Category: Lifestyle

Magik Theatre Summer Camps 2026: San Antonio’s Best Youth Theatre Programs

Magik Theatre unleashes super charged summer camps, including musical theater camp. Photo: Magik Theatre, used with permission.

Beat the Summer Heat with Magik Theatre’s 2026 Summer Camp Blockbusters

Attention parents! The region’s hottest ticket in summer childcare is back and better than ever. The Magik Theatre, San Antonio’s premier theatre company for young audiences, has officially unveiled its 2026 summer camp program featuring a back-to-back schedule of blockbusters, more convenient schedules, and a newly renovated, icy-cool facility. (Magik Theatre, 2026)

Whether your child is a fresh preschool graduate stepping onstage for the first time or a seasoned high school performer, Magik has a stage waiting for them.

Why Choose Magik Theatre Camps?

At the heart of every Magik camp is a core mission: to ignite imagination, spark curiosity, inspire empathy, and foster a lifelong love of learning.

Magik’s teaching artists are a rare combination of working performers, skilled technicians, and seasoned arts educators. By weaving social-emotional learning into every session, they build confidence and creativity in a way that’s genuinely fun, deeply engaging, and surprisingly educational.

Plus, thanks to recent renovations, campers will enjoy enhanced accessibility, safety, softer theatre seats, and, most importantly, brand-new HVAC to keep everyone cool during the San Antonio summer.

🎭 2026 Camp Lineup by Age Group

From June to August, Magik Theatre is offering flexible one- and two-week sessions tailored to every age and interest. (Note: All campers must be fully potty-trained to participate).

🧸 Little Legends (Rising K – 1st Grade)

  • The Vibe: Creative play, imagination, and storytelling.
  • The Themes: Inspired by children’s favorites like Bluey, Paw Patrol, and classic tales of pirates and fairies.
  • The Schedule: Half-day, two-week sessions running from June 8 through July. Sign up for one, or book all four to cover your summer.

🌟 Rising Stars (Elementary Ages)

  • The Vibe: Mainstage musical sessions designed to let young talents shine.
  • The Themes: Eight themed options catering to whatever they’re obsessed with, from Wicked and K-Pop Demon Hunters to Legos and Pokémon.

🎬 Drama Crew (Middle Schoolers)

  • The Vibe: Skip the acting and dive behind the scenes.
  • The Focus: A technically focused camp featuring music, puppetry, prop making, lighting, and sound design.

🎤 Intro to Musical Theatre (Rising 9th – 12th Graders)

  • The Vibe: High-energy skill-building for teens.
  • The Focus: Master the elements of modern musical classics like Beetlejuice and Mean Girls, concluding with an exciting end-of-session showcase.

🎭 Center Stage Players (High Schoolers)

  • The Vibe: A special series of Saturday workshops for serious high school actors looking to hone their craft.
  • The Focus: Deep dives into character work, script analysis, and public speaking, all without the burden of memorizing lines. Features a must-see evening performance on August 1.

🗓️ Special Specialty Weeks

Don’t need a full two-week commitment? Check out these standalone options:

  • Theatre Explorers Camp (June 1–5 | Grades K–8): Perfect for those who want to dip a toe into the theatre world. Introduces newbies to theatre basics through games, voice/dance exercises, and acting activities.
  • Summer Send-Off (August 3–7 | Rising K–8th): Beat the dog days of August with a camp that focuses on stagecraft, heavy on the “craft,” including puppetry, costume design, and more.

🚙 Perks for Parents: Stress-Free Logistics

Magik has designed this supercharged season with busy families in mind:

  • Consistent Schedules: Mainstage Musical, Drama Crew, and Intro to Musical Theatre all run for two weeks from June 8 – July 31 (9a.m. – 4p.m.).
  • Extended Care: Optional extended care is available one hour before and one hour after standard camp hours.
  • One Stop, Multiple Kids: Camps for different age groups are held at the same location with the same start times. No convoluted commutes.
  • Discounts: Save money with sibling and multi-session discounts.

🎟️ Spaces Are Limited—Book Your Spot Today

Because the Magik team took time earlier this year to revamp programming during building renovations, this year features the widest variety of day camps in recent history.

But hurry, Magik’s day camps are some of the hottest tickets in town and prone to sell out quickly.

