Plan the Ultimate Family Day Out at PEPPA PIG Theme Park Dallas-Fort Worth

PEPPA PIG Theme Park Dallas-Fort Worth announces sweet summer perks for preschoolers and their families. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Plan a Summer Full of Oink-tastic Fun at PEPPA PIG Theme Park Dallas-Fort Worth

NORTH RICHLAND HILLS, TX — Families can plan their summer adventures with confidence thanks to the Rainy Day Promise at PEPPA PIG Theme Park Dallas-Fort Worth. If rain puts a damper on the fun, guests are invited back for a free return visit within one year. (Merlin Entertainments, 2025)

Designed for Preschoolers, Perfect for Summer

Built especially for preschoolers and their families, this all-new standalone theme park is packed with summer-friendly features:

Shaded play areas
Climate-controlled indoor attractions
Splash zones for cooling down

It’s the perfect destination for a full day of play—rain or shine.

New This August: Evie’s Wiggle & Giggle Dance Party

Starting August 8 through September 1, guests can join the all-new Evie’s Wiggle & Giggle Dance Party, a high-energy celebration filled with:

Music and dancing
Bubbles
Special appearances by Peppa and her little sister, Evie.

Plus, for three days only—August 5, 6, and 7—the first 500 guests each day will receive a FREE Mini Muddy Puddles Milkshake to make their visit even sweeter.

“Our goal is to make PEPPA PIG Theme Park Dallas-Fort Worth a reliable, joy-filled destination for families all summer long,” said General Manager Jamica Jordan. “With so many ways to play, from splashing under the sun to dancing in the shade, there’s no wrong time to visit.”

What to Explore: Rides & Attractions

Shaded & Indoor Attractions

Mr. Potato’s Showtime Arena
Live, covered entertainment with singing, dancing, and meet-and-greets—now featuring Peppa’s sister, Evie.
Indoor Cinema
Escape the heat and enjoy cozy screenings of PEPPA PIG episodes.
Peppa’s Pedal Bike Tour & George’s Tricycle Trail
An indoor track where little ones can pedal and explore freely.
Themed Playgrounds
Peppa’s Treehouse, George’s Fort, and more—all designed for shaded, active play.
Peppa Pig’s Balloon Ride
Soar above the park for great views on this wheelchair-accessible ride.

Sunny Day Favorites

Muddy Puddles Splash Pad
Cool off with fountains, slides, and splashy surprises.
Daddy Pig’s Roller Coaster & Mr. Bull’s High Striker
Perfect breezy thrills for first-time riders.
Grampy Rabbit’s Dinosaur Adventure
Discover dino-sized fun on this themed ride.
Grandad Dog’s Pirate Boat Ride
Set sail to Pirate Island—no minimum height required.

Park Info & Tickets

Located in North Richland Hills, PEPPA PIG Theme Park features:

5 family-friendly rides
Themed play spaces
A splash pad
Kid-friendly dining

🎟️ Tickets and annual passes are available now.

About PEPPA PIG

PEPPA PIG is a beloved British animated TV series that’s been delighting preschoolers for over 20 years. Airing in over 180 territories across 10 seasons, the series follows Peppa and her family—George, baby sister Evie, Mummy Pig, and Daddy Pig—as they explore their world through laughter, play, and muddy puddles.

From TV to theme parks and toys, PEPPA PIG inspires kids to embrace every new step—whether it’s their first dance party or their first roller coaster—with confidence and curiosity.

Let the adventures begin—come jump in with Peppa this summer! 🐷💦🎉

Peppa Pig Theme Park
8851 26 Blvd
North Richland Hills, TX 76180

8851 Boulevard 26, North Richland Hills, TX, United States

Upcoming Events This Fall at Pearl in San Antonio

Hispanic Heritage Month is in full swing at Pearl. Other events include Mariachi Mondays, Mercadito Cultural Night Markets, and Music on the Springs. Photo: Pearl, used with permission.

