Reception will include Soledad tequila tastings, special curated menu, live music, and more. Photo: Carriqui, used with permission.
Carriqui continues the annual tradition of honoring loved ones who have passed on Día de los Muertos with a reception on Wednesday, November 1 from 6:30p.m. to 8:30p.m. in the Rockhouse. The one-night-only event includes Soledad tequila tastings, a signature cocktail, wine, live music, and unique bites. Carriqui’s team will also be collaborating on an ofrenda, which will be available for guests to view and contribute their own offerings. (Carriqui, 2023)
The featured unique bites include totopos with smoky chicken tinga, Texas redfish ceviche with charred salsa verde, barbacoa quesadillas, smoked crispy quail with salsa macha, and more. The evening will be complemented by a performance from Latin guitarist Adam Zuniga.
Tickets are available for purchase for $65 per person through OpenTable. Ticket price includes a raffle entry for a limited edition bottle of Soledad Día de los Muertos Janitzio.
Bakery Lorraine will offer Halloween themed tarts, cookies, moonpies, and macarons from October 28 through October 31, 2023. Photo: Bakery Lorraine, used with permission.
Bakery Lorraine is excited to announce that its Halloween treats are back this year for some spooky fun everyone can enjoy. From Saturday, October 28 until Tuesday, October 31, these fun Halloween treats will be available at all Bakery Lorraine locations. The delectable pastries are sure to satisfy any Halloween sweet tooth craving, whether at a Halloween themed party, welcoming trick-or-treaters or just enjoying a solo spooky treat. (Bakery Lorraine, 2023)
Its Halloween offerings include the below pastries:
Black Cat Tart – Milk chocolate mousse with a white chocolate mousse filling, chocolate shortbread base, chocolate eyes and ears
White Chocolate Mummy Tart – Buttery lemon curd in a crisp tart shell topped with torched meringue and two chocolate chips for the mummy’s eyes
Spooky Chocolate Caramel Tart – Salted caramel with a white chocolate glaze and spooky chocolate bats
Gingerbread Voodoo Doll – Gingerbread cookie dipped in milk chocolate and royal icing decor
Ghost Moonpie – Fluffy honey marshmallow sandwiched in between house made graham crackers and dipped in a white chocolate
Additionally, the first 30 children to enter Bakery Lorraine on Tuesday, October 31 only, will receive a FREE macaron. This will take place at every location.
Bakery Lorraine is a San Antonio favorite and nationally recognized pastry shop famous for its colorful macarons and exquisite French pastries. Owned by chefs Anne Ng, Jeremy Mandrell, and operator Charlie Biedenharn, Bakery Lorraine was named one of the best new bakeries in the U.S. by Food & Wine as well as one of the “13 Destination Bakeries” by Conde Nast Traveler. Bakery Lorraine serves handmade French pastries and macarons using the finest ingredients. The bakery serves an all-day menu including items like its Croque Madame, the quiche Lorraine, an assortment of salads and soups and artisan sandwiches. Bakery Lorraine has four locations in San Antonio including one in the Historic Pearl district, one in the Medical Center, one in the RIM shopping center, and one inside The DoSeum. Bakery Lorraine also has an Austin location at the Domain NORTHSIDE and a Boerne location.
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.
Based on the best-selling book ‘Carmela Full of Wishes,’ the acclaimed production celebrates family, dreamers, and the unexpected ‘magik’ of hope. Photo: Magik Theatre, used with permission.
Magik Theatre starts its new season by celebrating imagination and big dreams with a production sure to thrill anyone who has ever sent wishes into the wind by blowing on a dandelion. Based on the celebrated book of the same title by Newbery Medal and Caldecott Honor-winning author Matt de la Peña and illustrator Christian Robinson, Carmela Full of Wishes runs from October 14-22. In the spirit of wishing and dreaming big this season, Magik announces a delightful new collaboration with Hemisfair to include a new series of exciting events and special performances designed to charm young audiences at every turn. Ticket information is available online. (Magik Theatre, 2023)
THE MAGIK OF WISHES On her seventh birthday, Carmela wakes up thrilled to finally be old enough to join her big brother on their family errands. As they visit the local lavanderia, bodega, and various neighbors, Carmela stumbles upon a lone dandelion growing in the pavement. Before she can blow away its white fluff, her brother reminds her to make a wish. Full of hopes and dreams, Carmela wishes for a candy machine and a fancy bed for Mamí like the ones at the hotel where she works. But her dandelion is crushed before she can make her biggest wish, for Papí to come back home soon. Can her brother help her to believe in her dreams once again?
