Category: Holiday themed events

Gift guide: make Mother’s Day extra special this year

Treat mom to some special treats from Bakery Lorraine. Photo: Bakery Lorraine, used with permission.

Mother’s Day is this Sunday May 12 and if you’re still looking for ideas to celebrate mom on her special day, several businesses in the San Antonio area have special offerings available. Whether mom likes a spa day, brunch, sweets, or a day at the theater, here’s a selection of what’s hot this year. (Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk, Bakery Lorraine, Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa, Children’s Ballet of San Antonio, 2024)

** Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk **

Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk has special offerings where moms can enjoy a much-needed spa getaway and delicious brunch.

The Mother’s Day Brunch will be from 11a.m. – 3p.m. on Sunday, May 12 at Landrace. Menu highlights will include classic brunch delights like French toast topped with seasonal compote, buttermilk biscuits with maple gravy, and fresh breakfast pastries, alongside a champagne wall and mimosa cart to clink cheers. 

The Thompson Spa will be offering special Mother’s Day treatments throughout the month of May, so that children can treat their mothers to the ultimate day of relaxation. Treatments for mom include a “Spring Goddess Glow Package” with a green tea firming body treatment and 50-minute massage, a “Royal Rose Package” with a deeply nourishing facial and body treatment, and a “Love Yourself Peppermint Mani-Pedi.” The full spa menu is available here. 

** Bakery Lorraine **

Bakery Lorraine has special treats that will be sure to make any mother feel appreciated on this special day. 

For lovers of flowers and sweet treats, Bakery Lorraine is excited to offer a petite bouquet with a box of 6 Parisian macarons, perfect for celebrating Mother’s Day. The Macarons — whose flavors include Triple Vanilla, Pistachio, and Raspberry — will be elegantly stored in a unique and limited time floral box. This special offer can be purchased for $50 online through the Bakery Lorraine website or in store (all stores except the Doseum location in San Antonio). 

The last day to order one of these bouquets and macarons will be on Thursday, May 9. Each order is available for pickup at the Bakery Lorraine location of choice between 10a.m. and 6p.m. on Saturday, May 11, or Sunday, May 12, 2024.

In addition to pre-orders, Bakery Lorraine is hosting a small make your own Mother’s Day Card at all locations (except Doseum in San Antonio) from 2p.m. to close on Thursday, May 9. This is a free event that will be available while supplies last. Additionally, guests in San Antonio can visit Bakery Lorraine at Pearl on Saturday, May 11 for a flower shop pop-up to purchase locally made bouquets.

** Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa **

Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa, the recently opened Autograph Collection hotel in downtown, is pleased to announce its Mother’s Day (May 12) offerings to pamper moms this season. Bridging Downtown and Southtown neighborhoods, the Plaza San Antonio’s lush garden oasis and reimagined environment is a sanctuary of connectivity with extraordinary cuisine, culture, creativity, and community. Mom can enjoy an onsite garden oasis bar, pool, spa, and a lively restaurant with honest food and drinks ranging from hearty to healthy. Below is a breakdown of the specials available for Mother’s Day. 

Nestled within the historic grounds of San Antonio’s only Autograph Collection Hotel, The Spa Plaza San Antonio offers a restorative approach to health and wellness. To help pamper moms, local or visiting, the hotel will offer several limited-time treatment packages at its luxurious spa. All the treatments can be booked through the Spa’s website and are included below:  

  • Side-by-Side Mani Pedi – $200
  • Side-by-Side Massage – $350
  • Treat Yourself – $150

In addition to the unique offerings at the hotel’s Spa, guests can also celebrate mom and elevate the day with a brunch feast at Corinne San Antonio. With a modern, comfortable design and refreshing menu that offers a new take on San Antonio dining, Corinne provides a perfect place to gather for Mother’s Day. The Brunch menu includes Chorizo Devilled Eggs, Mezcal Shrimp Cocktail, Sweet Corn Cake Eggs Benedict, Lump Crab Frittata, and more. 

To cap off the delightful brunch, guests can then head over to Anaqua Garden Bar for a celebratory drink with mom. Anaqua Garden Bar is a hidden gem located in the heart of Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa’s garden oasis. Inspired and named after the property’s champion Anaqua tree, this garden bar features a menu highlighting the fusion of Japanese flavors with Latin tradition, botanical cocktails, lush seating and a curated soundtrack to create a chill Zen oasis to celebrate mom. 