San Antonio – Pearl is celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month with a vibrant lineup of events throughout September and into mid-October. Visitors can enjoy Mariachi Mondays featuring pop-up performances in Pearl Park, Mercadito Cultural night markets on Wednesdays showcasing Hispanic chefs and artisans, and Music on the Springs every Friday evening with live entertainment. These events aim to highlight the rich cultural heritage of the Hispanic community in San Antonio through music, food, and art. (Pearl, 2024)

Mercadito Cultural
Wednesday, September 18 & 25 from 5p.m. to 9p.m.
Pearl Farmers Market presents “Mercadito Cultural” on September 18 and 25. Join Mercadito Cultural to celebrate the talented chefs, artisans, and captivating performances that showcase the richness of Hispanic culture including live performances by Mariachi Las Alteñas each week. Starting Wednesday, October 2, these will transition into Harvest Markets that take place each Wednesday through the month of October.

Music on the Springs
Every Friday through November 29 from 5p.m. to 8p.m.
Taking place every Friday at 1100 Springs Plaza, Pearl is hosting Music on the Springs featuring artisans, vendors, food and live music.

“This time of year gives us a wonderful chance to reflect on San Antonio’s place in the world with its unique and vibrant identity, shaped by the rich cultural stories and traditions that are deeply intertwined with our city’s Hispanic heritage. Our month-long celebration is all about creating meaningful connections and partnerships that highlight the spirit of San Antonio. The events and programs we’ve planned are designed to showcase the richness and diversity of our community, inviting everyone to share in our authentic selves.” – Mesha Millsap, Pearl CEO

Mariachi Mondays
Every Monday thru October 14 6p.m. to 7p.m.
Pearl continues the celebration all month long with a series of vibrant pop-up mariachi performances throughout Pearl Park. These lively musical events will take place all month long, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of mariachi music and its significance to the community.

Visitors can enjoy the enchanting sounds of traditional mariachi groups as they perform in various locations around the park, creating an immersive experience that celebrates the spirit of the month. Pearl aims to foster a sense of community and connection through these performances, inviting both locals and visitors to join in the festivities and appreciate the artistry and passion of mariachi musicians.

“Always Pa’delante” Mural Installation
Now through October 15, 2024 – Pearl’s Shaded Structure
Pearl is showcasing a new mural by renowned Oaxacan artist Edefroy “Froy” Padilla through October 15 in celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month. Titled “Always Pa’delante” (or “Always Forward”), the mural features notable figures César Chávez, Frida Kahlo, Gabriel García Márquez, and Selena, on a tandem bicycle, symbolizing Latino political and cultural achievements.

Padilla, known for portraying Mexican icons as Hollywood movie characters, completed the mural last week. The mural will remain on display at Pearl through October 15 and will serve as inspiration for future generations.

A tandem bike featuring César Chávez, Frida Kahlo, Gabriel García Márquez and Selena. Photo: Pearl, used with permission.

Movie Mondays are Coming Back
Every Monday starting October 14 thru December 9, 2024 – 7:30 p.m. to 9p.m.
Movie Mondays will make their return just in time for cooler weather. Movie titles to be announced – follow Historic Pearl on social media for more details.

Pearl is a dynamic neighborhood built around the historic Pearl Brewery, located just north of downtown San Antonio on the banks of the San Antonio River. Pearl is home to architecturally significant buildings like the brewhouse and stable—both built in 1894—and numerous plazas. It is a vibrant district where the community gathers to play, work, and live; it is a place where things are made and celebrated with purpose and sincerity.

Red, White, and Blue: Unforgettable Fourth of July Celebration Ideas

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.
- Book directly online
Summer Body Bliss – $140
- 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.
- Book directly online.

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.

*** 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).

Reserve tickets online.

Photo: Majestic Theatre, used with permission.

How to prepare for the upcoming Total Solar Eclipse

10 ways to prepare for the upcoming eclipse. Photo: Almanac

I am totally excited about the eclipse next month and plan to be in the totality path. If this is a big event in your to do list, Total Eclipse DFW has put together a checklist to help you prepare. Regardless of where you are in the totality path, whether in Dallas-Forth Worth area or not, this is extremely helpful information.

