Cheers to every holiday moment with Bols Ready-to-Enjoy Cocktails. Courtesy photo, used with permission.
The holiday season is a time to gather with friends and family, creating cherished memories filled with laughter and joy. Whether cozying up around a crackling fire or sharing festive meals, the warmth of togetherness is unmatched. Cocktails add a special touch, with creative concoctions that brighten the mood—perhaps a spiced mulled wine, a classic eggnog, or a vibrant cranberry mojito. These drinks serve as more than refreshments; they spark conversations and bring everyone closer. As glasses clink and stories are shared, the magic of the holidays truly comes alive, making the season unforgettable.
This season, whether it’s a cozy night in, a lively gathering, or the countdown to midnight, Bols Ready-to-Enjoy Cocktails make it effortless to elevate every occasion with bar-quality flavors, backed by nearly 450 years of cocktail expertise. (Bols, 2024)
Here’s how each of Bols RTE cocktails can seamlessly fit into your favorite holiday moments:
Christmas Eve Wind-Down: Espresso Martini – End Christmas Eve on a high note with this rich, smooth treat as a sophisticated after-dinner indulgence with family and friends. Served chilled with coffee beans, it adds a refined, comforting vibe to the evening.
Holiday Brunch Cheers: Margarita Azul – This vibrant blue margarita adds zest and cheer to holiday brunches on Christmas Day or New Year’s Day, bringing brightness to the morning to start the day with joy.
Elegant Gatherings: Red Light Negroni – Ideal for holiday soirées or office parties, this Negroni offers smooth, malty flavors with a botanical twist, perfect for mingling in style. Served with a twist of orange zest for that extra touch.
Fireside Nights: Very Old Fashioned – Nothing warms a winter night quite like the cozy, cedarwood notes of the Very Old Fashioned. It’s the ideal fireside sipper for intimate family gatherings or a quiet night by the fireplace, letting you unwind and embrace the season’s peaceful moments.
New Year’s Eve Toasts: Pornstar Martini – Add a pop of festive flair to New Year’s Eve with the vibrant, sweet libation. Its orange hue and lively flavors of vanilla and candied orange peel make it perfect for toasting at midnight, bringing lively energy to any celebration as the countdown begins.
Each cocktail is available in both 200ml tubes (perfect for one generous pour or two cocktails) and 375ml bottles (providing three-to-four servings), making them a thoughtful gift for hosts or an easy addition to your own celebrations.
For one day only, Whataburger will gift fans a limited-edition birthday cake shake for FREE exclusively through the Whataburger app while supplies last. Photo: Whataburger, used with permission.
Orange you glad it’s Whataburger’s birthday? On Thursday August 8, Whataburger turns 74, marking another year of serving hot, fresh, delicious food just like you like it. It’s a big deal. It is so big the brand even has its own holiday around it, lovingly called National Whataburger Day. The birthday brand is celebrating big by dropping a special birthday cake-flavored shake and giving it away for FREE to fans for one day only through the Whataburger App. So, don your party hats and favorite Whataburger gear—it’s time to party! (Whataburger, 2024)
Whataburger’s Birthday Shake is a delectable delight. Made with the chain’s classic Vanilla Shake base, the new dessert is 20 ounces of sweet, creamy goodness. Prep your Instagram Stories because this special shake will be the iconic Whataburger orange, topped with white whipped cream and finished with bright orange sprinkles. It’s all wrapped up in a clear plastic cup with a domed lid so fans can appreciate every detail ‘til the last drop.
“The Birthday Shake tastes like fun,” Whataburger SVP and Chief Marketing Officer Scott Hudler said. “With its signature orange color, whipped cream, and sprinkles, it looks like a party in a cup. The icing on the shake is that Whataburger Rewards program members can celebrate this milestone with us by getting their shake entirely for free, no purchase necessary. It’s like inviting hundreds of thousands of your closest friends to your birthday party!”
Fans who have downloaded the Whataburger App and created a rewards account can enjoy the free Birthday Shake on Thursday, August 8, from midnight to 11:59p.m., available exclusively through the app. Want a taste of Birthday Shake but can’t make it on National Whataburger Day? The super limited-time Whataburger Birthday Shake will be available after August 8 while quantities last. But, like any other birthday cake, once it’s gone, it’s gone–so don’t wait to order your treat.
