Experience Pearl This August: A Month of Food, Culture & Connection

This August, Pearl has several fun events and activities planned to make the month memorable for all. Photo: Pearl, used with permission.

What’s Happening at Pearl This August

August has arrived, and Pearl is brimming with exciting events for the entire community. From food festivals to fitness boot camps, wine tastings to local shopping sprees—there’s something for everyone. Mark your calendars and make the most of these summer happenings. (Pearl, 2025)


🍽️ Bakery Lorraine’s Le Festin d’Été (Summer Feast)

📅 August 8 | 🕖 7:00 p.m. | 💵 $85–$115

Spend a meaningful evening at Bakery Lorraine as they host Le Festin d’Été—a five-course, family-style dinner benefiting the San Antonio Food Bank. Enjoy charcuterie boards, fresh garden greens, steak medallions, and more in this one-night-only event dedicated to food, generosity, and community.

  • Tickets: $85 per person | $115 with wine pairing
  • Where to reserve: Bakery Lorraine
  • Bonus: Guests are encouraged to bring school supply donations to support local students.

💪 San Antonio Sports ACTIVATE: Monday Boot Camp

📅 Mondays through August 25 | 🕖 7:00 p.m. | 💵 Free

Start your week strong with a free one-hour full-body workout at Pearl Park, courtesy of San Antonio Sports ACTIVATE. No equipment necessary—just show up ready to move.


🛍️ Pearl Sidewalk Sale

📅 August 14–15 | 🕙 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. | 💵 Pricing Varies

Spice up your back-to-school shopping during Pearl’s two-day sidewalk sale, featuring great deals from local favorites like:

  • Niche
  • Rancho Diaz
  • The Twig Bookshop
  • And many more

Support local businesses and discover some unique finds.


🍷 Introduction to Wine Tasting at High Street Wine

📅 August 20 | 🕡 6:30 p.m. | 💵 $65

Ever wanted to learn how to taste and understand wine like a pro? Join High Street Wine for an introductory class covering:

  • Wine regions & climates
  • Wine list navigation
  • Tasting techniques & flavor profiles
  • Plus: enjoy six wines and charcuterie pairings.

🎶 Live Music at Stable Hall

📅 All Month Long | 💵 Pricing Varies

Catch unforgettable performances at Stable Hall this August, featuring:

  • Uncle Lucius
  • Sarah Colonna
  • Gillian Welch & David Rawlings
  • …and more surprises

🍽️ Restaurant Weeks at Pearl

📅 August 9–23 | 💵 Pricing Varies

Get your taste buds ready—several Pearl eateries are participating in San Antonio’s Restaurant Weeks, offering special menus and culinary experiences. A perfect excuse to try something new.


👧 Children’s Entrepreneur Night Market

📅 Wednesday, August 20 | 🕔 5:00–8:00 p.m. | 💵 Pricing Varies

Celebrate young creativity at Pearl’s Children’s Entrepreneur Night Market, where over 80 kid entrepreneurs (ages 5–17) showcase their talents and small businesses. Support the next generation of makers, artists, and visionaries.


Don’t Miss Out!

Pearl is the place to be this August—whether you’re here for the food, fun, fitness, or family. Be sure to follow along for updates and details, and make the most of this vibrant month in San Antonio.


Kickoff Summer + Give Back: 2 Must-Attend Events in San Antonio

The HI Temple Summer Kickoff Pool Party is taking place this Saturday May 24 at InterContinental San Antonio Riverwalk. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

🎉 Memorial Day Weekend in San Antonio: Pool Party + Community Fundraiser

Get ready for a sun-soaked, music-filled Memorial Day weekend in San Antonio with two incredible events happening on Saturday and Sunday! Whether you’re looking to kick off summer in style or show up for a great cause, there’s something for everyone.


🌞 HI Temple Summer Kickoff Pool Party at InterContinental San Antonio Riverwalk

📍 High Praise Rooftop Bar & Pool
📅 Saturday, May 24, 2025
🕚 11:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.

