Tag: community events

Elephant & Piggie Take the Stage: Magik Theatre’s Play Brings Mo Willems’ Characters to Life

Celebrate your best friendships with Magik Theatre’s hilarious Mo Willem’s musical Elephant & Piggie’s ‘We Are in a play!’ Photo: Magik Theatre, used with permission.

San Antonio, TX – Invite your friends to a different kind of play date with Magik Theatre’s Elephant & Piggie’s ‘We Are in a Play!’ running February 1 – March 23. Gerald the Elephant and Piggie the Pig are “bestus” friends in this rollicking musical based on Mo Willems’ beloved, award-winning “Elephant and Piggie” books. (Magik Theatre, 2025)

When the duo gets invited to a party hosted by The Squirrelles—a trio of fun-loving, singing squirrels—it seems like the makings of a perfect day. But Gerald is worried this big opportunity might create big problems for their friendship. Piggie does not share her elephant pal’s concern, in fact, she’s even happier and more excited than usual. In order for both the friends to have a good time, they must work (and sing and dance) together to overcome obstacles and help each other on a day when anything is possible.

“Gerald and Piggie couldn’t be more different—one is cautious and thoughtful, while the other is playful and impulsive,” says director Jenny Lavery. “But their bond shows us that differences don’t divide us, instead they can bring us closer together.” Lavery directs Ethan Hart (Gerald) and Sami Serrano (Piggie), as well as Amy Bouquet, Lexie Williams, and Hannah Rodriguez as the Squirrelles. Sarah Bailey serves as musical director and Tanesha Payne is the production’s choreographer for the vibrant musical numbers.

Audiences ages 3 and up will get a kick out of this funny, heartwarming story of two friends navigating life’s unexpected occasions. Throughout the musical’s run, Magik Theatre is providing plenty of ways to have a day out just as exciting and special as the one Piggie and Gerald embark on. From an opening night party in Hemisfair Park with cookies and cocoa and kids crafts, to add-on experiences like a post-show backstage tour with the cast and pop-up ice cream socials on the weekends, there are plenty of ways to enhance the family fun.

Aspiring young actors can even learn what it takes to perform on the stage with this season’s new Magik Monday, a series of workshops inspired by the current performance and designed to spark creativity and build confidence. February’s Elephant and Piggie workshop will introduce students to acting through exciting games and exercises, with the chance to rehearse short scenes as well.

With the recent opening of a dedicated quiet room, Magik continues its commitment to making theatre accessible to everyone. The quiet room, which officially opened in late 2024, includes cozy, specialized furniture, calming decor, a TV broadcasting the current performance in real time, and sensory toys to allow overwhelmed or overstimulated audience members to easily take a break from the show without missing out on the rest of the theatre experience. The new space adds to other efforts Magik has made to become a Kulture City certified Sensory Inclusive Venue, as well as its ongoing special performances to accommodate those with special needs and financial constraints.

For family fun, lots of laughs, and catchy tunes, Elephant & Piggie’s ‘We Are in a Play!’ is truly a perfect way to have your own perfect day. Elephant & Piggie’s ‘We Are in a Play!’ is based on the Mo Willems books of the same name, published by Hyperion Books, with book and lyrics by Willems and music by Deborah Wicks La Puma, presented by special arrangement with Music Theatre International.

SPECIAL EVENTS & ADD-ON EXPERIENCES

Opening Night Party in the Park | Saturday, February 1, 4:30p.m., show at 6:30p.m.
Celebrate the first performance of Elephant & Piggie’s ‘We Are in a Play!’ with a free, pre-show party at Hemisfair Park just outside Magik Theatre. Guests can enjoy hot chocolate and cookies as they groove to a kid-friendly, parent-approved pop music playlist, get their faces painted, and make their own Elephant and Piggie puppets to take home. While the party is free and open to the public, the subsequent performance is ticketed.

Backstage Experience Add-On | Available after performances*
(*Excluding other special events such as the opening night Party in the Park)
If you or your little theatre buddy wish the performance didn’t have to end, Magik has a brand-new way to prolong the, well, magic. For a small additional fee, audience members can now stick around after the show to get a 15-minute guided tour of the set, props, and costumes, plus meet the cast and pose for an onstage photo with them. Cost: $15 per person.

