Tag: art

World Premiere Spotlight: Eugène Green’s The Tree of Knowledge at Fantastic Fest 2025

Rui Pedro Silva in Eugène Green’s The Tree of Knowledge. Photo: MoreThan Films, used with permission.

Fantastic Fest 2025: The Tree of Knowledge World Premiere

Fantastic Fest, held annually in Austin and known as the largest genre film festival in the U.S., is back at the Alamo Drafthouse from September 18–25, 2025. Celebrated for spotlighting fantasy, horror, science fiction, action, and cult films, this year’s lineup promises a hauntingly excellent collection of premieres.

One of the most anticipated titles is Eugène Green’s The Tree of Knowledge, having its World Premiere at this year’s festival. (Emma Griffiths PR, 2025)

Film Details

The Tree of Knowledge (A árvore do Conhecimento)
Feature Film (Portugal/France)

  • World Premiere – 2025
  • Runtime: 100 mins
  • Language: Portuguese (with English subtitles)
  • Genre: Dark Comedy / Fantasy

Directed by: Eugène Green
Producers: Luís Urbano, Sandro Aguilar, Julien Naveau
Starring: Rui Pedro Silva, Ana Moreira, Diogo Dória, João Arrais

Fantastic Fest Screening

📍 Location: Alamo Drafthouse Lamar
1120 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704

🎬 Next Screening:
Tuesday, Sept 23rd – 6:00 PM @ Theater 8

Synopsis

In biblical terms, the “Tree of Knowledge” symbolizes free will and the ability to discern right from wrong. For filmmaker Eugène Green, it becomes a metaphor for spiritual awakening and renewal, set against the backdrop of Europe’s booming mass tourism.

The story follows Gaspard (Rui Pedro Silva), a Lisbon teenager who falls into the hands of the Ogre, a man who has struck a pact with the Devil. The Ogre uses Gaspard to lure tourists, transforming them into animals before killing them. Gaspard escapes with a donkey and a dog he has grown attached to, and in an enchanted manor, encounters the spirit of Queen D. Maria I of Portugal. Enraged, the Ogre sets off in pursuit—leading to a fantastical and allegorical journey of survival.

About the Director: Eugène Green

Born in New York City on June 28, 1947, Eugène Green is a French filmmaker, writer, theater director, and actor.

  • Studied literature and art history in Paris
  • Founded Le Théâtre de la Sapience in 1977, staging both contemporary poetic and baroque theater
  • Directed his first feature, Toutes les Nuits (1999, released 2001), winner of the Louis Delluc Prize for First Film
  • Has since directed 10+ feature films and 6 mini-films
  • His works have screened at Cannes, Locarno, Berlin, and other international festivals
  • In 2019, the Fundação Serralves in Porto hosted the first major exhibition dedicated to his cinema

✨ With The Tree of Knowledge, Green brings his signature poetic and philosophical style to Fantastic Fest, offering audiences a surreal and allegorical tale that blends dark comedy, folklore, and fantasy.

Celebrate Culture, Cuisine, and Community This Month at Pearl

Mariachi Mondays and Night Markets are back this September at Pearl. Photo: Pearl, used with permission.

September Pearl Happenings

Fall is here, and Pearl is buzzing with incredible events, live music, and family-friendly fun. From culinary experiences to cultural celebrations, here’s everything happening this September at Pearl. (Pearl, 2025)

✨ Events

Sabores de México

📅 Saturday, September 13 | 🕕 6–10 p.m. | 📍 Stable Hall | 💵 $125+
Join us for an unforgettable night of culinary expertise featuring Alejandro Gutiérrez, founder of the Mexican Society of Grillers. Experience the bold flavors of northern Mexico with storytelling, live fire cooking, live music, and a vibrant parrillada-style atmosphere.
👉 Tickets

Viva Dieciséis

📅 Monday, September 15 | 🕕 6–9 p.m. | 📍 Pearl Park | 💵 Free
Pearl honors Mexico’s Independence Day with a civic ceremony in partnership with the Consulate General of Mexico in San Antonio. Enjoy live mariachi performances, a local artist showcase, DJ sets, and family-friendly activities.