The InterContinental San Antonio Riverwalk invites locals and visitors alike to dive into summer at the HI Temple Summer Kickoff Pool Party. Set at High Praise, the hotel’s rooftop bar and pool, this event promises panoramic city views, sun-drenched vibes, and a whole lot of fun. (InterContinental San Antonio Riverwalk, 2025)

What to Expect:

  • Live music by DJ Tone
  • Summer cocktail specials
  • Delicious bites from award-winning Executive Chef Andres Farias

🎟️ Tickets start at $60, which includes:

  • Valet parking
  • (1) Drink ticket
  • Sunscreen
  • Towel service
  • Bottled water

Want to party with a crew?

  • Summer Fun Package (for 4 guests)
  • Veuve Clicquot Package (for 10 guests): Includes two bottles of Veuve Clicquot, reserved oversized cabana seating, and all the essentials mentioned above.

👉 Click here to select your arrival time and purchase tickets.


❤️ Community Fundraiser for Beloved Bar Owner Aaron Peña

📍 Gimme Gimme, 803 S St. Mary’s St, San Antonio, TX 78205
📅 Sunday, May 25, 2025
Benefit: 5:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. (Bar open until 12:00 a.m.)

Join the San Antonio community in supporting Aaron Peña, beloved owner of Southtown hotspots Amor Eterno and Gimme Gimme, who was recently diagnosed with cancer. As Aaron prepares for chemotherapy this June, friends, neighbors, and local businesses are rallying to raise funds to support him through treatment. (Amor Eterno, 2025)

How You Can Help:

  • $20 suggested donation includes a hearty plate of:
    • Beef & chicken fajitas
    • Sausage
    • Rice, beans, potato salad & all the fixings
  • Raffle tickets available for prizes including:
    • Gift cards to local favorites
    • A Blackstone grill
    • A Yeti cooler
    • A 55-inch TV
    • And more!

🎶 Music by local DJ Texas Papi
🍹 Specialty cocktails by sponsors Live Oak Vodka, Twang Micheladas, Beer Salts, and Drink Rimmers

This event is 21+
Special thanks to their sponsors:
Live Oak Vodka, Twang, The Fajita Lounge, The Lighthouse Lounge, Kiolbassa Smoked Meats, Gigi’s Deli, Buddy’s Big Trouble, and Bucán Rodeo

Aaron Peña. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Whether you’re splashing into summer on Saturday or showing up for community on Sunday, San Antonio is the place to be this Memorial Day weekend. Let’s celebrate and support together!

From Mimosas to Music: Unique Ways to Honor Mom This Mother’s Day

La Panadería is offering Ferrero Rocher conchas and 100 free mimosas. Photo: La Panadería, used with permission.

Celebrate Mother’s Day in San Antonio and Beyond: Unique Experiences and Heartfelt Gifts

With Mother’s Day approaching on Sunday, May 11, it’s the perfect time to plan something memorable for the amazing moms in your life. Whether you’re in San Antonio or looking for a feel-good experience elsewhere, here are some standout offerings—from delicious brunches and spa packages to creative cocktails and musical events that give back.


🌸 San Antonio Mother’s Day Specials

La Panadería

Ferrero Rocher Conchas & 100 Free Mimosas
Celebrate Mom with complimentary mimosas for the first 100 mothers dining in at any of La Panadería’s four locations on May 11. Starting Saturday, May 10, enjoy two new drinks: an Iced Lavender Latte with cold foam and a Strawberry Mimosa. Don’t miss their Ferrero Rocher Concha—a red and brown concha shell filled with Nutella and Hazelnut Praline Cream, available all May.


The Spa Plaza San Antonio

“What To Get Mom” Spa Package
Gift Mom relaxation with a spa package that includes two luxurious services valued at $350, a complimentary glass of prosecco, and a fresh bouquet.
📞 Call 210-353-8016 or book online to reserve.