Ice Cream Social Add-On | Available before weekend performances
But wait, there is more! Sweeten the experience with Magik’s new Ice Cream Social pre-show perk. Guests can chow on their choice of vanilla, chocolate or strawberry ice cream, complete with toppings then capture the moment in photos with the adorably loveable Elephant & Piggie! Cost: $15 per person.

Magik Monday: Act It Out with Elephant and Piggie | Monday, February 24, at 6p.m.
Designed to spark creativity and build confidence, this class introduces young performers in grades 1-5 to the basics of acting in a playful and supportive environment. Elephant & Piggie’s ‘We Are in a Play!’ provides the inspiration for exciting acting games, improvisation, and simple scene acting. Cost: $35 per person.

SPECIAL PERFORMANCES

Pay What You Wish Performance | Saturday, February 8, at 2p.m.
As part of Magik Theatre’s mission to make theatre accessible to everyone, the organization holds one donation-based performance. Tickets are only available at the door on February 8.

Sensory Friendly Performance | Saturday, February 15, at 10a.m.
Audience members on the autism spectrum and those with sensory sensitivities can take in a special performance of Elephant & Piggie’s ‘We Are in a Play!’ designed just for them. Kids and adults are free to be themselves in this relaxed, judgment-free theatre experience that is a perfect introduction to attending a performance.

ASL Interpreted Performance | Saturday, February 22, at 2p.m.
Patrons who communicate with ASL can attend this performance featuring Robert Cardoza, the San Antonio theatre community’s primary American Sign Language interpreter.

Educator Appreciation Day | Sunday, March 2 at 3p.m.
Educators and school faculty are eligible for one free ticket to this performance with proof of I.D. Additional tickets are available to purchase for these performances at a discount of 20% off the regular ticket prices.

Military and First Responders Appreciation Day | Saturday, March 22 at 2p.m.
Service members with a valid military ID can purchase discounted $18 tickets to this performance.

2024-2025 TICKET OPTIONS

Magik Theatre offers multiple ways for patrons to experience the best children’s theatre in San Antonio. Magik is a cherished arts institution that has been providing families with professional, accessible, literature-based theatre and education since 1994. Located in Hemisfair Park, families can catch the show, enjoy a day of play exploring Yanaguana Garden, grab a meal at one of the many restaurants on site and make Magikal memories. Season subscriptions, Flex Passes, and single ticket sales are available now.

SEASON SUBSCRIPTION PRICING
• Two Show Subscription $41 per person

FLEX PASS PRICING
● Ten Flex Passes $190

SINGLE TICKETS
● $25 for adults
● $20 for children (ages 2-17), Military, Seniors, Educators & Students
● Children under 2 years old are free.

Purchase season subscriptions, flex passes, and single tickets online, via phone (210) 227-2751, and in person at Magik Theatre’s Box Office (420 S Alamo, 78205). Box Office hours are Monday-Friday, 9 am – 5 pm.

If a child under 2 uses a seat, even a car or booster seat, the patron must pay for a general admission ticket. Group rates are available for parties of ten or more people. For questions and further inquiries, contact the Magik Theatre.

MAGIK THEATRE

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

Photo: Magik Theatre, used with permission.

Step Into a Winter Wonderland: Classic Christmas San Antonio Opens This Week

Classic Christmas San Antonio: All-New Experience at Toyota Field this Holiday Season. Photo: Enchant Christmas, used with permission.

SAN ANTONIO, TX – Step into a world of real holiday magic at Coca-Cola’s Classic Christmas San Antonio from November 22 – December 29, 2024. This season, cherished holiday traditions come to life in San Antonio at the Toyota Field amid a spectacle of dazzling lights. Crafted by the creators of the renowned World’s Largest Christmas Light Maze, Enchant Christmas, this immersive holiday celebration promises to create unforgettable moments of togetherness and joy at this beloved time of year. This nostalgic celebration is packed with dazzling lights, festive activities, and unforgettable memories. Tickets start at $21 and are available online. (Classic Christmas San Antonio, 2024)

On November 24, Classic Christmas will make 2,500 kids tickets available at no charge. In the spirit of the holidays, Classic Christmas hopes to spread some joy and have as many families as possible to experience the dazzling lights. Guests can claim up to two free kid tickets per order, but each order must include at least one paid adult ticket.

