Category: Community news

Celebrate the 4th in Style: Independence Day Weekend in San Antonio

Celebrate the 4th of July with a nostalgic summer garden party at Anaqua Garden Bar. Photo: Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa, used with permission.

Celebrate Independence Day Weekend at Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa

This Independence Day weekend, Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa, Autograph Collection invites locals, travelers, and staycationers to enjoy a festive lineup of events that blend summer fun with refined hospitality. Whether you’re looking for a poolside celebration, a luxurious brunch, or a soothing spa experience, Plaza San Antonio is the place to be in downtown this 4th of July. (Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa, 2025)

🌿 Anaqua Garden Bar: Nostalgic Summer Garden Party

Friday, July 4 & Saturday, July 5 | 2 – 6p.m.

Celebrate the holiday with a vibrant garden pool party at Anaqua Garden Bar. With lawn games, pool access, festive treats, and DJ-spun vinyl, this elevated-yet-playful event is perfect for summer vibes. Enjoy:

  • $5 Elote Corn on the Cob
  • $6 Classic Hot Dogs
  • $8 Premium Bacon-Wrapped Hot Dogs
  • $7 Boozy Snow Cones
  • $44 Disco Ball Shareable Cocktail (serves four)
  • S’mores, Bomb Pops, and more!

🎟️ Pool Day Passes available via ResortPass.

🍳 Corinne San Antonio: Post-Fireworks Brunch

Saturday, July 5 & Sunday, July 6 | 10a.m. – 2p.m.

Keep the celebration going with a decadent brunch at Corinne San Antonio. Open to both locals and hotel guests, the brunch menu features:

  • Taco Station (Carne Asada, Barbacoa, Chicken)
  • Made-to-Order Omelet Station
  • Pastry Table & Chef’s Desserts
  • Mimosa Station

💵 $65 per adult | $18 per child
📅 Reserve via OpenTable – walk-ins welcome, but reservations encouraged!

💆 The Spa Plaza San Antonio: Red, White & Renew Facial

Now through Thursday, July 31

Relax and recharge with the Red, White & Renew 50-minute facial at The Spa Plaza San Antonio. This rejuvenating service features:

  • Cooling cold stones
  • Red, white & blue ingredients packed with vitamins
  • Finishing touch with Skin Authority’s Skinsuit sunscreen

💲 $155 | Book your service online here.

🌭 The Newstand Coffee & Sandwiches: “We Got That Dog in Us” Hot Dog Fundraiser

Friday, July 4 | 11a.m. – 2p.m.

Head to The Newstand for a tasty fundraiser benefiting SNIPSA, a local animal rescue. (The Newstand, 2025)

Enjoy one-of-a-kind hot dog creations from:

  • Leche de Tigre
  • Jerk Shack
  • Curry Boys BBQ
  • Howdy Child
  • Chef Jason Dady
  • Last Place Burgers

🌭 100% of proceeds go to SNIPSA, supporting animal rescue efforts in San Antonio.

Photo: The Newstand, used with permission.

🎶 La Panadería: Music & Pastries Celebration

Saturday, July 5 | 10a.m. – 2p.m.

Join La Panadería at both the La Cantera and Midtown locations for a sweet, music-filled celebration:

  • DJ Quake at La Cantera (17030 Fiesta Texas Dr. Ste 105)
  • DJ CV at Midtown (2503 Broadway St.)

🍰 Don’t miss their festive red, white & blue pan dulce and signature Apple Tart (to share) for just $12.50 – a perfect tribute to American apple pie. (La Panadería, 2025)

Photo: La Panadería, used with permission.

Celebrate your Independence Day weekend in style at Plaza San Antonio and its beloved community partners. With food, music, relaxation, and fun for all ages, there’s something for everyone this 4th of July!

Red, White & Delicious: Fourth of July Eats, Drinks & Events to Savor

Twang debuts limited-edition cocktail rimming salt for Fourth of July celebrations. Photo: Twang, used with permission.

