 29, La Panadería invites guests to be the first to try its brand-new Fall Chocolate Collection. Indulgent, cozy, and perfect for the season, the line-up includes:

  • Abuelita Chocolate Cold Foam Latte ($7.50) – Iced vanilla latte topped with Abuelita chocolate cold foam, mini chocolate chips, and a cinnamon sugar sprinkle.
  • Dubai Chocolate Cold Foam Latte ($7.50) – Bold iced dirty hot chocolate topped with Dubai chocolate cold foam, chocolate drizzle, and kataifi.
  • Abuelita Chocolate Concha ($4.70) – A decadent concha filled with Abuelita chocolate and finished with a chocolate-cinnamon crust.

These new creations join returning fan-favorites like the Ferrero Rocher Concha and Dubai Chocolate Cold Foam Latte, making this fall menu a must-try for coffee and pan dulce lovers.

🎶 Bonus Weekend Fun: On Saturday, August 30 (10 a.m.–2 p.m.), both the La Cantera and Downtown locations will host live DJs during brunch. Enjoy dishes like house-made chilaquiles, huevos rancheros, avocado toast, and breakfast tortas while sipping your latte to the sound of local beats. (La Panadería, 2025)

🌮 Gimme Gimme: Fajita Lounge Showdown

Also heating up the weekend is the return of Gimme Gimme’s 3rd Annual Fajita Lounge Showdown — where eight local chefs go head-to-head for the crown of “Best Fajita Tacos in San Antonio.” (Gimme Gimme, 2025)

Since 2022, the Fajita Lounge has been a beloved carne asada pop-up series hosted by Aaron Peña, Chef Matt Garcia, and Chef Jake Gonzales, known for its free fajita tacos and festive vibes.

🏆 Competing Chefs & Restaurants:

  • Cullum’s Attaboy (2024 Champion)
  • Leche de Tigre
  • Mixtli
  • Bar Loretta
  • Bucán Rodeo
  • Rosa’s Kitchen
  • Buddy’s Big Trouble
  • The Friendly Spot

✨ Judges Panel:

  • José Ralat, Taco Editor at Texas Monthly
  • Jose Arredondo, Multimedia Journalist at Spectrum News San Antonio
  • Kat Stinson, San Antonio-based food & lifestyle writer

The winner takes home $500, plus major bragging rights.

🎧 Expect specialty cocktails by Live Oak Vodka and music from DJ Texas Papi, keeping the party alive until 2 a.m.

📅 When: Sunday, August 31, 2025 | 5 p.m. – 2 a.m.
📍 Where: Gimme Gimme, 803 S St. Mary’s St, San Antonio, TX 78205

This event is FREE and open to the public (21+). Tacos will be free for all on a first come, first served basis while supplies last.

Photo: @txtroublemaker, used with permission.

✨ Plan Your Weekend

Whether you’re in the mood for sweet fall flavors at La Panadería or sizzling fajita tacos at Gimme Gimme, San Antonio is ready to make your Labor Day Weekend unforgettable.

Kimpton Santo San Antonio Rings in One Year: Anniversary Celebration Guide

Tenfold Rooftop. Photo: Kimpton Santo San Antonio – Riverwalk, used with permission.

🎉 Kimpton Santo San Antonio Celebrates One Year on the Riverwalk

SAN ANTONIO, TX – White Lodging and Kimpton Santo San Antonio – Riverwalk, part of IHG Hotels & Resorts’ luxury and lifestyle portfolio, are thrilled to announce the hotel’s first anniversary with a weekend of elevated programming, immersive guest experiences, and celebratory events that showcase the spirit of San Antonio. (Kimpton Santo San Antonio – Riverwalk, 2025)

On Friday, August 29, Kimpton Santo will mark its milestone by inviting both guests and locals to join in on hotel-wide specials and unforgettable events hosted at its signature venues: Tenfold Rooftop and Dean’s Steak & Seafood.

“This anniversary is more than a milestone—it’s a celebration of the deep connection we’ve built with San Antonio and its community,” said General Manager Joshua Schaeffer. “From our guests to our neighbors, the past year has been defined by meaningful experiences and shared moments. We’re proud to honor that spirit with a celebration that reflects everything we love about this city.”

✨ Hotel-Wide Anniversary Offers

What We Love About San Antonio: 1-Year Anniversary Package

Bookable now through August 31, this curated package invites travelers to enjoy San Antonio through a refined, locally inspired stay. The package is valid for travel through December 31, 2025 and can be reserved online. Perfect for both first-time visitors and longtime admirers.