“Matt de la Peña’s book tells a beautiful story of a girl who discovers the magic and wonder of her wishes in the real world: in her community, in nature, and in her family. Our production keeps the heart of this story alive while also reflecting the culture of the South Texas community in a show that is sure to entertain and inspire.” – Director Claudia de Vasco.
BEHIND THE MAGIK Adapted by Alvaro Saar Rios and directed by Claudia de Vasco, the cast includes several debut performances to include Clarissa Ramos in the title role, with Ernesto Dominguez playing Carmela’s brother and Alberto Ramirez Jr. as Papí, Senor Lopez, and Flower Boy. Crystal M. Bratton returns as Carmela’s mother. Lucian Hernandez and Stormie Brennan bring Christian Robinson’s iconic illustrations to life via set design and costumes. Back by popular demand, aspiring actors and family fans can attend a post-performance meet and greet after every show.
Magik Theatre offers amazing resources for educators via field trips to the full live performance as well as educator workshops. This season, “Magik on the Road” will bring Carmela Full of Wishes directly to schools and other interested groups. Each production is accompanied by a TEKS-based interactive classroom resource guide filled with enjoyable, accessible activities related to the performance, creating an unforgettable learning experience without ever having to leave the school.
Magik Story Time at Hemisfair | Tuesday, October 10, 10a.m. Magik Theatre and Hemisfair announce a new installation of Hemisfair’s weekly Story Time with special guests from Magik Theatre reading from each production’s themed book. The series takes place in Yanaguana Garden each Tuesday before the theatre’s opening weekends with Magik’s Education Manager, Lissette Belmontes kicking off the series as she reads from “Carmela Full of Wishes” on Tuesday, October 10. To make little wishes come true, Hemisfair will gift 20 free copies of the book to its first 20 Story Time guests.
Magik Theatre Opening Day Party in the Park| Saturday, October 14, 12:30p.m., show at 2p.m. Ideally situated in San Antonio’s iconic Hemisfair, this season Magik Theatre celebrates each opening performance with free themed art activities, festive food and drinks, and complimentary live music just outside the theatre to create the perfect family outing. Patrons will not want to miss this special event series, kicking off with Carmela Full of Wishes when Hemisfair and Magik host artist Aminah Dece will provide an interactive dandelion craft, tunes by DJ Mayhem, Panderia Jimenez’s SA-famous conchas and hojarascas, and aguas frescas courtesy of Paleteria San Antonio.
Muertos Fest Free Performance of Carmela Full of Wishes| Saturday, October 28, 10a.m. During the 11th annual Día de los Muertos Fest at Hemisfair, festival attendees will have the opportunity to attend a free performance of Carmela Full of Wishes at Magik Theatre on a first-come, first-served basis. No reservation is required. Muertos Fest tip: Fest attendees are also welcome to visit the theatre’s fully stocked concession stand to purchase affordable refreshments, no admission ticket required. While there, guests can visit Magik’s ofrenda celebrating the deceased loved ones of the Magik Theatre staff.
Sensory-Friendly Performance | Saturday, October 21, 10a.m. Designed with both children and adults on the autism spectrum, and those with sensory sensitivities in mind. Our goal is a relaxed and judgment-free theatre experience where audiences can sing, laugh, and dance.
American Sign Language Interpreted Performance | Saturday, October 21, 2p.m. Robert Cardoza, the San Antonio theatre community’s primary sign language interpreter, will be available during this performance for patrons that require ASL as their primary form of communication.
A professional theatre for young audiences established in 1994, Magik Theatre’s mission is to use the power of theatre to create Magikal storytelling for children that Activates imagination, Grows young minds, and Inspires creativity and a love of learning that is the Key to a more literate future for our community.
Taco Treats For A Cause Halloween Coupon Booklets to benefit Texas Children’s Hospitals. Photo: Taco Cabana, used with permission.
This October, Taco Cabana will celebrate the Fall season with the return of its beloved, limited-time TacoTreats For A Cause Halloween Coupon Booklets, featuring five FREE signature bean & cheese tacos. (Taco Cabana, 2023)
Beginning Friday,September 29, 2023, the Taco Treats For A Cause Halloween Coupon Booklets will be available for purchase at all Texas Taco Cabana locations for just $2 while supplies last. This year, all proceeds from the booklet sales will be donated to Dell Children’s Medical Center at Ascension Seton in Austin, TX; Children’s Health in Dallas, TX; El Paso Children’s Hospital in El Paso, TX; Christus Children’s Hospital in San Antonio, TX; and Texas Children’s Hospital in Houston, TX. The booklets will be available for purchase in-restaurant only through Tuesday, October 31, 2023, and coupons must be redeemed by Wednesday, November 30, 2023.