Details for reserving available free tickets can be found online.

Holiday revelers can look forward to an array of joyful activities and cherished experiences, ensuring a season full of happiness and wonder, including:

  • Larger-Than-Life Light Displays – Delight in 55,000 square feet of dazzling light sculptures, featuring exciting custom and interactive Coca-Cola-inspired displays.
  • Market Square – Taste seasonal delights and shop for holiday gifts from a local assortment of vendors showcasing their wares.
  • Ice Skating – Skate amidst the lights with those you love – this is a unique ice skating experience.
  • Snow Slide – Hop on an inner tube and glide down the thrilling Classic Christmas Snow Slide.
  • Live Entertainment – Guests will get into the spirit with nightly caroling throughout the venue and more local, seasonal artist features.
  • Visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus – Santa and Mrs. Claus will take photos in his workshop – your holiday photo dream come true!

THEME NIGHT CALENDAR: 

Adding to the excitement, Classic Christmas will host unique theme nights, each offering a distinct way to celebrate the holiday season:

  • NOVEMBER 24 – Kids Light Up The Night: 2,500 young guests to experience the sparkle of Classic Christmas San Antonio with complimentary tickets while supplies last.
  • DECEMBER 1 – Paws & Claus: Bring your furry friends for a pet-friendly evening where they can meet Santa and join in on the festive fun. Dog ticket add-ons will be limited—get your tickets now!
  • DECEMBER 6 – Country Christmas (presented by San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo): Dust off your cowboy boots for a night of country music, line dancing, and holiday cheer with a Southern twist.
  • DECEMBER 7 – Spurs & San Antonio FC at Classic Christmas: Join the Spurs and San Antonio FC at Classic Christmas! Wear your favorite Spurs or SAFC gear, meet & greet with players and the Spurs Hype Squad, and take photos with the Spurs NBA Championship trophies. 
  • DECEMBER 8 – Military Appreciation Night: A night dedicated to honoring the brave men and women of our military, with special activities and tributes throughout the evening. 
  • DECEMBER 13 – Fiesta Navideña: Celebrate the rich culture and traditions of Latin heritage with vibrant music, dance, and holiday festivities. This unique celebration features local talent, vendors, and organizations. 
  • DECEMBER 15 – Ugly Holiday Sweater Night: Bring your family and friends for a matching opportunity that could steal the show and win the grand prize! Guests will be honored with the best—or rather, ugliest—sweater prizes, and one grand prize winner will take the crown on our holiday stage. 

Note: Closed November 28 (Thanksgiving Day)

Toyota Field
5106 David Edwards Drive
San Antonio, TX 78233

Classic Christmas San Antonio. Photo: Enchant Christmas, used with permission.

A Taste of Spain: Culinary and Cultural Fusion at the Pearl

Texas culinary industry leaders can experience Spain’s finest through cutting-edge panels, exclusive tastings, and more during Spain Fusion. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Culinary and hospitality professionals are invited to attend Spain Fusion 2024, the immersive food & wine experience hosted by Vocento – the team at the helm of Spain’s renowned Madrid Fusion. The FREE event features an educational experience for the senses, offering guests a day of exclusive panels, tastings, and meetings with Spain’s premier exporters of wine, seafood, preserves, Iberian ham, olive oil, jam, cheese, and more. This year’s edition will take place on Friday, October 18 from 11:30a.m. to 10p.m. at Pearl in San Antonio. (Pearl, 2024)

Spain Fusion introduces fresh additions to this year’s lineup, including a panel on Spanish creams and gazpachos as well as a new presentation on top-caliber tuna and sea bass sourced from Spain to be led by returning speaker Chef Danny Lledó, from Washington D.C.’s Michelin-starred restaurant Xiquet. Select featured vendors at the day event are not yet distributed in Texas, so attendees will be the first to taste these premium goods.