👉 View Session Availability Here and Secure Your Family’s Summer Fun Today

About Magik Theatre

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

Interactive Dinosaur Exhibition Coming to San Antonio: STEM Fun at The DoSeum

The DoSeum announces Dinosaurs in Motion exhibition. Photo: The DoSeum, used with permission.

Roaring into San Antonio: Interactive ‘Dinosaurs in Motion’ Exhibition Opens at The DoSeum!

Get ready to experience dinosaurs like never before! This summer, The DoSeum is bringing a breathtaking fusion of art, science, and history to San Antonio with the debut of Dinosaurs in Motion. (The DoSeum, 2026)

Running from May 23 through September 7, 2026, this highly interactive exhibition is fully included with general admission.

Where Art Meets Engineering

Sponsored by the H-E-B Tournament of Champions Charitable Trust, Dinosaurs in Motion is an amazing blend of science, art, and innovation. The exhibition features 14 life-size, interactive dinosaur sculptures crafted entirely from recycled metal.

Created by the late artist and master sculptor John Payne, the exhibit invites families to take the reins. Visitors can use levers, pulleys, and remote controls to set these massive kinetic sculptures in motion, learning the mechanics behind the art.

What Kids (and Parents!) Can Expect:

  • Become an Apprentice: Kids can step into the role of an apprentice to John Payne, exploring the unique artistic and engineering skills required to build these intricate works.
  • Hands-on STEM Learning: Additional stations throughout the exhibit offer opportunities to experiment with interactive art and science projects, reinforcing critical STEM concepts through play.

A Word from The DoSeum

“The exhibition Dinosaurs in Motion embodies aspects of The DoSeum’s mission perfectly. Our team was drawn to the exhibition’s exciting mix of materials science, natural history, arts and interactivity. The themes and ideas presented in Dinosaurs in Motion inspired The DoSeum team to plan and develop a summer full of related program experiences. We’re excited for our guests to join in them.” — Dan Menelly, CEO of The DoSeum

Plan Your Visit

Dinosaurs in Motion is created and produced by Imagine Exhibitions Inc., with sculptures by John Payne and Studio Properties LLC. Special thanks to the H-E-B Tournament of Champions Charitable Trust for making this one-of-a-kind experience accessible to San Antonio families.

About The DoSeum

Celebrating its 10th anniversary (with roots dating back to 1995 as the San Antonio Children’s Museum), The DoSeum has grown into one of the nation’s top children’s museums. Boasting 68,000 square feet of indoor exhibits and 55,000 square feet of outdoor space, it serves as a premier educational resource designed to spark curiosity and ignite imaginations.

Location & Contact:

  • 📍 Address: 2800 Broadway, San Antonio, TX 78209
  • 📞 Phone: (210) 212-4453
  • 🗓️ Exhibition Dates: May 23 – September 7, 2026
Photo: The DoSeum, used with permission.

ThoroughFare Austin: New Mueller Hybrid Bakery & Café Announces Block Party

Austinites invited to join the newly opened bakery, café, deli and grocery for a lively block party. Photo: Meraki Narrative, used with permission.

** Update: Due to forecasted inclement weather, this event has been rescheduled for Thursday June 4, 2026. ** 5/20/2026

Neighborhood Spot ThoroughFare Announces Epic Mueller Block Party

If you haven’t checked out ThoroughFare yet, now is the perfect time. The newly opened bakery, café, deli, and grocery hybrid has quickly become a favorite daily ritual for Mueller residents since quietly opening its doors in March. (Juice Consulting, 2026)

To celebrate, they are throwing a massive neighborhood Block Party, and you’re invited!

The Details: When & Where

  • Date: Thursday, May 21
  • Time: 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM
  • Location: Mueller Neighborhood, 1905 Aldrich St. (Next to the Thinkery)
  • RSVP: Click here for the public RSVP link

The event will feature a total takeover of the Aldrich St. walkway by ThoroughFare and an incredible lineup of adjacent local businesses.

What to Expect

Whether you’re bringing the family, heading out for date night, or just love good food, there is something for everyone:

  • Good Vibes: A vinyl-curated DJ set from Dart Collective.
  • For the Kids: Complimentary face painting.
  • ThoroughFare Exclusives: Fresh bread and cookie tastings, plus $2 off wine by the glass and draft beer.
  • Shopping Perks: 20% off all Made In Cookware and fun merch giveaways to grab as you roam.