“Giving back to the local communities we serve has always been a big part of Brand Taco Cabana since we opened our first TC in San Antonio forty-five years ago. The Taco Treats For A Cause Halloween Booklets have become a philanthropic tradition at Taco Cabana and something that so many of our loyal guests look forward to each year. We’re so happy to bring them back for the 2023 Halloween season, and we are even more honored to donate the proceeds to Texas children’s hospitals so that they may continue their life-saving efforts.” – Ulyses Camacho, Taco Cabana President and Chief Operating Officer
The Taco Treats For A Cause Halloween Coupon Booklets must be purchased in-store, and they may be redeemed only in-restaurant or via the drive-thru.
Taco Cabana, a subsidiary of YTC Enterprises, LLC, was founded in 1978. The brand specializes in Mexican-inspired food including breakfast, lunch and dinner tacos, dozen taco boxes, enchiladas, fajitas, quesadillas, flautas, burritos, double crunch pizzas, freshly made flour tortillas and a selection of made-from-scratch salsas and sauces. Restaurants feature open-display cooking, a selection of bottled beer and signature tequila margaritas, patio dining, drive-thru windows, curbside pick-up and delivery. As of September 25, 2023, Taco Cabana operates 143 company-owned restaurants in Texas.
The yearly Grape Punch is taking place this August 26, 2023. Photo: William Chris Vineyards, used with permission.
If you have ever wanted to learn about the wine making business and personally crush some grapes, your wait is over. Here is an exciting event coming up at William Chris Vineyards in Hye, Tx.
Summertime is coming to a close and at William Chris Vineyards, they are ending the summer with a punch, Grape Punch that is. William Chris Vineyards is excited to share that their annual Grape Punch event will take place on Saturday, August 26, starting at 3p.m. (William Chris Vineyards, 2023)
For a $25 ticket, guests can immerse themselves in the world of winemaking, learn how to pick the finest grapes, how to crush them with care, and how the grapes become the best Texas wines. Every ticket includes a glass of wine and a Grape Punch t-shirt.
The event is held yearly at William Chris Vineyards, recently voted the number 60 vineyard in the world by World’s Best Vineyards and is open to all wine lovers, no experience necessary. For additional information or to purchase tickets please visit them online.
The JL Bar Concert series continues this October with Randall King. Photo: JL Bar Ranch, Resort & Spa.
Coming up at the JL Bar Ranch, Resort & Spa this fall is a concert featuring Randall King on October 14, 2023. Garth Brooks expressed that Randall King “is what country music is all about.” This West Texas Plains native has been deemed the country artist to watch as he surpassed 120+ million career streams. King is taking Texas by storm in October after an extensive number of performances in places like Switzerland, Germany, Liechtenstein, and the UK. This JL Bar concert is currently his only West Texas scheduled event. Opening the night will be second-generation musician, Tyler Booth, who has performed with legendary country music stars such as Brooks & Dunn and Dwight Yoakam. This lineup will bring a concert like you have never seen before. (JL Bar Ranch, Resort & Spa, 2023)
Purchase your tickets now, for this exclusive pure Texas event. The venue doors and bar will open at 6p.m., the opening act will begin at 6:45p.m., and the headliner will take the stage at 8:30p.m. General admission tickets for on property guests are $35 while off property tickets are $45.
There is no need to drive hit the road after the concert. Not to mention, for astronomy buffs, the first of two solar eclipses is set to take place: The Ring of Fire – where the moon crosses in front of the sun during the daytime, casting a shadow that will turn light into darkness, for several minutes. Reserve a weekend staycation to unplug, relax, unwind, and recharge on this eventful fall weekend.
Make sure to browse through the extensive list of indoor and outdoor activities to plan an enhanced, customized experience during your stay. Use the BOOK NOWbutton to be directed to the online reservation system or you can contact Guest Service Team for an added personal touch: call (855) 414-3337 or email Guest Services.
The Magik Theatre announces their season shows for 2023-2024. Photo: Magik Theatre, used with permission.
