Category: Community news

Celebrate Easter in Style: San Antonio Businesses Bringing the Holiday to Life

Bakery Lorraine’s Two-Layered Moist Carrot Cake. Photo: Bakery Lorraine, used with permission.

Easter is a cherished holiday celebrated worldwide, symbolizing renewal, hope, and resurrection. For Christians, it marks the resurrection of Jesus Christ, making it one of the most significant religious events of the year. Beyond its spiritual meaning, Easter brings people together in joyful celebration. Traditions vary globally—from sunrise church services to colorful egg hunts, festive meals, and spring-themed decorations. Many enjoy brunches filled with seasonal dishes, while others gather with family for large dinners. In some cultures, parades, dances, and special pastries mark the occasion. Regardless of tradition, Easter serves as a time of reflection, unity, and new beginnings.

If you’re in the San Antonio area, or plan to be during the upcoming holiday weekend, here are some ways you can celebrate Easter in the Alamo City. (Bakery Lorraine, Tenfold Rooftop Bar, La Panadería, Dean’s Steak & Seafood, Chef Jason Dady Restaurants, Hotel Contessa, Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa, Omni La Mansión del Rio, 2025)

Bakery Lorraine – Bakery Lorraine is offering a delightful selection of seasonal pastries to celebrate Easter, including:

  • Easter Chick Tart ($7.50) features a whimsical design with raspberry jam, vanilla sponge cake, and a refreshing lime mousse
  • Easter Nest Tart ($7.00) combines a rich caramel chocolate filling with Cadbury Milk Chocolate Eggs and a crispy fillo dough topping
  • Easter Bunny Carrot Cake ($7.50) is a moist blend of pineapple, coconut, walnuts, and fresh carrots, finished with cream cheese frosting and playful white chocolate bunny ears
  • Easter Egg Moon Pie ($5.50) offers a nostalgic twist with graham cookies, marshmallow, and white chocolate
  • Flower Macaron with Lemon Ganache ($4.00) is a refreshing, tangy treat with a smooth lemon filling

For those seeking a complete Easter experience, Bakery Lorraine offers the Easter Box ($25), which includes one of each of the featured treats—Easter Chick Tart, Easter Nest Tart, Easter Bunny Carrot Cake, and Easter Egg Moon Pie. The Easter Box is available now for pre-sale orders, with store pickup on April 18-20, and limited quantities will be available for in-store purchase.

Additionally, Bakery Lorraine is offering their Two-Layered Moist Carrot Cake in 7” & 9” sizes ($50/$70), made with pineapple, coconut, walnuts, and fresh carrots, topped with cream cheese frosting and mini macarons. Whole cakes are available for pre-sale online now through 4/16, with pickup available at all Austin, Boerne, and San Antonio locations on April 19-20 only.

Tenfold Rooftop Bar at Kimpton Santo – Tenfold brings two exciting cocktail offerings to Easter brunch this year. The Bunny Blanco ($16) combines 400 Conejos Mezcal with carrot, lemon, ginger, and sparkling wine for a unique, vibrant drink. The Tenfold Tulip ($15) is a beautiful blend of Teremana Tequila, lime, agave, butterfly pea tea, and tonic, creating a striking, flavorful sip. Both cocktails will be available for guests to enjoy Easter weekend from Friday, April 19, to Sunday, April 20. Reservations are encouraged and can be made online through OpenTable.

La Panadería – La Panadería is offering their fan-favorite Brunch on Easter Sunday from 7a.m. to 4p.m. at all four San Antonio locations. The brunch menu features signature dishes like Fiesta Lobster Benedict, Tequila Butter Steak and Eggs, LP Waffle Croissant, and Ranchero Eggs Benedict, alongside unique twists on traditional bites like Tortas and Ensaladas. Guests can also enjoy mimosas and cerveza with their meal.

Dean’s Steak & Seafood at Kimpton Santo – Dean’s Steak and Seafood is offering a unique, Easter Sunday cocktail: the Springtime Spritz ($15). Crafted tableside with Ketel One Botanicals, St. Germain, Washington Peache, and house bubbles, this refreshing cocktail is the perfect way to celebrate the season. Alongside their iconic brunch menu served until 3p.m. this exclusive cocktail will be available all Sunday, April 20, adding a festive touch to any Easter gathering at Dean’s. Reservations are encouraged and can be made through OpenTable.

Chef Jason Dady Restaurants is thrilled to offer special coursed brunches at Jardín and Tre Trattoria this Easter Sunday, April 20. Each restaurant will also offer kids’ menus for those 10 and under, making these brunches perfect for families to celebrate the spring holiday together. Jardín will exclusively offer a four-course, Mediterranean-inspired brunch menu for $49.95 per person. Tre Trattoria will serve a four-course, Italian-focused brunch for $54.95 per person.

Optional wine pairings are available at both Jardín and Tre Trattoria for $29.95 per person. Tax and gratuity are not included. For those interested in dining at Chef Jason Dady’s other concepts, Two Bros BBQ, Range and Tre Pizzeria will all remain open for regular service on Easter Sunday.

Hotel Contessa
Easter Bunny Happy Hour | Saturday, April 20 | 3p.m. – 5p.m.
The Easter Bunny is hopping into Ambler Bar for a uniquely San Antonio pre-Easter celebration. Friends and neighbors can pop by for specialty drinks and deviled egg specials. There will be photo opportunities with the Easter Bunny while enjoying Ambler’s festive atmosphere. It’s a grown-up Easter celebration with all of the fun and none of the early morning egg hunt.