Ven A Brindar with Pati Jinich

📅 Friday, September 19 | 🕖 7–9:30 p.m. | 📍 Mezquite | 💵 $75
Spend an intimate evening of cocktails, conversation, and culinary inspiration with Pati Jinich, Emmy-nominated chef and James Beard Award-winning author. Guests will enjoy light bites and signature drinks as Pati shares her passion for Mexican cuisine and storytelling.

Texas Beer Collectibles Show

📅 Saturday, September 27 | 🕙 10 a.m.–3 p.m. | 📍 Otto’s Ice House | 💵 Free
Explore, buy, sell, and trade unique beer collectibles with fellow enthusiasts, from glassware and bottles to vintage posters, cans, and more.

👨‍👩‍👧 For the Family

Mariachi Mondays

📅 Every Monday, Sept. 15–Oct. 13 | 🕕 6–7 p.m. | 📍 Pearl Park | 💵 Free
Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with vibrant mariachi performances under the evening sky. Experience violins, trumpets, and guitars filling Pearl Park as local groups bring this beloved tradition to life—a perfect evening for families and friends.

Wednesday Night Markets Return!

📅 Every Wednesday, Sept. 17–Dec. 17 | 🕔 5–9 p.m. | 📍 Pearl | 💵 Free
The beloved Wednesday Night Markets are back! Stroll through Pearl and browse unique creations from local artisans, makers, and businesses.

🎶 Stable Hall News

Stable Hall—Pearl’s historic live music venue—welcomes Garrett Zimmerman as its new General Manager.

With 15+ years in venue management and event booking, Zimmerman brings a wealth of experience from venues such as TempleLive, Riverfront Live, Thompson House, and Top Cats. His expertise in venue renovations and event launches will help shape Stable Hall into a hub for unforgettable performances.

Once home to Pearl Beer’s legendary draft horses, Stable Hall now features 1,000 seats, six bars, and a world-class green room. Since opening, it has become a go-to destination for conjunto, blues, R&B, country, and more. Its mission: to honor Texas’s roots while spotlighting both emerging and established talent.

✅ Save the dates, bring your friends and family, and experience all that Pearl has to offer this September!

Photo: Pearl, used with permission.

September Vibes at Plaza San Antonio: Yoga, Jazz, Cocktails & More

Plaza San Antonio announces new First Friday Market, Happy Hour Deals, and more. Anaqua Garden Bar photo: Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa, used with permission.

September Happenings at Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa, Autograph Collection

Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa is excited to present a vibrant lineup of September events—ranging from happy hour specials and live music to yoga classes and unique wellness experiences. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly fun, relaxing spa time, or unforgettable entertainment, there’s something for everyone this month. (Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa, 2025)

🌿 Anaqua Garden Bar

First Friday’s Under the Trees

📅 Friday, September 5 | 5–8 p.m.
Celebrate the start of each month with $10 cocktails, live acoustic sets by Leon Sanchez, and local vendor pop-ups on the garden lawn. Perfect for sipping, strolling, and soaking in the First Friday energy.
👉 Reserve on OpenTable

Beats and Bubbles

📅 Every Saturday in September | 5–9 p.m.
Turn up the sparkle with a bubble party featuring a live vinyl DJ. Enjoy a $39 Disco Ball Cocktail to share, or sip champagne for just $9 a glass.
👉 Reserve on OpenTable

5•5•5 Sundays

📅 Every Sunday | All Day
$5 pool passes, $5 cocktails, $5 bites—plus $55 cabanas and shareable cocktails. A DJ keeps the vibes going in the lush downtown garden.
👉 Use code SUNDAY555 on Resort Pass for pool passes.
👉 Reserve on OpenTable

Tropic Like It’s Hot

📅 Friday, September 26 | 4–7 p.m.
Tropical cocktails, island-inspired bites, lei giveaways, and live music under the torches. A perfect tiki-inspired evening.
👉 Reserve on OpenTable