In addition to the shakeover, Whataburger is celebrating with the community by fulfilling $74,000 worth of teacher supplies wish lists throughout August as part of the Whataburger Feeding Student Success charitable giving program. Do you know a teacher who could use a little love? On August 8, Whataburger will post on X (formerly Twitter) asking its followers to nominate teachers in their lives who could use some help buying school supplies for the new year. The brand will fulfill wish lists until $74,000 is spent!
The free Birthday Shake offer is exclusive to the Whataburger App, with one shake per reward member. Customers who download the app and create an account will immediately earn rewards and exclusive offers. The shake will also be available in-store, at the drive-thru and online while supplies last. Prices and availability vary by market.
Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa has limited-time spa packages available for the month of July. Photo: San Antonio Hotel & Spa, used with permission.
The Fourth of July is coming up tomorrow, so if you’re in the San Antonio area and looking for ideas to celebrate in style, consider the following.
*** Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa ***
With Fourth of July happening next week, Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa, Autograph Collection is launching new limited-time spa treatments you can’t miss. The Spa Plaza San Antonio, located on the property, offers a restorative approach to health and wellness. This summer they are offering the below limited-time treatment packages, available now through July 31. (Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa, 2024)
Red, White, and Blueberry Facial – $140
Celebrate Fourth of July at the property with this restorative treatment. The Skin Authority exfoliant won’t leave you with any redness and a blueberry infusion gives your skin a superfood infusion to leave you glowing and bright. This facial finishes with a dose of nourishing hydration and Skin Authorities Skinsuit signature sunscreen that never leaves a white cast on the skin.
Includes Skin Authority’s illuminating body peel to reveal your skin’s most healthy glow. Vitamin D serum is applied to stimulate blood flow to the skin’s surface while also reducing puffiness. A Vitamin D infused serum and a light shea butter application finish this service to ensure you leave feeling hydrated and smooth. Includes a glass of sparkling wine or prosecco.
Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa can be found on ResortPass for a daycation getaway at its pool and spa. Bookings can be made online and include a Spa Daycation Pass priced at $45, a Pool Day Pass priced at $35 for adults or $20 for children (infants are free), a Pool Cabana starting at only $100 for a max of three people, and a Pool Garden Oasis Cabana starting at $225 for a max of five people to name a few of the offerings.
*** Pearl ***
Pearl will host a special 4th of July celebration this Thursday from 9a.m. to 12p.m. at 1100 Springs Plaza. This family-friendly event promises live entertainment and activities. The celebration will feature a live DJ, a caricature artist, face painters, and stilt walkers, bringing vibrant energy and fun for all ages. Attendees can enjoy a variety of lawn games and other exciting activities that ensure a memorable experience for the entire family. In addition to the main festivities at 1100 Springs Plaza, there will be a red, white and blue themed flower wall for capturing photos, and storytelling sessions with Miss Anastasia at Parkito at Pearl.
Guests will have an opportunity to take a photo with the newest mural under Pearl’s Shaded Structure, “Summer Vibes,” designed by local artist sisters Manola & Maria. The artist duo will conduct a live painting activation this July 1 through July 3, just ahead of the holiday festivities.
Cool Off & Play
Let the kids splash and play at the refreshing splash pad or relax in comfort with cooling stations and patio misters spread throughout the property. Ice cream delights Savor the delicious ice creams from Lick and Pullman’s ice cream counter.
Photo: Pearl, used with permission.
*** Majestic Theatre ***
The Majestic Theatre, an ATG Entertainment Venue, invites everyone to join them for a Free Open House event during the inaugural Stars & Stripes on Houston Street. On July 4, 2024, from 10a.m. to 3p.m., the community can enjoy free historic tours of the stunning 1920s atmospheric theater. This is a unique opportunity to experience the Majestic Theatre like never before with behind-the-scenes access. (Majestic Theatre, 2024)
Discover the rich history, architecture, and character of the Majestic Theatre. Knowledgeable tour guides will lead tours every 30 minutes, starting at 10a.m. Visitors will have the chance to go backstage and see the theatre’s inner workings, making it a memorable experience for all. Concessions will also be open for those who want to enjoy a cool beverage while enjoying the festivities on Houston Street.