Corinne San Antonio

Mother’s Day Brunch Buffet
Treat your mom to an elegant brunch on May 11 from 10a.m. to 3p.m. in Corinne’s private dining space or pavilion.

  • Adults: $65
  • Children (10 & under): $17
    🍽️ Reservations recommended via OpenTable.

Bakery Lorraine

Mother’s Day Pastry Packages
Choose from two delicious options:

  • Le Brunch de Maman ($145): Includes quiche Lorraine, salad, potatoes, and a dozen macarons (serves 6). Add a bottle of bubbly for $30.
  • Maman Chérie Box ($28): Features chai shortbread cookies, heart-shaped pop-tarts, and seasonal pastries.

Enjoy dine-in specials like the Croque Madame and chocolate chip pancakes all weekend.
📦 Pre-orders available online for pickup on May 10 or 11.


Dean’s Steak & Seafood

Truffles & Bubbles for Mom
Join Dean’s for brunch on May 11, served from 7a.m. to 3p.m.. From 10a.m. to 3p.m., visit the Petalé Haus Floral Design pop-up for ready-made bouquets or build-your-own blooms.
🍫 Add a box of signature truffles and a half-bottle of sparkling wine for $65.
Reserve on OpenTable.


Tenfold Rooftop

Customized Cocktails with Mom
From 1p.m. to 4p.m. on May 11, enjoy skyline views while La Pulga Tequila hosts a drink-printing experience. Personalize the signature Paper Heart cocktail with a photo or message printed on top.
🍸 Reservations highly encouraged via OpenTable.


Hotel Contessa

Rooftop Painting with Jean Marston
Unwind on May 11 from 4p.m. to 5p.m. with a guided painting session by local artist Jean Marston at the Rooftop Pool. Enjoy light bites, wine, and skyline views. Spa services are also available post-session.
🎨 RSVP required by calling 210-298-8038.
💰 $85 per person.


🎶 A Mother’s Day That Gives Back: Rock And Roll Playhouse Concerts

Looking for a feel-good gift that supports a great cause? The Rock and Roll Playhouse is hosting family-friendly concerts nationwide on May 11, with $1 from each ticket donated to Can’d Aid, a nonprofit supporting kids in the arts. Capitol Theatre Center will match donations to Can’d Aid for tickets purchased for Mother’s Day weekend for all Rock And Roll Playhouse locations across the country. 

Featured Concerts:

Treat Mom to Rock and Roll Playhouse this May 11. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

About Can’d Aid

Can’d Aid is a national nonprofit dedicated to creating healthier, more creative communities. Since 2013, they’ve donated over:

  • 12,800 bikes
  • 8,900 skateboards
  • 4,100+ musical instruments

They partner with artists like Tyler Childers, Steep Canyon Rangers, and more to host workshops and live performances for underserved youth.


About The Rock and Roll Playhouse

Founded in 2014 at Brooklyn Bowl, The Rock and Roll Playhouse introduces kids to classic rock in family-friendly concerts across the U.S. With over 42 venues in 30 cities, they bring the music of iconic bands to life—creating unforgettable, creative moments for the next generation.


No matter how you choose to celebrate, make this Mother’s Day one filled with love, laughter, and a touch of magic. 💐

Celebrating Local: Food, Music, and Fun at Pullman Market’s First Birthday Bash

Pullman Market celebrates one year with a birthday party block party this Saturday May 3. Photo: Robert J. Lerma, used with permission.

Pullman Market, the 53,000-square-foot culinary hub at Pearl in San Antonio, will celebrate its one-year anniversary with a family-friendly block party on Saturday, May 3, from 1p.m. – 5p.m. The free event highlights the market’s mission of bringing local land to local hands with food from award-winning local restaurants, live music, family activities from DoSeum, and more. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the San Antonio Food Bank. (Pullman Market, 2025)

The celebration will feature dishes for sale from numerous local restaurants, including The Jerk Shack, Freight Fried Chicken, Ladino, Leche de Tigre, Mixtli, Pharm Table, Southerleigh, Supper and Pullman Market’s own Mezquite.