🧘 The Spa at Plaza San Antonio

Soul Flow Saturdays

📅 Every Saturday in September | 9:30–10:30 a.m.
Outdoor yoga led by Kristel Perry on the Oasis Lawn. Includes all-day pool, Zen Lounge, and fitness center access, plus 25% off same-day spa services.
💲 $17.85 via Eventbrite

Poses at The Plaza

📅 Sunday, September 28 | 10 a.m.
A 60-minute yoga flow with EnergyXFitness, followed by the Anaqua Tea Ceremony at 11 a.m. Includes pool and spa access, plus a reservation at Corinne San Antonio.
💲 $15 via Eventbrite

Moonlit Wellness: Floating Sound Bath Under the First Quarter Moon

📅 Friday, September 19 | 8:30–9:30 p.m.
Float in the spa pool while immersed in a 60-minute sound bath with crystal bowls and gongs by Caitlyn Garrison. Includes spa amenities, valet, and 25% off spa services.
👉 Reserve via Eventbrite

🍴 Corinne San Antonio

Corinne’s Sunset Sessions

📅 Friday, September 12 & 19 | 4–7 p.m.
Unwind with chef-driven bites, craft cocktails, and smooth live Latin jazz during golden hour.
👉 Reserve Sept. 12 | Reserve Sept. 19

4-5-6-7 Happy Hour

📅 Monday–Thursday | 4–8 p.m.
Enjoy $7 food and drinks, including Lobster Queso, Loaded Cauliflower Nachos, local Texas beers, and La Villita Margaritas.
👉 Reserve on OpenTable

📍 Venue Details

Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa
555 S Alamo St, San Antonio, TX 78205
🚗 Valet Parking: $15 for up to 3 hours

National Tell a Joke Day Just Got Sweeter Thanks to Damon Wayans Jr. and Laffy Taffy

Got jokes? Here’s your chance to get them printed on Laffy Taffy’s iconic wrapper … if you can make Damon Wayans Jr. laugh. Photo: Laffy Taffy, used with permission.

Make Damon Wayans Jr. Laugh—Your Joke Could End Up on a Laffy Taffy® Wrapper!

CHICAGO – Why did the candy fan call the Laff Line?
For the chance to make comedian, actor, and producer Damon Wayans Jr. laugh—and maybe see their joke printed on a Laffy Taffy® candy wrapper. (Laffy Taffy, 2025)

The beloved candy brand, famous for its classic dad jokes, has teamed up with Wayans to launch its first-ever Laffy Taffy Laff Line—a hilarious hotline for fans to share their punniest original jokes. Winning jokes could land a spot on Laffy Taffy’s new, easier-to-open wrappers.

How to Call the Laffy Taffy Laff Line

📅 When: August 16, National Tell a Joke Day
📞 Number: 1-844-LOL-HOUR (1-844-565-4687)
🕒 Time: 3p.m. – 7p.m. Eastern Time (aka “Laffy Hour”)

During Laffy Hour, select callers will get the chance to tell their joke directly to Wayans and his “Laff Squad”—a team of comedians from Zanies Chicago—hoping to make them laff out loud.

Joke Guidelines:

  • 100 characters or less
  • Must follow the classic Laffy Taffy format: setup + punchline (up to 50 characters each)

Wayans will also share some of his own one-liners back to callers.

“I like to consider myself a dad joke expert, so I’m excited to hear some fresh material,” said Wayans. “Do you have what it takes to make me laugh? If so, give me a ring!”

New Wrappers, Same Sweet Laughs

Laffy Taffy Mini Bars now feature a smooth, easy-open wrapper—no more sticky or shredded packaging—while still serving up that signature creamy candy. With the new look, the brand is also refreshing its jokes, inviting fans themselves to help write the next batch.

“These moments of connection bring joy to our fans every day,” said Ashley Incarnato, Senior Marketing Director at Ferrara Candy Company. “With Damon Wayans Jr., the Laffy Taffy Laff Line is the perfect way to connect with our community, give them the chance to test their comedic chops, and bring more laughter to families of all generations.”