With the Total Solar Eclipse on April 8 fast approaching, Dallas-Fort Worth residents have only a few weeks left to prepare for the extremely rare celestial event happening in the region for the first time in over a century. (Total Eclipse DFW, 2024)

Total Eclipse DFW shares this checklist of the top 10 things all DFW residents need to do now to get ready:

Clear schedules – Take the day off work and avoid scheduling any appointments on Eclipse day. Remember, this is likely a once-in-a-lifetime event for DFW, with totality not returning for 300 years. With over 1.5 million visitors expected, residents and visitors don’t want anything interfering with experiencing this spectacular phenomenon.
Get certified Eclipse glasses – Don’t risk permanent eye damage by viewing the partial Eclipse phases without proper eyewear. International Organization for Standardization (ISO)-compliant glasses are required for direct solar viewing. Because there are many fraudulent Eclipse viewer sellers, participants should only purchase Eclipse glasses from a reseller listed on the American Astronomical Society (AAS) Suppliers of Safe Solar Filters & Viewers list to avoid potential harm and legal liabilities. Total Eclipse DFW is the only AAS-approved reseller from DFW. Total Eclipse DFW’s glasses are $3 each and can be purchased online here. Residents are encouraged to order their glasses soon as experts expect a shortage.
Choose an ideal viewing spot – Carefully research prime locations along the path of totality in DFW and have a viewing plan for April 8. Massive crowds are expected, so participants should arrive several hours early to secure a spot. Have backup options in mind, too, due to expected traffic and accidents. Total Eclipse DFW has compiled over 300 DFW cities and totality times here. Those viewing in areas with as much as 99% will not experience totality, so plan to arrive in an area that will experience totality at least two hours in advance to make sure you have a good spot
Book accommodations – If traveling to DFW or have family and friends coming in for the Total Eclipse, secure lodging immediately before rooms disappear. Hotels are filling up fast, so lock in reservations now. Consider vacation rentals, too, for the full Eclipse weekend.
Monitor weather forecasts – Be ready to change locations even the day before if meteorologists predict clouds. Have a flexible backup option to drive to if needed. Thankfully, DFW has some of the best historical weather conditions for April 8. However, should overcast skies prevail during totality, thinner translucent clouds can still reveal glimpses of the moon-obscured sun; regardless, attendees can still experience the Eclipse’s striking impact on ambient surroundings like light levels, animals’ reactions and temperature changes.
Brace for heavy traffic – Local authorities are expecting gridlock before and after totality. Fill up car tanks by April 7, map alternate routes and pack provisions in case you are stuck in traffic. Plan ahead for traffic jams as a million of your friends and neighbors are trying to head home after totality, as well.
Pack provisions – For residents planning on going to a viewing location or event, bring food, water, chairs, picnic blankets, layers of clothes, sun protection and other necessities to be self-sufficient on Eclipse day. Treat this like an outdoor event or camping trip. Come prepared.
Test photo gear – Experiment with cameras and lenses ahead of time if capturing images. Confirm settings and equipment functioning, including any special solar filters. No smartphone is built to withstand the intense solar rays emitted by the sun.
Check school schedules – Many districts are closing on April 8 so families can witness the eclipse together. For schools holding classes, parents should inquire about safe viewing policies and ISO-compliant glasses for students.
Secure eclipse merch- Capture this rare celestial event’s excitement by picking up solar Eclipse merchandise like apparel, glasses, posters and pins from DFW vendors before stores sell out. Eclipse swag makes ideal gifts for Total Eclipse parties happening in the DFW metroplex on April 8!

Jo Trizila, Total Eclipse DFW founder, emphasizes, “Don’t miss this incredible four-plus minute Total Solar Eclipse here in DFW. Start preparing today using our website’s convenient guides and resources!”

Total Eclipse DFW is a regional campaign dedicated to showcasing the April 8, Total Solar Eclipse and the awe-inspiring path of totality as the quintessential celestial spectacle in North America. Operating as the central nexus, Total Eclipse DFW is the go-to resource for all aspects of the once-in-a-lifetime event, including Eclipse-related information and events specific to the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Their core mission is to ensure universal access to ISO-certified safe Solar Eclipse viewing glasses while simultaneously engaging and partnering with residents, visitors, governmental entities, businesses and media to orchestrate an unforgettable Eclipse encounter for all involved. Furthermore, they take pride in championing Dallas-Fort Worth as the premier location to witness this extraordinary astronomical phenomenon.