The event returns with both Daytime programming and Night Out festivities. From 11:30a.m. to 6p.m., guests are able to partake in educational sessions about Spanish food & wine with tastings and more. From 7p.m. to 10p.m., guests can network and enjoy tasting demonstrations, passed bites and beverages outdoors at the historic Pearl. 

Participants are welcome to attend the come-and-go formats at their convenience for both day and evening events. 

This event is intended for food, beverage and hospitality professionals as well as distributors. However, there will be a limited number of spots available to the general public on a first come, first serve basis. All guests must RSVP HERE for entry. Once spots are filled the link will close. This event is 21 and up only. 

WHEN:
Friday, October 18 from 11:30a.m. – 10p.m.
*Spain Fusion Daytime: 11:30a.m. – 6p.m.
*Spain Fusion Night Out: 7p.m. – 10p.m.

Spain Fusion Daytime:
Hotel Emma at Pearl
136 E Grayson St
San Antonio, TX 78215

Spain Fusion Night Out:
Pearl Park under Cellar’s Pavilion by the Food Hall
312 Pearl Pkwy
San Antonio, TX 78215

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.

Ukes for Youth: National Nonprofit Can’d Aid Launches New Ukulele Donation Initiative

Can’d Aid invites volunteers to assemble and decorate ukuleles to donate to kids. Photo: Can’d Aid, used with permission.

Nonprofit organizations play a crucial role in addressing social, environmental, and community issues by operating for the public good rather than profit. They rely on donations, grants, and volunteers to fund their missions, which range from supporting education to advocating for human rights and environmental conservation. Nonprofits often serve marginalized or underserved populations, filling gaps left by government and private sector efforts. Their success is measured not by financial gain but by the impact they make, fostering community engagement and driving positive change. Through dedication and collaboration, nonprofits help build a more equitable and compassionate society.

Can’d Aid is a national nonprofit dedicated to creating a ripple effect of goodness. Their people-powered programs provide tools and access for under-resourced communities to lead healthy, active, and creative lives. Since its inception in 2013, over 12,000 bikes, 8,500 skateboards and more than 3,800 new instruments have been donated to kids in underserved communities nationwide. Can’d Aid’s Crush It Crusade program also works to strengthen recycling initiatives nationwide in partnership with Ball Foundation. With the help of thousands of generous volunteers, Can’d Aid is building a movement and model for innovative, responsive and connected community engagement. (Turn It Up Media, 2024)

Longmont, Colorado – Can’d Aid announces the launch of their new Ukes for Youth initiative, which builds, decorates and donates ukuleles to children. The program blends the wildly successful, people-powered element of Can’d Aid’s bike and skateboard builds with the creative ethos of their Music + Arts program, which donates new instruments to public school music programs. 

Can’d Aid is excited to pilot the instrument build, which integrates some of their strongest and most impactful approaches to doing good, in Broomfield at Rails End Beer Company from 5p.m. -7p.m. on August 28, 2024.

Why ukuleles? Learning an instrument like the ukulele teaches young musicians skills like tuning, rhythm, hand coordination, sight reading, and other skills; along with cultivating broader social and emotional benefits that can last a lifetime. Can’d Aid encourages kids to live their most creative lives by providing instruments nationwide.

Instrument builds are a new addition to Can’d Aid’s Music + Arts Program, which provides instruments and inspiration to the next generation of musicians. Supporting the program are Can’d Aid’s Tunes Ambassadors, including GRAMMY nominated artists like Tyler Childers and The Food Stamps, and The Steep Canyon Rangers, who take time out while on tour to visit underfunded public schools for live performances and one-on-one connection with students. For many students this is their first live-music experience and can spark for a lifetime love of the arts. To date, Can’d Aid’s Music + Arts program has donated more than 3,800 new instruments to music programs across the country. Can’d Aid is excited to add ukulele building volunteer opportunities to further fuel their people-powered programs and get more instruments into kids’ hands.