The final tour will leave at 2:30p.m. No advance reservations are required.
Picnic Under the Stars of the Majestic
There will be a ticketed dinner on the Majestic Theatre stage at any time between 5p.m. and 8p.m. Enjoy cocktails in the lobby, open concessions, and perfect opportunities for capturing picnic photos. Tickets are $100 per person, with only a limited number available, so secure yours in advance.
Your ticket includes:
The opportunity to picnic on the Majestic Theatre stage, under the stars of the historic atmospheric theatre.
Chilled Tenderloin Slices with Parker House Rolls and Horseradish Sauce, Charcuterie of Meat & Cheese with Crackers, Mixed Nuts, Double Fudge Brownies, Candied Bacon, Pecan Pie Bites.
Two Drink Tickets for Beer, Wine, Special July 4th Cocktail, or Non-alcoholic Beverage.
Historic Tours of the Majestic Theatre (final tour leaves at 7:30pm).
Bakery Lorraine’s tangy berry-topped Buttermilk Pie. Photo: Bakery Lorraine, used with permission.
The Fourth of July is the number one holiday to celebrate freedom with good friends, joyful festivities, and delicious food. Bakery Lorraine, the best place to get mouth-watering pastries and baked goods across San Antonio, Austin, and Boerne, has announced that they are now accepting pre-orders for their iconic four-variety Dutch Apple Pie and tangy berry-topped Buttermilk Pie for only $34. These tasty pies can be easily ordered online for maximum convenience. Whether for a cookout on the lake, a neighborhood block party, or a comfy day at home with loved ones, these pies can be the hallmark of true Fourth of July festivities for any family. (Bakery Lorraine, 2024)
Pre-orders close this Sunday, June 30 at 12p.m., and these tasty creations will be available for in-store pickup on Wednesday, July 3, 2024.
Bakery Lorraine’s Dutch Apple Pie and Buttermilk Pie. Photo: Bakery Lorraine, used with permission.
East Washington St Gifts has personalized t-shirts, among other gifts. Photo: East Washington St Gifts
Gift giving is an age-old tradition that transcends cultures and eras, symbolizing sentiments of love, gratitude, and celebration. Whether grand or modest, gifts symbolize thoughtfulness and care, strengthening bonds between giver and recipient. They express appreciation and are excellent ways to celebrate special occasions such as birthdays, weddings, and holidays. In a world often bustling with the mundane, gift giving stands as a timeless reminder of the beauty found in both giving and receiving gestures of kindness.
Although a gift is always welcome at a special occasion, I tend to live day to day and prefer not to wait on a specific date to give someone a gift. Everyday we are alive is a special occasion, so if you’re looking for a gift to brighten someone’s day, to commemorate a special occasion, or even as a treat for yourself, consider East Washington St Giftsby Allen Kimble. (Allen Kimble, 2024)
These gift ideas include customized scented candles, personalized t-shirts (astrology shirts, astrology flower with personalized name and birthdate – perfect for a birthday), and even t-shirts for animal lovers and those who love fishing and the outdoors. So why not surprise your loved one with a comfortable and fashionable addition to their wardrobe?
This being graduation season, the personalized funny scented graduation candles are perfect for the graduate in your life. You can customize it with the occupation, name, and scent.
Occupations:
Pharmacist
Veterinarian
Psychologist
Dietician
And others
Scents:
Coconut Cream + Cardamon
Apple Harvest
White Sage + Lavender
Cinnamon Vanilla
Unscented
And more
Gifts from East Washington St Gifts are an excellent gift idea for any occasion. Customized gifts are more personal and thoughtful than just picking out some mass-produced generic gift. So don’t wait, check out the wide selection of gifts and start shopping!
Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk has Valentine’s Day and Galentine’s Day specials to help you celebrate in style. Photo: Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk, used with permission.
Now that February is here, it’s time to start planning for this month’s celebrations. Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk is having Valentine’s Day / Galentine’s Day specials this month. So whether you are celebrating with your Valentine or want to plan a special occasion friends, here are some ideas if you plan to be in San Antonio. (Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk, 2024)
For the Couples
Couples can book the new SuiteHeart Romance Package for a $200 Property Romance Credit to be used at the full-service Thompson San Antonio Spa, dining at signature restaurant Landrace, minibar, or parking. Guests will also arrive to a beautiful rose petal setup and a bath/shower welcome amenity for deserving R&R with their loved one. Offer Code = SATROM for Booking Dates: 1/4/2024 – 2/14/2024; Stay Dates: 2/9/2024-2/18/2024.