Participating Vendors & Pop-Ups

ThoroughFare is teaming up with neighborhood favorites to bring you awesome activities, freebies, and discounts:

  • The Thinkery & Toy Joy: Hosting a “Franken-TOY” pop-up where guests can build and take home their own custom toys.
  • Buddy Bear: An arts-and-crafts station pop-up for both kids and adults.
  • Veracruz All Natural: Serving up complimentary samples of their famous agua frescas.
  • Aviator Pizza: Featuring free merch, swag, pizza giveaways, and a prize wheel spinner.
  • Nando’s Peri Peri Chicken: Catch their mascot on-site, grab food samples, and spin their prize wheel.
  • Lick Ice Cream: Scooping up sweet discounts at their ice cream cart.
  • Blue Lacy: Offering exclusive dine-in discounts.
  • BD Riley’s Irish Pub: Serving up discounts on adult beverages.

What is ThoroughFare?

Brought to you by the team behind the nationally recognized Austin bakery ThoroughBread (named by Food & Wine as one of the 100 Best Bakeries in America), ThoroughFare is an elevated food shopping experience.

The new space features:

  • A Full-Service Drink Bar: Serving coffee, matcha, smoothies, and fresh juices.
  • A Café & Bakery: Serving up signature toasts, sandwiches, soups, and salads.
  • The Market: Stocked with 170 house-made products including condiments, salad dressings, butters, jams, and nut butters, all of which are the exact same ingredients they use on their own café menu.

The ThoroughFare Promise: They pride themselves on making as many products as possible completely in-house. That means zero seed oils, artificial additives, preservatives, colors, flavors, gums, or fillers. No shortcuts. Just real food.

The Story Behind the Concept

The seed for ThoroughFare was planted back in 2015 during a trip to Maine taken by Co-Founder and CEO Ryan Goebel and his mother. Eating almost entirely from local producers, Ryan noticed the food tasted richer and left them feeling noticeably better.

He realized the magic lay in how the food was produced and the short distance it traveled to the table. Ryan brought this holistic philosophy back to Austin, opening ThoroughBread in 2018 to immediate critical acclaim. ThoroughFare is the natural evolution of that dream, reimagining the way grocers operate by letting you take home the exact ingredients used in their kitchen.

“This began years ago with a simple belief – that food should just be food. Made with real ingredients, without unnecessary shortcuts, and brought to people at its best. ThoroughFare is built on that standard, and we’re proud to finally open our doors and share it with our community.” — Ryan Goebel, Co-Founder & CEO

See you at the block party!

Make sure to RSVP and come hungry. What vendor are you most excited to check out? Let me know in the comments below.

Celebrate Graduation Season in San Antonio: Top Venues & Private Dining

Clementine is offering a unique way to celebrate the milestone with various dining options. Photo: Clementine, used with permission.

Celebrate in Style: Top San Antonio Spots for Graduation Season

Graduation season is in full swing, and San Antonio’s acclaimed culinary scene is ready to celebrate. From private River Walk buyouts to chef-curated dining in your own home, these local favorites are offering elevated experiences fit for marking this major milestone. (Ácenar HotMex & Coolbar, Clementine, Maverick Texas Brasserie, Los Barrios Family Restaurants, Rosario’s ComidaMex & Bar, 2026)

Ácenar HotMex & Coolbar

Nestled along the iconic San Antonio River Walk, this contemporary Mexican destination is now booking private dining for gatherings of all sizes. Whether you want an intimate family dinner or a large-scale reception, Ácenar provides a vibrant backdrop for your grad.

  • The Mezzanine: Seats up to 28 guests (perfect for intimate dinners).
  • The Abajo Room: Ideal for large celebrations, featuring an optional patio expansion.
  • The Arriba Room: Seats up to 56 guests and includes full A/V capabilities for tribute slideshows.

Location: 146 E. Houston St., San Antonio, TX

Clementine

For those who prefer a more personal touch, James Beard semifinalists Chef John Russ and Pastry Chef Elise Russ are taking their talents on the road. Through the Clementine @Home program, you can enjoy customized, seasonal menus prepared directly in your kitchen.