Easter Sunday Brunch | Sunday, April 20 | All Day
Experience a San Antonio Easter tradition reimagined at Ambler Bar. Chef Mike Collins has curated a special brunch menu featuring seasonal Texas ingredients and festive spring flavors. Meals will be paired with their handcrafted Easter cocktails for the ultimate Sunday celebration.

Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa, Autograph Collection
Corinne Easter Brunch – Indulge in a chef-curated brunch featuring seasonal favorites this Easter Sunday, April 20. From 10a.m. to 3p.m., guests can look forward to chef-carved ham, shrimp cocktail, cinnamon rolls, a mimosa and juice bar, and much more. The Easter Bunny will also be present for delightful family photos. Pricing for the Easter brunch is $65 per adult and $17 per child (10 & under). Reservations are highly recommended.

Easter at Ostra at Mokara Hotel & Spa – Ostra’s limited-time Easter menu includes a Beet Cured Ocean Trout served with Everything Bagel chips, orange marinated sun gold tomatoes, whipped chive cream cheese and dill. A Salad Nicoise also graces the holiday selection, with seared Ahi Tuna, haricot vert, fingerling potatoes, heirloom tomatoes, a soft-boiled egg, baby cucumbers, baby lettuces, marinated olives and red onion. Easter Brunch at Ostra is $55 plus tax per person. 

The Spring festivities continue at the bar with the Peeps Spritz, a 2025 “Easter basket candy” must-have according to Forbes. Crafted with Lalo Tequila, Cointreau, lime, Topo Chico and Dr. Pepper, and topped with a Peep, this cocktail is a signature treat for this time of year. All weekend long, families and couples can experience exquisite seafood cuisine at this AAA Four Diamond riverfront restaurant at Mokara Hotel & Spa. 

Four Brothers at Omni La Mansión del Rio – Flavors of the South with a Tex-Mex flare take over the Easter Brunch menu at Four Brothers, the stunning on-site restaurant at Omni La Mansión del Rio. This three-course style menu begins with Street Corn Deviled Eggs topped with roasted corn, jalapeño and cilantro followed by a Chicken and Corn Bread Waffle served with a side of blueberry compote, maple syrup and jalapeño butter. The dessert course is appropriately named the Easter Basket, a pineapple upside-down cake topped with a cremé cheese mousse and candy eggs. The three-course brunch is $65 plus tax per person; Brunch is served all day. 

To sip on Easter flavors, the Cotton Tail delivers a taste of Spring in a glass with Brugal 1888 Rum, pineapple and real coconut topped with whipped cream and jelly beans. 

Local Spotlight: How Harlingen Community Theatre Breathes New Life into ‘Godspell’

Gospell is now playing at the Harlingen Community Theatre.

This year the Harlingen Community Theatre is celebrating its 50th Season and its current production is Godspell. Godspell, the beloved musical with music and new lyrics by Stephen Schwartz and book by John-Michael Tebelak, has charmed audiences since its debut in 1971 with its joyful energy, imaginative staging, and heartfelt message. Drawing inspiration from the Gospel of Matthew, the show reimagines biblical parables with a modern twist, blending pop-rock music, imaginative characters, and a vibrant, communal spirit. Its universal message of love, compassion, and forgiveness—values that transcend religion and remain deeply relevant today.

Locally, it opened on Thursday April 10 and features a talented cast that brings this classic musical to life. Over the years, Godspell has retained its appeal through its adaptability and emotional sincerity. Each production is encouraged to reflect the times, making it ever-fresh for new generations and this one is no exception. There are a couple of added scenes and dialogue to add relevance to modern times and the cast is encouraged to bring their own flavor to the scenes.

Stephen Rodriguez is a natural in the role of Jesus and David Laughlin’s portrayal of Judas is haunting and poignant. The show’s upbeat songs like ‘Day by Day’ and ‘Prepare Ye’ resonate across eras, reminding audiences of the enduring power of kindness and connection in an often divided world. Highlights include when Jesus defends the woman accused of adultery by challenging those accusing her that if any one them is without sin, to cast the first stone. He does this by playing a card game with them in which they are each given a card that has the word ‘SIN’ on it. Another is in Act Two, the emotional ‘Beautiful City’ by Jesus, which turns the tide of the show and sets the stage for the heartbreaking finale. The catchy musical numbers, humor, and humanity makes it a must-see production.

In today’s society—marked by social unrest, isolation, and a longing for meaning—Godspell serves as both a celebration and a call to action. Its themes of community, inclusion, and moral courage strike a powerful chord. Whether experienced as a nostalgic favorite or a first-time discovery, Godspell continues to inspire reflection and hope, proving that its message is not just timely, but timeless.

There are still two chances to catch this unforgettable production: Saturday and Sunday at 2:30p.m. General admission tickets are $25 for adults and $10 for children and are available online and in person an hour before showtime.

Cast:
Jesus – Stephen Rodriguez
John the Baptist/Judas – David Laughlin

Vendors and Customers:
Xochitl Carmona, Alyssa Christiansen, David Dillon, Beth Ensign, Kathy Eunice, Justin Evans, Vicky Fultz, Amy Gonzalez, Ariel S. Gonzalez, Jorge Gonzalez, Stephanie Jackson, Trinity Minson, Carmen Montalvo, Ian Montalvo, Damian Moseley

Gospell stage.