Win a Spot on a Laffy Taffy Wrapper

All callers can submit their original joke for a chance to be printed on Laffy Taffy wrappers sold nationwide. Jokes will be judged on humor, originality, creativity, and brand fit.

Prizes:

  • Top 100 jokes printed on wrappers
  • Winners receive a custom bag of Laffy Taffy Mini Bars with an exclusive preview of fellow winners’ jokes

About Laffy Taffy®

Since 1971, Laffy Taffy® has been bringing little bites of delight to families everywhere. Its lineup includes classic mini bars, Stretchy and Tangy bars, and Laffy Taffy Ropes, available in flavors like Cherry, Strawberry, Grape, Watermelon, Sour Apple, Banana, and Blue Raspberry.

Contest Details:
No purchase necessary. Open to legal residents of the 50 U.S. & D.C., 18+. Void where prohibited. Begins 3p.m. ET August 16, 2025, ends 7p.m. ET August 16, 2025. Full contest rules

The Division Men’s Hymns and Fiery Dances Arrives This August—Here’s What to Expect

The Division Men is the husband-and-wife duo of J. Spencer Portillo and Caroline Rippy Portillo. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

The Division Men Announces New Album Hymns and Fiery Dances, Shares Single “San Saba”

El Paso, TX by way of Berlin acoustic duo The Division Men has shared a haunting new single and video titled “San Saba”, taken from the forthcoming album Hymns and Fiery Dances, due out August 22, 2025, via Motor Music. (US/THEM Group, 2025)

The track debuted in the U.S. via New Noise Magazine and in the EU via Side-Line Magazine, and is now available on all major streaming platforms.
🎧 Listen to “San Saba” HERE
📺 Watch the visualizer on YouTube 👇

About Hymns and Fiery Dances

The new album features an impressive roster of collaborators including:

  • Rafael Gayol (Leonard Cohen)
  • Rick G Nelson (Afghan Whigs, St. Vincent)
  • Jay Reynolds (Asleep at the Wheel)
  • Fredo Ortiz (Beastie Boys, Los Lobos)
  • Leah Shapiro (Black Rebel Motorcycle Club)
  • Dana Colley (Morphine)
  • Asya Sorshneva (CocoRosie)
  • Beto Martinez (Grupo Fantasma)
  • Peter Hayes (Black Rebel Motorcycle Club)
  • Alain Johannes (Queens of the Stone Age, PJ Harvey)
    …and many more.

Available in LP, CD, and digital formats, Hymns and Fiery Dances can be pre-ordered now.
🛒 Pre-order HERE

Who Is The Division Men?

Founded in Berlin, Germany in 2008 and now based in El Paso, Texas, The Division Men is the husband-and-wife duo of J. Spencer Portillo (vocals/acoustic guitar) and Caroline Rippy Portillo (vocals/bass guitar).

The band’s name reflects the original mission: to collaborate with artists worldwide regardless of borders—a philosophy that has remained central to their identity.

Caroline, born in San Antonio, previously played bass for Tito & Tarantula from 2007 to 2012. Spencer, born in Los Angeles and raised in Texas, channels the spirit of border towns into evocative lyrics about love, loss, and life.

Their sound is often described as dark, romantic, ethereal, and haunting. Their previous album, Niños Del Sol, featured Rafael Gayol, Steven Hufsteter, Jay Reynolds, Mitch Hertz, Raiye Rippy, and Jake Garcia (The Black Angels).

Upcoming Live Dates

Catch The Division Men live in support of Hymns and Fiery Dances:

📍 08/15/2025 – Austin, TX – Vinyl Beauty Bar
📍 08/17/2025 – San Antonio, TX – Faust Tavern
📍 08/22/2025 – El Paso, TX – Love Buzz

For more news and updates, follow The Division Men on all official channels.