Sound Cream Airstream returns to Pearl for special Bidi Bidi Party celebration

Thursday’s Bidi Bidi Party will be in honor of Selena’s birthday. Photo: Pearl, used with permission.

Pearl and Park Bar at the Food Hall at Bottling Department are excited to welcome Sound Cream Airstream back to the park to celebrate Selena’s birthday on Thursday, April 21 from 6p.m to 9p.m. Sound Cream Airstream is an “all-in-one mobile discotheque” that puts on a dance party and DJ showcase. DJ Manola Black will be spinning Selena hits, Tejano favorites, cumbia, and more in honor of the Queen of Tejano. The event is free and open to the public.

Enjoy treats from San Antonio’s first food hall, The Bottling Department, which includes the restaurants Tenko Ramen, Mi Roti, Chilaquil and Kineapple. The Food Hall offers both indoor and outdoor seating, with tableside delivery and option to use QR codes for customers seated at select outdoor tables.

Pearl Park
312 Pearl Parkway
San Antonio, TX 78215

Pearl is a dynamic neighborhood built around the historic Pearl Brewery, which operated from 1883 to 1999. Located just north of downtown San Antonio on the banks of the San Antonio River, it is home to architecturally significant buildings like the brewhouse and stable—both built in 1894—and numerous plazas. Today, Pearl is home to dozens of unique culinary concepts, one-of-a-kind retail, weekend markets, residential communities, innovative office tenants, the San Antonio campus of the Culinary Institute of America, and the award-winning Hotel Emma. Pearl is a vibrant district where community gathers to play, work, and live; it is a place where things are made and celebrated with purpose and sincerity. We invite all to gather and experience the best of what San Antonio has to offer.

Pearl

Birds, Bees & Butterflies event at Canyon of the Eagles Nature Park & Resort

Birds, Bees & Butterflies will take place at Canyon of the Eagles Nature Park & Resort over a two month period starting March 1, 2022. Photo: Canyon of the Eagles Nature Park & Resort, used with permission.

Learn about Texas birds, bees, butterflies, and the plant life that support them during a two month-long special event at Canyon of the Eagles Nature Park & Resort from March 1 through April 30, 2022. With 100 family-friendly activities, Birds, Bees & Butterflies will shine a light on education and conservation through hands-on activities and fascinating presentations. (Canyon of the Eagles Nature Park & Resort, 2022)

With 100% volunteer participation from local and regional experts, associations, and businesses, nearly all activities are free to overnight guests. The general public is welcome to pay a day-use park fee to access the nature park during these activities and enjoy other amenities like the nature trails and private lakefront.

Activities include six different themed nature walks, two synchronized group butterfly releases, numerous photo safaris, seed planting for pollinators, several nature crafts, watching an observational beehive, building, and flying butterfly kites (did you know the wind is a pollinator?), and an interactive bird beak buffet to demonstrate how different birds use their beaks.

Presentation topics include landscaping to promote pollinators, the relationship between deer management and bird habitat, monarch butterflies 101, the life of the hive, “hoo’s” in your neighborhood, rethink your landscape, what are native plants, intro to bees in Texas, and the Hives for Heroes a program empowering Veterans as they transition away from a life of service through beekeeping and honeybee conservation. In addition, the day-use park fee for veterans is a reduced fee.

Photo safaris promise to be popular activities as they combine the popular hobbies of nature photography and wildlife. The hive dive experience is restricted to beginner and intermediate beekeepers wearing a full beekeeper’s outfit. The opportunity to learn from a seasoned professional is invaluable as new-bees grow their skills. Several bee observation hives will be available for viewing to the public, along with Q&A with bee experts.

The Big Sit is a semi-competitive international group birding activity started in 1992 by a New Haven, CT, birding club. Participants observe and document birds from within a 50 ft. circle and report their findings through eBird, a free app. Three respected local birders will lead the Canyon of the Eagles team on Monday, April 18, from 7a.m. to 9a.m. and 4p.m. to 7p.m. People with and without birding experience are all welcome – this is an excellent introduction to the camaraderie and fun of birdwatching.