Limited Time Specialty Spa Treatments:
Valid Wednesday, May 1, 2024 through Friday, May 31, 2024* during Spa operating hours
*Excluding Memorial Day weekend (May 25-27)

Corinne San Antonio Sunday Brunch Hours:
7a.m. – 2p.m.

Anaqua Garden Bar Sunday Hours:
11a.m. – 10p.m.

The Spa Plaza San Antonio & Corinne San Antonio
555 S Alamo St
San Antonio, TX 78205

Valet parking is available at the hotel at $15 for three hours.

** Children’s Ballet of San Antonio **

The Children’s Ballet of San Antonio (CBSA) invites you to a magical ball you don’t want to miss. The company will bring to life the classic Cinderella, the timeless love story, complete with a wicked stepmother, clumsy stepsisters, a fairy-godmother, and of course a handsome prince. Experience an enchanting performance for the whole family with opulent costumes, dreamlike digital and physical scenery and award-winning performers and choreographers, all set to the soaring score by Sergei Prokofiev. Taking place at the stunning Majestic Theatre on May 10 and 11, Cinderella is a dream come true that is sure to awaken child-like wonder in all ages.

A talented cast of roughly 200 young CBSA artists, ages 3-19, present this romantic fairy tale as only the Children’s Ballet can. The audience will be swept away by original Disney ballads such as “So This is Love” performed through stunning ballet artistry and incredible vocal talent transforming Cinderella into an avant-garde fairy tale classic. Classical ballet combined with an eclectic mix of awe-inspiring aerial acrobatics, hip-hop, and gymnastics create an exciting 90-minute production that will transfix even the youngest audience members.

Guests are encouraged to don their finest frocks, present their prettiest princess dresses, or come as a quinceañera queen to make it a truly magical affair to remember. Upon arrival, guests can take photos with the cast and even purchase tiaras, tutus, and fairy wands on-site! All audience members are sure to be wowed by the venue: downtown’s stunning Majestic Theatre. It’s the perfect place for a Cinderella story fit for a princess.

The Majestic Theatre
224 E. Houston Street
San Antonio, TX 78205

Friday May 10, 6p.m. doors, 7p.m. show
Saturday May 11, 1p.m. doors, 2p.m. show
Saturday May 11, 6p.m. doors, 7p.m. show
Tickets are available on the Children’s Ballet of San Antonio website.

 

 

 

Easter dining specials and cocktail recipes

Easter is coming up on Sunday, March 31, 2024. Photo: Google/Czech Universities

Easter is coming up already on Sunday, so if you are looking for ideas on dining out, consider Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk. Planning on celebrating at home with family? How about some cocktail recipes? Here are some festive cocktail recipes from Gray Whale Gin, Cantera Negra Tequila and Bib & Tucker Small Batch Bourbon, which, coincidentally, can also get you ready for National Brunch Month coming up in April.

At Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk, nestled along a picturesque residential stretch of the iconic Riverwalk, Landrace’s expert chefs are preparing a delightful Easter menu with a Southern twist. On March 31 at 11a.m. guests and locals alike can indulge in a variety of savory and sweet Easter specials. (Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk, 2024)

Here’s a glimpse of what Landrace has to offer:

Specialty Stations:

  • Pasta Station – featuring red sauce, truffle alfredo, chicken, shrimp, spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, and tomatoes
  • Omelet Station – offerings honey ham, bacon, spinach, cheese, mushrooms, tomatoes, and jalapeños

Platters & Chaffers featuring the following choices:

  • Breakfast pastries
  • Assorted fresh fruits and artisanal cheeses
  • Crispy pork belly
  • Homemade chorizo sausage
  • Tri-colored potato hash
  • Thick-sliced brioche French toast
  • Brisket benny topped with BBQ bĂ©arnaise sauce
  • Velvety & creamy mashed potatoes with cheese
  • Freshly baked rolls
  • Prosciutto quiche with truffle and lemon
  • Chopped romaine & radicchio salad with apples and Parmesan

Specials

  • Honey-glazed ham
  • Fire-roasted lamb
  • crème brĂ»lĂ©e cascaron
  • Hummingbird cake with cream cheese icing
  • Chocolate orange torte

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Cocktail recipes: (courtesy photos, used with permission)

Cantera Negra Blood Orange Mimosa

  • Ingredients:
    • 1oz Cantera Negra Reposado Tequila
    • 1oz Aperol
    • 2oz freshly squeezed blood orange juice
    • Champagne or sparkling wine
  • Instructions:
    • Shake all ingredients (minus champagne) and strain into highball glass over ice.
    • Slowly add champagne to fill.
    • Garnish with a blood orange wheel. 