Pullman Market in the Pearl District, created by the Emmer & Rye Hospitality Group, opened on April 23, 2024. In its first year, it has become a community culinary hub featuring a specialty grocer, five quick-service eateries and four full-service restaurants – Fife & Farro, Mezquite, Isidore and Nicosi. Committed to sustainability and supporting local producers, Pullman Market sources all products within 150 miles of San Antonio, fostering an ecosystem that connects farmers, chefs and consumers.

Since opening, Pullman Market has been named to Progressive Grocer’s “Outstanding Independents” list for its commitment to local connections, elevated grocery standards and integration of chef-driven concepts. Among its accolades, Nicosi, the on-site restaurant featuring a dessert tasting menu experience, received a Michelin recommendation in Texas’ inaugural Michelin Guide, and Chef Tavel Bristol-Joseph was named “Pastry Chef of the Year” by Esquire in late 2024.

Pullman Market’s First Birthday Party is free to attend, with RSVPs encouraged via Eventbrite.

Pullman Market on Karnes Patio
221 Newell Ave
San Antonio, TX 78215

Empowering Women Through Art: The Magic of Flourish and Femme

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Power of Music and Charity: Gibson’s Role in Helping Communities Affected by Wildfires

Gibson and Gibson Gives join forces with music brands and humanitarian aid organizations to provide immediate assistance to wildfire relief efforts in Los Angeles. Photo: Gibson Gives

NASHVILLE, TN – In the wake of the devastating wildfires in Southern California, Gibson, the iconic American-made instrument brand,and its philanthropic division Gibson Gives, have joined forces with multiple music brands to help support the recovery of music programs and musicians impacted by the fires, as well as raise immediate funds for relief efforts and humanitarian aid organizations across Los Angeles. Gibson has pledged an initial $250,000 across its nonprofit partners for wildfire relief. Gibson Gives is taking action–independently and in partnership with other brands–to make the largest possible impact. For more details and to donate directly, visit here. (Gibson/Gibson Gives, 2025)

To maximize this effort, Gibson, Gibson Gives, and Guitar Center–the world’s largest retailer of musical instruments–as well as its charitable organization The Guitar Center Music Foundation have enlisted the assistance and support of many prominent manufacturers from the music instrument (MI) industry including AKG, AlphaTheta/Pioneer, Audio-Technica, Eastman, ESP Guitars, Hoshino (Ibanez Guitars/TAMA Drums), JBL Professional, C. F. Martin & Co., Pearl Drums, Remo Inc., Roland, DW, Saga, Schecter Guitar Research, Shure, Sony Music, Universal Audio, Vater Percussion, Yamaha, and Avedis Zildjian Co, in a massive and unprecedented donation relief effort.

For musicians, music professionals, or a nonprofit music program based in the Los Angeles area affected by the fires, the Guitar Center Foundation and Gibson Gives are donating a special one-time grant to replace instruments and gear. Los Angeles musicians who lost their instruments and gear can reach out and apply HERE now through February 28th 2025. Proof of loss or address may be required.

“The recent wildfires have deeply impacted our artists and friends in Los Angeles. Gibson is committed to donating directly to these incredible organizations and working together with the music community to deliver immediate and impactful aid, and to help communities rebuild.” – Cesar Gueikian, CEO of Gibson.

“I am deeply grateful to see such an outpouring of support from everyone coming together to assist musicians who have tragically lost their instruments in the fire. This collective effort is not just about replacing instruments; it’s about restoring the power of music in people’s lives—a vital source of healing, renewal, and strength as they navigate the journey of rebuilding their lives and communities.”  –Myka Miller, Executive Director of The Guitar Center Music Foundation

Gibson and Gibson Gives, Fire Relief 2025:

1. Community and Shelter Support: Gibson Gives is partnering with local organizations and brands to deliver essential life resources such as food, water, and apparel to all wildfire affected communities. In partnership with Vans, Liquid Death, and more Gibson will provide supplies including Gibson t-shirts, Vans socks, shoes, Liquid Death water, and more to help meet immediate needs at shelters around Los Angeles.