  • Interactive Elements: Enhance your party with cooking classes or culinary demonstrations led by the chefs.
  • The Vibe: Elevated, stress-free, and sophisticated.

Location: 2195 Northwest Military Hwy, Castle Hills, TX

Maverick Texas Brasserie

Located in the heart of Southtown, Maverick blends refined French technique with classic Texas hospitality. Executive Chef Edward Ebert and his team offer several private event spaces and customizable menus to ensure your celebration feels one-of-a-kind.

Location: 710 S. St. Mary’s St., San Antonio, TX

Los Barrios Family Restaurants

If you’re hosting the party at home, the Los Barrios family (including Viola’s Ventanas and La Hacienda de Los Barrios) is making it easy with their famous family meal packs. Designed for groups of 4 to 25, these packages take the stress out of catering.

  • On the Menu: Botana and enchilada platters, fajita meals, and carne asada.
  • Drink Up: Don’t forget to add a gallon of margaritas or sangria to keep the festivities moving.

Locations:

  • Los Barrios: 4223 Blanco Rd.
  • La Hacienda de Los Barrios: 18747 Redland Rd.
  • Viola’s Ventanas: 9660 Westover Hills Blvd.

Rosario’s ComidaMex & Bar

Celebrate with a view! Rosario’s invites graduates to toast their success at their rooftop bar, which boasts some of the best skyline views in the city.

  • Dining Style: Enjoy contemporary Mexican cuisine and family-style favorites.
  • The Setting: Lively, vibrant, and perfect for post-ceremony photos.

Location: 722 St. Mary’s St., San Antonio, TX

Planning a celebration? Be sure to visit each restaurant’s website for private dining inquiries and availability.

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Where to Eat in San Antonio & New Braunfels for Mother’s Day 2026

Spurs fans can enjoy a Spurs vs. Timberwolves Watch Party. Photo: Otto’s Ice House, used with permission.

Celebrate Mom: Mother’s Day Dining & Events in San Antonio

Mother’s Day is approaching on Sunday, May 10, and San Antonio’s local favorites are pulling out all the stops. Whether you’re looking for a chef-driven buffet, a relaxed riverside patio, or a high-energy watch party, these local eateries have curated the perfect experiences to honor the moms in your life. (Ácenar HotMex & Cool Bar, Smashin Crab, Maverick Texas Brasserie, The Barn Door, Muck & Fuss, Otto’s Ice House, 2026)

Ácenar HotMex & Cool Bar

Modern Mexican on the River Walk

Nestled along the San Antonio River Walk, Ácenar is introducing a one-day-only Mother’s Day brunch.

  • When: May 10 | 11:00 AM – 2:30 PM
  • Price: $65 for adults | $35 for children
  • Bonus: Keep the party going with Happy Hour from 2:00 PM – 5:30 PM, featuring $7.50 cocktails and $8.50 platitos.
  • Reservations: Highly encouraged. Call (210) 222-2362 to secure your spot.

Smashin Crab

A Creole Celebration

For the mom who loves a good seafood boil, Smashin Crab is offering a weekend-long special (available through May 11) at all three locations.

  • The “Combo for a Queen” ($50): Features a queen cluster, 1/2 lb. shrimp, 1/2 lb. crawfish, Brussels sprouts, corn, potato, and sausage.
  • Sip & Sample: Pair your boil with signature margarita or drink flights to try a variety of classic cocktails.

Maverick Texas Brasserie

French-Texas Fusion Buffet

Head to Southtown for a sophisticated, chef-driven buffet led by Executive Chef Ed Ebert.

  • When: May 10 | 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
  • On the Menu:
    • Starters: Gougères, hand-cut double-cooked frites, and fresh seasonal soups.
    • Entrées: Maverick French toast, omelette du fromage, and more.
  • Reservations: Book ahead via OpenTable to skip the wait.

Muck & Fuss (New Braunfels)

Craft Cocktails & Riverside Vibes

Located in downtown New Braunfels, Muck & Fuss is the perfect stop for a refreshing drink before or after a day at the river.

  • Drink Specials:
    • $7 Mimosas (Flavors include Mango, Hibiscus Spice, Blood Orange, and more).
    • $15 Mimosa Flights & $8 Strawberry Lemon Drops.
  • Mocktails ($6): Refreshing Blood Orange Mojitos and Strawberry Lemonade for a non-alcoholic treat.