Blackberry Negroni

A springtime twist on the classic negroni featuring in-season blackberries along with Campari and Cocchi Dopo Teatro. If Cocchi Dopo Teatro isn’t available, another sweet vermouth will do.

  • Ingredients:
    • 1.5 parts Gray Whale Gin
    • 1 part Campari
    • 0.75 part Cocchi Dopo Teatro
    • 6 Fresh Blackberries
  • Instructions:
    • In a cocktail glass, muddle four blackberries. In a mixing glass, combine Gray Whale Gin, Campari and Cocchi Dopo Teatro. Add ice and stir until chilled. Strain the mixture from the mixing glass into the glass with the muddled blackberries. Garnish with the remaining two blackberries.

Whiskey Crusta

  • Ingredients:
    • 1.5oz Bib & Tucker 6-Year-Old Small Batch Bourbon.5oz 1883 Maison Routin Apple Syrup.25oz Luxardo Maraschino.25 lemon
    • 2 dashes Fee Brothers Old Fashioned Bitters
  • Instructions:
    • Shake ingredients with ice & strain into glass with sugar crusted rim.
    • Garnish with long lemon peel.

Celebrate Easter with themed treats from Bakery Lorraine

Bakery Lorraine’s Easter themed Moon Pies. Photo: Bakery Lorraine, used with permission.

With Easter right around the corner on Sunday, March 31, I wanted to share some Easter themed pastries and baked goods available for purchase from Bakery Lorraine at all their locations. There is still time to order: from now until 5p.m. on Thursday, March 28, guests can pre-order a delectable 7’’ Carrot Cake for $80 through Bakery Lorraine’s website. Their carrot cake is full of pineapple, coconut, walnuts, generously layered with cream cheese frosting, and topped with a variety of macarons. Pickup will be on choice of either Saturday, March 30 or Sunday, March 31. (Bakery Lorraine, 2024)

Additionally, Bakery Lorraine will have Easter themed in-store pastries available over the weekend from Friday, March 29 to Sunday, March 31.

These pastries include:

  • Bunny Tart – White chocolate mascarpone mousse and strawberry centers on dark chocolate shortbread
  • Egg Shaped Moonpie – Fluffy honey marshmallow sandwiched between house made graham crackers
  • Chocolate Nest Tart – Salted caramel and dark chocolate ganache in a vanilla pastry shell topped with chocolate eggs nested in chocolate phyllo

Carrot cake slices will also be available for in-store purchase throughout Easter weekend and the following week while supplies last.

Bakery Lorraine’s carrot cake. Photo: Bakery Lorraine, used with permission.

Spring Break activities at the Briscoe Western Art Museum

Spring into the West for extra hours and hands-on programming during Spring Break Round Up at the Briscoe. Photo: Briscoe Western Art Museum, used with permission.

Spring into the west without ever leaving the River Walk at the Briscoe Western Art Museum. Normally closed on Tuesday and Wednesday, extended hours during spring break mean the Briscoe will be open 10a.m. – 5p.m. each day March 7 – 18, giving everyone the opportunity to lasso some western fun this spring. With the museum’s location in the heart of the River Walk, it’s the perfect stop for families exploring downtown – and anyone enjoying the St. Patrick’s Day parades and festivities March 16-17. (Briscoe Western Art Museum, 2024)

The Briscoe is also hosting its annual Spring Break Roundup March 11-16. Art and craft activities, building with LEGOs, stories and fun capture the excitement and adventure of the West for all ages, while adults can get in on the fun with an evening painting session served with a side of margaritas. The come-and-go family programs includes activities that celebrate the heritage and culture of the American West. Different activities will be available each day, bringing the West to life in a variety of hands-on ways.

Spring Break Roundup is included in museum admission, with no charge for craft supplies and no reservations required. The adults-only painting session is a ticketed event for those 21 and up. Children 12 and under and active duty military members always receive free admission to the Briscoe, making it a wonderful destination for family fun. Caregivers must accompany participating children for each activity.

Spring Break Roundup scheduled programming includes:

Monday – Friday, March 11 – 16: Hands-on Arts & Crafts, 10a.m. – 5p.m.