Another highlight of Birds, Bees & Butterflies, held on April 30, the final day of the two month-long special event, is the City-Nature Challenge. This is a Texas Parks and Wildlife program encouraging folks to get out and enjoy nature while documenting what they see through the use of the free iNaturalist app. This friendly competition pits regions in Texas against one another.

There will be two synchronized releases of butterflies into nature in honor of loved ones, hopes, dreams, and wishes on Monday, March 14 (reserve via email by March 3) and Saturday, April 16 (reserve via email by April 4). Both releases will be from 1p.m to 2p.m. with reservations available by email. Butterflies are $5 each. Participants are encouraged to linger and watch the butterflies find their way into nature.

Special thanks to Highland Lakes Master Gardeners, Marble Falls Master Naturalists, Capital Area Master Naturalists, Highland Lakes Chapter of the Native Plant Society, All Things Wild Rehabilitation, AgriLife for Burnet County, Texas Beekeepers Association, Hives for Heroes, Texas A&M Beekeeping Program, University of Texas, Texas Parks & Wildlife, McKane Apiary Service & Bee Removal, Woodlynns Farm, Luedecke Photography, and Fain’s Honey.

Canyon of the Eagles Nature Park & Resort is a 940-acre nature park located in the Texas Hill Country. It is home to 16 miles of groomed nature trails, three miles of private lakefront on Lake Buchanan, the Eagle Eye Observatory, and Overlook Restaurant. Located within the Edwards Plateau region, the park is the nesting ground for Golden-cheeked Warblers, Black-capped Vireo, and American Bald Eagle. To learn more about the programs and to book reservations for guestrooms, RV sites, and tent campsites, please visit Canyon of the Eagles online.

Canyon of the Eagles

Sound Cream Airstream returns to Pearl for special Galentine’s themed night

Sound Cream Airstream will transform Pearl’s Park Bar for a night of song dedications. Photo: Sound Cream Airstream, used with permission.

Pearl and Park Bar at the Food Hall at Bottling Department are excited to welcome Sound Cream Airstream back to the park for their first ever “Galentine’s Day” set with Southtown Vinyl. Sound Cream Airstream is an “all-in-one mobile discotheque” that puts on a dance party and DJ showcase. Guests can visit the DJ booth and dedicate songs of love to all their gal pals or that special someone. Pearl’s “Amor” wall is also set up for a fun photo opportunity to memorialize the night. The event is free to attend. (Pearl, 2022)

Enjoy treats from San Antonio’s first food hall, The Bottling Department, which includes the restaurants Fletcher’s Hamburgers, Tenko Ramen, Mi Roti, Chilaquil and Kineapple. The Food Hall offers both indoor and outdoor seating, with tableside delivery and option to use QR codes for customers seated at select outdoor tables.

Sunday, February 13, 2022
4p.m. – 7:30p.m.

Pearl Park
312 Pearl Parkway
San Antonio, TX 78215

Pearl

Pearl celebrates the holiday season with various events

Pearl to celebrate the holiday season with Posada, Chanukah Celebration, Holiday night markets, and more. Photo: Pearl, used with permission.

Pearl is excited to announce various programs and events happening on campus this holiday season. The property will begin the festivities with the installation and lighting of the Christmas tree later this month. In December, Pearl will provide guests with Holiday Night Markets, Chanukah celebration, Posada carols, and more. (Pearl, 2021)

The 2021 holiday programming is as follows:

CHRISTMAS TREE INSTALLATION & LIGHTING – November 19
Pearl will welcome a 25-foot Fraser Fir sourced from the mountains of North Carolina later this month. Following delivery, Ginger Diaz, owner of Feliz Modern POP and Rancho Diaz at Pearl, will decorate the tree, which will be officially lit on November 19. The tree will stay up in Pearl Park throughout the holidays for guests to enjoy.

