Bakery Lorraine’s macarons are available for nationwide delivery. Photo: Bakery Lorraine, used with permission.
As temperatures drop and delicious pastries become the perfect addition to holiday gatherings, gift your loved ones a sweet treat from Bakery Lorraine. This San Antonio and Austin-based bakery and coffee shop offers the finest French baked goods, exceptional savory bites, and decadent macarons. (Bakery Lorraine, 2024)
Families with loved ones spread far and wide can rest easy knowing Bakery Lorraine’s macarons are available for nationwide shipping. Gift-givers can choose from a variety of flavors, including salted caramel, raspberry, Earl Grey, dreamsicle, s’mores, pistachio, dark chocolate lavender, and more. Macarons are available in assortment packs of 6 pack or 12 pack and are handcrafted with the finest ingredients, ensuring every bite is an experience of pure indulgence. Whether gifting them to family, friends, or colleagues, these treats are sure to bring joy and add a touch of elegance to any holiday celebration.
Make this holiday season deliciously stress-free with Bakery Lorraine’s reliable nationwide pastry shipping and delicious assortment of macarons that will impress, delight, and leave a lasting impression.
September is National Honey Month, a month dedicated to creating awareness and recognizing the importance of honey bees, Bakery Lorraine has created a delightful new dessert that is perfect for honey lovers: the Honey Lemon Cup.
For just $7, this treat features layers of wildflower honey panna cotta, soaked honey lemon sponge cake, and is topped with a luscious honey cream and lemon gelee. It’s available at all San Antonio and Boerne locations throughout the month of September.
To celebrate National Honey Month, Bakery Lorraine is also showcasing a special honey display at their Pearl location, where customers can sample a variety of honey throughout the month—while supplies last.
Bakery Lorraine’s Honey Lemon Cup. Photo: Bakery Lorraine, used with permission.
Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa has limited-time spa packages available for the month of July. Photo: San Antonio Hotel & Spa, used with permission.
The Fourth of July is coming up tomorrow, so if you’re in the San Antonio area and looking for ideas to celebrate in style, consider the following.
*** Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa ***
With Fourth of July happening next week, Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa, Autograph Collection is launching new limited-time spa treatments you can’t miss. The Spa Plaza San Antonio, located on the property, offers a restorative approach to health and wellness. This summer they are offering the below limited-time treatment packages, available now through July 31. (Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa, 2024)
Red, White, and Blueberry Facial – $140
Celebrate Fourth of July at the property with this restorative treatment. The Skin Authority exfoliant won’t leave you with any redness and a blueberry infusion gives your skin a superfood infusion to leave you glowing and bright. This facial finishes with a dose of nourishing hydration and Skin Authorities Skinsuit signature sunscreen that never leaves a white cast on the skin.
Includes Skin Authority’s illuminating body peel to reveal your skin’s most healthy glow. Vitamin D serum is applied to stimulate blood flow to the skin’s surface while also reducing puffiness. A Vitamin D infused serum and a light shea butter application finish this service to ensure you leave feeling hydrated and smooth. Includes a glass of sparkling wine or prosecco.
Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa can be found on ResortPass for a daycation getaway at its pool and spa. Bookings can be made online and include a Spa Daycation Pass priced at $45, a Pool Day Pass priced at $35 for adults or $20 for children (infants are free), a Pool Cabana starting at only $100 for a max of three people, and a Pool Garden Oasis Cabana starting at $225 for a max of five people to name a few of the offerings.
*** Pearl ***
Pearl will host a special 4th of July celebration this Thursday from 9a.m. to 12p.m. at 1100 Springs Plaza. This family-friendly event promises live entertainment and activities. The celebration will feature a live DJ, a caricature artist, face painters, and stilt walkers, bringing vibrant energy and fun for all ages. Attendees can enjoy a variety of lawn games and other exciting activities that ensure a memorable experience for the entire family. In addition to the main festivities at 1100 Springs Plaza, there will be a red, white and blue themed flower wall for capturing photos, and storytelling sessions with Miss Anastasia at Parkito at Pearl.