Head West for hands-on fun any time during the day to make and take fun crafts that tie to the pillars of Western art – cowboys, Native Americans, wildlife and vaqueros, all themes celebrated by the Briscoe’s popular Community Days. Stop in and make bison masks, a fun balancing cowboy or weave your own basket. Families can choose and create one – or all! – of the crafts using the free supplies provided. This is a drop-in event included with museum admission.

Thursday, March 14:  Building the West: Native American Homes, 11a.m. – 2p.m.

Drop by the Briscoe to explore the museum’s collection of Native American paintings and sculptures, then create your own Native American home or village. Honor the environment and the native beauty of the West by using recyclable and found materials to build a tipi, longhouse, wigwam or other type of traditional Native American shelters. Decorate it and take your creation home.

Thursday, March 14: Painting with DiZurita!, 5:30p.m. – 8p.m., $45, $35 for museum members

Kick back and enjoy your Spring Break during a painting session with energetic and charismatic international artist DiZurita. Based in San Antonio, DiZurita tells stories through her art, an everlasting transformation of life experiences. Enjoy a relaxing evening sipping margaritas while painting an agave plant – a Western plant and the source of tequila. Create your own agave acrylic painting on an 11 x 14 canvas in a hands-on session as DiZurita guides guests in creating their own work of art. Registration for this 21+ event is per person and includes drinks and all supplies. Class size is limited, so register today to secure your spot.

Friday, March 15:  Building the West: Stop Motion LEGOs, 11a.m. – 2p.m.

Explore the West at the Briscoe, then create a short stop-motion video with LEGOs featuring the Alamo, a train station or other western scenes found in the museum’s collection. Get imaginative at the LEGO creation station and build your own scenes, then create a video using your own phone or device.

Saturday, March 16: Storytime Stampede: Cowboys, 10:30a.m. – 11a.m.

Families and caregivers of young children can enjoy western fun and stories each month at the Briscoe’s Storytime Stampede. Featuring 30-minute programs designed for young children ages 18 months to 5 years, each event includes stories told and acted out, books read aloud, movement activities, songs and art fun.

The spring break story is “Cowboys”  by Lucille Recht Penner. Learn all about the day-to-day life of a cowboy in the Old West, from round-ups and trail drives to meals around the campfire and nights under the stars. Then make a cowboy hat you can wear home.

Adults bringing children to the Storytime Stampede receive half-off general museum admission and children 12 and under always receive free admission at the Briscoe, turning Storytime Stampede into affordable family fun.

Building the West: Stop motion LEGOs. Photo: Briscoe Western Art Museum, used with permission.

Cocktail recipes for National Margarita Day and beyond

The Winter Margarita made with Cantera Negra Reposado. Photo: Cantera Negra, used with permission.

National Margarita Day is celebrated every year on February 22 as an homage to one of the best and most popular cocktail drinks. If you are looking for new margarita recipes or a way to spice up your favorite margarita, look no further than the following from Cantera Negra and Twang. (Cantera Negra, Twang, 2024)

Cantera Negra Tequila is an award-winning, ultra-premium tequila, hand-crafted in small batch quantities from 40 years of family tradition in Mexico. Decades ago, Don Alberto Becherano began making tequila as a hobby, and since then, he has been perfecting his proprietary method for making one of the best tasting tequilas in the world. Cantera Negra means “Black Quarry,” inspired by the rich volcanic soil from where their agaves grow. Their tequila is handcrafted in small-batch quantities using 100% fully mature Blue Weber agaves. They do not believe in cutting corners and permit only time-honored traditional production methods, and unlike others, they never add sugars or colorings. Below are a couple of their margarita recipes, including a winter twist and a cult classic. Photos courtesy of Cantera Negra, used with permission. 

Winter Marg– Let every sip warm you up from the inside out! A perfect combination of Cantera Negra Reposado, fresh lime and blood orange juice, complemented by a flavorful winter spice rim.

  • Ingredients:
    • 1.5 parts Cantera Negra Reposado Tequila
    • 0.5 part Fresh lime juice
    • 0.5 part Fresh blood orange juice
    • 0.5 part Agave syrup
    • 0.75 tsp Vanilla extract
  • Directions:
    • Rim a rocks glass with winter spice mix.* Combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake vigorously. Strain into prepped rocks glass over fresh ice. Garnish with a cinnamon stick.
    • *Winter spice mix: .5 tsp salt, .5 tsp sugar, .25 tsp cinnamon, and .25 tsp chili powder

Tommy’s Margarita – This go-to cult classic is known as a “Tommy’s Margarita” and is a bartender favorite.