Hymns and Fiery Dances tracklist:

01. Leonora

02. Dolores

03. Dead Moon

04. The Undertow

05. The Night Calls

06. San Saba

07. Cemetery Girl

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Hymns and Fiery Dances release date

Summer Fun & Festivities: July Events at Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa

Scheduled events include the hotel’s first-ever Quinceañera Showcase Expo on Sunday July 20. Photo: Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa, used with permission.

🎉 July Happenings at Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa, Autograph Collection

Summer is heating up, and so are the events at Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa, Autograph Collection! Whether you’re looking to relax, celebrate, or simply enjoy a day out with family and friends, our hotel has something for everyone this July. From rejuvenating spa treatments and lively garden parties to unforgettable family showcases, here’s what’s happening this month: (Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa, 2025)

🌿 Now Through July 31: Red, White & Renew Facial

Treat yourself to our exclusive Red, White & Renew 50-minute facial in honor of the Fourth of July.
💆‍♀️ Price: $155
📅 Available until July 31
🔗 Book your appointment here

🧘‍♀️ Soul Flow Saturdays

Ease into your weekend with outdoor yoga led by Kristel Perry.
📍 Oasis Lawn, Spa Plaza San Antonio
🕤 Saturdays in July | 9:30 – 10:30 a.m.
💸 Tickets: $17.85
🎟️ Reserve on Eventbrite

🍹 5•5•5 Sundays at Anaqua Garden Bar

Join us for an all-day summer series featuring:
• $5 Pool Passes
• $5 Cocktails
• $5 Bites
• $55 Cabanas
• $55 Shareable Cocktails
📅 Every Sunday
💻 Use code SUNDAY555 on Resort Pass to book a pool Day Pass.
🎟️ Reserve a spot on OpenTable

🍽️ 4-5-6-7 Happy Hour at Corinne San Antonio

Enjoy delicious bites and sips — all for $7!
🕓 Monday – Thursday | 4:00 – 8:00 p.m.
🎟️ Make a reservation on OpenTable

🥂 Beats and Bubbles at Anaqua Garden Bar

Don’t miss this whimsical garden party featuring:
🎧 Live Vinyl DJ
🫧 Bubble Festivities
📅 Friday, July 26 | 5:00 – 9:00 p.m.
🎟️ Reserve your table here

🎉 National Tequila Day & National Avocado Day

Celebrate two delicious days at Anaqua Garden Bar:
• July 24 – National Tequila Day: $6 Margaritas in Mexico
• July 31 – National Avocado Day: $6 Guacapoke
🎟️ Book your spot on OpenTable

👑 Gowns & Glam: Quinceañera Showcase Expo

Plan the celebration of a lifetime at our first-ever Quinceañera Expo!
📅 Sunday, July 20 | 1:00 – 4:00 p.m.
✨ Local vendors, inspiration, and a grand giveaway
🎟️ RSVP for FREE on Eventbrite

🎶 Music Under The Stars: Featuring Leon Sanchez

Unwind with cocktails and live music in the breezy Anaqua Pavilion.
📅 Thursday, July 24 | 7:00 – 10:00 p.m.
🎸 Featuring local favorite Leon Sanchez
🎟️ Reserve a table on OpenTable

🎧 Raspa & Rhythm on the Lawn

Cool off and dance it out with:
🍧 Ice-Cold Raspas
🎵 Upbeat House Music
🎯 Lawn Games
📅 Fridays, July 18 & 25 | 6:00 – 9:00 p.m.
Plus:
🔍 Kids’ Scavenger Hunt | 10:00 a.m.
🔥 S’mores by the Fire | 8:00 – 10:00 p.m.

Make the most of your July at Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa — your downtown destination for summer relaxation, celebration, and connection.