Harlingen Community Theatre
1209 Fair Park Blvd
Harlingen, TX

Celebrate Fiesta Season: Magik Theatre Presents Two Bilingual Productions

Magik Theatre presents ¡Lotería: Game On! and Tomás and the Library Lady. Photo: Magik Theatre, used with permission.

(San Antonio, TX) – Spring is in the air in San Antonio and at Magik Theatre, where children and their families are invited to celebrate the city’s rich cultural heritage with two bilingual productions for Spanish and English language learners and speakers of all levels. (Magik Theatre, 2025)

Magik’s mainstage play ¡Lotería: Game On! closes out the beloved children’s theatre’s milestone 30th season from May 3 to June 1, 2025. Additionally, Magik is pleased to present Tomás and the Library Lady as its Spring 2025 touring production for regional schools, community organizations, and special events. Both plays move seamlessly between English and Spanish dialogue and feature traditions or historic figures dear to San Antonio’s Hispanic community, wrapped in Magik’s signature creative fun.

Launching on the last weekend of Fiesta, ¡Lotería: Game On! is a great way to party down with little ones, complete with an opening night celebration on May 3 in Hemisfair Park. Performances later in the season have plenty of fun in store, too, with Magik’s backstage experience add-on, allowing guests a glimpse behind the curtain during a cast meet-and-greet and guided tour as they savor a post-show paleta.

Written by Mabelle Reynoso for audiences ages 6+, ¡Lotería: Game On! brings the competitive fun of the classic Mexican card game to the stage in a whimsical, immersive experience. Blending fantasy, humor, and cultural traditions, the bilingual story follows Mexican-American siblings Sam and Kris as they work together to rescue their father from the mysterious realm of Lotería. When they brush off their dad’s attempts to spend quality time together, Sam and Kris have no idea he’s about to disappear through a pillow-fort portal to magical Lotería land. During their quest to bring their dad home, the pair encounter characters based on familiar Lotería cards like La Rana, El Gallo and La Mano, and must cooperate and think fast to outwit Lotería’s rules.

The set design by Lucian Hernandez draws viewers into Lotería’s mystery, while Yesi Tafur’s costumes reflect the cards’ iconic visual language. Lucero Garcia and Maryann Valerio play Sam and Kris respectively, while Gabriel Itzcoatl Luera takes on the role of Dad. They deftly navigate a script that intentionally weaves together both Spanish and English.

JOIN MAGIK ON THE ROAD WITH Tomás and the Library Lady

Tomás and the Library Ladyisbased on the inspiring true story of Crystal City-native Tomás Rivera as written by author and poet Pat Mora and adapted for the stage by José Cruz González. The bilingual play focuses on the special friendship between Tomás, the son of migrant farm workers, and the kind librarian who helps him unlock a love of reading. Together, they discover the transformative power of books, which eventually propels Tomás into a groundbreaking career in higher education. The real-life Tomás became the first Mexican-American chancellor of a University of California campus, and many of his family members are still in the South Texas area. His daughter, Ileana Rivera Liberatore, even taught Magik’s managing director Mel Zarb-Cousin in high school.

It’s no surprise, then, that Tomás and the Library Lady is already popular around town: the San Antonio Public Library and the NCAA’s literacy initiative Read to the Final FourⓇ have both booked several performances of the play, which is available to visit campuses and community centers from April 7 through July 20th then again in the fall, September 8 through October 12th in celebration of National Hispanic Heritage Month. Each production offers TEKS-based digital resource guides and an after-show Q&A session between audience and cast, with optional workshops led by Magik Theatre Teaching Artists. More information about Magik on the Road is available online.

Both productions’ creative, heartwarming approaches to our region’s unique culture make them ideal for celebrating the end of the semester, San Antonio’s most vibrant season, and the promise of summer fun. Help Magik send off its legendary 30th season in style!

“These joyful, high-energy shows celebrate the power of storytelling, the resilience of family, and the traditions that shape our lives. Each play reminds us that family is not just about where we come from, but the stories and traditions that keep us connected.”— Anthony Runfola, Magik Theatre Artistic Director

SPECIAL EVENTS  & ADD-ON EXPERIENCES

¡Lotería: Game On! Sneak Peek | Saturday, April 12, 10:30a.m.

Curious about the making of the play? Be the first to witness the behind-the-scenes magic of ¡Lotería: Game On! at the Sneak Peek where attendees can glimpse into the world of theatrical production and interact with Magik’s talented cast and crew during an intimate Q&A session. Light refreshments will be provided, making it the perfect morning outing for families, friends, and theater enthusiasts alike. The event is FREE and open to the public. Reservations can be made HERE.

Magik Story Time at Yanaguana Garden | Tuesday, April 29, 10a.m.

Magik Theatre joins Hemisfair’s weekly Story Time series with a reading of “Lotería” by Karla Arenas Velenti. Little ones can head to Yanaguana Garden on Tuesday, April 29 where Magikal friends bring everyone’s favorite Mexican card game to life from the page before it officially hits the stage.

Opening Night Party in the Park –  Saturday, May 3, 1:30p.m., show at 3p.m.