  • Ingredients:
    • 2oz Cantera Negra Silver Tequila
    • 1oz fresh lime juice
    • .5oz agave nectar
    • Blood orange slice for garnish
  • Instructions
    • Add all ingredients to cocktail shaker filled with ice. Shake vigorously. Strain over ice in a half salt rimmed rocks glass and garnish with blood orange slice.

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Twang, a Tex-Mex inspired, family-driven company, specializes in the creation of products with flavored salt, sugar, and spice blends. 

The Twang-A-Rita premium cocktail rimmer blend is a must for the at-home-bartender and cocktail enthusiast this National Margarita Day. Available for national shipping, flavors include Safari Spice (spicy mango flavored), Sunrise Spice (chili lime flavored), Nectarberry (strawberry & lime flavored), Paloma Love (grapefruit flavored), CitruSplash (lemon & lime flavored) and Unwind Lime (lime flavored). Each flavor of Twang-A-Rita retails for $4.00, or they have variety packs with three different flavors for $10.00.

So raise a glass to the flavors that bring us together and toast to the taste of tradition sprinkled with a whole lot of amor. There’s a Twang-A-Rita cocktail rimming blend that compliments every margarita.

Photo: Twang, used with permission.

Valentine’s Day cocktails and gift ideas

The Love Paloma made with Cantera Negra Silver Tequila. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Red alert!! Valentine’s Day (February 14) is less than a week away. If you are still looking for gift ideas and cocktail recipes to celebrate the big day with your loved one, check out these gifts and festive new recipes from Gray Whale Gin, Cantera Negra Tequila, and Bib & Tucker Small Batch Bourbon. (Create Entertainment/Create Studios, 2024)

Gift ideas:

The new Bib & Tucker Double Char Bourbon (best gifts under $55), the entire portfolio of certified additive-free, celebrity-free tequila made from 100% fully mature Blue Weber Agave, Cantera Negra Tequila (including Silver, Reposado, Añejo, Extra Añejo and Café), and the Gray Whale Gin Sustainable Apparel Collection and upcycled candle, both benefitting Oceana.

Cocktail recipes:

Valentine Cheers

  • Ingredients:
    • 1.5 parts Gray Whale Gin
    • 1 part Pear juice
    • 0.5 part Simple syrup
    • 0.5 part Fresh lemon juice
    • 3 parts Josh Prosecco
    • Garnish: Green grapes and rosemary sprig for garnish
  • Instructions:
    • Set aside 2 green grapes for garnish.
    • Combine remaining ingredients except for Josh Prosecco in cocktail shaker.
    • Lightly muddle grapes, then shake vigorously.
    • Double strain into champagne flute and top with Josh.
    • Garnish with rosemary sprig skewered with grapes. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Love Paloma

A delightful blend of Cantera Negra Silver, pomegranate juice and zesty fresh lime juice, the Pom Paloma is a twist on a classic. Allspice Dram adds a hint of winter spice that balances the tart pomegranate and will have you coming back for more.

  • Ingredients:
    • 1.5 parts Cantera Negra Silver Tequila
    • 0.75 part Pomegranate Juice
    • 0.75 part Allspice Dram
    • 0.25 part Fresh lime juice
    • Top with soda
  • Directions:
    • Combine all ingredients (except soda) in a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake vigorously. Strain into Collins glass over fresh ice. Top with soda water. Garnish with a blood orange slice. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Date Night Old Fashioned

  • Ingredients:
    • 2 parts Bib & Tucker Double Char Bourbon
    • 0.25 part Maple Syrup
    • 2 dashes Coffee Pecan Bitters
    • 2 dashes Black Walnut Bitters
    • Garnish with Orange Peel
  • Instructions:
    • Add Bib & Tucker Double Char Bourbon, maple and bitters to mixing glass over ice. Stir for 30 seconds until cold. Strain liquid over fresh ice into rocks glass and garnish with orange peel. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Bib & Tucker Small Batch Bourbon: The name, bottle and small batch approach were inspired by the turn of the century in America, a time of unprecedented progress and adventure when all bourbon was small batch. Aged in the rolling hills of Tennessee, Bib & Tucker doesn’t cut corners and uses no additives, artificial flavors or artificial colors. In a time when other brands are taking their age statements away, Bib & Tucker proudly puts the age statement on the front of every bottle. Bib & Tucker 6-Year-Old was awarded 93 Points from Whisky Advocate, ranking #14 out of the Top 20 Whiskies in 2021, and the bourbons are best enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in whiskey-forward cocktails.