Enter the Phenomenomaly: Meow Wolf’s Summer Spectacle Blends Theater, Puppetry, and Magic

Meow Wolf’s Phenomenomaly: a wild immersive performance this summer in Vegas and Denver. Photo: Paul Torres

Phenomenomaly: Meow Wolf Unleashes a New Immersive Spectacle This Summer

Santa Fe, NM — Imagine Sleep No More meets Theater of the Mind, then throw in a glowing puppet parade and a swirl of surrealist dance. That’s Phenomenomaly, Meow Wolf’s latest mind-bending experience unfolding inside their Las Vegas and Denver exhibitions from June 21 through August 9, 2025. (Meow Wolf, 2025)

A New Era of Interactive Art

Known for crafting wild, genre-defying festivals and installations, Meow Wolf is taking immersive storytelling to new heights. Phenomenomaly is part immersive theater, part art party, and part glow worm migration (yes, you read that right).

Set on a continuous loop, this interactive performance weaves live theater, dance, puppetry, and audience participation into the very fabric of Meow Wolf’s already-surreal multiverses.

What to Expect Inside Phenomenomaly

As guests explore the exhibition, they’ll encounter:

  • Otherworldly characters
  • Strange rituals
  • Moments of intimate magic
  • A crescendo that erupts into a luminescent parade—featuring massive puppets, strange instruments, and shimmering creatures known as Flickerwermz

These glowing, migrating beings are part of a multiversal mythos whose fate depends on the playful engagement of the audience. Each 90-minute loop is layered seamlessly into Meow Wolf’s fantastical environments, making for a performance that feels both spontaneous and deeply woven into the space.

Unique Every Time

Each location—Denver and Las Vegas—hosts over 15 performers per show: dancers, puppeteers, clowns, and more. New guest artists are introduced every week, ensuring that no two shows are ever the same.

Phenomenomaly is the result of collaboration with an incredible team of national and local creatives, including:

  • Basqo Bim, Iggy & Andy, Kate Major, and Monsters of the Underworld (Costume Designers)
  • Sam Johnson of Colossal Collective (Puppet Project Manager, Designer, Fabricator)

🎟️Each city also showcases a rotating roster of local artists, spotlighted weekly—check the Denver and Las Vegas event pages for full schedules, lineups, and ticket information.

Photo: Meow Wolf

📍 Event Details

  • Dates: June 21 – August 9, 2025
  • Times:
    • Denver: 3–7 p.m. (select dates)
    • Las Vegas: 2–6 p.m. (select dates)
  • Cost: Included with standard admission

About Meow Wolf

More than an arts and entertainment company, Meow Wolf creates extraordinary experiences that blur the line between reality and imagination. With millions of visitors across its locations, Meow Wolf collaborates with hundreds of visionary artists to build stunning, interactive worlds. As a certified B-Corporation, they’re committed to innovation, community, and play.

Step inside Phenomenomaly this summer and become part of a story that shifts with every step, every glance, and every imagination brave enough to follow.

Senses Awakened: Experience the Art of Botello, Menchelli & Willome

Nadia Botello, What the River Says. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Experience Three Immersive Solo Exhibitions at Contemporary at Blue Star

📍 San Antonio, TX – Contemporary at Blue Star invites the community to experience three new solo exhibitions opening on Friday, July 11, 2025, from 6–9 p.m. Featuring artists Nadia Botello, Fabiola Menchelli, and Jason Willome, each exhibition offers a unique, sensory-driven experience where the audience is invited to interact with the art through touch, movement, and presence. (Contemporary at Blue Star, 2025)

🎉 Opening Events

  • Taco Talk with the Curator
    🗓 Friday, July 11 | ⏰ 10:30–11:30 a.m. | Register Here
  • Public Opening Reception
    🗓 Friday, July 11 | ⏰ 6:00–9:00 p.m.

🖼 On View: July 11 – October 5, 2025

✨ Featured Exhibitions

Nadia Botello

Theophany

Sound artist and composer Nadia Botello explores the San Antonio River as a living entity—a shaping force with a voice of its own. A native Texan and fourth-generation San Antonian, Botello presents multimedia works in sound, sculpture, and film that ask: What might the river be saying for itself?

Her 16mm film series What the River Says reveals images formed solely by submerging film into the river—no human intervention, only the language of water.