Celebrate the Fourth of July in Style at Hotel Contessa

This Fourth of July, make your way to Hotel Contessa in downtown San Antonio for a weekend full of bold flavors, festive fun, and patriotic flair. (Hotel Contessa, 2025)

🍖 Fourth of July Dining Specials at Ambler

Available Thursday, July 3 – Saturday, July 5

Ambler, Hotel Contessa’s signature restaurant, is firing up the grill with bold Texas barbecue and elevated comfort food all weekend long. Enjoy these mouthwatering specials:

  • Mesquite Smoked Pork Ribs with mac-n-cheese & slaw – $34
  • 28oz Cowboy Ribeye with baked potato & grilled asparagus – $99
  • 24oz Bone-In NY Strip with mac-n-cheese & grilled asparagus – $99

👉 Reservations recommended. Book online or call Ambler at (210) 298-8040. Limited seating available!

🎬 Outdoor Movie Night: Independence Day

Saturday, July 5 at 10:30 p.m. | Hotel Contessa River Walk Patio

The celebration continues Saturday night with a special screening of the iconic film Independence Day. Grab your seat (first come, first served!) on the River Walk patio and enjoy:

  • Themed cocktails
  • Popcorn & candy
  • A nostalgic s’mores bar

Don’t miss this perfect summer night under the stars!

📍 Hotel Contessa – 306 W Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205

✨ Summer Sips & Patriotic Products

🍸 Twang’s Life, Liberty, and Lime Rimming Salt

Raise a glass to summer with Twang’s newest limited-edition release, Life, Liberty, and Lime—a zesty cocktail rimming salt featuring all-natural red, white, and blue crystals. (Twang, 2025)

  • Bold lime flavor + festive colors
  • Perfect for margaritas, beers, and more
  • 4oz tub for just $5.00
  • Available at grocery stores nationwide or online

Founded in San Antonio in 1986, Twang is a Latino-owned brand known for premium-flavored salts, sugars, and seasonings that elevate every bite and sip.

🍵 Full Leaf Tea Company: Functional Hydration for the Fourth

Looking for a refreshing, wellness-forward way to celebrate? Full Leaf Tea Company has you covered with patriotic drinkware and antioxidant-rich teas. (Full Leaf Tea Company, 2025)

Full Leaf, based in Southern Oregon, is beloved for its USDA organic teas, wellness blends, and on-the-go accessories. Explore their tea-based summer recipes and curated gift sets to keep the good vibes flowing all season long.

Photo: Full Leaf Tea Company, used with permission.

Whether you’re indulging in barbecue and blockbusters or sipping antioxidant-packed tea by the pool, there are plenty of ways to make this Independence Day your most flavorful and festive yet! 🎆

Dragons Love Tacos Brings Fire-Breathing Fun to San Antonio

Magik Theatre stages the wildly popular story for a special summertime run. Photo: Magik Theatre, used with permission.

🌮🔥 Dragons Love Tacos Heats Up the Stage at Magik Theatre This Summer

Hey, San Antonio! Did you know that dragons love tacos? And kids absolutely love the bestselling picture book “Dragons Love Tacos” by Adam Rubin and Daniel Salmieri! This summer, Magik Theatre brings that beloved story to life in a hilarious, high-energy stage production perfect for the whole family. (Magik Theatre, 2025)

Thanks to support from the Russell Hill Rogers Fund for the Arts and presented in special arrangement with Plays for Young Audiences, Dragons Love Tacos opens June 21 and runs through August 3 at Magik Theatre in Hemisfair Park.

🎭 From Page to Stage — With Spicy Surprises!

“But wait,” you might wonder, “the book is only a few pages long—how can that stretch into a full show?” Don’t worry, the creative team at Magik has cooked up something special!

Director Anthony Runfola spices up Rubin’s text (adapted by Ernie Nolan) with slapstick comedy, silent film-style hijinks, and classic clowning. Vibrant dragon costumes by Sarah Steele and Salmieri’s whimsical illustrations help bring the story of a boy, his dog, and one very explosive taco party to life. Suitable for ages 3 and up, this show is packed with fast-paced fun, music, and laughter.

🌮 Special Events & Add-On Experiences

📚 Preview Performance

Saturday, June 21, 2p.m.
Be among the first to see the show—and every child gets a free book (while supplies last), courtesy of H-E-B’s Read 3 literacy initiative.