Cantera Negra is an award-winning, ultra-premium tequila, hand-crafted in small batch quantities from 40 years of family tradition in Mexico. Decades ago, Don Alberto Becherano began making tequila as a hobby, and he has been perfecting his proprietary method for making undoubtedly the best tasting tequilas in the world ever since. Cantera Negra means “Black Quarry,” inspired by the rich volcanic soil from where our agaves grow. Their tequila is handcrafted in small-batch quantities using 100% fully mature Blue Weber agaves. Cantera Negra does not believe in cutting corners and permit only time-honored traditional production methods, and unlike others, they never add sugars or colorings.

Gray Whale Gin was founded on the principle that a consciously crafted spirit can bring people together for good times while doing some good in the world. Every bottle of Gray Whale Gin gives back through 1% for the Planet and partnership with Oceana, the largest organization in the world devoted to ocean conservation. In less than 5 years, Gray Whale Gin has already helped make legislative change, permanently protecting the oceans off the West Coast. Gray Whale Gin is perfected with sustainably sourced and wild harvested botanicals foraged along the migratory path of the California Gray Whale.

Celebrate the month of love at Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk

Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk has Valentine’s Day and Galentine’s Day specials to help you celebrate in style. Photo: Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk, used with permission.

Now that February is here, it’s time to start planning for this month’s celebrations. Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk is having Valentine’s Day / Galentine’s Day specials this month. So whether you are celebrating with your Valentine or want to plan a special occasion friends, here are some ideas if you plan to be in San Antonio. (Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk, 2024)

For the Couples

Couples can book the new SuiteHeart Romance Package for a $200 Property Romance Credit to be used at the full-service Thompson San Antonio Spa, dining at signature restaurant Landrace, minibar, or parking. Guests will also arrive to a beautiful rose petal setup and a bath/shower welcome amenity for deserving R&R with their loved one. Offer Code = SATROM for Booking Dates: 1/4/2024 – 2/14/2024; Stay Dates: 2/9/2024-2/18/2024.

Couples can also indulge in the epitome of romantic bliss with the property’s highly sought-after Cabana Cuddle Up, an experience that seamlessly melds ultimate relaxation with unparalleled luxury. Begin your journey with an opulent 80-minute massage for two in the exquisite couples’ room, where tranquility and connection intertwine. Following the rejuvenating session, continue the enchantment as you and your favorite person nestle into the sumptuous embrace of one of the poolside daybed cabanas. Here, amid the soothing ambiance, revel in the shared joy of sipping on chilled champagne and partaking in a curated picnic, where every bite is a celebration of love and indulgence.

For the Gals

Perfect for Galentine’s Day with friends and family, up to 20 guests can have private access to Thompson San Antonio Spa when booking The Late Night Escape Spa Party package. You bring the party, and Thompson brings the pampering.

This package includes access to all spa facilities (Eucalyptus Steam Room, Dry Sauna, Scrub Bar, Locker Rooms, Relaxation Area, and the showstopping Cenote Pool Deck), complimentary champagne, handcrafted dessert board, massage services for up to two hours by one expert therapist, and valet service. Guests can call the spa at 210.942.6027 to book the experience and discuss how they can customize their special Galentine’s celebration.

Not to be missed: cocktails, live music and twinkly city and star views at The Moon’s Daughters, the enchanting indoor-outdoor rooftop restaurant and bar floating high above the River Walk that dazzles from its 20th-story perch over the city.

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Valentine’s Day

Celebrate the holidays with foodie gifts and merchandise

Bakery Lorraine’s pecan pie. Photo: Bakery Lorraine, used with permission.

With the Holiday season upon us and people searching for gifts to give and ways to celebrate this year, nationally recognized pastry shop Bakery Lorraine, flavor factory Twang and the iconic Lone Star Beer have some gift ideas. (Bakery Lorraine, Twang, Lone Star Beer, 2023)

Bakery Lorraine offers delectable pastries perfect for any holiday gathering this season, including holiday pies and a traditional Bûche De Noël available for local pick up at all locations. Twang presents a festive stuffed stocking filled with cocktail, beer and seltzer salts and koozies that are available for national shipping while supplies last. Lone Star Beer offers limited time merch in partnership with Morgan Mercantile that’s available for national shipping.