2. Assistance to Individual Artists: To support individual artists affected by the disaster, Gibson Gives will contribute a cash donation to MusiCares, helping provide essential necessities and aiding in their stabilization and recovery. MusiCares provides short-term disaster relief,including$1,500 in financial assistance and a $500 grocery card, to music professionals impacted. MusiCares disaster relief is intended to cover short-term costs, should you incur costs from evacuating (hotel, food, supplies).

3. Instrument and Gear Replacement: In collaboration with Guitar Center and the Guitar Center Foundation, Gibson and Gibson Gives will jointly promote and manage instrument replacement requests. Additional music manufacturers contributing to this effort so far include AKG, AlphaTheta/Pioneer, Audio-Technica, Eastman, ESP Guitars, Hoshino (Ibanez Guitars/TAMA Drums), JBL Professional, C. F. Martin & Co., Pearl Drums, Remo Inc., Roland, DW, Saga, Schecter Guitar Research, Shure, Sony Music, Universal Audio, Vater Percussion, Yamaha, and Avedis Zildjian Co. Our priority is to assist professional artists, schools, and nonprofit music programs and organizations that have lost instruments, helping to restore creativity and continuity.

4. Fundraising for First Responders and Community Assistance: We are providing funds raised to support and address broad community needs, ensuring that resources are effectively directed to where they are most needed. For the next two months, Gibson Gives will channel online and onsite donations at our Gibson Garage Nashville flagship store location, and disaster relief donations to the following foundations below:

  • The LAFD Foundation provides vital equipment and funds critical programs to help the LAFD save lives and protect communities.
  • The SoCal Fire Fund provides immediate and long-term support for community-centered recovery initiatives that aid students, school employees, and families impacted by the January 2025 fires.
  • Eaton Fire Relief and Recovery Fund The Pasadena Community Foundation Eaton Fire Relief and Recovery Fund provides flexible support to local nonprofit organizations as they respond to the local Eaton fire.
  • The American Red Cross is working 24/7 with partners in Southern California to make sure people have the support they need in the face of the Palisades Fire, Eaton Fire, Hurst Fire, Lidia Fire, Sunset Fire and Kenneth Fire.

5. School Music Programs: Gibson Gives is supporting Music Rising, a disaster relief fund administered by the Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation that rebuilds school music programs and replaces student instruments lost in natural disasters.

6. Gibson Employees: Gibson’s GoldTop Foundation assistance is available for all Gibson employees directly affected by the Los Angeles area wildfires.

7. Animal Relief: As a company of animal lovers, Gibson is supporting a variety of animal shelters and veterinarian clinics alongside Gibson artist, Miranda Lambert through her foundation, MuttNation. The MuttNation–Tractor Supply Relief for Rescues Fund is supporting shelters in the California region impacted by the fire.

Elevate Your Palate: Discover the Skyline Dining Series at The Moon’s Daughters

Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk announces its new Skyline Dining Series. Photo: Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk, used with permission.

Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk invites you to an unforgettable dining event as part of the hotel’s new Skyline Dining Series, a showcase where San Antonio’s favorite chefs come together to create a one-of-a-kind culinary experience. The inaugural event will take place at Thompson’s enchanting rooftop restaurant, The Moon’s Daughters, on Friday, October 24th at 6:30p.m., where guests will indulge in a specialty four-course meal while supporting a meaningful cause. (Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk, 2024)

Perched high above the River Walk, The Moon’s Daughters offers sweeping panoramic views of the San Antonio skyline and the evening will feature a curated menu by four top chefs, each known for their distinctive flavors and culinary excellence. 25% of the proceeds from this event will benefit Texas Wings, a nonprofit that supports uninsured breast cancer patients across Central and South Texas.