Attend a puro San Antonio pachanga to kick off ¡Lotería: Game On!. In partnership with Hemisfair, the Fiesta fun continues in Hemisfair Park with street fair snacks, jugos and a Hemisfair-inspired special edition Lotería game and coloring craft. DJ Mayhem will spin live Latin beats to motivate little movers in a boogie book battle dance off to see who has the right stuff to win a copy of “Lotería” by Karla Arenas Valenti. The pre-show party is free and open to the public.

Backstage Experience Add-On (Available after every performance excluding other special events)

Enhance your visit to Magik Theatre with our Backstage Experience for only $20 per person. This exclusive add-on includes an onstage meet and greet with the cast, where you can snap photos and share special moments with your favorite characters. Plus, enjoy a 15-minute guided tour of the set, props, and rehearsal space led by a Magik Theatre performer offering a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the magik of theatre. And, enjoy a tasty paleta as San Antonio gets back to its warm temps.

Please note: We are unable to accommodate guests with wheelchair needs for this experience. All patrons under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

Magik Theatre Birthday Parties (NOW available after main stage performances)

And now, families can make their little one’s special day truly magikal with a hassle-free Magik Theatre birthday party right after one of the main stage shows. Magik Theatre birthday party packages include complimentary child tickets, discounted additional tickets, a private party space, and festive decorations. Kids will enjoy a show themed craft, digital invitations, and a birthday backdrop with props. Plus, the birthday child gets an exclusive backstage experience and a Magik Theatre gift. Up to ten additional party guests can join the backstage experience for an additional charge. Best of all, Magik handles setup and cleanup so parents can focus on making memories.

SPECIAL PERFORMANCES

Educator Appreciation Day – Saturday, May 10 at 2p.m. – Educators and school faculty are eligible for one free ticket to this performance with proof of I.D. Additional tickets are available to purchase for these performances at a discount of 20% off the regular ticket prices.

Sensory Friendly Performance – Saturday, May 17, at 10a.m. – Audience members on the autism spectrum and those with sensory sensitivities can take in a special performance of ¡Lotería: Game On! designed just for them. Kids and adults are free to be themselves in this relaxed, judgment-free theatre experience that is a perfect introduction to attending a performance.

ASL Interpreted Performance – Saturday, May 17, at 2p.m. – Patrons who communicate with ASL can attend this performance featuring Robert Cardoza, the San Antonio theatre community’s primary American Sign Language interpreter.

Pay What You Wish Performance – Sunday, May 18, at 3p.m. – As part of Magik Theatre’s mission to make theatre accessible to everyone, the organization holds one donation-based performance. Tickets are only available at the door on February 8.

Military and First Responders Appreciation Day – Saturday, May 31 at 2p.m. – Service members with a valid military ID can purchase discounted $18 tickets to this performance.

TICKET OPTIONS

Magik Theatre offers multiple ways for patrons to experience the best children’s theatre in San Antonio. Magik is a cherished arts institution that has been providing families with professional, accessible, literature-based theatre and education since 1994. Located in Hemisfair Park, families can catch the show, enjoy a day of play exploring Yanaguana Garden, grab a meal at one of the many restaurants on site and make Magikal memories. Flex Passes and single ticket sales are available now.

MAGIK THEATRE

A professional theatre for young audiences established in 1994, Magik Theatre’s mission is to create theatrical experiences that ignite imagination, spark curiosity, inspire empathy, and foster a lifetime love of learning in young people.

Empowering Women Through Art: The Magic of Flourish and Femme

Hotel Contessa to host Flourish and Femme Art Fair on March 30, 2025. Photo: Hotel Contessa, used with permission.

Hotel Contessa is excited to host Flourish and Femme, a community art fair and immersive installation celebrating over a dozen local female artists of all generations. On Sunday, March 30 from 11:30a.m. to 3p.m., the public is invited to step into a colorful world of creativity right on the Riverwalk, where art, flowers and femme energy will come together and established artists will mentor emerging talent. (Hotel Contessa, 2025)

More than just an intergenerational art showcase, the art fair will feature a number of artisans who inject fun and flavor into every moment. This event is a celebration of female artistry, craftsmanship and community that is free and open to the public, benefiting local nonprofit Magdalena House, which empowers families to eliminate cycles of abuse and neglect in the community.

The Sunday art fair will unveil an extraordinary exhibition with a collective of local female artists, transforming the hotel’s spaces into a vibrant canvas of creativity. Through the theme of flowers, artists Kathy Sosa, Stephanie Pena Frost, Mary Carmen Sessions, Geri Garcia, and Ludi Smith will present a stunning installation that weaves together personal narratives and artistic expression. Launching on March 30, this immersive exhibit will extend through June 2025, with select guest rooms becoming intimate galleries that demonstrate the artists’ flower-themed works, inviting visitors to experience art that blooms through each individual’s storytelling.

Guests are encouraged to sip, savor and celebrate the impressive stories of a group of talented female artists and other prominent local women, many of whom are mentoring the next generation of artists in San Antonio. The creative space will also include culinary components with a special touch from Mijenta, a female-owned tequila distillery, where samples of their award-winning spirit will be available for tastings. Attendees can indulge in chocolate hand crafted by local female chocolatier Chef Alessia Benavides of CHOCOLATL. Additionally, Ambler will be open and serving their menu of creative plates and craft cocktails during the event.

This immersive experience celebrates the incredible works of over a dozen local female artists and artisans, including:

San Antonio–based artist Kathy Sosa, whose colorful works have been displayed across North America and is behind the famous Contessa painting at Hotel Contessa. Kathy will also do a book signing for her latest book, “Mestizaje: The Feminist Art of Kathy Sosa.” Kathy’s Contessa painting will be a muse/inspiration for the attending students.