Guests will have an opportunity to take a photo with the newest mural under Pearl’s Shaded Structure, “Summer Vibes,” designed by local artist sisters Manola & Maria. The artist duo will conduct a live painting activation this July 1 through July 3, just ahead of the holiday festivities.
Cool Off & Play
Let the kids splash and play at the refreshing splash pad or relax in comfort with cooling stations and patio misters spread throughout the property. Ice cream delights Savor the delicious ice creams from Lick and Pullman’s ice cream counter.
Photo: Pearl, used with permission.
*** Majestic Theatre ***
The Majestic Theatre, an ATG Entertainment Venue, invites everyone to join them for a Free Open House event during the inaugural Stars & Stripes on Houston Street. On July 4, 2024, from 10a.m. to 3p.m., the community can enjoy free historic tours of the stunning 1920s atmospheric theater. This is a unique opportunity to experience the Majestic Theatre like never before with behind-the-scenes access. (Majestic Theatre, 2024)
Discover the rich history, architecture, and character of the Majestic Theatre. Knowledgeable tour guides will lead tours every 30 minutes, starting at 10a.m. Visitors will have the chance to go backstage and see the theatre’s inner workings, making it a memorable experience for all. Concessions will also be open for those who want to enjoy a cool beverage while enjoying the festivities on Houston Street.
The final tour will leave at 2:30p.m. No advance reservations are required.
Picnic Under the Stars of the Majestic
There will be a ticketed dinner on the Majestic Theatre stage at any time between 5p.m. and 8p.m. Enjoy cocktails in the lobby, open concessions, and perfect opportunities for capturing picnic photos. Tickets are $100 per person, with only a limited number available, so secure yours in advance.
Your ticket includes:
The opportunity to picnic on the Majestic Theatre stage, under the stars of the historic atmospheric theatre.
Chilled Tenderloin Slices with Parker House Rolls and Horseradish Sauce, Charcuterie of Meat & Cheese with Crackers, Mixed Nuts, Double Fudge Brownies, Candied Bacon, Pecan Pie Bites.
Two Drink Tickets for Beer, Wine, Special July 4th Cocktail, or Non-alcoholic Beverage.
Historic Tours of the Majestic Theatre (final tour leaves at 7:30pm).
Corinne San Antonio offers its delectable brunch with honest food for dad to enjoy. Photo: Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa, used with permission.
Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa,the recently opened Autograph Collection hotel in downtown, is pleased to share its Father’s Day (June 16) offerings to pamper dads 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. Dad 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 Father’s Day. (Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa, 2024)
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 dads, local or visiting, the hotel will offer a Gentleman’s Refresher Pedicure at its luxurious spa to be booked for only $50. This refreshing pedicure is targeted to the guy on the go with tired toes. Service begins with a warm salt soak, followed by a refreshing lower leg and foot scrub. Hydrating massage cream is worked into the lower legs and feet after cuticle work, nail work, and dead skin is polished off. Please note that this service is not only for men, but it does not include any kind of nail polish.
Guests can upgrade the pedicure service with a Specialized Treatment Mask add-on for only $40. The specialized sheet masks are excellent for infusing skin with deep hydration, as well as potent ingredients like neroli, maple water, comfrey, and slow-aging ingredients, to leave skin feeling clean and immediately glowing. The treatment can be booked online or by calling directly at 210-353-8016.
In addition to the unique offerings at the hotel’s Spa, guests can celebrate dad and elevate the day with a Corinne San Antoniofeast. 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 Father’s Day brunch or dinner. A delicious Steak Skillet is highlighted on the brunch menu and served with chimichurri, sweet pepper, grilled onion, grilled mushroom and a sunny egg. Dinner highlights a 16oz Linz Heritage Angus Bone-In Ribeye served with red chile truffle butter and crispy potatoes.
To cap off the delightful meal, guests can then head over to Anaqua Garden Bar for a celebratory drink with dad. Anaqua Garden Baris 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 and lush seating to celebrate dad.
