Tag: Fourth of July

Texas 4th of July Weekend Guide: Best Rooftop Parties, BBQ, & Brunch Deals

Paris Baguette is celebrating the Fourth of July with festive limited-time treats. Photo: Paris Baguette, used with permission.

The Ultimate Texas 4th of July Weekend Guide: Where to Eat, Celebrate, and Relax

Independence Day weekend is here! Whether you are looking for rooftop fireworks with a DJ, a family-style Texas barbecue, or a relaxing post-holiday spa day, Texas has something spectacular lined up for you.

From San Antonio to Austin and Frisco, here is your curated guide to the best food, events, and celebrations for the Fourth of July. (The Gunter Hotel, Paris Baguette, La Panadería, Freight Fried Chicken, Kimpton Santo San Antonio Riverwalk, Otto’s Ice House, Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa, The Faust Hotel, Briscoe Western Art Museum, Omni Hotels/2026)

🍽️ San Antonio Eats & Experiences

The Gunter Hotel

Celebrate the Fourth at Jots, the Gunter Hotel’s signature restaurant. Indulge in a special holiday dish or stick around for their famous Sunday Jazz brunch.

  • The Special: Steak & Frites ($35) on Saturday, July 4.
  • Jots’ Jazz Brunch: Sundays from 10 AM – 1 PM featuring live music from The Dirty River Jazz Band and a historic supper-club-inspired menu.
  • Reservations: Encouraged via OpenTable.

Paris Baguette

Satisfy your sweet tooth with limited-time patriotic treats perfect for any holiday gathering.

  • Stars & Stripes Berry Trifle Cake: Three layers of vanilla sponge cake filled with soft cream, strawberries, and blueberries. Serves 8. (Available now through July 5)
  • Red, White & Blue Mochi Donut: A colorful, seasonal festive donut. (Available now through July 19)

La Panadería

Heading to the downtown parade? All San Antonio locations will be open serving artisan pan dulce, pastries, and café favorites.

  • Pro-Tip: The Houston Street downtown location is the perfect pitstop before or after the city’s Stars & Stripes on Houston Street Fourth of July Parade.
  • When: Saturday, July 4 (Regular business hours).
  • Orders: Skip the line and order online.

Freight Fried Chicken

312 Pearl Parkway, Building 6, San Antonio, TX 78215 James Beard-nominated chef and veteran Nicola Blaque invites veterans and community members to enjoy her nationally recognized recipes.

  • The Special: A limited-time fried chicken plate (two pieces of fried chicken with any side) for just $10.
  • When: Saturday, July 4 through Sunday, July 6.
  • Hours: Friday – Saturday (10 AM – 10 PM), Sunday (11 AM – 9 PM).

Otto’s Ice House

111 Newell Ave., San Antonio, TX 78212 If you are looking for a casual, all-day hangout along the San Antonio River, this is your spot. Located right near Pearl’s shops, it’s an easy go-to for cold drinks and quality time with family.

  • Holiday Weekend Hours: Friday – Saturday (11 AM – 12 AM), Sunday (11 AM – 10 PM).

🏨 Hotel Takeovers & Rooftop Parties

Kimpton Santo San Antonio-Riverwalk

  • Tenfold Rooftop | Red, White & Blue Skies Celebrate Independence Day above the city at this all-day pool party sponsored by Aperol. Expect rooftop poolside vibes, specialty cocktails, live DJs, and prime views of the city’s official firework demonstration at Hemisfair.
    • When: Saturday, July 4 from 12 PM – 12 AM.
    • Tickets: Required via the booking link.
  • Dean’s Steak and Seafood Enjoy incredible fine dining alongside a unique pop-up experience. Tried & True Leather will be at the bar offering custom and pre-made leather works for the holiday.
    • When: Saturday, July 4 from 6 PM – 10 PM.
    • Reservations: Strongly encouraged through OpenTable.

Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa

  • Corinne San Antonio & Anaqua Garden Bar Enjoy family-style barbecue favorites, festive summer cocktails, live music, and outdoor dining on the shared downtown patio. Budweiser will also be on-site as the featured beer vendor.
    • When: Saturday, July 4 from 11 AM – 2 PM.
    • Reservations: OpenTable (Corinne) or via link here (Anaqua poolside).
  • The Spa Plaza San Antonio | Wellness in the Garden: Reset Day Recover and recharge after the holiday. This rejuvenating experience invites you to slow down, refresh, and prioritize self-care in a relaxing outdoor setting.
    • When: Sunday, July 5 from 10 AM – 11 AM.
    • Bookings: Available via the website link.

The Faust Hotel

Wilhelm & Werner – 229 South Castell Ave., New Braunfels, TX 78130 Escape to New Braunfels for an elevated Texas-style brasserie lunch and brunch service inside this historic hotel.

  • When: Saturday and Sunday from 10:30 AM – 2:30 PM.
  • Reservations: Encouraged via the website.

🏛️ Culture & Arts

Briscoe Western Art Museum

Celebrate America’s 250th birthday with heavily discounted and free admissions while checking out the stunning Selena Forever / Siempre Selena photography exhibition.

  • July 4th: $2.50 admission for all guests.
  • July 5th: Free entry for locals.

🚗 Worth the Drive: Austin & Frisco Events

Rooftop Pool Celebration at Omni Austin Hotel Downtown

700 San Jacinto Blvd. Austin, TX 78701 Head up to the rooftop pool and Cloud Bar for a special 4th of July edition of their popular Summer Saturdays series.

  • When: Saturday, July 4 – Sunday, July 5.
  • Access: Complimentary for overnight guests; public day passes start at $60 via ResortPass.

Red, White & Blue BBQ at Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa

8212 Barton Club Drive, Austin, TX 78735 Celebrate under the Hill Country sky with classic Texas barbecue, lawn games, a fireworks finale, and live music from multiplatinum country artist Neal McCoy (with opener Mason Lively).

  • When: Friday, July 3.
  • Admission: Open to resort guests and country club members.
  • Upgrade: The Star-Spangled VIP Experience ($160/person) offers premium food/drinks and front-row terrace views of the fireworks.

Fireworks on the Fairway at Omni PGA Frisco Resort & Spa

4341 PGA Parkway, Frisco, TX 75033 Grammy Award-winning artist Darius Rucker takes the stage for an unforgettable evening! The event features a massive combined drone and fireworks display, carnival games, face painters, and festive food.

  • When: Saturday, July 4.
  • Tickets: Available via Eventbrite (Resort packages available for guaranteed access).

💆‍♀️ All-Month Relaxation

Red, White & Bloom Facial at Mokara Hotel & Spa

212 W Crockett St, San Antonio, TX 78205 If you want to skip the crowds entirely, celebrate self-care all month long. The Forbes Four-Star rated Mokara Spa is offering a specialized Red, White & Bloom Facial for $155.

  • When: Available all month long in July.

For anyone looking to make a weekend of it, take advantage of Omni’s America is Calling offer, which extends 15% off two nights and 20% off three or more nights. Additionally, kids 10 and under eat free from the Omni Kids menu for breakfast and lunch through September 7. 

Have a safe and happy Fourth of July! Which event are you hitting up first? Let me know in the comments below.

Gemini-generated image.

Celebrate the 4th in Style: Independence Day Weekend in San Antonio

Celebrate the 4th of July with a nostalgic summer garden party at Anaqua Garden Bar. Photo: Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa, used with permission.

Celebrate Independence Day Weekend at Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa

This Independence Day weekend, Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa, Autograph Collection invites locals, travelers, and staycationers to enjoy a festive lineup of events that blend summer fun with refined hospitality. Whether you’re looking for a poolside celebration, a luxurious brunch, or a soothing spa experience, Plaza San Antonio is the place to be in downtown this 4th of July. (Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa, 2025)

🌿 Anaqua Garden Bar: Nostalgic Summer Garden Party

Friday, July 4 & Saturday, July 5 | 2 – 6p.m.