If you’re in the Broomfield, Colorado area and wish to participate in this worthwhile event:

Get into the rhythm of giving back when you join Can’d Aid, Tegna Foundation, and the Broomfield Community Foundation at the upcoming Ukulele Build at Rails End Beer Company. Assemble a ukulele and decorate it with an inspirational message or creative design. Can’d Aid will provide all necessary supplies. 60 ukuleles will be built and donated to kids in the Broomfield, Colorado area.

“We have wanted to add a people-powered element to our Music program for years, and piloting this Ukulele program is really exciting for all of us! We hope the new volunteer offering will attract die-hard Can’d Aiders and newcomers alike, as we work to get more instruments into kids’ hands.”

Photo: Can’d Aid, used with permission.

Bucket List Destination: WorldSprings Dallas

WorldSprings Dallas, the first mineral springs wellness destination, is now open. Photo: WorldSprings, used with permission.

WorldSprings is now officially open at Grandscape in The Colony. Debuting as the first outdoor mineral springs immersive experience in Texas and the largest of its kind in the United States, WorldSprings has 46 outdoor soaking pools, eight saunas, a 12-room first-class spa facility, a premier food and beverage program, and more. Located only 20 minutes outside of Dallas, WorldSprings is the second water retreat from investment firm Off Road Capital, preceded by its sister site, Iron Mountain Hot Springs in Glenwood Springs, Colorado. As the largest location to date under Off Road Capital’s portfolio, WorldSprings spans 9 acres, cementing its status as a landmark destination for travelers and residents alike. (WorldSprings, 2024)

“After years of dedicated planning and preparation, we are overjoyed to open our doors and contribute to the wellness and community improvement of the vibrant DFW area. Our vision is to create a welcoming space where everyone can focus on their wellness and come together to build a stronger sense of community spirit.” – Amelia Wohrle, General Manager

Thoughtfully designed by architectural and engineering solutions firm HFA-AE, WorldSprings is an all-encompassing social and recreational wellness destination that features mineral soaking pools inspired by the world’s most famous hot springs – such as Jordan’s Dead Sea, Iceland’s Blue Lagoon, and Mexico’s Grutas Tolantongo, all once-in-a-lifetime bucket-list destinations. The pools are meticulously formulated with minerals and ranging from hot to cold temperatures in order to bring the restorative soaking benefits all to one place. 

Visitors are greeted in the check-in area where they can browse a highly curated retail section and begin their experience. The Spa and Wellness Center brings world-class body treatments, facials and athletic recovery to guests, making WorldSprings a truly singular destination for the wellness-minded. Once checked in, guests make their way to the locker room, which serves as home base during their WorldSprings experience. The neighboring The Springs Kitchen & Bar welcomes guests to dine in. WorldSprings has a total of 46 pools ranging in temperature from 45-degree cold plunge pools to 104-degree bodies of water to ensure a completely personalized wellness journey. VIP cabanas are available for rent.

Guests will be able to enjoy a variety of water experiences, including:

  • The freshwater Globe Pool, created for all ages
  • The Dead Sea pool, a saline-enriched pool for 18+ adults only
  • Four minerally dense destination areas are formulated to replicate the soaking experience of the Americas, Europe, Asia and South Pacific regions of the world. These pools are for 18+ adults only. 

“This venture represents not only a new chapter for our company but also a testament to our commitment to offering exceptional hospitality centered around making our guests feel better. We look forward to sharing the magic of WorldSprings with the local community.” – Chris Barrett, WorldSprings CEO

WorldSprings Dallas
3240 Plano Parkway
The Colony, Texas 75056

Iron Mountain Hot Springs is located on the bank of the Colorado River in Glenwood Springs. Soaking options include 16 thermal water pools filled with 100 percent pure mineral water, a new mineral pool, and a freshwater family pool with a whirlpool spa. WorldSprings is the property’s latest expansion for adults 21 years and older, adding 10 new mineral experience pools, a cold plunge pool, two large freshwater pools and a new cafe. 

Spurs and Western Art: A Guide to the National Day of the Cowboy Celebration

Celebrate the legacy of the West at the Briscoe Western Art Museum this Saturday July 27, 2024. Photo: Briscoe Western Art Museum, used with permission.