🎉 Opening Night Party in the Park

Saturday, June 21, 5p.m. | Show at 6:30p.m.
Celebrate opening night with free mini tacos from Estela’s Concessions (while supplies last), aguas frescas, music by DJ Mayhem, dragon crafts, photo ops, and more. The party is free and open to the public!

🌮 Taco Tuesdays

June 24, July 8, & July 22 | 5–7p.m.
Join us outside the theatre for delicious bites from Estela’s Concessions and summer fun in Hemisfair Park before or after the show.

🎭 Backstage Experience Add-On

Available after every performance (except during special events) — just $20/person for a backstage tour, meet & greet with the cast, and ice cream.
Note: Not wheelchair accessible. An adult must accompany all minors.

🎂 Birthday Party Packages

Celebrate your child’s big day with a Magik Theatre birthday party after a main stage performance. Includes show tickets, party space, crafts, a backstage experience for the birthday child, and more. We handle setup and cleanup!

🎟️ Special Performances

  • Sensory-Friendly Show: Saturday, July 19 at 10a.m.
    A relaxed performance for children and adults with sensory sensitivities.
  • Pay What You Wish: Saturday, July 26 at 2p.m.
    Sponsored by H-E-B. Enjoy the show and a reptile encounter with Once in a Wild Petting Zoo! Tickets are available only at the door.
  • ASL Interpreted Show: Saturday, August 2 at 2p.m.
    Featuring ASL interpretation by Robert Cardoza for deaf and hard-of-hearing patrons.

🎫 Ticket Info

Magik Theatre has options for everyone:

  • Family four packs
  • Single tickets
  • Flex passes
  • Group rates (10+ guests)

📍 Visit: 420 S Alamo, San Antonio, TX 78205
📞 Call: (210) 227-2751
💻 Buy online.
🕒 Box Office: Monday–Friday, 10a.m.–3p.m.

Note: All patrons, including children under 2 who require a seat (including car or booster seats), must have a general admission ticket.

Whether you’re a taco fan, dragon lover, or just looking for a fun summer outing, Dragons Love Tacos at Magik Theatre is a sizzling good time for the whole family. Don’t miss it—grab your tickets today and bring some extra napkins… just in case! 🌮🐉💥

Psychedelic Science 2025: Denver’s Most Mind-Expanding Week of the Year

Flying Lotus & Reggie Watts headline Psychedelic Science 2025 kickoff party in Denver. Photo: Colorado Convention Center.

🎉 Psychedelic Science 2025 Brings the Party to Denver!

DENVER, CO — June 2025
Psychedelic Science 2025 (PS2025) isn’t just the world’s largest gathering of psychedelic researchers, therapists, and policymakers—it’s also a celebration of creativity, culture, and community. From June 16–20, Denver will come alive with a full week of immersive events, headlining performances, and wellness experiences that extend far beyond the walls of the Colorado Convention Center. (Psychedelic Science 2025)

🎶 Opening Night: Flying Lotus & Reggie Watts Live

PS2025 kicks off with an unforgettable launch party—Flying Lotus & Reggie Watts Live at the Mission Ballroom. This immersive night of music, comedy, and art is presented by Good Trip Studios, creators of Have a Good Trip: Adventures in Psychedelics (Netflix), who will also be capturing content for an upcoming sequel.

👉 Grab your tickets now.

🌆 Music, Magic & Movement Across Denver

In partnership with MAPS and Superfly (creators of Bonnaroo and Outside Lands), PS2025 will feature independently produced events all over Denver—open to both attendees and the public.

🎤 Headline Concerts

  • June 17: Flying Lotus & Reggie Watts – Mission Ballroom
  • June 18: Tycho – Ogden Theatre
  • June 19: Blind Melon – Cervantes
  • June 20: Drive-By Truckers – Ogden Theatre
  • June 19–22: LSZEE (4 immersive shows) – Mission Ballroom

🎨 More Must-See Experiences

From immersive art shows to movement workshops and comedy, here’s just a taste of what’s happening:

  • June 17:
    • Sasha Shulgin’s 100th Birthday Celebration
    • A NEW Trip with Shane Mauss
    • Poranguí & Savej: A Musical Journey
    • Iboga Saves: Ending Addiction
    • Shroomski Melt: The Visionary Art Superbowl
  • June 18:
    • Psychedelic Drag Speed Friending
    • The Psychedelic Playhouse @ Jonas Brothers Building
    • PRATI Party @ Town Hall Collaborative
  • June 19:
    • Operation Inner Peace
    • Queer Magic 2
  • Wellness Events:
    • Sunset Skyline Rooftop Yoga @ Catbird Hotel (June 18)
    • Mat Pilates on Tap (June 17)
    • Plants, Yoga & Beer @ Bierstadt Lagerhaus (June 22)
    • Friday Night Yin @ The Source Chiropractic (June 20)
    • BUNNY YOGA! @ Great Divide Barrel Bar (June 21)

💡 Note: These events are independently organized and not part of the official PS2025 program. Many are free or low-cost to promote inclusive access.

🤝 Why We Gather

“Whether you’re a veteran advocate or first-time attendee, there’s a place for you to dance, laugh, and connect. These events remind us why we’re here—to gather, grow, and find joy in the journey together.”
— Gina Vensel, Director of Media & Community Partnerships, PS2025

📅 Explore, Register, and Join Us

Visit Psychedelic Science 2025 to:

  • View the full conference agenda
  • Register for workshops and talks
  • Get travel and hotel info
  • Browse the complete list of community events.

About Psychedelic Science 2025

Hosted by MAPS and produced with Superfly, PS2025 is the world’s leading psychedelic conference. Since 2010, it has brought together scientists, therapists, cultural leaders, and changemakers to explore the future of psychedelic research, healing, and culture.

📍 When & Where:
June 16–20, 2025 | Colorado Convention Center, Denver

About MAPS

Founded in 1986, the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS) is a nonprofit dedicated to advancing the medical, legal, and cultural understanding of psychedelics and marijuana. With over $150 million raised to date, MAPS is pioneering new frontiers in mental health, drug policy reform, and public education.

✨ Come for the science. Stay for the community. Leave transformed. ✨

From Spa Days to Whiskey Nights: Unique Father’s Day Experiences in San Antonio

Hotel Contessa is offering a unique rooftop spa experience designed especially for dads. Photo: Garrett Smith, used with permission.

Last-Minute Father’s Day Gift Ideas in San Antonio

Still searching for the perfect Father’s Day gift? Treat Dad to an unforgettable experience this year with luxurious offerings from Hiatus Day Spa • Med Spa, Omni La Mansión del Rio, Mokara Hotel & Spa, and Hotel Contessa. From spa indulgences to tableside whiskey dinners and rooftop experiences, here’s how to make this Father’s Day the best yet. (Hiatus Day Spa • Med Spa, Omni La Mansión del Rio, Mokara Hotel & Spa, and Hotel Contessa, 2025)

Relaxation & Golf at Hiatus Day Spa • Med Spa

Dates: June 14–15 (Activation) | Gift Packages Available: May 29–June 16
Location: Hiatus Day Spa • Med Spa

Surprise Dad with the ultimate relaxation experience at Hiatus Day Spa • Med Spa. During the 19th Hole at Hiatus event, dads can unwind while catching the U.S. Open Golf Tournament across nine serene Relaxation Lounges. Sip on a cold EIGHT beer—crafted with just three clean ingredients—or enjoy an “Arnold Calmer” after a rejuvenating treatment.

Father’s Day Gift Packages at Hiatus

  • The Dad Bod | 2 hours | $220 ($260 value)
    Choose from two Essential Services: Signature Massage, Tailor-Made Facial, The One and Only mani/pedi, or The Body Wrap.
  • The Back Swing | 60 minutes | $155 ($175 value)
    Includes a 60-minute Knockout Massage, Energizing Scalp Massage, and Knot Bot Add-Ons for total body relief.
  • The Gentleman’s Tips & Toes | 85 minutes | $99
    A pampering mani/pedi with a cocoa + shea butter wrap—book online or purchase as a gift card.