Participating chefs include:

Chef David Arciniega: Executive Chef of Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk, Chef David oversee the hotel’s culinary program, from weddings and events to its signature dining venues, The Moon’s Daughters, Landrace, and Cenote Pool Deck. Prior to joining Thompson, Chef David served as Taskforce Chef at Hyatt’s renowned Hana Maui Resort; Executive Chef at Texas State University, planning banquet menus and overseeing private events; Manager & Sommelier at Maverick Texas Brasserie; Chef and Owner at Amaya’s Cocina; and Beverage Director at Botika at The Pearl Brewery. Chef David has been honored with numerous awards for his culinary expertise and he inspires the team at Thompson with his infectious passion for culinary innovation and exceptional guest service.

Chef Tatu Herrera: Owner of Folklore’s Coffee House and Executive Chef at Spring Garden Restaurant, Chef Tatu is celebrated for his innovative dishes that blend local and global flavors. He regularly shares his culinary expertise on KSAT12’s cooking segment, and his passion for food shines in every dish he creates.

Chef Chris Carlson: With experience from top-tier restaurants in Chicago and Texas, including Il Sogno, Maverick, and Allora, Chef Chris brings refined techniques and bold flavors to his craft, ensuring each dish is a memorable experience.

Cecilia Barretto: A wine expert and the founder of Wine Edutainment Events, Cecilia brings a playful yet knowledgeable approach to the world of wine. With a Masters of Science in Wine Business from Burgundy, France, she’s one exam away from completing her WSET L4 Diploma and has a passion for creating dynamic wine experiences.

The Skyline Dining Series is the perfect way to enjoy a night filled with gourmet food, exceptional wine and craft cocktails, and community spirit while giving back to a worthy cause.

PechaKucha San Antonio Presents: Volume 44

The first PechaKucha of 2024 coming to the eastside at the Carver Community Cultural Center. Photo: Ben Yanto, used with permission.

PechaKucha San Antonio, the global arts and culture series that hosts speakers who share their passions in a unique format, is excited to announce its Volume 44 as the first for the 2024 series. The event is scheduled for Wednesday, September 4, 2024, at the Carver Community Cultural Center’s Jo Long Theatre for the Performing Arts (226 N Hackberry St, San Antonio, TX 78202). The night begins with a welcome reception at 6:30p.m., followed by presentations starting at 7:30p.m. (PechaKucha San Antonio, 2024)

The mission of the Carver Community Cultural Center is to celebrate the diverse cultures of our world, nation and community, with emphasis on its African and African-American heritage, by providing premier artistic presentations, community outreach activities and educational programs.

Volume 44 will feature a talented group of local speakers. The seven presenters include:

The evening’s emcee will be PechaKucha alumni Jessica Conrad. The welcome reception will feature live music by local artists Los Dos Coyotes, comprised of Mike Ryan and Michael Galindo. Mike Ryan is a founding member/songwriter for multi-award winning band, Coyote Dreams and playwright of Borderland Rogues: The Story of Los San Patricios. Michael Galindo is multi instrumentalist, long time local musician, born and raised on the Southside of San Antonio.  

The welcome reception will also include complimentary bites by San Antonio chefs and restaurants including Bakery Lorraine, Liberty Bar, Naco Mexican and Tandem. Additionally the event will feature cocktails available for purchase curated by local bar Amor Eterno.  

Tickets are $10 per person and can be purchased online – guests are encouraged to arrive early and purchase tickets at the door instead to avoid processing fees. 