It’s time to celebrate the legacy of the West – the cowgirls, the cowboys, and vaqueros at the Briscoe Western Art Museum’s National Day of the Cowboy celebration Saturday, July 27, 10a.m. – 4p.m. at the museum’s campus on the banks of the River Walk. (Briscoe Western Art Museum, 2024)

This free community event includes free admission to the museum and its exhibitions, as well as indoor and outdoor activities. This year’s event tips its hat to the role cowgirls play in the West while showcasing cowboy life, skills, art, and more. Cowboys and girls of all ages can enjoy live music, games, crafts, a chuck wagon with tasty cowboy treats straight from the trail, artist demonstrations, and hands-on fun. Pre-register in advance to enjoy the free Western fun.

One of the Briscoe’s most treasured annual events, National Day of the Cowboy highlights and preserves America’s cowboy culture and pioneer heritage. The day began in 2005 to celebrate and preserve the heritage of the American cowboy, cowgirl, and vaquero in the United States. The state of Texas declared it a day of honor in 2015 and the Briscoe annually hosts a free community day marking the occasion, throwing open the doors of the museum to honor the cowgirl, cowboy, and vaquero in us all.

The museum’s National Day of the Cowboy Celebration includes:

  • Free event and museum admission and activities for the whole family, including the museum’s 14 galleries and the McNutt Sculpture Garden.
  • Cowpoke games and crafts, where you can create your own cowboy hat and spurs, play horseshoes, make your own stick pony and try your hand at barrel racing. All arts and crafts are free and supplies are provided.
  • Cowboy music with The Barditch Hippies, playing live in the museum’s McNutt Sculpture Garden, where the fantastic bronze sculptures and lush, shady greenery are the perfect backdrop for cowboy fun.
  • Authentic chuck wagon cooking with free samples of peach cobbler, along with food truck grub and tasty barbeque available from Cake ‘n Que to satisfy any hungry cowpokes.
  • Demonstrations of how to craft the essential tools of the cowboy trade by members of the Traditional Cowboy Arts Association.
  • Lassos and fun with local rodeo cowboys and the San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo and watch roper Cowboy Doug dazzle and delight with roping demonstrations.
  • Western art brought to life through live demonstrations:
    • Watch acclaimed, award-winning cowgirl artist Mary Ross Buchholz demonstrate illustration techniques using charcoal to create realistic imagery, sharing how to artfully capture Western scenes.
    • Enjoy a live sculpting demonstration by Jason Scull, one of the Cowboy Artists of America working to authentically preserve the culture of Western life through fine art.
    • See Texas cowboy artist Mike Capron showcase how he authentically portrays ranching and cowboy scenes.
  • Special appearances by Miss Rodeo Texas 2024, Ashlyn Williams, San Antonio River Walk Princess Annette Flores and Marina the Turtle, visiting to remind everyone “stuff the boat” to support this year’s Communities In Schools supply drive. Bring school supplies to National Day of the Cowboy and help Marina stuff the boat to benefit local children.
  • A display of escaramuza attire – what the talented women who participate in charreadas wear as they perform – and a local rider answering questions about what it’s like to be an escaramuza.
  • Storyteller Antoinette Lakey bringing the story of Mary Fields, the first African American woman stagecoach driver, to life. For many years, Fields traveled the West with her pet eagle, never losing a single horse or package. Hear her story as Lakey reads from “Fearless Mary: Mary Fields, American Stagecoach Driver.” A community leader, researcher, and dramatist, Antoinette Lakey currently serves as Artistic Director for Teatro Anansi, an organization with a mission to connect, celebrate and commemorate African American theatre, performing arts and history within the greater San Antonio community.
  • Cowboy poetry with poet Don Mathis, sharing his original poetry about the National Day of the Cowboy.
  • A look back at what it was like to be a trail rider and a black cowboy with a storyteller dressed in period attire, sharing about life in the West in 1875.
  • Nature’s beauty and resilience on display during the museum’s summer exhibition, Survival of the Fittest: Envisioning Wildlife and Wilderness with the Big Four, Masterworks from the Rijksmuseum Twenthe and the National Museum of Wildlife Art. The exhibition’s title references Charles Darwin’s On the Origin of Species, which had a revolutionary impact on how people from Western cultures envisioned our relationship with the other animals on Earth. A special mini-drawing lab also offers step-by-step instructions to draw animals and landscapes.