1-Year Anniversary Giveaway: 10 Days, 10 Winners, 10 Exclusive Rates

From August 20–29, Kimpton Santo is running a special social media giveaway. Each day, one lucky winner will score a deeply discounted stay, starting at $10/night and dropping by $1 each day—culminating in a $1 stay for one winner on the official anniversary date.

🎶 Weekend Celebration Events

Skyline Disco at Tenfold Rooftop

📅 Friday, August 29 | ⏰ 8 PM – Midnight
Kick off the anniversary under the stars with disco + house beats, skyline views, and cocktails. Guests are encouraged to dress in disco-inspired attire. Free admission (21+), registration required. Valet parking is just $1.

$1 Bubbles at Tenfold Rooftop

📅 Saturday, August 30 | ⏰ From Noon
Celebrate rooftop magic with live DJ vibes and $1 select bubbles (while supplies last).

Tenfold Rooftop x La Pulga Tequila Pool Party

📅 Sunday, August 31 | ⏰ 3–6 PM
The pool transforms into a vibrant summer lounge with DJ Natvillian, tequila-forward cocktails, and cabanas. Free for hotel guests; $20 public access via ResortPass ($30 day-of if available).

🦪 Live at Dean’s: 1-Year Celebration

📅 Saturday, August 30 | ⏰ 5–10 PM
Dean’s Steak & Seafood is marking the occasion with $1 oysters in both the dining room and the Bar at Dean’s. From 7–10 PM, enjoy live music alongside dinner or drinks. Reservations are encouraged via OpenTable. Valet parking is just $1 per guest.

🏨 About Kimpton Santo San Antonio

Located at 431 S. Alamo, Kimpton Santo blends luxury lifestyle hospitality with the vibrant culture of San Antonio. In its first year, it has already become a premier destination on the Riverwalk, redefining the city’s hospitality scene.

🌍 About Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants

Founded in 1981 in San Francisco, Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants pioneered the boutique hotel movement with design-forward, one-of-a-kind experiences. Today, the brand operates 75+ hotels and 100+ restaurants, bars, and lounges across the globe, as part of IHG Hotels & Resorts’ luxury and lifestyle portfolio.

Your August Guide to Food, Wine, and Events in Fredericksburg and San Antonio

The Moon’s Daughters at Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk. Photo: Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk, used with permission.

Summer Events in Fredericksburg & San Antonio

Texas Hill Country is buzzing with exciting events this August. From parades and yoga to wine tastings and culinary experiences, here’s a roundup of must-attend happenings in Fredericksburg and San Antonio.

Celebrate Summer at Albert Hotel – Fredericksburg

Albert Hotel (213 E Austin St, Fredericksburg, TX 78624) is bringing the community together with a blend of beloved traditions and fresh experiences. (Albert Hotel, 2025)

🎉 137th Annual Gillespie County Fair Parade

📍 Albert Suite Balcony
🗓 Friday, August 22 | 9:30 a.m. – 11 a.m.

Enjoy premium Main Street views of the historic parade from the comfort of the Albert Suite balcony.

  • Tickets: $125 adults | $45 kids (6–11) | Free (5 & under)
  • Includes: Valet parking, welcome cocktail, bottomless mimosas, gourmet bites, and air conditioning
  • Spots are filling fast – tickets via OpenTable

🧘 ‘90s Hip-Hop Yoga on the Lawn

📍 Albert Hotel Lawn
🗓 Thursday, August 28 | 7:30 p.m.

Flow to nostalgic ‘90s hip-hop beats in this all-levels class hosted with Blossom Yoga.

  • Bring your mat and plenty of ‘90s spirit
  • Stay after for a cool-down cocktail
  • Spots are filling fast. Tickets available now on OpenTable

Wine Education at Copa Wine Bar – San Antonio

Copa Wine Bar (19141 Stone Oak Pkwy, San Antonio, TX 78258) invites guests to an exclusive Wine 101 Tasting with owner and chef Jeff Bridges. (Copa Wine Bar, 2025)

🗓 Saturday, August 23 | 4 p.m. – 6 p.m.

  • Guided tasting of four wines with history, body, and pairing notes
  • Small bites provided (cheese & crackers)
  • Perfect for date night, girls’ night, or casual outing
  • Tickets: $30 per person | Reservations required (210) 495-2672

🍷 Stay after class for dinner and explore Copa’s extensive wine selection.