Fabiola Menchelli

ombré

Blending photography with painterly process, Fabiola Menchelli introduces a new body of work from her Parallelograms series. Created in total darkness, her photograms are both intentional and accidental—revealing the mystery of creation when sight is removed.

In a fast-paced world of constant imagery, Menchelli’s slow, sensory process challenges viewers to pause and reflect.

Jason Willome

When a Mind Wanders

Jason Willome delves into memory, transformation, and the unknown through his deeply personal drawings. Sparked by the final moments leaving his father’s home and witnessing his father’s decline from Parkinson’s disease, Willome uses gouache, charcoal, and cattle markers to render consciousness in flux.

These abstract, layered drawings mirror the haze of memory and perception—reflecting both confusion and care.

This body of work was developed during Willome’s residency at Künstlerhaus Bethanien in Berlin through the Contemporary’s international residency program.

🏛 About Contemporary at Blue Star

Contemporary at Blue Star showcases artists from San Antonio and across the globe, presenting innovative exhibitions that spark empathy, action, and understanding. As a non-collecting contemporary art space, the Contemporary fosters fresh perspectives and cultural dialogue.

🎟 Admission is always free.
📍 116 Blue Star, San Antonio, TX 78204
📞 (210) 227-6960
🌐 Contemporary at Blue Star

🕒 Public Hours

DayHours
Mon–TuesClosed
Wed12 pm – 5 pm
Thu–Fri12 pm – 8 pm
Sat–Sun10 am – 6 pm
Photo: Contemporary at Blue Star, used with permission.

Red, White & Delicious: Fourth of July Eats, Drinks & Events to Savor

Twang debuts limited-edition cocktail rimming salt for Fourth of July celebrations. Photo: Twang, used with permission.

Celebrate the Fourth of July in Style at Hotel Contessa

This Fourth of July, make your way to Hotel Contessa in downtown San Antonio for a weekend full of bold flavors, festive fun, and patriotic flair. (Hotel Contessa, 2025)

🍖 Fourth of July Dining Specials at Ambler

Available Thursday, July 3 – Saturday, July 5

Ambler, Hotel Contessa’s signature restaurant, is firing up the grill with bold Texas barbecue and elevated comfort food all weekend long. Enjoy these mouthwatering specials:

  • Mesquite Smoked Pork Ribs with mac-n-cheese & slaw – $34
  • 28oz Cowboy Ribeye with baked potato & grilled asparagus – $99
  • 24oz Bone-In NY Strip with mac-n-cheese & grilled asparagus – $99

👉 Reservations recommended. Book online or call Ambler at (210) 298-8040. Limited seating available!

🎬 Outdoor Movie Night: Independence Day

Saturday, July 5 at 10:30 p.m. | Hotel Contessa River Walk Patio

The celebration continues Saturday night with a special screening of the iconic film Independence Day. Grab your seat (first come, first served!) on the River Walk patio and enjoy:

  • Themed cocktails
  • Popcorn & candy
  • A nostalgic s’mores bar

Don’t miss this perfect summer night under the stars!

📍 Hotel Contessa – 306 W Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205

✨ Summer Sips & Patriotic Products

🍸 Twang’s Life, Liberty, and Lime Rimming Salt

Raise a glass to summer with Twang’s newest limited-edition release, Life, Liberty, and Lime—a zesty cocktail rimming salt featuring all-natural red, white, and blue crystals. (Twang, 2025)

  • Bold lime flavor + festive colors
  • Perfect for margaritas, beers, and more
  • 4oz tub for just $5.00
  • Available at grocery stores nationwide or online

Founded in San Antonio in 1986, Twang is a Latino-owned brand known for premium-flavored salts, sugars, and seasonings that elevate every bite and sip.

🍵 Full Leaf Tea Company: Functional Hydration for the Fourth

Looking for a refreshing, wellness-forward way to celebrate? Full Leaf Tea Company has you covered with patriotic drinkware and antioxidant-rich teas. (Full Leaf Tea Company, 2025)

Full Leaf, based in Southern Oregon, is beloved for its USDA organic teas, wellness blends, and on-the-go accessories. Explore their tea-based summer recipes and curated gift sets to keep the good vibes flowing all season long.