Renowned San Antonio artists Stephanie Pena Frost, Geri Garcia, Mary Carmen Sessions, and Ludi Smith. Featured room artists will host mini-exhibitions spotlighting their broader portfolios and promote their work in the guest rooms.

Eight student artists from CAST School will be mentored by the featured professional artists. Students and artists will be paired up on March 30 for students to create and display their works at the Sunday Art Fair on April 27.

Chef Alessia Benavides of San Antonio’s celebrated female chocolatier, CHOCOLATL. Awarded Best Pastry Chef of 2024 by the Texas Culinary Association, Alessia Benavides is a passionate pastry chef and chocolatier dedicated to the art of baking and chocolate-making.

Mijenta Tequila, female-owned distiller based in Texas. Known for bridging eco-friendly tequila-making with female empowerment.

Proceeds from the art fair sales will be donated to Magdalena House, a neighborhood of transitional homes in San Antonio that serves mothers and their children who have fled danger and abuse. Utilizing a dual-generation approach, they provide safe shelter, basic needs, educational programming and therapeutic services. Hotel Contessa’s Flourish and Femme initiative partners with established artists and the CAST School to foster community mentorship and support, reflecting the hotel’s commitment to enhancing San Antonio’s local cultural landscape.

Hotel Contessa
306 W. Market St.
San Antonio, TX 78205

An intimate, all-suite retreat set directly on San Antonio’s beloved River Walk, Hotel Contessa delights arriving guests with stylish suites that take their design cues from the city’s rich history and vibrant culture. Discover stylish suites and unwind at our spa, complemented by Ambler Texas Kitchen + Cocktails serving up agave cocktails and authentic Texas fare.

A Celebration of the American West: The Briscoe Museum’s 2025 Night of Artists

2025 Night of Artists celebrates the best in contemporary Western art. Opening weekend is this March 28-29. Photo: Briscoe Western Art Museum, used with permission.

SAN ANTONIO, TX – The Briscoe Western Art Museum proudly presents the 2025 Night of Artists Exhibition and Sale, a premier celebration of the American West and one of the nation’s leading Western art events. Taking place Friday and Saturday, March 28-29, this year’s event showcases over 270 exceptional works by more than 85 of today’s top contemporary Western artists, drawing collectors, enthusiasts, and artists from across the country. (Briscoe Western Art Museum, 2025)

The two-day celebration includes exclusive collector experiences, artist demonstrations, a live auction and the highly anticipated Luck of the Draw sale. A public exhibition of the works follows, running March 30 – May 11. Limited tickets remain for Saturday, March 29. Art lovers are encouraged to secure their spots now. Can’t attend? Register to set-up absentee purchases.

“Night of Artists is always our most anticipated event of the year. But the overwhelming interest in this year’s event is a testament to the deep love of the American West – and the appreciation of the fantastic art that highlights the stories and traditions of our Western heritage and culture. We can’t wait to welcome everyone and showcase the body of work presented by this year’s artists. The exhibition is stunning, and we have no doubt that art enthusiasts will find works that compliment, or even kick-off, their collections.” – Liz Jackson, President and CEO of the Briscoe Western Art Museum

For the first time, the Briscoe is featuring a Small Works Sale, offering collectors and art enthusiasts the chance to acquire smaller-scale pieces from renowned contemporary Western artists. These intimate, high-quality works will be available during the evening celebration on Friday, March 28, and buyers will be able to take their purchases home immediately. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just beginning your journey, this sale provides a rare opportunity to own an original piece of Western art in an accessible format.

One of the most anticipated events of the weekend, the Luck of the Draw Sale, takes place Saturday, March 29 during the Grand Exhibition Opening. This exciting sale format ensures all buyers have an equal chance to acquire their preferred piece, as names are drawn at random to determine the order in which collectors may purchase artworks. This process creates a thrilling atmosphere and makes collecting more accessible to all attendees.

New this year, collectors can guarantee their purchase of select artworks through the addition of green “Guarantee to Purchase” ballots in the sale process. By submitting a “Guarantee to Purchase” ballot, buyers indicate their commitment to purchasing a specific piece, ensuring they secure their desired work without the uncertainty of the option period. This exciting new option provides greater confidence and flexibility for collectors looking to expand their collections with exceptional contemporary Western art.

For those unable to attend in person, absentee options are available for all Night of Artists sales, including the Live Auction, Small Works Sale and Luck of the Draw Sale. This allows collectors worldwide to participate and acquire stunning works of Western art. Absentee purchasing registration closes at noon, Thursday, March 27. Everyone can tune into the live auction through a link on the Night of Artists website, while the live auction gallery is available for viewing now.

The 2025 Night of Artists welcomes an extraordinary lineup of returning favorites and exciting new voices in Western art. New artists include Thomas Blackshear II, Sean Michael Chavez, Scott Christensen, Quang Ho, Josh Elliott, Dean Mitchell, T. Allen Lawson, Sally Maxwell, Kyle Ma, Matt Smith, Daniel Sprick, Dustin Payne and Vic Payne. 

Artists returning to the celebrated exhibition and sale include Martin Grelle, John Coleman, Greg Beecham, Eric Bowman, G. Russell Case, Bonnie Marris, Teresa Elliott, William Haskell, Jeremy Lipking, Ed Natiya, Don Oelze, Howard Post, Grant Redden, Gladys Roldán-de-Moras, Billy Schenck, Jim Vogel, Morgan Weistling and Jeremy Winborg.