Briscoe Western Art Museum: Preserving and presenting the art, history and culture of the American West through engaging exhibitions, educational programs and public events reflective of the region’s rich traditions and shared heritage, the Briscoe Western Art Museum is located on the San Antonio River Walk at 210 W. Market Street in the beautifully restored 1930s former San Antonio Public Library building. Named in honor of the late Texas Gov. Dolph Briscoe Jr. and his wife, Janey Slaughter Briscoe, the museum includes the three-story Jack Guenther Pavilion, used for event rentals and programs, and the outdoor McNutt Sculpture Garden.

Book event: Annual San Antonio Book Festival

The annual San Antonio Book Festival is taking place this Saturday. Photo: San Antonio Book Festival, used with permission.

Exciting news, fellow book lovers! The annual San Antonio Book Festival is happening this weekend. I was lucky enough to be at the inaugural event and it was so much fun. Book festivals are vibrant celebrations of literature that bring together authors, publishers, and avid readers to explore everything book related. These events cater to book enthusiasts and offer a platform for diverse voices and narratives to thrive. From panel discussions to book signings, they foster an immersive experience where attendees can explore the world of storytelling. Book festivals ignite a passion for reading, sparking intellectual discourse and fostering a sense of community among bibliophiles. With their eclectic mix of genres and authors, these festivals serve as catalysts for inspiration, creativity, and the enduring love affair with the written word.

The San Antonio Book Festival (SABF), taking place at the Central Library and UTSA Southwest Campus in downtown San Antonio, is excited to celebrate their 12th annual festival this Saturday, April 13 from 9a.m. to 5p.m. The festival will feature nearly 100 national, regional and local authors including 66 sessions for guests to attend. A full list of all the sessions at the festival is available online. The festival is FREE and open to all ages. (San Antonio Book Festival, 2024)

SABF is also hosting its Authors in Schools program in partnership with San Antonio ISD and Edgewood ISD on Friday, April 12. Participating authors include Pedro Martin (Mexikid) and Kazu Kibuishi (Waverider). The Authors in Schools program helps encourage a passion for reading among children and teens, pairing award-winning authors with underserved, low-income schools to deliver presentations, tell funny stories, share personal journeys, and describe the process of writing their books. All students in attendance receive a free, signed copy of the author’s book to take home. This year’s Authors in Schools program will impact over 1,500 students.

Authors in Schools:
• 2p.m., Friday, April 12, 2024

San Antonio Book Festival:
• 9a.m. to 5p.m., Saturday, April 13, 2024

Authors in Schools:
• Henry Wadsworth Longfellow Middle School, SAISD
1130 E Sunshine Dr, San Antonio, TX 78228
***Author: Pedro Martin (Mexikid)
• Alonso S. Perales Elementary School, Edgewood ISD
1507 Ceralvo St, San Antonio, TX 78237
***Author: Kazu Kibuishi (Waverider)

San Antonio Book Festival:
• Central Library and UTSA Southwest Campus
600 Soledad St. and 1201 Navarro St.
San Antonio, TX 78205

The mission of the San Antonio Book Festival (SABF) is to unite readers and writers in a celebration of ideas, books, libraries, and literary culture. SABF was first presented in April 2013. Founding partners include the San Antonio Public Library, UTSA Southwest Campus, the San Antonio Public Library Foundation, and Texas Book Festival. This “Fiesta for the mind” is a gift to visitors and the citizens of San Antonio, free and open to all.

Fermenteria opens taproom in San Antonio

Fermenteria, a unique new alcoholic beverage, introduces hard water kefir to the San Antonio market. Photo: Giant Noise Partners, used with permission.