Couples can also indulge in the epitome of romantic bliss with the property’s highly sought-after CabanaCuddle Up, an experience that seamlessly melds ultimate relaxation with unparalleled luxury. Begin your journey with an opulent 80-minute massage for two in the exquisite couples’ room, where tranquility and connection intertwine. Following the rejuvenating session, continue the enchantment as you and your favorite person nestle into the sumptuous embrace of one of the poolside daybed cabanas. Here, amid the soothing ambiance, revel in the shared joy of sipping on chilled champagne and partaking in a curated picnic, where every bite is a celebration of love and indulgence.
For the Gals
Perfect for Galentine’s Day with friends and family, up to 20 guests can have private access to Thompson San Antonio Spa when booking The Late Night Escape Spa Party package. You bring the party, and Thompson brings the pampering.
This package includes access to all spa facilities (Eucalyptus Steam Room, Dry Sauna, Scrub Bar, Locker Rooms, Relaxation Area, and the showstopping Cenote Pool Deck), complimentary champagne, handcrafted dessert board, massage services for up to two hours by one expert therapist, and valet service. Guests can call the spa at 210.942.6027 to book the experience and discuss how they can customize their special Galentine’s celebration.
Not to be missed: cocktails, live music and twinkly city and star views at The Moon’s Daughters, the enchanting indoor-outdoor rooftop restaurant and bar floating high above the River Walk that dazzles from its 20th-story perch over the city.
The legendary Tex-Mex restaurant will be celebrating all month long in October with food and drink specials and commemorative mugs at 20 locations throughout Texas and Georgia. Photo: Pappasito’s, used with permission.
Pappasito’s Cantina is excited to announce that its 40th anniversary celebration is taking place throughout October. The month-long celebration will feature food and drink specials, including $40 for 40 Fajitas on Wednesdays starting at 4p.m., a commemorative 40th anniversary mug with Fiesta Fizz or Pappasito’s Signature Reserva Margarita, and a special Fiesta Fudge Brownie. Guests will also have the opportunity to win one of ten $400 gift cards by entering online. E-Club members will receive additional perks throughout the month. (Pappasito’s Cantina, 2023)
Pappasito’s is driven by the same principles that family patriarch H.D. Pappas brought with him to the New World in 1897: a passion for quality food and service, careful attention to detail, and a determination to treat every person who walks through the door as a welcomed guest.
Decades after opening, Pappasito’s continues to provide superior flavor, freshness and presentation that guests will not find anywhere else. Using only the highest quality produce, meat and fish, each location ensures only the best dishes arrive at the table. This includes roasting their salsa in their kitchens daily, using fresh-squeezed lime juice for their famous margaritas and hand-making tortillas in-house.
Just as important as the quality of the food and drinks is the service they provide guests. Team members are carefully selected, receive world-class training and are encouraged to grow within the company, which is one of the many reasons their team is consistently known as the best in the business. Many Pappasito’s team members have been with the organization for decades, passing along their passion and institutional knowledge to the next generation of servers, cooks, bartenders, managers, and more.
“The Pappas family feels so honored that diners continue to return to Pappasito’s, and we are proud to carry on the tradition of serving outstanding food and providing exceptional service in an atmosphere where people go to be treated like family, to be entertained, and to enjoy great food, knowing that they can expect that Pappas trademark of quality. We look forward to celebrating 40 years with our valued guests all month long and beyond!” – Chris Pappas, CEO of Pappas Restaurants, Inc.
Pappasito’s Cantina is the second largest concept in one of the largest family-owned and operated restaurant companies in the United States. The Pappas family of restaurants offers many different cuisines and traditions, but common to all is an obsession with quality food and superior service that is reflected in every aspect of the Guest experience. Pappas is a respected leader in the competitive restaurant industry. The Pappas philosophy has not changed much over the years. The drive still comes from a passion for excellence, a focus on innovation and attention to detail and quality in everything they do.
Carriqui will celebrate Mexican Independence Day with live music, special menu, and more. Photo: Carriqui, used with permission.