CHANUKAH – December 1 from 6p.m. to 8p.m.
Pearl and Young & Jewish San Antonio will gather to celebrate Chanukah with the lighting of the menorah on property as well as a special message from Rabbi Eli Block about the meaning of the holiday. Austin-based Klezmer band Mazel Tov Kocktail Hour will also perform at the lighting ceremony from 6p.m. to 8p.m. The menorah will be lit at the Pearl Shade Structure each night of Chanukah.

HOLIDAY NIGHT MARKETS – Wednesdays in December leading up to Christmas at varying times
Each Wednesday in December leading up to Christmas, Pearl will host its Holiday Night Market featuring a wide variety of local vendors to help make holiday shopping easier. Guests can find unique gifts ranging from pottery and fine art to artisan chocolates and much more. Local bands and musicians will also be onsite throughout Pearl to perform festive sets. See below for specific times and dates for the Holiday Night Markets and the music performances.

December 1, 6p.m. – 8p.m.
Mazel Tov Kocktail Hour
Location: Near Menorah
In coordination with Chanukah

December 8, 5p.m. – 8p.m.
Noah Harris
Location: Parkito

December 15, 5p.m. – 8p.m.
Mariachi Las Coronelas
Location: Gustav’s Geysers / Park

December 22, 5p.m. – 8p.m.
Groupo Tan Tan
Location: Parkito

HOLIDAY STROLL – December 9 from 5p.m. to 8p.m.
In addition to its Holiday Night Markets, Pearl is also hosting Holiday Stroll on Thursday, December 9, a special shopping event with extended retail hours, retail and restaurant specials and live music. Guests can shop local while enjoying the sounds of San Antonio-favorite Buttercup.

POSADA – December 16 from 6p.m. to 7:30p.m.
In honor of the traditional Latin American Christmas celebration, Pearl will once again host the Mission Concepcion choir for an evening of carols in Pearl Park. Since 2017, Pearl has partnered with Father David and the Mission Conception’s choir and congregation to share a message of welcoming and inclusion. The procession, representing the journey of Mary and Joseph seeking refuge, will begin at 6p.m. on December 16.

Pearl

Brackenridge Park hosting community event

Brackenridge Park’s Iron Bridge. Photo: Charlotte Mitchell, used with permission.

In August 2021, The Brackenridge Park Conservancy (BPC) unveiled the Cultural Landscape Report (CLR) that establishes the importance of Brackenridge Park not only to the City of San Antonio but also to the state and nationally. The CLR focuses on the significance of Brackenridge Park, both historically and culturally, as a gathering place for locals and visitors alike. The intention of the CLR is to pave the way for the Brackenridge Park Conservancy and the City of San Antonio to start healing the Park’s ecological systems, protect and celebrate the Park’s historical and archeological sites, tell the stories that are part of the diverse fabric of the City and elevate the Park’s status on local, state and national levels. (Brackenridge Park Conservancy, 2021)

The BPC released a schedule of community events to receive feedback from the public regarding the Cultural Landscape Report and what improvements the public would like to suggest for the park. The public still has one opportunity to join and provide feedback. The public can also fill out a survey available HERE.

On Saturday November 6 from 10a.m. to 2p.m., Brackenridge Park Conservancy will host a community event for a Cultural Landscape Report feedback.

Scheduled events for the day include:

• Food trucks onsite with a portion of proceeds from their sales going to support the BPC revitalization of the park. Food trucks on site include Charm City SnoBalls, Cheesy Jane’s, and Dona Kika’s Tacos & Gorditas. Giveaways, informational booths, and tours will also be available onsite.
• Local accordionist legend Santiago Jiménez Jr. will perform at 1p.m. near the Joske Pavilion. Trumpeter Jerrold Feigenbaum will perform at 11a.m. near the Tony “Skipper” Martinez Softball Field.

Brackenridge Park
3700 N St Mary’s St
San Antonio, TX 78212

Santiago Jiménez Jr. is a San Antonio based folk musician and recipient of the National Heritage Fellowship in 2000 for lifetime achievement in traditional Tex-Mex/folk music. In 2016, he received the National Medal of Arts award for his contribution to American music. This three-time Grammy nominee comes from a family of musical pioneers with his father being Santiago “Flaco” Jiménez Sr. and his older brother, Leonardo “Flaco” Jiménez, who many consider the greatest and most famous Tejano accordionist ever. Santiago recorded his first album with his brother Flaco at age 17, and since then, he has recorded over 700 songs on numerous labels. In 2012, Santiago and Flaco reunited for a performance at the Tejano Conjunto Festival in San Antonio, the first time they were on the same stage since 1982. His latest album titled El Chief released in February of 2020.