One of the most powerful things about childhood is imagination. It is a time when we believe in fairy tales, wish upon stars, and that no dream is too big or too far out of reach. Magik Theatre’s 2023-24 season reminds us that within every dream lies hope through classic tales and new adventures that keep the magic of dreams alive. (Magik Theatre, 2023)
“All of our main characters this season are dreamers in one way or another. We want our audience to see that if you can dream it, you can do it.” – Artistic Director Anthony Runfola says.
As always, the theatre brings the magic to life for ALL children with Sensory-Friendly, Pay What You Wish, and American Sign Language Interpreted performances for each production. These measures are in place to create an inclusive and welcoming environment where children can develop a life-long love of theatre and believe in the wonder of Magik.
Magik announces the introduction of the Magik Circle which includes exclusive perks for season subscribers to include discounts on camps, academies, additional single tickets, and merchandise. Season ticket holders will also have access to sneak peek performances, special VIP invitations and other surprises throughout the season.
MAGIK THEATRE PRESENTS: 2023-2024 SEASON (Performance times vary. Programs and dates are subject to change.)
CARMELA FULL OF WISHES – October 14 – October 22, 2023 Adapted by Alvaro Saar Rios from the book by Matt de la Peña, Illustrated by Christian Robinson Recommended for ages 5+
If you have ever blown on a dandelion and sent your wishes into the wind, then you will relate to the story of Carmela, a young girl who believes that those wishes do come true. This touching tale takes place on Carmela’s birthday and follows her as she tags along with her big brother on family errands. Along the way, she discovers a dandelion and makes several wishes, including one special wish for her father to return home. But when an accident crushes her dandelion before she can make her biggest wish, Carmela has to put her faith in something bigger than wishes, luck, or magic—the power of hope. “Carmela Full of Wishes” is a touching play based on the acclaimed book by Matt de la Peña and Christian Robinson, celebrating family, dreamers, and the unexpected magic of hope.
THE VELVETEEN RABBIT – November 18 – December 24, 2023 By Margery Williams Adapted by Michelle Hoppe-Long Recommended for ages 5+
There is no better time than the holidays to believe in a little magic. This is why Magik Theatre is bringing back “The Velveteen Rabbit,” a timeless classic that captures everything we love about the holiday season. This heartwarming play is based on a beloved children’s story and follows the journey of a shy toy rabbit made from velveteen who longs to become real. Through his adventures with the Boy, the Velveteen Rabbit learns about love, friendship, and the true meaning of being real. The play is set in a cozy and enchanting world and is full of touching moments that will leave audiences feeling inspired and uplifted.
DON’T LET THE PIGEON DRIVE THE BUS – February 10 – March 17, 2024 Based on the book “Don’t Let The Pigeon Drive the Bus!” by Mo Willems Published by Hyperion Books for Children Script by Mo Willems and Tom Warburton Lyrics by Mo Willems Music by Deborah Wicks La Puma Dramaturgy by Megan Alrutz Recommended for ages 4+
A tenacious bird who will not take no for an answer is at the heart of the rollicking, hilarious production, “Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus: The Musical.” Based on the popular book by Mo Willems, the story follows a determined pigeon who dreams of driving a bus, but the audience must convince him that it is not the best idea…but maybe there is something he can do. With catchy songs, colorful characters, and a heartwarming message about responsibility, this production promises to be a joyous experience that will keep your wings flappin’! Don’t miss your chance to join the fun when it pulls into the theatre in 2024.
THE BFG (BIG FRIENDLY GIANT) – May 4 – June 2, 2024 Adapted for the stage by David Wood From the book by Roald Dahl Recommended for ages 6+
Contrary to some famous fairy tales, not all giants are ogres. In other words, never judge a book by its cover. That is an overarching theme in “The BFG” (Big Friendly Giant), one of Roald Dahl’s most endearing classics. This stage production brings the 24-feet-tall Big Friendly Giant and a little orphan named Sophie to life as they team up to save the children of England from the child-eating giants Bloodbottler, Fleshlumpeater, Bonecruncher, Meatdripper, Childchewer, and Gizzardgulper. In Dahl’s uniquely creative combination of fantasy meets reality, the duo receives help from the Queen of England and the Heads of the Army and Airforce, who provide modern-day helicopters to aid in the mission. Along the way, Sophie finds a friend she can count on and the BFG finds a friend who accepts him for who he is.
The BFG promises to deliver a captivating mix of thrilling adventures, playful wordplay, and even some explosive whizzpopping moments guaranteed to make you smile.
2023-2024 TICKET OPTIONS Season subscriptions and Flex Passes are on sale now. Single tickets go on sale September 8, 2023.