Otto’s Ice House

Spurs vs. Timberwolves Watch Party

If Mom is a die-hard Spurs fan, Otto’s at the Pearl is the place to be. Hosted by Spurs Jesus, this family-friendly event combines Mother’s Day with game-day hype.

  • Schedule:
    • 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM: Live music on the patio.
    • 6:30 PM: Tip-off with sound-on TVs.
  • The Experience: Giveaways, trivia, and prizes led by Spurs Jesus.
  • Eats: Grab a Deluxe Smashburger, Cantina Queso, or a signature beer bucket.
  • Location: 111 Newell Avenue, San Antonio, TX 78212.

A Final Farewell: The Barn Door

An Iconic Ending

After 73 years of service, The Barn Door has announced it will be closing its doors forever. Their final day of service will be this Mother’s Day.

  • Final Service: May 10 | 11:30 AM – 8:00 PM
  • Legacy: Since 1953, this steakhouse has been a cornerstone of San Antonio dining. This is the last chance for families to celebrate one final tradition at this historic landmark.
  • Reservations: Available online—book now as spots are expected to fill quickly.

How are you planning to celebrate Mom this year? Whether it’s a quiet brunch or a loud cheers for the Spurs, San Antonio has something for everyone!

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Children’s Ballet of San Antonio: Don Quixote at The Majestic Theatre

Continue the Fiesta festivities with the Children’s Ballet of San Antonio’s spirited Don Quixote. Photo: Children’s Ballet of San Antonio, used with permission.

Celebrate Post-Fiesta Magic with Don Quixote at The Majestic

San Antonio’s Fiesta season might be winding down, but the celebration isn’t over. Join the Children’s Ballet of San Antonio (CBSA) for a vibrant production of the legendary masterpiece, Don Quixote, running May 8–9. (Children’s Ballet of San Antonio, 2026)

Performed at the stunning Majestic Theatre downtown, this production is the perfect bridge between the city’s festive heritage and Mother’s Day weekend. It’s a fun-filled experience for the whole family, featuring charming characters, a romantic score, and the hilarious antics of the world’s most famous bumbling knight. Tickets are available online.

A Night in Old Spain

If you love the colorful dresses and party atmosphere of San Antonio’s Fiesta, you won’t want to miss this. Set in a timeless Barcelona plaza, Don Quixote follows:

  • The Lovers: Kitri and the poor barber Basilio, who are desperately trying to elope.
  • The Knight: The comically delusional Don Quixote and his trusty sidekick, Sancho Panza.
  • The Journey: A madcap adventure featuring fortune tellers, circus acts, and of course windmills.

“It is the rare classical ballet that is joyful and comedic. The whole production feels like a celebration. No one dies or is betrayed, and there is a happy ending.” — Vanessa Bessler, CBSA Founder and Artistic Director

This production adds modern flair to the 100-year-old choreography with aerialists, acro performances, and a contemporary dance number. Show up early to browse the special souvenir market and take photos with the cast,

From Russia to South Texas

While Don Quixote is a natural fit for South Texas with its Spanish heritage and cape-whipping toreros (bullfighters), the ballet actually has deep Russian roots. First popularized by the legendary Anna Pavlova in 1924, it remains a living link to the famed Russian Imperial ballet style.

Even if you lean more “rodeo” than “ronde de jambe,” you’ll be mesmerized by the “Dance of Espada and the Toreros,” a showcase of pure charisma and athleticism.

Viva Virtuosity!

Don’t let the word “Children’s” fool you, these dancers are world-class. The young company members of CBSA have earned over 100 placements in prestigious competitions this season alone.

The choreography is famously demanding. The duet between Kitri and Basilio is considered one of the ultimate tests of a dancer’s ability, featuring:

  • Dizzying pirouettes
  • Soaring leaps
  • Feather-light lifts

Many of these performers have received invitations to train at European powerhouses like the Royal Ballet of London and the Dutch National Academy.

Better Than Brunch: Make it a Mother’s Day Tradition

Skip the standard brunch line and treat Mom to an afternoon of high-quality art. CBSA is an internationally recognized nonprofit dedicated to providing young performers with professional-level stage experience. Under Vanessa Bessler’s inclusive leadership, the production celebrates the joy of dance across all ages.