Clay & Cuisine at Clementine – San Antonio

Clementine (2195 Northwest Military Hwy, San Antonio, TX 78213) pairs culinary creativity with local artistry for Clay & Cuisine. (Clay & Cuisine, 2025)

🗓 Tuesday, August 26 | 5 p.m. – 9 p.m.

  • 3-course prix fixe dinner by Clementine chefs
  • Guests take home a handcrafted ceramic bowl by artist Jesselyn Gordon
  • Tickets: $105 per person | Reservations on OpenTable

✨ Come for the food, stay for the bowl.

Skyline Dining at Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk

On Thursday, August 28, Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk hosts the latest installment of its Skyline Dining Series atop The Moon’s Daughters. (Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk, 2025)

This one-of-a-kind evening features:

  • Sweeping rooftop views
  • A collaborative menu by:
    • Chef Nicola Blaque (The Jerk Shack, Freight Fried Chicken)
    • Chef Luis Colón (Esquire Tavern, Tokyo Cowboy)
    • Chef David Arciniega (Thompson San Antonio)
  • Curated beverage pairings by cocktail architect Derrik Cortez (Sojourn Trading Co.)

💙 50% of proceeds benefit Texas Search and Rescue, a nonprofit supporting disaster response across Texas.

🔗 Ticket information available here.

✨ Whether you’re craving gourmet dining, yoga under the stars, or wine-tasting fun, there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate summer in the Texas Hill Country and San Antonio.

Celebrate, Sip, and Savor: Hotel Emma’s Culinary Journey into its Next Decade

Hotel Emma at the Pearl is celebrating with several culinary events. Photo: Lou Hammond Group

Hotel Emma’s 10th Anniversary: Culinary Events & Guest Chefs

Hotel Emma continues its 10th anniversary celebrations with a special lineup of culinary events and guest chefs. Following Executive Chef Geronimo Lopez’ recognition as Chef Ambassador representing San Antonio as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy, Sternewirth and Supper will continue to highlight his artistry and innovation through unforgettable dining experiences. (Lou Hammond Group, 2025)

August Highlights

📅 August 19, 6:30 p.m. | Swiggle Key
Guest Chef Shinae Hong
Experience an intimate, private dinner with celebrity Korean Chef Shinae Hong, author of the popular cookbook I Love Kimchi. Enjoy a collaborative fusion menu blending global flavors.

📅 Now through August 23 | Staycation for San Antonio Restaurant Weeks
Book any two nights during San Antonio’s premier culinary showcase and receive 15% off your room rate at Hotel Emma, plus a $100 dining credit valid for Supper’s prix fixe menu or any dining across the property.

📅 August 21, 6:30 p.m. | Cellars J&K
Summer Dinner Series V: NYC’s Corima
For the fifth installment of the summer dinner series, savor progressive Mexican cuisine by Michelin-starred, NYC-based Corima — no trip to the Big Apple required.

September Highlights

📅 September 25, 6:30 p.m. | Sternewirth
Dead Rabbit Bar Swap
The award-winning Dead Rabbit, an Austin institution, brings its bartenders and signature recipes to San Antonio. Enjoy classic and contemporary Irish cocktails from a bar named Best in the World multiple times by Tales of the Cocktail.

📅 September 26, 6:30 p.m. | Elephant Cellar Patio
Guest Chef Levi Goode
Houston-based chef and restaurateur Levi Goode will host a private dinner, following his highly anticipated Otto’s Ice House debut opening in Pearl in April 2025.

Recurring Experience

Chef’s Counter at Supper
Every Thursday and Friday throughout August and September, enjoy a 5-course tasting menu with optional wine pairings curated by sommelier Scott Ota.
💲 $125 per person.

Save the Date: Fall Events

  • 📅 October 18 | Blade & Bow Whiskey Pairing Dinner
    Experience the rich flavors of Louisville paired with southern traditions of warmth and hospitality.
  • 📅 October 20 | Immersive Dinner with Chef Thomas Bille
    James Beard-lauded and Michelin-acclaimed Chef Thomas Bille (Belly of the Beast, Spring TX) shares dishes inspired by his Mexican roots, including Texas Wagyu Carne Asada and Street Corn Agnolotti.
  • 📅 November 12 | Hotel Emma’s 10th Anniversary Celebration
    Celebrate a decade of excellence with a “Meet the Maker” dinner, featuring live music, cocktail demos, food displays, and a champagne toast to TEN.

✨ Whether you’re a local foodie or visiting San Antonio, Hotel Emma’s anniversary season promises unforgettable culinary experiences.