SEASON SUBSCRIPTION PRICING Four Show Subscription $66 per person (Savings of 34% off single ticket prices) Three Show Subscription $54 per person (Savings of 28% off single ticket prices)
Magik’s new season brings exciting new benefits! Introducing Magik Circle which includes exclusive perks for season subscribers such as discounts on additional single tickets, merchandise and camps and academies. Season ticket holders will also have access to sneak peek performances, special VIP invitations and other surprises throughout the season. No fees to exchange unexpired tickets to another date.
A Flex Pass is a package of 10 or 20 tickets that can be used for any production at Magik Theatre. Flex passes can be used any way patrons wish throughout the season. Use them one or two at a time, or all together. No fees to exchange unexpired tickets to another date. Applicable to public performances only.
SINGLE TICKETS ● $25 for adults ● $20 for children (ages 3-17), 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, 9a.m. – 5p.m.
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.
Enjoy a night of live music in the heart of the River Walk at the next Sips and Sounds of the West this Friday August 4, 2023. Photo: Briscoe Western Art Museum, used with permission.
Kick back and kick up your heels on the banks of the River Walk at the Briscoe Western Art Museum’s Sips and Sounds of the West. Filling the museum’s Jack Guenther Pavilion and McNutt Sculpture Garden, the evening features live music, drinks and food flowing through the pavilion and under the watchful eyes of the fantastic bronze sculptures that call the garden home on Friday, August 4. (Briscoe Western Art Museum, 2023)
San Antonio’s preeminent classic country cover band The Texases will fill the evening with your favorite country hits from ‘66 to ’96 for a great date night or a night out with friends. With the option to be in the garden or indoors enjoying a cool breeze thanks to air conditioning, the evening is the perfect summer treat. The ticketed event begins at 6:30p.m. with music from 7p.m. – 8:30p.m. and drinks and food until 9p.m. from La Gloria’s food and margarita truck.
Sips and Sounds of the West tickets are $15 for museum members and $20 for nonmembers. The event is for ages 18 and up. Tickets will be sold at the door as available. The Briscoe is located on the south end of the River Walk, near the Arneson River Theatre and La Villita, with convenient parking at the Riverbend Garage directly adjacent to the museum or one of many downtown surface lots.
Photo: Briscoe Western Art Museum, used with permission.
New Southtown Rock ‘n’ Roll bar Gimme Gimme announces opening date of August 1, 2023. Photo: txtroublemaker, used with permission.
Gimme Gimme, a new rock ‘n’ roll bar coming to San Antonio, is excited to announce its official opening day, slated for Tuesday, August 1, 2023. Adjacent to the bar will be the concept A Perfect Day, a modern neighborhood wine bar, which will open on the same day. (Gimme Gimme, 2023)
Leading this exciting new concept are bar owners Roger Herr of Bar Loretta and Aaron Peña of Amor Eterno. Partners Michael Neff and Chef Paul Petersen of Bar Loretta will be overseeing the menu efforts, with Neff focusing on the bar program and Petersen leading the kitchen.
Gimme Gimme (think Ramones), will offer a rock ‘n’ roll experience with craft cocktails, a robust beer and wine list, and chef-driven food in the space formerly occupied by Francis Bogside.
“Growing up in San Antonio, I’ve always known our city as the home of rock ‘n’ roll. The inspiration for Gimme Gimme comes from wanting to create our own version of what we think a rock ‘n’ roll bar can be. Great music, great food, great cocktails, great service, and always a sense of humor. I’m super excited to share what our team has created,” said Owner Roger Herr.
The adjacent space, A Perfect Day, will offer a wine-forward, relaxed atmosphere with small bites, ready-made cocktails, and plenty of wine.
“I’m really looking forward to adding another space to Southtown that will be a totally different direction than our respective concepts that Roger and I are known for,” said Owner Aaron Peña. “Musically, the 14-year-old punk rocker version of my younger self is really excited to help curate the selection of tunes we will feature inside both Gimme Gimme and A Perfect Day – I think the neighborhood is going to love having an additional late night food and beverage option in the most walkable neighborhood in San Antonio.”
Operating hours will be as follow: Gimme Gimme: Open 7 days a week from 6p.m. – 2a.m. A Perfect Day: Open Monday-Friday from 4p.m. – 10p.m.; Saturday-Sunday from 12p.m. – 10p.m.
Gimme Gimme/A Perfect Day 803 South Saint Mary’s St San Antonio, TX 78205
SA Examiner 