Following the opening weekend, the Night of Artists public exhibition and sale will remain on view through May 11, allowing visitors to experience and appreciate the breathtaking collection of contemporary Western art. This extended exhibition offers an opportunity for those unable to attend the sale events to see the remarkable talent shaping today’s Western art scene and purchase any remaining works. The exhibition is included in museum admission. Works not sold during opening weekend will be available for purchase both in-person and online.

Briscoe Western Art Museum
211 W Market St
San Antonio, TX 78205
(210) 299-4499

Unleash Your Creativity: Teen Night at Contemporary at Blue Star

Teen Night at Contemporary at Blue Star is this Friday March 21, 2025. Photo: Contemporary at Blue Star.

Join Contemporary at Blue Star for Teen Night on Friday March 21 from 6p.m. to 8p.m. Admission is free. Participants can view our exhibitions, enjoy artist-led art activities, perform at our open mic and mingle with other art-minded San Antonio teens. Teen Night is scheduled in conjunction with our exhibition, Mosh Now, Cry Later, reflecting on San Antonio’s love for sad rock music and its influence on visual culture and community building. Register for Teen Night here. (Contemporary at Blue Star, 2025)

Teen night activities:

  • One aspect of alternative and independent rock genres, which you can also find in the artworks of Mosh Now, Cry Later, is the use of DIY aesthetics.

For Teen Night we’ll be exploring various methods of art making that align with this tendency. Some of the staff lead activities include creating zines, buttons, and screen printing.

  • Open Mic! Express yourself through poetry, music, and more. The stage is yours, literally. Bring your friends to cheer you on or come solo and make new connections with fellow creative teens. 
  • Make a collage with Christie Blizard!

Led by Mosh Now, Cry Later exhibiting artist Christie Blizard, teens will take magazines, paper scraps, and other materials to create a unique artwork.

  • Blackout Poetry with Lilith Tijerina and Sarah Tijerina

In this activity, led by artists and performers Lilith Tijerina and Sarah Tijerina, teens will create a poem by taking found writing (from books, articles, etc.) and use a marker to blackout some of the words on a page. The words that remain will create a finished poem. 

This event is exclusively for teenagers. In an effort to maintain a safe and relaxing environment for San Antonio teenagers, school IDs will be needed to enter. There will be Contemporary staff chaperoning, as well as two security officers for the duration of the event. Visiting hours during this time will also be exclusively for Teens.

More about Mosh Now, Cry Later: San Antonio’s love of sad rock and its impact on visual culture. It is on view through June 8, 2025.

Featured Artists: Christie Blizard, Justo Cisneros, Joe De La Cruz, Juan Flores, Angela Fox, Brian Gonzalez, Nick Hay, Dom Jimenez, Ashley Mireles, Charlie Morris, Theresa Newsome, Ashley Perez, Kristy Perez, Anthony Rundblade

Mosh Now, Cry Later is an exploration of alternative and independent rock genres—from punk and post-punk to new wave, emo, screamo, hardcore punk, goth, and more—and their effect on San Antonio’s visual culture.

“The exhibition pinpoints the shared sensibilities of a cultural undercurrent within the visual art and music scenes of San Antonio and explores parallels in emotional undertones.” – Curator and Exhibitions Director Jacqueline Saragoza McGilvray

In this exhibition, fourteen San Antonio-connected artists work with an array of media to create artworks that echo these musical subgenres, either through their emotional undercurrents or aesthetic approaches.

Emerging from a rebellious response to mainstream music and practice, these subgenres embrace an ethos of DIY principles that challenge conventional methods of music-making. Similarly, the featured artists operate within counterculture, deviating from mainstream practices in subject or material.

This exhibition also examines how San Antonio’s Latinx youth are especially connected to these subcultures, drawing parallels between DIY aesthetics and rasquache, counterculture and machismo, and vocal techniques like screaming and the grito—a traditional emotional outcry in Mexican culture.

Central to this exhibition is the community archive and listening room or Mosh Pit, an interactive installation of photographs, ephemera, records, tapes, and more lining the walls. The Mosh Pit will highlight musicians from major and indie labels, local bands, and mixtapes and playlists contributed by the exhibiting artists. The inclusion of this installation serves to emphasize the dialogue and intersection of disciplines in San Antonio’s artistic community. 

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

Bakery Lorraine’s Macaron Magic: Special Offers for National Macaron Day

Satisfy your sweet tooth this National Macaron Day at Bakery Lorraine. Photo: Bakery Lorraine, used with permission.

National Macaron Day, celebrated on March 20, is a tribute to the beloved French confection. These delicate, colorful cookies, made from almond flour, egg whites, and sugar, boast a crisp shell with a soft, chewy center, often filled with ganache, buttercream, or jam. People adore macarons for their airy texture, vibrant hues, and endless flavor possibilities, from classic vanilla to exotic passionfruit. Their elegance makes them perfect for celebrations, gifts, and indulgent treats. On this day, bakeries worldwide often have promotional sales, encouraging everyone to savor the artistry and deliciousness of this timeless pastry.

As National Macaron Day approaches on Thursday, May 20, celebrate by indulging in USA Today-recognized Bakery Lorraine’s delectable macarons.