Carved Tableside Dinners & Giveaways at Omni La Mansión del Rio

Date: Sunday, June 15
Location: Omni La Mansión del Rio, San Antonio

Celebrate Dad with a Garrison Brothers whiskey cocktail and a courtyard cookout with Executive Chef Robert Cantu grilling prime meats tableside. Try your hand at a mini putting contest—those who sink a hole-in-one will be entered to win:

  • A two-night stay at Omni PGA
  • A new putter
  • A day of golfing

Beards & Bourbon at Mokara Hotel & Spa

Dates: Saturday & Sunday of Father’s Day Weekend
Package Price: $395
Location: Mokara Hotel & Spa, San Antonio

Gift Dad the “Beards & Bourbon” package for a well-earned escape. This experience includes:

  • 50-minute custom massage
  • 50-minute beard-focused facial
  • A curated glass of Milam & Greene Whiskey

DIY Grooming on the Rooftop at Hotel Contessa

Date: Father’s Day
Time & Reservations: Call 210-298-8038
Price: $85 per person
Location: Hotel Contessa, 306 W Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205

For dads who enjoy crafting and self-care, Hotel Contessa’s rooftop spa experience is the perfect fit. This hands-on session teaches skin-care techniques and includes a take-home self-care travel kit. Enjoy craft cocktails—like High West Bourbon and Old Fashioned Pecan—and light bites from Ambler as you relax above the city.

Don’t wait—Father’s Day is almost here. Give the gift of experiences, indulgence, and quality time.

From Bourbon Pie to Skydiving: Unforgettable Father’s Day Ideas in San Antonio

Goode Company’s Chocolate Bourbon Brazos Bottom Pecan Pie is available for a limited time. Photo: Goode Company, used with permission.

Celebrate Father’s Day in San Antonio: Food, Fun & Unforgettable Gifts

Father’s Day, celebrated on the third Sunday in June, honors fathers and father figures across the United States. It’s a day to express gratitude through cards, gifts, and quality time. Families often gather for barbecues, outings, or special meals. Children may craft homemade presents or share heartfelt messages. Communities also host local events leading up to the day. While traditions vary, the spirit remains the same—celebrating the love, support, and guidance dads provide.

In San Antonio, businesses are making it easier than ever to honor dads with indulgent food, thoughtful gifts, and some much-needed relaxation. From bourbon pies to Wagyu burgers and spa treatments, here’s a roundup of top Father’s Day offerings around the city. (Goode Company Online Shop, La Panaderia, Bakery Lorraine, Corinne San Antonio, Dean’s Steak & Seafood, Twang, iFLY Indoor Skydiving, 2025)

🍫 Goode Company Online Shop

Chocolate Bourbon Brazos Bottom Pecan Pie is back for a limited time! Infused with Milam & Greene bourbon and crafted with Texas-grown pecans and rich chocolate, this 9-inch pie serves 10 and costs $60. Available for nationwide shipping.

👉 Order from Goode Company

🍔 La Panaderia

The Alamo Burger is a must-try! Featuring 8 oz. Wagyu beef, Swiss cheese, organic greens, and pickled jalapeños on a spiral croissant—best enjoyed with a cold craft beer.

🍩 Bakery Lorraine

Celebrate Dad with:

  • Chocolate Sea Salt Donut – $4 each (limited time only)
  • Burger or Croque Monsieur Sandwich – $15 each

🥃 Corinne San Antonio & The Spa at Plaza San Antonio

Father’s Day Dinner at Corinne

  • 3-course prix-fixe menu — $70/person
  • 📅 Sunday, June 15
  • 💺 Limited reservations available here

Relax & Recharge Spa Package

  • 80-minute massage + body scrub — $225
  • Includes a Dad Water cocktail from Anaqua Garden Bar
  • 📅 Available through June 28
  • 📞 Call 210-353-8016 or book online

🥩 Dean’s Steak & Seafood at Kimpton Santo

June 13–15: Enjoy an Old Fashioned made with Elijah Craig Private Barrel Bourbon paired with a fine cigar—perfect for the dad who appreciates luxury and flavor.

🌶️ Twang

Spice up your gift with Twang’s bold flavors:

  • Beer Salt – citrus-infused
  • Drink Rimmers – for micheladas, margaritas, and more
  • Snack Salts – for topping or snacking solo
  • Michelada Mixers – made with real lime juice

🛒 Available online or at H-E-B, Walmart, Buc-ee’s, Kroger, Specs, and more.