The Conservancy’s mission is to be a steward of and an advocate for the Park and an instrument for preserving and enhancing the Park’s natural, historic and recreational resources for the enjoyment of current and future generations. The non-profit 501 (c)(3) organization operates under a long-term Management Agreement with the City of San Antonio that is administered by the San Antonio Parks and Recreation Department. The only organization dedicated solely to protecting Brackenridge Park, the Conservancy raises funds for projects that benefit the Park, implements park-based programs and projects, supports the evolution and implementation of plans for the Park, and acts as a forum for users to address common issues and build consensus.

Brackenridge Park

Summer Speaker Series at Palo Alto Battlefield National Historical Park

Palo Alto Battlefield National Historical Park. Photo: google

As a history enthusiast, I enjoy visiting historical sites and learning all I can about them. Unknown to some residents, this area has an extensive amount of history, historical markers, and parks. One example is the Palo Alto Battlefield National Historical Park. On May 8, 1846, U.S. and Mexican troops clashed on the prairie of Palo Alto. Palo Alto Battlefield National Historical Park preserves the site of this battle and examines the causes, events, and consequences of the U.S./Mexican War. (Palo Alto Battlefield National Historical Park, 2021)

This park is hosting a Summer Speaker Series to educate and inform the public about the Battle of Palo Alto and related topics. I have attended the previous two lectures and sincerely appreciate the effort put through by the volunteers and speakers to bring us these events. These presentations are very interesting and appeal to local history buffs. They are held in the visitor center at 10a.m. and seating is limited to 25. Below is a brief synopsis of each.

Saturday June 19 Riverboat Trade
Joe Matthews, a valley native, presented the discussion about riverboats of the Mexican-American War, including the history of riverboats and the people involved. As a visual aid, Aurelio Romo brought in his 7ft. replica of Bessie, a shallow-draft boat, which he put together during the COVID quarantine. Riverboats like these were first used mostly by ranchers and small businesses to move supplies. During the Mexican-American War, they were used to move troops up and down the Rio Grande River. Back then, the river was so much wider and ferries were commonly used. Some of the earlier traders included Charles Stillman, who came from Europe at the age of 18 and was instrumental in setting up the riverboats. After the war, the riverboats were used mostly for trade and during the Civil War, they helped smuggle cotton into the South by “Confederate sympathizers” who most likely were only interested in making money.

Highlight: General Zachary Taylor developed a reputation as an outstanding man, known for upholding treaties with the native people and often stated “we’re at war with the Mexican army, not the people.”

Saturday June 26 – Texas Rangers, Scouts, Spies of the U.S. Mexican War
Wade Marcum, a teacher, presented the discussion about the early Texas Rangers in three parts: ranger history, ranger descriptions, and a show and tell/Q&A. Visual aids included several pistols, rifles, and revolvers as well as two different horse saddles.

Most of the early Texas Rangers were volunteers, which was Stephen F. Austin’s idea. Their reputation was that they “ride like a Mexican, trail like an Indian, shoot like a Tennessean, and fight like the devil.” They took the best from each culture that they came across. In 1846 with the Mexican/American War looming, these volunteers operated under the Law of Retaliation because they had scores and grudges to settle with the Mexican people.

The introduction of horses in the area made a difference in how Indians did battle and a revolution in firepower came with the invention of the Colt 5 shot revolvers by Samuel Colt. Captain Jack Hays bought them for this troops in the Texas Navy but when it disbanded, Colt was out of luck. He later met with Samuel Walker up east and designed the 6 shot .44 caliber revolver.

Coming up next: Saturday July 3 Grenadiers in the Mexican Army

Palo Alto Battlefield National Historical Park
7200 Paredes Line Road
Brownsville, TX 78526
(956) 541-2785

Palo Alto Battlefield National Historical Park

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