Event Details

DateTime
Friday, May 87:00 p.m.
Saturday, May 92:00 p.m.

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

Note: The Souvenir Market and Cast Photo op opens one hour prior to showtime.

About the Children’s Ballet of San Antonio

The award-winning CBSA is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that produces professional-level productions showcasing San Antonio’s most talented youth. Their mission is to inspire the pursuit of excellence and prepare children for creative lives through elite training and performance opportunities.

Hotel Emma: Rare Whiskey Tastings and Takeovers in San Antonio

The first Tequila Weekend is coming to the Pearl in May. Photo: Pearl, used with permission.

Sip and Stay: Spring & Summer at Hotel Emma

Hotel Emma at Pearl, the legendary AAA Five-Diamond, Two-Michelin-Key brewhouse turned luxury hotel, is heating up for the 2026 season. From rare whiskey verticals to high-profile bar takeovers, the San Antonio landmark has curated an exceptional lineup of programming you won’t want to miss. (Hotel Emma,/Pearl, 2026)

Buffalo Trace Prohibition Collection Tasting

Date: April 25 | Time: 3:00 p.m.

Location: Sternewirth

Experience a rare piece of spirits history. This guided tasting features the Buffalo Trace Prohibition Collection, a meticulously recreated set of “medicinal” whiskeys honoring the brands that survived the 1920s. Collectors will have the chance to sample highly sought-after, limited-release vintage expressions in the industrial-chic atmosphere of Sternewirth.

Goodjuice Visits San Antonio: Tequila Weekend

Dates: May 1–3

San Antonio’s spirit scene is getting a fresh infusion as Goodjuice brings its vibrant, community-focused energy to the Pearl for the city’s first-ever Tequila Weekend. Scheduled to be one of the biggest spirits events in Texas, this weekend is a must-attend for agave lovers.

Special Offer: Hotel Emma is offering attendees 35% off guest rooms and 20% off suites with code AGAVE26.

Featured Events:

  • Taste of Pearl (Cocktail Competition): Friday, May 1 | 4:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
  • Distiller’s Dinner: Friday, May 1 | 6:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.
  • Goodjuice Agave Spirits Festival: Saturday, May 2 | 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
  • Los Lobos Concert: Saturday, May 2 | Doors at 6:30 p.m. | Show at 7:30 p.m.

Derby Day & Old Forester Rare Release Tasting

Date: May 2 | Time: 3:00 p.m.

Location: Sternewirth

Celebrate the “Run for the Roses” with a high-stakes tasting of the Old Forester Whiskey Row Series. While awaiting the 2026 Derby results, guests will explore the history of Louisville’s first bottled bourbon with exclusive pours of rare releases curated specifically for the occasion.

Sternewirth x Bar Colette Takeover

Date: May 14

In a highly anticipated cross-Texas collaboration, the team from Dallas-based Bar Colette, a 2025 James Beard “Best New Bar” nominee, will take over Sternewirth for one night only. Experience avant-garde cocktail builds and meticulous techniques that blend Dallas’s high-design mixology with Hotel Emma’s storied industrial elegance.

Eagle Rare Dinner

Date: May 19 | Time: 6:30 p.m.

Take a deep dive into one of the world’s most awarded bourbon labels. This multi-course dinner features a vertical tasting of 10, 11, 12, and 17-year expressions.

The Highlight: Attendees will have a rare opportunity to purchase a pour of the elusive 20-year or 25-year Eagle Rare, vintages rarely seen outside of private collections.

Sternewirth Hits NYC: Bar Convent Brooklyn

Dates: June 9–10

The Sternewirth team is taking San Antonio style to the Big Apple for Bar Convent Brooklyn (BCB). Beyond the convention at Industry City, keep an eye out for the team popping up at several NYC mainstays throughout the week, where they’ll be serving San Antonio-inspired classics to the global bar community.

Ready to join the fun? Book your stay at Hotel Emma and secure your tickets for these exclusive events before they sell out.

Fiesta San Antonio for Foodies: Champagne Dinners and Seasonal Cocktails

Celebrate Fiesta at Otto’s Ice House with limited-time cocktails, Tejano music, and exclusive metals. Photo: Otto’s Ice House, used with permission.