Sweet tooth enthusiasts can select from a variety of flavors, including lemon-lime, salted caramel, Earl Grey, pistachio, raspberry, triple vanilla, chocolate, and more. Each macaron is crafted with the finest ingredients to guarantee that every bite is pure indulgence. Macarons are available in assorted packs of 6 or 12. If purchased in-store only, Bakery Lorraine is offering discounts for the 12-pack, available for $30 (originally $36) and the 6-pack, available for $15 (originally $18).

With locations across San Antonio, Boerne, and Austin, Bakery Lorraine makes National Macaron Day unforgettable by offering delightful beverage and bite pairings such as lattes, matcha, veggie frittatas, opera cakes, turkey pesto sandwiches, pop tarts and more—making it Texas’ go-to destination for all things Parisian patisserie. 

Mujer-Eres: Raíces – Celebrating the Strength and Stories of Women Through Art

Mujer-Eres: Raíces is currently on view at the San Benito Cultural Center until June 7. Photo: Sandra Cruz

Art plays a vital role in fostering community, especially when created by women artists who bring diverse perspectives and unique storytelling to the canvas. Their work highlights social issues, cultural heritage, and personal narratives that resonate deeply with audiences. For art lovers, these creations offer not only beauty but also a meaningful connection to different experiences and viewpoints.

Public art, galleries, and community exhibitions provide spaces for dialogue, inspiration, and empowerment. By supporting women artists, communities enrich their cultural landscape, encourage creative expression, and promote inclusivity, ensuring that art continues to be a powerful force for unity and change.

The current exhibition at the San Benito Cultural Center, Mujer-Eres: Raíces, features women artists and their diverse experiences, both personal and societal. It runs until June 7 and admission is included with your visit to the San Benito Cultural Heritage Museum. Exhibits include mixed media, ceramics, and paintings. If you’re an art lover, make plans to see this exceptional exhibition that will no doubt resonate with you, especially if you’re a woman. Congratulations to everyone involved in bringing this exhibition to San Benito.

Mujer-Eres: Raíces is a contemporary art group exhibition that showcases the diverse talent of women artists and is currently on view at the San Benito Cultural Center. The exhibition was coordinated by RGV artists Sam Rawls and Ceci Sierra and curated by Aleida García and Joaquin Castillo. (San Benito Cultural Heritage Museum, 2025)

The well attended opening of Mujer Eres: Raíces was held on Saturday March 8 and coincided with the International Women’s Day celebration. The evening’s event brought together art lovers, family, friends, and community leaders to celebrate the diversity of women artists and their contributions to the art community. It consisted of special speakers, snacks, and best of all, live DJ music by Queen Killa Bee.

The exhibition is divided as such:

Exhibition Room 2: Fragments of Youth and its Discomforts – these works explores the concept of youth in all its intricacies.

Works:
“Ice Cream Cone”
“Learn from MeMe”
“Tequila Sunrise (undone)”
“Buried Under Conformity and Obligation”
“Uneven Lines”
“Dyed Hair”

Exhibition Room 1: Sacred Self, Self Aware, and Ritual Healing – an amplification of the societal demands of works in Room 2.

Works:
“Sumision”
“Prickly”
“Whispers of the Unseen”
“Pray With Me”
“Recetas, Remedios y Raices”
“Memory Weaving: Mi mama y yo y el arbol grande”

Exhibition Room 3: Snapshots in Approach of Resolution – explores the capacity to exist in and commit acts of softness and harshness.

Works:
“Disquietude”
“Untitled”
“War”
“Sunrise”
“Abridged”
“Impression: Sunrise at a Restaurant”

Museum Hours:
Monday through Thursday
10a.m. to 4p.m.
Fridays
10a.m. to 1p.m.

San Benito Cultural Heritage Museum
250 E. Heywood St
San Benito, TX 78586

Photo: Sandra Cruz
Photo: Sandra Cruz
Photo: Sandra Cruz
Photo: Sandra Cruz
Photo: San Benito Cultural Center

Where Creativity Meets Compassion: Paws and Claws Pet Habitat Competition at Pearl

Pearl has been transformed into a showcase of custom-built pet habitats designed by local architects, builders, and designers, with public voting from March 1-22. Photo: Pearl, used with permission.

SAN ANTONIO – Pearl is giving the community and visitors another reason to plan their next visit by hosting a Claws and Paws Construction event across its 22 acre footprint for the first time. This innovative architectural and design competition, modeled after Dallas’ successful Bark n Build, showcases pet-friendly structures created by local talent. (Pearl, 2025)

The showcase will feature custom-built pet habitats designed by local architects, builders, and designers. The structures will be on display for public viewing and bidding across Pearl from March 1-22, 2025. The competition aims to support two local pet charities, Daisy Cares and PAWS for Service, while highlighting the creativity and craftsmanship of San Antonio’s design community.

Visitors are invited to view and vote on their favorite designs throughout the event. “We’re thrilled to showcase San Antonio’s incredible architectural and design talent through this collaboration with Claws and Paws,” says Mesha Millsap, CEO of Pearl. “This event not only highlights our city’s creativity but also demonstrates how local innovators can come together for a great cause. We’re eager to see the ingenious and inspiring pet habitats that our community’s skilled professionals will design.”

The builds will be on display at Karnes St., between Pullman Market and Can Plant Residences at Pearl. The competition features entries from local firms including The Lique Group, Sol Studios, Villa Park Architects, Pfluger Architects, Garza Architects, and three entries from Habitat for Humanity’s Habitat Home Center.