🪂 iFLY Indoor Skydiving

For the adventurous dad!
Now through June 15, get 25% off 10 flights + all photos/videos (up to 5 flyers).

🎟️ Book your experience online and make it a Father’s Day to remember.

No matter how you choose to celebrate, make this Father’s Day one filled with good food, great memories, and heartfelt appreciation.

Aloha Vaqueros: Celebrating the Cultural Fusion of Mexican Vaqueros and Hawaiian Paniolos

Aloha Vaqueros: Briscoe Western Art Museum explores the western spirit across oceans. Photo: Briscoe Western Art Museum, used with permission.

Aloha Vaqueros: Where the American West Meets the Pacific

On view June 13 – September 1, 2025 | Briscoe Western Art Museum

This summer, the Briscoe Western Art Museum invites you to journey beyond the mainland and explore an extraordinary chapter of the American West that stretches across the Pacific Ocean. Aloha Vaqueros, presented in partnership with the Museo del Vaquero de las Californias (MuVaCa), unveils the surprising and powerful ties between Mexico’s legendary vaqueros and Hawaii’s storied paniolo cowboys.

Member Preview Party – June 13, 6–8 p.m.

Briscoe members are invited to an exclusive preview party to celebrate the opening of the exhibition. Enjoy:

  • Beer, wine, and specialty cocktails
  • Light bites
  • Complimentary valet service

👉 RSVP here.

The Roots of a Cross-Cultural Cowboy Culture

Long before Hawaii became a U.S. state, Mexican vaqueros traveled across the Pacific in the early 1800s to teach cattle handling to Hawaiian islanders. These expert horsemen brought with them tools, techniques, and traditions that took root and evolved into Hawaii’s distinct paniolo culture—a unique blend of island spirit and Western grit that still thrives today.

“This exhibition beautifully illustrates the rich cultural exchange that helped shape the cowboy traditions of the Pacific. It’s a compelling reminder that the spirit of the West is both diverse and far-reaching, stretching from the plains of Texas to the mountains of Maui.”
— Liz Jackson, President and CEO, Briscoe Western Art Museum

What to Expect from the Exhibition

Through a rich collection of artwork, artifacts, and immersive storytelling, Aloha Vaqueros explores:

  • The deep-rooted traditions shared by vaqueros and paniolos
  • The artistry, attire, and music of island cowboys
  • The resilience and horsemanship central to both cultures
  • A hands-on educational area showcasing traditional island crafts

Developed by MuVaCa in El Triunfo, Baja California Sur, the exhibition challenges the conventional boundaries of the American West—broadening the story to include the Pacific’s enduring cowboy legacy.

Visit the Briscoe

📍 Briscoe Western Art Museum
210 W. Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205
🕘 Museum hours, parking, and admission information available online.

About the Briscoe Western Art Museum

Located on the San Antonio River Walk in the beautifully restored 1930s former public library, the Briscoe preserves and presents the art, history, and culture of the American West. Named in honor of Texas Governor Dolph Briscoe Jr. and his wife Janey Slaughter Briscoe, the museum features:

  • The Jack Guenther Pavilion for events and programs
  • The McNutt Sculpture Garden, an outdoor tribute to Western heritage

Don’t miss this chance to experience a chapter of Western history that redefines borders and celebrates a shared spirit of grit, grace, and tradition.

Photo: Briscoe Western Art Museum, used with permission.

Bring the Heat: Pullman Market Hosts Chili Cook-Off in San Antonio

Pullman Market announces chili cook-off on Saturday June 7, 2025. Photo: Robert J. Lerma, used with permission.

🌶️ Pullman Market’s First-Ever Chili Cook-Off Heats Up San Antonio – June 7

Get ready, San Antonio! Pullman Market at Pearl is bringing the heat with its inaugural Chili Cook-Off, happening Saturday, June 7 from 7–9 p.m. This family-friendly culinary showdown celebrates the city’s rich food culture and invites local home cooks to show off their best chili recipes in a spirited community competition. (Pullman Market, 2025)

🔥 A Cook-Off for a Cause

More than just a spicy good time, the event also supports a heartfelt mission—a portion of the proceeds will benefit the 100 Club of San Antonio, a nonprofit serving the families of fallen and critically injured first responders in Bexar County.