Viva Fiesta! 3 Must-Visit San Antonio Events This Week

If you’re still looking for the perfect way to celebrate Fiesta, San Antonio is delivering in spades. From ice house hangouts to high-end champagne dinners, here are three ways to soak up the spirit of the season. (Otto’s Ice House, Pearl, Hilton La Cantera Resort & Spa, 2026)

1. Sip and Celebrate at Otto’s Ice House

Chef Levi Goode’s newest concept, Otto’s Ice House, is going all out with seasonal flair. Whether you’re hunting for a free collectible medal or a refreshing drink, this is your go-to spot.

  • The Drinks ($12):
    • River City Rosè: Vodka, honeysuckle liqueur, lemon, strawberry, and sparkling water.
    • Como la Flor: A smoky-sweet blend of Tequila, mezcal, orgeat, lime, and Aperol.
  • The Swag: Spend $40 or more to snag an exclusive Fiesta medal for FREE, or purchase one for $10.
  • The Party: On Friday, April 24, catch live Tejano music immediately following the Battle of Flowers parade.

When: Now through Sunday, April 26 Where: 111 Newell Avenue, San Antonio, TX 78212

2. Viva Pearl: Family Fun in the Heart of the City

For those wanting a vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere, Viva Pearl returns this Friday. It’s the perfect post-parade landing spot to keep the energy high.

  • The Activities: Get creative with maraca painting and papel picado postcard making.
  • The Atmosphere: Browse curated local vendors and enjoy live musical performances throughout the evening.
  • The Food: Local food vendors will be on-site serving up South Texas favorites.

When: Friday, April 24 | 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM Where: 303 Pearl Pkwy, San Antonio, TX 78215

3. An Elevated Alternative: Lanson Champagne Dinner

If you’re looking to escape the crowds for a more intimate, sophisticated evening, head to Signature Restaurant at Signia by Hilton La Cantera Resort & Spa.

Chef John Carpenter has designed a seven-course tasting menu specifically paired with five selections from Lanson Champagne. Highlights include:

  • Hamachi with watermelon yuzu granita.
  • Scallop & Caviar in a champagne beurre blanc.
  • Texas Wagyu Ribeye and Gulf Redfish.
  • Malva Pudding to round out the evening.

When: Thursday, April 23 | 6:00 PM Where: Signature Restaurant (La Cantera Resort & Spa) Booking: This is a one-night-only event with limited seating. Find more details and book your table here.

Pro Tip: If you’re heading to the Battle of Flowers parade on Friday, plan your route early! Both Otto’s and Pearl are expected to be busy immediately following the festivities.

San Antonio Fiesta 2026: Live Music at Bar 414 and Playoff Treats at La Panadería

La Panadería will have Fiesta Mini-Conchas during Fiesta. Photo: La Panadería, used with permission.

Celebrate Fiesta & Playoff Fever: Your Ultimate San Antonio Guide

Fiesta San Antonio is officially here! From April 16 through April 26, the city transforms into a vibrant celebration of culture, music, and flavor. Whether you’re looking for the best rooftop views or late-night jazz, here are three must-visit spots to add to your itinerary. (Rosario’s ComidaMex & Bar, The Gunter Hotel, La Panadería, 2026)

1. Rosario’s ComidaMex & Bar: Southtown’s Fiesta Hub

Rosario’s is bringing its signature contemporary Mexican cuisine and rooftop energy to the heart of the celebration. It’s the perfect home base before or after hitting NIOSA or the King William Fair.

Fiesta Exclusives

  • The Fruit Cup Margarita: A limited-time specialty served on the rocks and topped with candy straws (available while supplies last).
  • Merch: Grab this year’s Fiesta medal for $10 or a commemorative T-shirt for $15.
  • Tequila Tastings (April 25): Join the fun during the King William Fair with El Tequileño and Carabuena on the rooftop, or Patrón, Lunazul, and Cazadores at the downstairs bar.

The Rooftop Experience

Enjoy skyline views, themed décor, and a festive photo booth.

Note: The rooftop lounge is reserved for guests 25 and older.