Awards will be presented in various categories, including the Top Dog Award (People’s Choice), Best in Show (Overall design winner), and category-specific awards for Canine Cabin, Furr-niture, and Cat Condo.

The pet habitats will be auctioned off at a “Housewarming” event on March 22, 2025, with all proceeds benefiting Daisy Cares and PAWS for Service. The event is made possible through the support of sponsors including Historic Pearl, PAWS edu, NorthPark Subaru, IBC Bank, and Chicago Title.

Claws and Paws Construction is an innovative architectural and design competition that brings together local talent to create unique, pet-friendly structures. Modeled after Dallas’ successful Bark n Build event, Claws and Paws Construction showcases the creativity and craftsmanship of architects, builders, and designers while supporting local pet charities. The event features custom-built pet habitats that are judged on innovation, sustainability, functionality, and aesthetic appeal. Through public engagement and auctions, Claws and Paws Construction raises funds and awareness for animal welfare organizations, fostering a community that values both design excellence and compassion for pets.

From Green Beer to River Parades: Celebrating St. Patrick’s Day in San Antonio

La Panadería’s limited edition green conchas, available at all locations until Monday March 17. Photo: La Panadería, used with permission.

St. Patrick’s Day, celebrated on March 17, is a vibrant holiday in the United States, honoring Irish heritage and culture. Cities across the country hold parades, with New York City and Chicago hosting some of the largest. People wear green, decorate with shamrocks, and enjoy Irish music, dance, and food. Many bars and restaurants serve traditional Irish fare like corned beef and cabbage, along with green beer. While rooted in Irish Catholic traditions, St. Patrick’s Day has evolved into a widely celebrated cultural event embracing fun and festivity.

In San Antonio, festivities include the city’s Dyeing the River Green and St. Patrick’s River Parades on Saturday March 15. There’s also San Antonio’s official St. Patrick’s Day Bar Crawl on Monday March 17, 2025.

Two restaurants on the River Walk are ready to join in on the festivities with their own Irish classics.

Four Brothers Southern Provisions, located inside the historic Omni La Mansión del Rio, is known for its fresh Latin approach to traditional Texan cuisine. Now, they’re aiming to maintain their flair for fusion by putting a San Antonio spin on the holiday’s cultural favorites.

Available this weekend, visitors can choose between the Iced Irish Espresso Martini, a whiskey-based rendition that’s been mixed with sweet Baileys Original Irish Cream Liqueur and a boldly rich espresso roast, and the Spiced Irishman, a multifaceted whiskey and club soda that adds elements of flavor by topping off with hot honey syrup and tangy lemon juice. Don’t forget to snack on a few (or all) of Four Brothers’ Leprechaun Loaded Potato Skins, a hearty and comforting shareable that incorporates corned beef, cabbage, and Guinness Beer Cheese with its slow-baked spud base. 

Located across the River Walk is the high-energy upscale eatery, Ostra. Connected to the award-winning Mokara Hotel & Spa, guests are invited to enjoy the destination’s limited-time St. Patrick’s Day offerings. Known for their crafted cocktails and fresh seafood, Ostra has partnered with Jameson Irish Whiskey to create three specialty items, only available this weekend.

For something fruity and refreshing, order the Jameson Orange Mule, a simple yet delicious drink made with Jameson Orange, ginger beer, and lime juice. For those in the mood for something crisp and tart, try the Celtic Spritz. The cocktail combines Jameson Triple Irish Whiskey, elderflower liqueur, limoncello, and sparkling water and is sure to help cool visitors off from the upcoming weekend heat. And because you can’t visit Ostra without experiencing their acclaimed Oyster Bar, pair either cocktail with a few savory chargrilled oysters, served with Jameson Whiskey Butter and warm-baked bread.

While the River Walk has plenty of options for the holiday celebrations, bar hoppers beginning to create the weekend’s itinerary should plan to add these two spots as necessary stops. (Four Brothers Southern Provisions, Ostra, 2025)

To celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, The Newstand, the now local favorite, has joined the holiday festivities by creating their own themed menu creations. Known for their unique and delicious offerings, The Newstand has done it again with the “Bella Loca Latte” and the “Grinch” cookie. 

The Bella Loca Latte is an iced matcha latte that mixes together creamy pistachio milk (DF/GF) before being topped off with a lightly sweetened matcha cold foam and a festively opportunistic green straw. And since it’s criminal to visit The Newstand without selecting one of their house-made pastries, make your order a greenified duo with a sweet treat. Named the Grinch, this matcha cookie is soft, chewy, and subtly sweet. Topped with a thin layer of matcha icing, pistachio crumbles, and sea salt flakes, it might be big enough to share, but you might not even want to.

These seasonal favorites are only available for the month of March. For customers aiming to potentially save a little green, they can purchase both together and receive 10% off their order. (The Newstand, 2025)

In celebration of St. Patrick’s Day (3/17), La Panadería is adding a festive twist to their beloved conchas with a special Green Concha, available now through Monday, March 17. This vibrant concha features a green exterior, filled with a rich and creamy pistachio ganache that’s sure to delight your taste buds. 

Perfect for celebrating the season or adding a touch of color to your treat selection, this limited-time concha is priced at just $3.75 and can be purchased at any La Panadería location. (La Panadería, 2025)