National Tell a Joke Day Just Got Sweeter Thanks to Damon Wayans Jr. and Laffy Taffy

Got jokes? Here’s your chance to get them printed on Laffy Taffy’s iconic wrapper … if you can make Damon Wayans Jr. laugh. Photo: Laffy Taffy, used with permission.

Make Damon Wayans Jr. Laugh—Your Joke Could End Up on a Laffy Taffy® Wrapper!

CHICAGO – Why did the candy fan call the Laff Line?
For the chance to make comedian, actor, and producer Damon Wayans Jr. laugh—and maybe see their joke printed on a Laffy Taffy® candy wrapper. (Laffy Taffy, 2025)

The beloved candy brand, famous for its classic dad jokes, has teamed up with Wayans to launch its first-ever Laffy Taffy Laff Line—a hilarious hotline for fans to share their punniest original jokes. Winning jokes could land a spot on Laffy Taffy’s new, easier-to-open wrappers.

How to Call the Laffy Taffy Laff Line

📅 When: August 16, National Tell a Joke Day
📞 Number: 1-844-LOL-HOUR (1-844-565-4687)
🕒 Time: 3p.m. – 7p.m. Eastern Time (aka “Laffy Hour”)

During Laffy Hour, select callers will get the chance to tell their joke directly to Wayans and his “Laff Squad”—a team of comedians from Zanies Chicago—hoping to make them laff out loud.

Joke Guidelines:

  • 100 characters or less
  • Must follow the classic Laffy Taffy format: setup + punchline (up to 50 characters each)

Wayans will also share some of his own one-liners back to callers.

“I like to consider myself a dad joke expert, so I’m excited to hear some fresh material,” said Wayans. “Do you have what it takes to make me laugh? If so, give me a ring!”

New Wrappers, Same Sweet Laughs

Laffy Taffy Mini Bars now feature a smooth, easy-open wrapper—no more sticky or shredded packaging—while still serving up that signature creamy candy. With the new look, the brand is also refreshing its jokes, inviting fans themselves to help write the next batch.

“These moments of connection bring joy to our fans every day,” said Ashley Incarnato, Senior Marketing Director at Ferrara Candy Company. “With Damon Wayans Jr., the Laffy Taffy Laff Line is the perfect way to connect with our community, give them the chance to test their comedic chops, and bring more laughter to families of all generations.”

Win a Spot on a Laffy Taffy Wrapper

All callers can submit their original joke for a chance to be printed on Laffy Taffy wrappers sold nationwide. Jokes will be judged on humor, originality, creativity, and brand fit.

Prizes:

  • Top 100 jokes printed on wrappers
  • Winners receive a custom bag of Laffy Taffy Mini Bars with an exclusive preview of fellow winners’ jokes

About Laffy Taffy®

Since 1971, Laffy Taffy® has been bringing little bites of delight to families everywhere. Its lineup includes classic mini bars, Stretchy and Tangy bars, and Laffy Taffy Ropes, available in flavors like Cherry, Strawberry, Grape, Watermelon, Sour Apple, Banana, and Blue Raspberry.

Contest Details:
No purchase necessary. Open to legal residents of the 50 U.S. & D.C., 18+. Void where prohibited. Begins 3p.m. ET August 16, 2025, ends 7p.m. ET August 16, 2025. Full contest rules

Gianmarco Soresi’s ‘Drama King’ Tour Hits San Antonio This September

Comedian Gianmarco Soresi brings his comedy tour to the Laugh Out Loud Comedy Club. Photo: Jim Cambridge, used with permission.

Gianmarco Soresi Brings His “Drama King” Tour to San Antonio

📅 September 12–14, 2025
📍 Laugh Out Loud Comedy Club – San Antonio, TX

Comedy fans in San Antonio, get ready—Gianmarco Soresi, the quick-witted comedian, actor, and viral social media sensation, is bringing his Drama King Tour to the Laugh Out Loud Comedy Club for three nights of sharp, high-energy stand-up. (Shark Party Media, 2025)

A Comedian on the Rise

Fresh off being named one of Vulture’s “Comedians You Should and Will Know” and Deadline’s “Comedians Ready to Break Out in 2025,” Soresi is making waves in the comedy world. He recently hit 1 million YouTube subscribers and taped his first hour-long comedy special at Los Angeles’ Elysian Theater—release details coming later this year.

The Gianmarco Style

Known for his razor-sharp societal observations and animated, upbeat-yet-dark comedic style, Soresi has earned praise from NPR, Esquire, The Atlantic, Buzzfeed, ABC News, and more. He’s performed on The Late Late Show with James Corden, Comedy Central, Don’t Tell Comedy, and even The Real Housewives of New York.