Special Rooftop Hours:

  • Friday: 12 p.m. – 1 a.m.
  • Saturday: 12 p.m. – 12 a.m.
  • Sunday: 12 p.m. – 9 p.m.

2. Jazz & Spirits at Bar 414 (The Gunter Hotel)

Step back in time at one of the “Top 25 Most Historic Speakeasies for 2025.” Located inside the iconic Gunter Hotel, Bar 414 is hosting a Live Music Residency Series featuring diverse acts and elevated bites.

Performance Lineup (9 p.m. – Midnight)

All live music events are FREE for patrons!

DateArtistGenre
April 16 & 30Aaron Prado TrioJazz
April 17 & 24The Dirty River Jazz BandTraditional Jazz
April 18Vanita LeoCumbia Night
April 23Faith Evangeline & FriendsSoul/Contemporary
April 25Victoria RosaLa Fiesta del Mariachi

Pro Tip: Pair the music with their new menu items, like the Truffle Pomme Frites or a curated charcuterie board.

3. Sweet Wins at La Panadería

La Panadería is blending Fiesta flair with basketball fever! Starting Thursday, April 9, you can pick up their new Fiesta Mini Conchas, a vibrant, multi-colored twist on the classic Mexican sweet bread.

The Playoff Bonus

The NBA Playoffs kick off on Saturday, April 18, and La Panadería is rooting for the home team.

  • The Deal: After every San Antonio Spurs playoff win, the first 50 guests at each location will receive a FREE Fiesta mini concha with any purchase.

Valid at all La Panadería locations throughout the playoff rounds!

Where are you headed first? Whether you’re chasing rooftop views or playoff treats, San Antonio has never looked (or tasted) better. ¡Viva Fiesta!

San Antonio Food Events: The 2026 Fajita Lounge Showdown at Gimme Gimme

Gimme Gimme announces the fourth annual ‘Fajita Lounge Showdown’ taking place this Sunday. Photo: TxTroubleMaker, used with permission.

Sizzle & Smoke: The 4th Annual Fajita Lounge Showdown at Gimme Gimme

San Antonio, get your taste buds ready. Gimme Gimme is thrilled to announce the return of the Fajita Lounge Showdown. Now in its fourth year, this high-stakes culinary battle features eight of the city’s top chefs, plus the brave men and women of SAFD Stations #7 & #28, all competing for the ultimate bragging rights: the title of “Best Fajita Tacos” in San Antonio. (Gimme Gimme, 2026)

A Tradition of Carne Asada

Since 2022, the Fajita Lounge pop-ups have become a local legend. Founded by Aaron Peña, Chef Matt Garcia, and Chef Jake Gonzales, these events have built a massive following by celebrating the simple, smoky joy of a perfect taco. This year, the stakes are higher, the grills are hotter, and the trophy is up for grabs.

The 2026 Contender Lineup

Who will take home the $500 grand prize? Our lineup features a mix of heavy hitters and local favorites:

  • Leche de Tigre (The 2025 Defending Champion)
  • The Magpie
  • Naco Mexican
  • Little Death
  • Aguazul
  • El Weinecero
  • Porc Slap
  • Burritos Dorada
  • San Antonio Fire Department Station #7 & #28

The Secret Ingredient: This year, all contestants will be using ArnieTex’s Arnie Asadas Seasonings to season their entries. Want to try the flavor for yourself? Head to the Charro Beans Station featuring Arnie’s legendary South Texas BBQ seasonings.

Meet the Judges

We’ve assembled a panel of Texas food royalty to crown this year’s winner:

  • ArnieTex: New York Times bestselling author and BBQ legend.
  • José Ralat: Texas Monthly Taco Editor.
  • Brandon Watson: CultureMap San Antonio City Editor.
  • Mike Dubya: Local foodie influencer.

Event Details & Afterparty

Come for the tacos, stay for the vibes. There will be specialty cocktails flowing from Live Oak Vodka, while DJs Texas Papi and SunnyBoy keep the energy high all night long.

  • When: Sunday, April 12, 2026
  • Time: 5 PM – 12 AM
  • Where: Gimme Gimme | 803 S St. Mary’s St., San Antonio, TX
  • Entry: $10 at the door (Must be 21+)

Note: Tacos are available on a first-come, first-served basis while supplies last. Arrive early you don’t want to miss the best bite in the city.