Carriqui will celebrate Dieciséis de Septiembre, or Mexican Independence Day, next Saturday with live mariachi music, special menu items, and more. Beloved mariachi group Las Coronelas will perform a special set from 4:30p.m. to 6:30 p.m. A representative from the San Antonio Charro Association will also be performing around the restaurant at the same time. (Potluck Hospitality, 2023)
Carriqui will also feature a special menu item to celebrate the holiday: Chiles en Nogada, a beef stuffed poblano chile with walnut cream sauce and pomegranate. The restaurant will also offer a special cocktail available only on September 16. In addition to the limited-time-only drink and Carriqui’s regular beverage menu, LALO tequila will also be onsite hosting tequila tastings for interested guests.
Saturday, September 16, 2023 *Las Coronelas to perform from 4:30p.m. – 6:30 p.m. *San Antonio Charro Association representative to perform from 4:30p.m. – 6:30 p.m. Special food & beverage menu available all day while supplies last
Carriqui 239 E Grayson St. San Antonio, TX 78215
Founded in 2022, Potluck Hospitality conceives, operates, manages, and partners on culinary and experiential brands in San Antonio, TX. Potluck Hospitality concepts include Best Quality Daughter, Brasserie Mon Chou Chou, Carriqui, Food Hall at Bottling Dept., Full Goods Diner, Ladino, Pearl Markets, and Stable Hall (coming 2023). Potluck’s team is made up of chefs, designers, strategists in culture-crafting, brand, and finance that all share a love of food and gathering. Potluck Hospitality’s name pays tribute to memorable experiences with great food, great music, and great company–where everyone has something to contribute. Being together, sharing meals, and communally experiencing music is elemental to what it means to be human.
This Halloween, let ‘Sip and Shade Art Book: A Gathering of Haunted Creativity and Inebriation’ by Sunny J Shores inspire you. Photo: Sunny J Shores, used with permission.
Halloween is right around the corner and if you are hosting a Halloween party and looking for original ideas besides the tired old costume contest, I have an exciting and creative idea. How about hosting your own Sip and Shade Party with this Halloween-themed edition book?
Adult coloring books have gained popularity in recent years because they can be therapeutic. Some studies have shown that focusing on the complex drawings on these coloring books can actually put your mind into a relaxing and meditative state. So why not get together with friends this Halloween, put on your best costume, and enjoy some adult beverages, all while bonding, expressing yourself, and creating memories that will last a lifetime.
“Sip and Shade Party: A Gathering of Haunted Creativity and Inebriation: Halloween Edition” by Sunny JShores is more than just a coloring book; it is also a party planner to help you host the best spooky get together this season. It is made from high quality paper perfect for all types of mediums, from colored pencils to markers. The padded pages are sure to handle all types of artists, ensuring a comfortable and relaxing experience. Do you have guests who are left handed? This coloring book is formatted to complement left handed or right handed artists. It even comes with a guest list and memories page perfect for capturing every moment. (Sunny J Shores, 2023)
So this year surprise your friends with a unique Halloween party courtesy of the Halloween edition of “Sip and Shade Party.” Set aside a space for creativity to bloom surrounded by spooky Halloween decorations, drinks, and a variety of art supplies to fit every artist’s needs. Of course, costumes are always encouraged! And remember, if it is not on social media, it did not happen, so share your experiences online by using the hashtag #SipAndShadeParty.
“Sip and Shade Party: A Gathering of Haunted Creativity and Inebriation: Halloween Edition” is available online. For bulk orders of 10 or more, you can order directly from the publisher’s website. Happy Halloween!
Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk’s open-air Cenote Pool Deck. Photo: Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk, used with permission.
Happy Pride Month! Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk will celebrate with a special pride package available throughout the month of June, including pride-themed cocktails, delicious bites, and striking city views from the hotel’s vibrant rooftop lounge, The Moon’s Daughters, and open-air Cenote Pool Deck, complete with luxury cabanas and a poolside bar for all-day entertainment. (Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk, 2023)
This June, San Antonio is full of pride parties and rainbow-hued festivities, including the biggest pride parade in South Texas on June 24, featuring live music, family-friendly drag performances, and LGBTQ-run artisan and food vendors along the San Antonio Riverwalk.
SA Examiner 