🍲 Two Ways to Compete

Pullman’s Chili Cook-Off features two flavorful categories:

  • Traditional San Antonio Style Chili: Meat-based, no beans, and made from scratch.
  • Creative Chili: Vegetarian, uniquely spiced, or outside-the-box takes on the classic.

Every submission is eligible for the People’s Choice Award, where the public votes for their favorite flavor.

🏆 Prizes Up for Grabs

Winners will walk away with bragging rights and some great rewards:

  • Grand Champion – $500 gift card, trophy, and recipe feature on Pullman’s website and newsletter
  • Traditional Winner – $250 gift card + medal
  • Creative Winner – $250 gift card + medal
  • People’s Choice Award – $200 gift card + medal
  • Best Booth Presentation – $100 gift card + medal
  • All Participants – Certificate of Participation

🎟️ Tickets & Participation

Tickets are available on Eventbrite:

  • VIP Admission includes early access (6–7 p.m.), 10 voting tokens, and two complimentary drinks
  • General Admission includes 5 voting tokens
  • Kids 12 & under get in free!

Want to enter your chili? Email Kyle Lopez, Pullman’s Event Coordinator.

🕖 Event Schedule

  • 6:00 – 7:00 p.m. – VIP Hour
  • 7:00 – 9:00 p.m. – Main Event
  • 7:15 – 7:45 p.m. – Judges’ Voting
  • 8:15 – 8:30 p.m. – People’s Choice Voting
  • 8:45 – 9:00 p.m. – Awards Ceremony

📍 Location: Pullman Market, 221 Newell Ave, San Antonio, TX 78215
🔗 More info: www.pullmanmarket.com
📷 Follow @pullmanmarket on Instagram
🙏 Learn about the 100 Club: www.100clubsa.org

About Pullman Market:
Located at Pearl in San Antonio, Pullman Market is a 53,000-square-foot culinary destination by the award-winning Emmer & Rye Hospitality Group. With a specialty grocer, whole animal butcher, sourdough bakery, tortilleria, five quick-service eateries, and four full-service restaurants, it’s a celebration of Texas ingredients and community connection.

Photo: Pullman Market.

In the Shadows and Beyond: Contemporary at Blue Star’s Summer Exhibitions

En Las Sombras, Nuestros Fantasmas Acechan, Installation View, 2024. On view at Laguna, Mexico City, Mexico. Photo by Rubén Garay, used with permission.

Contemporary at Blue Star Announces Summer Exhibitions

Exploring the Body, Perception, and the Unseen Through Conceptual Art

San Antonio, TX – Contemporary at Blue Star is excited to present a compelling lineup of summer exhibitions that spotlight artists from Mexico and San Antonio. Through conceptual practices, these artists create work that transcends the physical, exploring how space, technology, memory, and sound influence the human body. (Contemporary at Blue Star, 2025)

🌑 En Las Sombras, Nuestros Fantasmas Acechan

(In the Shadows, Our Ghosts Lurk)
Curated by Fabiola Iza
On View: June 6 – October 5, 2025
Opening Reception: Friday, June 6 | 6–9 p.m.

Taco Talk with Curator Fabiola Iza
Friday, June 6 | 10:30a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Kick off the exhibition with “Taco Talk,” a curator-led walkthrough paired with breakfast tacos and coffee. Learn about the works and themes with guest curator Fabiola Iza, and engage in an open conversation about the ideas behind the show.

Featuring Artists:

Alicia Ayanegui, Enrique Arriaga Celis, Daniela Bojórquez Vértiz, Virginia Colwell & Raquel Bañón Sodini, Manuela García, Leo Marz, Jonathan Miralda Fuksman, Daniel Monroy Cuevas, Paloma Rosenzweig, Oswaldo Ruiz

Inspired by the design of the panopticon, this exhibition examines the evolution of surveillance and the “omniscient gaze” in the age of modern technology. Originally exhibited at Laguna in Mexico City, the show has been reimagined for Contemporary at Blue Star by independent curator Fabiola Iza.