Photo: Full Leaf Tea Company, used with permission.

Whether you’re indulging in barbecue and blockbusters or sipping antioxidant-packed tea by the pool, there are plenty of ways to make this Independence Day your most flavorful and festive yet! 🎆

Savor the Season: La Panadería’s Bold Summer Menu + Stone Oak Expansion

La Panadería kicks off summer with new cold foam drinks and ‘Summer of Concha’ campaign. Photo: La Panadería, used with permission.

Summer Sips and Sweet Treats: La Panadería Launches New Seasonal Menu and Expands to Stone Oak

San Antonio, TX – La Panadería, the beloved San Antonio bakery renowned for its artisanal pan dulce and French-inspired Mexican bread, is thrilled to unveil its new lineup of Summer Drinks, along with the return of its fan-favorite seasonal conchas as part of the annual Summer of Concha initiative.

These limited-time offerings are available now through August 31, 2025, at all La Panadería locations.

☀️ Sip into Summer

La Panadería’s refreshed beverage program brings a cool and creative twist to summer sipping, featuring iced drinks made with house-crafted syrups and indulgent cold foam toppings.

This summer’s drink lineup includes:

  • Lavender Latte
    A floral iced latte sweetened with La Panadería’s signature lavender syrup, topped with a smooth lavender-infused cold foam.
  • Tres Leches Matcha
    A layered iced matcha latte with strawberry purée, topped with strawberry tres leches cold foam—blending the creamy essence of tres leches cake with earthy premium matcha.
  • Strawberry Mimosa
    A bright, bubbly take on the brunch classic—featuring champagne, strawberry purée, and a splash of orange juice. This is La Panadería’s first-ever mimosa flavor beyond the traditional orange.

🍞 Summer of Concha Returns

Back by popular demand, La Panadería’s Summer of Concha celebrates bold flavors and nostalgic indulgence with a lineup of creatively reimagined conchas—Mexico’s iconic sweet bread.

Limited-edition concha flavors include:

  • Dubai Chocolate Concha
    Inspired by the viral Dubai chocolate bar, this dual-toned concha features a green and chocolate crust, filled with luscious pistachio ganache and Nutella.
  • Ferrero Rocher Concha
    A decadent red-and-chocolate shell filled with rich chocolate ganache and hazelnut praline cream—a nod to the beloved Ferrero Rocher.
  • Nutella Concha
    An orange-shelled treat filled with creamy Nutella, first introduced as a March Madness special.
Photo: La Panadería, used with permission.

🍽️ New Location Coming to Stone Oak

La Panadería is also excited to announce the opening of its largest location yet, debuting in Stone Oak in late Fall 2025. The new 6,600-square-foot restaurant at 1011 N. Loop 1604 E will feature:

  • The full La Panadería menu
  • A cocktail bar
  • A covered outdoor patio
  • 100 dedicated parking spaces

“We’ve always believed in growing thoughtfully and with our guests in mind. Stone Oak is a vibrant and growing area, and we’re excited to bring La Panadería to a new part of the city.”
— José Cáceres, Co-owner

About La Panadería

Founded in 2013 by brothers José and David Cáceres, La Panadería began as a humble stand at the Quarry Farmers Market and quickly grew into a local institution. Since opening its first brick-and-mortar in 2014, the bakery has become a staple of San Antonio’s culinary landscape—celebrated for its commitment to quality ingredients, artisanal techniques, and heartfelt Mexican-European fusion.

From handcrafted pan dulce to savory tortas and brunch favorites, La Panadería continues to serve a one-of-a-kind dining experience that captures the culture, flavor, and warmth of San Antonio.

Visit La Panadería today to enjoy the Summer of Concha and cool off with their vibrant new drink selections—before the season ends!

📅 Available through August 31, 2025
📍 Multiple locations across San Antonio