Limited Time Specialty Spa Treatment: *Available starting now during Spa operating hours
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.
Photo: Whataburger, used with permission.
For the WhataDad in your life, consider these gifts from Whataburger. Golf polos, YETI tumblers and pickleball sets are just a few of the quintessential, dad-approved presents to make the Gift Guide this year. There’s something for every dad too — the golfer, the fisherman, the outdoorsman, and even the dad who says he “doesn’t need anything.” (Whataburger, 2024)
All Father’s Day items are available online at the WhataStore, and orders must be placed no later than June 12 for deliveries to arrive before Father’s Day.
Here are some gift ideas:
Proud WhataDads can sport a head-to-toe Whataburger ‘fit with the extra soft, black WhataDad Tee from Tumbleweed TexStyles, 100% Beef Staunch Hat, the Texas Burger Shorts, and Flying W athleticsocks. The moisture-wicking Texas Standard Polo will have Dad feeling dapper and looking cool at fancier events.
If your dad’s favorite time is tee time, the Day Dot Golf Polo,Otterbox ® Golf Kit, Flying W-marked Titleist Velocity Golf Balls and 24/7 Staunch Collection Hats will impress his buddies at the golf course. Plus, the new Fairway Wood Golf Cover will look great on the back of a cart.
For dads who love to cast a line, the Igloo Kooltunes Stereo Cooler holds all the essentials for a day on the boat, and the WhataDad 30 oz. Orange YETI Rambler ® Tumbler will keep his drink hot or cold from sunrise to sunset. The Green Fishing Shirt will catch compliments with its classic design, yellow rose embroidery, performance fabric and pearl snap closure.
If your dad loves the great outdoors, the Whataburger Flag Straw Hat will keep him shaded while mowing the lawn, hiking or grilling for his favorite campers. The navy, cotton-poly blend WhataDadtee from Tumbleweed TexStyles will keep him comfortable while camping, practicing his serve with the Day Dot Pickleball Set or playing with the pet he swore he “didn’t want.”
East Washington St Gifts has personalized t-shirts, among other gifts. Photo: East Washington St Gifts
Gift giving is an age-old tradition that transcends cultures and eras, symbolizing sentiments of love, gratitude, and celebration. Whether grand or modest, gifts symbolize thoughtfulness and care, strengthening bonds between giver and recipient. They express appreciation and are excellent ways to celebrate special occasions such as birthdays, weddings, and holidays. In a world often bustling with the mundane, gift giving stands as a timeless reminder of the beauty found in both giving and receiving gestures of kindness.
Although a gift is always welcome at a special occasion, I tend to live day to day and prefer not to wait on a specific date to give someone a gift. Everyday we are alive is a special occasion, so if you’re looking for a gift to brighten someone’s day, to commemorate a special occasion, or even as a treat for yourself, consider East Washington St Giftsby Allen Kimble. (Allen Kimble, 2024)
These gift ideas include customized scented candles, personalized t-shirts (astrology shirts, astrology flower with personalized name and birthdate – perfect for a birthday), and even t-shirts for animal lovers and those who love fishing and the outdoors. So why not surprise your loved one with a comfortable and fashionable addition to their wardrobe?
This being graduation season, the personalized funny scented graduation candles are perfect for the graduate in your life. You can customize it with the occupation, name, and scent.
Occupations:
Pharmacist
Veterinarian
Psychologist
Dietician
And others
Scents:
Coconut Cream + Cardamon
Apple Harvest
White Sage + Lavender
Cinnamon Vanilla
Unscented
And more
Gifts from East Washington St Gifts are an excellent gift idea for any occasion. Customized gifts are more personal and thoughtful than just picking out some mass-produced generic gift. So don’t wait, check out the wide selection of gifts and start shopping!
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)
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 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 béarnaise 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 brûlée 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.
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 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 RoundupMarch 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.
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 Tequilais 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.
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)
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.
SA Examiner 