✨ Jason Willome

On View: July 11 – October 5, 2025
Opening Reception: Friday, July 11 | 6p.m. – 9p.m.

Fresh from his residency at Künstlerhaus Bethanien in Berlin, Jason Willome debuts a new body of work that delves into the cosmos, consciousness, and personal mythology. Incorporating a wide range of media, this exhibition invites viewers to examine our relationship with the universe and the stories we tell ourselves.

🌊 Nadia Botello: Theophany

On View: July 11 – October 5, 2025
Opening Reception: Friday, July 11 | 6p.m. – 9p.m.

Sound artist Nadia Botello presents a site-specific installation from her Bodies of Water series. Listeners must physically engage with translucent tank sculptures to activate the audio compositions—sonic works created from field recordings of the San Antonio River and original choral arrangements. Botello’s work invites reflection on the body as both listener and vessel.

📸 Fabiola Menchelli

On View: July 11 – October 5, 2025
Opening Reception: Friday, July 11 | 6p.m. – 9p.m.

In complete darkness, without even the glow of a safelight, Fabiola Menchelli constructs photographs that unfold like sculptures. This immersive, darkened gallery experience mimics her creation process, allowing viewers to “discover” the artworks just as the artist did. Her work challenges and expands the limits of photography, light, and perception.

About Contemporary at Blue Star

Contemporary at Blue Star presents exhibitions by artists from San Antonio and around the world. Through a focus on global perspectives, we foster empathy, innovation, and action—fulfilling our mission to inspire, nurture, and innovate. As a non-collecting contemporary art space, we engage with current social and cultural issues through art.

🖼️ Admission is always free.
🔗 Read our full story

🕒 Visiting Hours

Monday–Tuesday: Closed
Wednesday: 12p.m. – 5p.m.
Thursday–Friday: 12p.m. – 8p.m.
Saturday–Sunday: 10a.m. – 6p.m.

📍 Contemporary at Blue Star
116 Blue Star, San Antonio, TX 78204
📞 (210) 227-6960

Pride, Poolside, and Panoramic Views: Celebrate Pride Month at Thompson San Antonio

Celebrate Pride in style at Thompson San Antonio-Riverwalk. Photo: Thompson San Antonio-Riverwalk, used with permission.

Celebrate Pride Month in Style at Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk 🌈

This Pride Month, there’s no need to travel far to enjoy a vibrant and luxurious escape — Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk offers the ultimate staycation right in the heart of the city. (Thompson San Antonio-Riverwalk, 2025)

Perfectly located along the iconic San Antonio River Walk and just steps away from the largest Pride parade in South Texas (happening June 28), the hotel puts you right at the center of the action.

🌟 Pride Package Perks

Available throughout June, Thompson’s Pride Package includes a complimentary Pride-themed cocktail for guests who book using promo code PRIDE — the perfect festive touch to kick off your celebration.

☀️ Stay, Lounge, Celebrate

Whether you’re:

  • Lounging poolside on the open-air Cenote Pool Deck with craft cocktails and luxury cabanas,
  • Or soaking in panoramic views from the chic rooftop lounge, The Moon’s Daughters,

Thompson San Antonio delivers the perfect blend of bold energy and elevated comfort. Add in stylish accommodations and live entertainment throughout the month, and this hotel becomes more than just a place to stay — it’s a full-fledged Pride Month destination.

🎉 Pride Kick-Off Celebration at The Moon’s Daughters

Start the month with a bang at the Pride Kick-Off Celebration, hosted at the hotel’s stunning rooftop venue:

📍 Location: The Moon’s Daughters Rooftop
🗓️ Date: Saturday, May 31
🕗 Time: 9:30 p.m.

Taking place after the Pride River Parade, this high-energy event will feature:

  • Signature craft cocktails
  • Sweeping skyline views
  • A vibrant drag and performance showcase spotlighting standout local LGBTQ+ talent

It’s the ultimate way to toast the season of love, pride, and community — all without leaving San Antonio.

Celebrate local. Celebrate loud. Celebrate Pride — Thompson-style. 🏳️‍🌈

Pride-themed cocktail. Photo: Thompson San Antonio-Riverwalk, used with permission.