His acting credits include Billy Crystal’s Here Today, Netflix’s Bonding, Hustlers, and The Last OG. In 2022, he was selected as a JFL New Face, cementing his spot as one of comedy’s must-watch performers.

Beyond the Stage

When he’s not touring, Soresi keeps busy in NYC with:

  • The Silver Lining – his recurring new-material showcase with guest comics
  • The Downside with Gianmarco Soresi – a live podcast with co-host Russell Daniels and special guests
  • A set on Netflix’s Verified Stand-Up

🎟 Show Details

Venue: Laugh Out Loud Comedy Club
📍 618 Northwest Loop 410 #312, San Antonio, TX 78216

Dates & Times:

  • Sept 12: 7:30p.m. & 9:45p.m.
  • Sept 13: 7p.m. & 9:30p.m.
  • Sept 14: 7:30p.m.

Tickets: Get them here

If you like comedy that’s fast, fearless, and a little bit dark, you won’t want to miss Gianmarco Soresi live in San Antonio.

Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Alternative Nation: Chicago Exhibition Captures the Raw Energy of ’90s Music

Behind The Gallery presents: Alternative Nation: A Retrospective. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Alternative Nation: A Retrospective

A Raw, Unfiltered Look at the Rise of Alternative Music

Behind The Gallery proudly presents its latest exhibition, Alternative Nation: A Retrospective—a visceral journey through the explosion of alternative music and culture from the 1990s to the early 2000s. (Magnum PR, 2025)

Debuting in Chicago and hosted by After, the cocktail bar from Michelin-starred chef Curtis Duffy, the exhibition features never-before-seen and classic images of Nirvana, Nine Inch Nails, Pearl Jam, Soundgarden, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Alice in Chains, Foo Fighters, Smashing Pumpkins, Meat Puppets, and more.

The Photographers Who Shaped an Era

This unprecedented show brings together the iconic work of five visionary photographers—Joseph Cultice, Jonathan Rach, Chris Cuffaro, Kevin Westenberg, and Scarlet Page—whose lenses helped define the way we remember the era.

“This show isn’t just a trip down memory lane—it’s a time capsule of a moment when music felt dangerous, emotional, and deeply human,” says Behind The Gallery founder and curator Stephen Dallimore.

Each photographer was trusted by the bands, capturing the raw, unfiltered moments that defined a generation. Their work documents the cultural shift when grunge, industrial, and alt-rock went from the fringes to the forefront—changing not only the sound, but the very image of music.

A Time of Creative Rebellion

The 1990s alternative scene gave voice to a generation navigating alienation, identity, and emotional extremes.

  • Grunge acts like Nirvana and Pearl Jam rejected polished mainstream aesthetics, embracing vulnerability and grit.
  • Industrial pioneers like Nine Inch Nails fused electronics with rock, exploring darker, confrontational themes.

These photographs are more than concert shots—they’re portraits of authenticity, rebellion, and the raw pulse of an era when music was deeply felt.

Not Just for Nostalgia

While many of these artists are now considered legacy acts, the exhibition is curated for both longtime fans and a new generation craving authenticity.

“In a digital age where connection can feel shallow, there’s something powerful about experiencing these raw, analog images,” says Dallimore. “It was a time when music felt fresh, exciting, and dangerous—an era that still carried a sense of mystery.”

Photographer Inclusions by Artist

Chris Cuffaro: Alice In Chains, Nirvana, Pearl Jam, Screaming Trees, Soundgarden
Joseph Cultice: Aphex Twin, Björk, Danzig, Marilyn Manson, Meat Puppets, Smashing Pumpkins
Jonathan Rach: Nine Inch Nails, Tool, Melvins
Kevin Westenberg: Pearl Jam, Nine Inch Nails, Soundgarden, White Stripes
Scarlet Page: Björk, Chris Cornell, Foo Fighters, Marilyn Manson, NIN, Placebo, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Smashing Pumpkins

Event Details

📍 Location:
After – Curtis Duffy’s Cocktail Bar
1338 W Fulton Street, Chicago, Illinois 60607

🗓 Exhibition Hours:

  • Opening Night: Friday, August 15, 2025 | 6:30–10 p.m.
  • Saturday, August 16 – Wednesday, August 20 | 4–10 p.m.

🎤 Artist Talk & Q&A:

  • Saturday, August 16 | 5:00 p.m.
    Curtis Duffy hosts a conversation with Jonathan Rach & Joseph Cultice