San Antonio’s newest taproom — Fermenteria — is now open for business at 2243 East Commerce. Fermenteria is a hard water kefir beverage that is naturally fermented and alive with hundreds of strains of probiotics, enzymes, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Kefir grains are used to balance the fermentation environment, then flavored with botanicals and natural extracts for a lightly sweet and effervescent finish. The alcohol is created from a wild yeast culture that occurs within the fermentation process. (Fermenteria, 2024)

Fermenteria is owned by entrepreneur Jade Sheppard, who studied at the University of Texas in Austin. The team at Fermenteria learned how to make hard water kefir after first trying it in Nicaragua and spent the last two years working with brew masters in central Texas to build a formula and method that would allow her to brew it commercially.

“When I first tried hard water kefir, I was astonished at how light and bubbly it was because it gave me a great little buzz with no hangover. I couldn’t be more excited to share this great drink with the Central Texas community. Now that we’ve opened our doors, Fermenteria will be a fantastic, healthy alcoholic alternative.” – owner Jade Sheppard.

Every ingredient used at Fermenteria is curated for quality and flavor profile. Water kefir beverages contain 100% naturally occurring enzymes, probiotics, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that support  the gut’s biome, aiding in metabolism and strengthens the immune system. Fermenteria’s alcoholic beverages contain 5% alcohol, zero sugar, and are only 100 calories. Flavors include Pineapple Lemongrass, Brut, Hibiscus Sangria, Paloma, Thai Lime Coconut, and Orange Elderflower. The taproom will also be serving several non-alcoholic options including nitro cold brew coffee and espresso beverages in addition to some water kefir flavors. Non-alcoholic flavors include Pineapple Coconut, Butterfly Pea Tea Lemonade, and Strawberry Lime Tulsi.

The taproom is open Wednesday through Sunday. Operating hours are 4p.m. to 10p.m. on Wednesdays and Thursdays, 4p.m. to midnight on Fridays, 11a.m. to midnight on Saturdays, and 11a.m. to 9p.m. on Sundays. In addition to enjoying Fermenteria in the taproom, guests can also purchase growlers to-go or bring in their own container. Fermenteria will soon be bottling its product to be available at local grocery and convenience stores; more information to be announced at a later date. Local bars and restaurants interested in carrying Fermenteria on tap can contact the taproom for more information.

With a commitment to work alongside the small business community, Fermenteria will host a free monthly community event for San Antonio residents to look forward to. Each event will give back proceeds being donated to a local nonprofit. The first community event at Fermenteria will be held from 6p.m. to midnight on Saturday, April 13. The event will benefit the Thrive Youth Center, a shelter for LGBTQ+ youth.

Fermenteria
2243 East Commerce
San Antonio, TX 78203

Call for Luminaria 2024 festival artists now open

Interested artists can apply online to be feature in this year’s Luminaria. Photo by Mike Farquhar, courtesy Luminaria

Attention artists: Luminaria recently put out a call for artists for their next Luminaria Contemporary Arts Festival tentatively scheduled for Saturday, October 19, 2024. The locations is TBA later but all interested artists are welcome to apply online.  (Luminaria, 2024)

Visual artists, theater performers, digital artists, installation artists, musicians, poets, and all other form of artists interested in showcasing their artwork at the Luminaria Contemporary Arts Festival 2024 can apply. There are stages and buildings eagerly waiting to be filled with the talented work of a few creative and passionate artists to be selected by extraordinary curators.

Applications will be evaluated by a curatorial committee made up of local working artists and art experts. Featured Artists will be notified in April followed by site-visits, consultations, mentorship, a photo shoot, spotlight videos, media interviews, and networking opportunities. A public announcement of the festival line-up will be held in September.

Luminaria is a dynamic nonprofit arts organization dedicated to producing and promoting the arts to the city of San Antonio. Luminaria is an inclusive organization celebrating the visual and multimedia arts in San Antonio through public engagement and active support for artists. It was founded in 2008 by local arts advocates wanting to create a communal celebration for the city’s arts organizations and artists. Since adopting a new strategic plan in 2021, Luminaria is dedicated to the innovative interpretation of San Antonio’s culture, history, and environment through creative placemaking and site-specific arts integration. Luminaria coordinates with anchor arts institutions, cultural and heritage organizations, and other community partners to foster a vibrant and internationally resonant arts culture in the city.