Bakery Lorraine

Bakery Lorraine offers delectable holiday pies and traditional Bûche De Noël for pre-order from Monday, December 11 to Sunday, December 24. Items need to be pre-ordered with 72 hours notice to the desired pickup date through the custom order request page. The traditional Bûche De Noël is made with tart cherries, vanilla mousse, and chocolate sponge cake soaked in a spiced kirsch syrup.

Each of Bakery Lorraine’s nine inch holiday pies serve between 8 – 10 people and can be ordered for pick up at all Bakery Lorraine locations.

Flavors include:

  • Whiskey Pecan – made with Jack Daniels No. 7
  • Dutch Apple – made using five varieties of apples and topped with a cinnamon streusel 
  • Apple Cranberry – made using a variety of apples similar to their Dutch Apple Pie but cranberries are added for a beautiful flavor and extra color and topped with Christmas spice

Price: 

  • BĂ»che De NoĂ«l – $48
  • Whiskey Pecan Pie – $28
  • Dutch Apple – $32
  • Apple Cranberry – $32

Twang

Twang offers their festive Twang Stuffed Stocking this holiday season while supplies last and available for national shipping. Customers can use the code “HOLIDAYCHEER” for 10% off stockings. Twang is a family owned manufacturer of premium flavored salts, seasonings, cocktail mixes and more based in Texas.

Packed with Twang favorites, the festive stocking includes:

  • 1 Twang Stocking
  • 2 Christmas Koozies
  • 4 Beer Salts (Lime, Lemon Lime, Cucumber Chile Lime & Grapefruit)
  • 1 Twang-A-Rita Rimming Salt (Chile Lime)
  • 1 Mango Chile Twangerz

Price: $20

Lone Star Beer

Lone Star Beer partners with Morgan Mercantile for the perfect Texan gift this holiday season. The national beer of Texas offers limited time merch for guests to order through its online shop beginning Thursday, December 7.

All items are available for national shipping, including:

  • Patch Rope Hat
  • Pennants
  • Diner Mug
  • Pin
  • Beanies
  • Trucker Hat
  • Hoodies
  • Crewnecks

 

 

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Countdown to Christmas Day

Halloween party idea: ‘Sip and Shade Party Art Book’ by Sunny J Shores

This Halloween, let ‘Sip and Shade Art Book: A Gathering of Haunted Creativity and Inebriation’ by Sunny J Shores inspire you. Photo: Sunny J Shores, used with permission.

Halloween is right around the corner and if you are hosting a Halloween party and looking for original ideas besides the tired old costume contest, I have an exciting and creative idea. How about hosting your own Sip and Shade Party with this Halloween-themed edition book?

Adult coloring books have gained popularity in recent years because they can be therapeutic. Some studies have shown that focusing on the complex drawings on these coloring books can actually put your mind into a relaxing and meditative state. So why not get together with friends this Halloween, put on your best costume, and enjoy some adult beverages, all while bonding, expressing yourself, and creating memories that will last a lifetime.

“Sip and Shade Party: A Gathering of Haunted Creativity and Inebriation: Halloween Edition” by Sunny J Shores is more than just a coloring book; it is also a party planner to help you host the best spooky get together this season. It is made from high quality paper perfect for all types of mediums, from colored pencils to markers. The padded pages are sure to handle all types of artists, ensuring a comfortable and relaxing experience. Do you have guests who are left handed? This coloring book is formatted to complement left handed or right handed artists. It even comes with a guest list and memories page perfect for capturing every moment. (Sunny J Shores, 2023)

So this year surprise your friends with a unique Halloween party courtesy of the Halloween edition of “Sip and Shade Party.” Set aside a space for creativity to bloom surrounded by spooky Halloween decorations, drinks, and a variety of art supplies to fit every artist’s needs. Of course, costumes are always encouraged! And remember, if it is not on social media, it did not happen, so share your experiences online by using the hashtag #SipAndShadeParty.

“Sip and Shade Party: A Gathering of Haunted Creativity and Inebriation: Halloween Edition” is available online. For bulk orders of 10 or more, you can order directly from the publisher’s website. Happy Halloween!

Photo: Sunny J Shores, used with permission.

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Upcoming events at the Briscoe Western Art Museum

Events include a Father’s Day celebration and other art events. Photo: Briscoe Western Art Museum, used with permission.