PechaKucha San Antonio is presented in partnership with The Power of Preservation Foundation

Pronounced “PEH-chuh KOO-chuh,” PechaKucha is a 20 image x 20 second arts and cultures series. It hosts speakers who share their passions in a unique format: Each presenter gets exactly 20 images, and each slide advances automatically every 20 seconds (for a total time of 6:40). San Antonio’s first quarterly PechaKucha Night was held in February 2011 and now attracts hundreds of attendees to venues throughout San Antonio. It showcases a broad range of individuals, including architects, artists, makers, academics, community leaders and more. PechaKucha (Japanese for “chit chat”) is an event format developed by Tokyo’s Klein Dytham Architecture to encourage creative professionals to share projects and ideas that they are passionate about. Since it began in 2003, PechaKucha has expanded to more than 1200 cities around the world.

Photo: PechaKucha San Antonio, used with permission.

New book release: ‘Wild Horses of Skydog: Blue Zeus & Families’ by Clare Staples

‘Wild Horses of Skydog: Blue Zeus and Families’ is a beautiful tribute to wild Mustang family groups that have been reunited after suffering roundup and separation in the American West. Photo: Amazon

Clare Staples is the founder and president of Skydog Ranch and Sanctuary in Malibu, California, and Bend, Oregon, which provides long-term homes for formerly free-roaming wild horses gathered from the American West by the United States government. Staples is a lifelong wild horse advocate, managing the Sanctuary with a passion and commitment that has helped make her one of the world’s leading voices on the plight of Mustangs and the myriad social and political issues that surround them. (Miller PR, 2024)

Skydog Ranch and Sanctuary recently announced the release of “Wild Horses of Skydog: Blue Zeus & Families,” a captivating tribute to the strength and beauty of wild Mustangs reunited after enduring roundup and separation in the American West. Written by activist and philanthropist Clare Staples, this beautiful book promises to reshape perceptions of wild horses and their plight. The book is published and distributed by Trafalgar Square Books.

In this remarkable book, founder Clare Staples shares touching narratives of Mustang families torn apart by captivity bureau of land management roundups and the tireless efforts of the Skydog team to reunite them and restore their freedom at the Sanctuary. Through stunning photography and heartfelt storytelling, readers are immersed in the journey of twenty-one horse families, including the iconic Blue Zeus, whose heartbreaking tale symbolizes the hope and determination driving Skydog’s mission. Skydog Ranch has already rescued over 300 wild horses and 50 donkeys and mules from a variety of terrible conditions, as well as reuniting bonded families separated during the roundup process.

“Wild Horses of Skydog: Blue Zeus & Families” offers an intimate look at the struggles and triumphs of these majestic creatures, showcasing the steady commitment to preservation and compassion that defines Skydog Ranch. A percentage of all sales directly supports Skydog’s efforts to rescue and reunite wild horses and donkeys, ensuring their legacy for generations to come.

The cover price of “Wild Horses of Skydog: Blue Zeus & Families” is $49.95. Copies can be ordered from the Skydog website with profits benefiting Skydog Ranch. The book is also available through Ingram Publishing Services, supplying national online retailers like Amazon, BN.com, Target.com, and select independent bookstores.

“Writing this book was a true labor of love, and it was my pleasure to tell the stories of some of the wild horse families of Skydog. In this environment, they have the freedom to decide their destinations, companions, and preferred proximity to humans, creating a sense of safety and happiness.” – Clare Staples, founder of Skydog Ranch.

Located in Malibu, California, and covering 9,000 acres near Bend, Oregon, Skydog Ranch and Sanctuary provides a haven for wild horses and burros in need. Founded on principles of kindness and respect, it offers refuge to equines who have endured neglect and mistreatment, often finding themselves in dangerous circumstances such as kill pens or auctions. Their mission extends beyond rescue; they prioritize the reunification of wild horse families, recognizing the deep bonds that unite them. Committed to transparency and accountability, the sanctuary maintains a platinum rating on GuideStar and are accredited by the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries. With daily updates on the residents and rigorous annual inspections, Skydog Ranch and Sanctuary stands as a beacon of hope and compassion in the land of horses.