Hands-on fun, free family activities and saddling up with sci-fi fill the summer with art and adventure at the Briscoe Western Art Museum. The Briscoe is hosting an array of programming to explore the Southwest influence on Western art during Southwest Rising: Contemporary Art and the Legacy of Elaine Horwitch Now through September 4. (Briscoe Western Art Museum, 2023)

The summer exhibition celebrates one of the most powerful and influential art dealers in the Southwest. Horwitch was responsible for launching the careers of hundreds of artists and was a leader in fostering “new Western art” or “Southwest pop.” During the exhibition, Southwest Rising artists will demonstrate their techniques and lead sessions where everyone can create a masterpiece of their own. Along with artist talks, monthly hands-on learning, free Locals Days and the museum’s annual National Day of the Cowboy celebration on July 22, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

The summer line-up includes:

Celebrate the opening of Southwest Rising by exploring the way light and color interact with one another. In the exhibition’s interactive gallery, visitors can construct a display that will allow them to experiment with how light can change the way our eyes see color. This hands-on program is family-friendly, and all ages are welcome. Children 12 and under always receive free admission to the Briscoe.

  • Southwest Rising with Mark McDowell – Saturday, July 8, 1p.m. – 3p.m. $25 for non-members, $20 for museum members

Southwest Rising artist Mark McDowell leads guests in creating a work of art with colored pencils on wood, his preferred technique. Based in Scottsdale, Arizona, McDowell has been featured in more than 40 one-man shows and numerous group exhibitions in museums, art centers and galleries across the United States and Europe. His work is in many public, corporate, and private collections. Class size is limited, so register today to ensure your spot. All skill levels are welcome and supplies are included with registration.

Art-FULL Summer: Painting Sessions

Enjoy painting sessions led by energetic and charismatic international artist Gio DiZurita. Based in San Antonio, DiZurita tells stories through her art, an everlasting transformation of life experiences.

Two summer dates include:

  • Father’s Day Fun:  Painting with Gio – Saturday, June 17, 10a.m. – Noon, 2p.m. – 4p.m.

Bring your dad jokes and have some hands-on fun. Fathers and their children (5 years or older) can enjoy a creative and fun family painting adventure, creating a Western scene in acrylic on an 11 x 14 canvas. Tickets are $45, or $35 for museum members. Registration is needed for each participant over the age of 12 and includes all supplies. The class size is limited, so register early to ensure your space.

  • Create Together:  Painting with Gio Date Night at the Briscoe – Thursday, July 13, 6:30p.m. – 8:30p.m.     

Let love and creativity bloom during a hands-on date night under the stars. Create a work of art during a relaxing evening sipping beer and wine in the museum’s McNutt Sculpture Garden. Couples will enjoy a creative painting adventure creating a Western scene in acrylic on an 11 x 14 canvas. Tickets are $45, or $35 for museum members. Registration is per person and includes beer, wine, and all supplies. The class size is limited, so register today to ensure your spot.

Add Some STEAM to Your Summer:  Hands-on Learning

The Briscoe’s free monthly education series “Full STEAM Ahead” sprinkles educational fun into the summer the first Sunday of each month. Learners of all ages work together and learn about the American West by engaging in STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts and Mathematics) learning experiences. Full STEAM Ahead is designed for all ages to enjoy, making it a terrific family activity. Enjoy STEAMing with your family 1p.m. – 3p.m. on the first Sunday of every month at the Briscoe – the same day that locals are welcome to enjoy the museum for free.

Summer 2023 Full Steam Ahead dates and topics include:

  • August 6: Full STEAM Ahead – Gone for the Winter

Learn more about wildlife and the fall migration of hummingbirds. After a short presentation, families will have the opportunity to create a hummingbird feeder using found and recyclable materials.

  • September 3: Full STEAM Ahead – Art in the Sky

Study the night sky through Kim Wiggins’ “Colonel Crockett’s Return to Cibolo Creek.” After a short study of the painting, everyone will create a bedroom planetarium to take home.

Free Cowboy Fun:  National Day of the Cowboy Celebration

Tippin’ its hat and celebrating the legacy of the cowboy, cowgirl and vaquero, the Briscoe Western Art Museum presents its annual National Day of the Cowboy celebration on Saturday, July 22, 10a.m. – 4p.m. at the Briscoe. The free community event, which includes free admission to the museum and its exhibitions, features indoor and outdoor activities for cowpokes of all ages. Saddle up with your family and head west for a day you will not forget.