Celebrate the holiday with a vibrant garden pool party at Anaqua Garden Bar. With lawn games, pool access, festive treats, and DJ-spun vinyl, this elevated-yet-playful event is perfect for summer vibes. Enjoy:

  • $5 Elote Corn on the Cob
  • $6 Classic Hot Dogs
  • $8 Premium Bacon-Wrapped Hot Dogs
  • $7 Boozy Snow Cones
  • $44 Disco Ball Shareable Cocktail (serves four)
  • S’mores, Bomb Pops, and more!

🎟️ Pool Day Passes available via ResortPass.

🍳 Corinne San Antonio: Post-Fireworks Brunch

Saturday, July 5 & Sunday, July 6 | 10a.m. – 2p.m.

Keep the celebration going with a decadent brunch at Corinne San Antonio. Open to both locals and hotel guests, the brunch menu features:

  • Taco Station (Carne Asada, Barbacoa, Chicken)
  • Made-to-Order Omelet Station
  • Pastry Table & Chef’s Desserts
  • Mimosa Station

💵 $65 per adult | $18 per child
📅 Reserve via OpenTable – walk-ins welcome, but reservations encouraged!

💆 The Spa Plaza San Antonio: Red, White & Renew Facial

Now through Thursday, July 31

Relax and recharge with the Red, White & Renew 50-minute facial at The Spa Plaza San Antonio. This rejuvenating service features:

  • Cooling cold stones
  • Red, white & blue ingredients packed with vitamins
  • Finishing touch with Skin Authority’s Skinsuit sunscreen

💲 $155 | Book your service online here.

🌭 The Newstand Coffee & Sandwiches: “We Got That Dog in Us” Hot Dog Fundraiser

Friday, July 4 | 11a.m. – 2p.m.

Head to The Newstand for a tasty fundraiser benefiting SNIPSA, a local animal rescue. (The Newstand, 2025)

Enjoy one-of-a-kind hot dog creations from:

  • Leche de Tigre
  • Jerk Shack
  • Curry Boys BBQ
  • Howdy Child
  • Chef Jason Dady
  • Last Place Burgers

🌭 100% of proceeds go to SNIPSA, supporting animal rescue efforts in San Antonio.

Photo: The Newstand, used with permission.

🎶 La Panadería: Music & Pastries Celebration

Saturday, July 5 | 10a.m. – 2p.m.

Join La Panadería at both the La Cantera and Midtown locations for a sweet, music-filled celebration:

  • DJ Quake at La Cantera (17030 Fiesta Texas Dr. Ste 105)
  • DJ CV at Midtown (2503 Broadway St.)

🍰 Don’t miss their festive red, white & blue pan dulce and signature Apple Tart (to share) for just $12.50 – a perfect tribute to American apple pie. (La Panadería, 2025)

Photo: La Panadería, used with permission.

Celebrate your Independence Day weekend in style at Plaza San Antonio and its beloved community partners. With food, music, relaxation, and fun for all ages, there’s something for everyone this 4th of July!

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

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

Celebrate the Fourth of July in Style at Hotel Contessa

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

🍖 Fourth of July Dining Specials at Ambler

Available Thursday, July 3 – Saturday, July 5

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

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

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

🎬 Outdoor Movie Night: Independence Day

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

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

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

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

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

✨ Summer Sips & Patriotic Products

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

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

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

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

🍵 Full Leaf Tea Company: Functional Hydration for the Fourth

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

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

Photo: Full Leaf Tea Company, used with permission.

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

Red, White, and Blue: Unforgettable Fourth of July Celebration Ideas

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.
    • Book directly online
  • Summer Body Bliss – $140
    • 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.
    • Book directly online.

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).

Reserve tickets online. 

Photo: Majestic Theatre, used with permission.

Fourth of July: Celebrate with Bakery Lorraine’s Star-Spangled Pies

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.

Bakery Lorraine’s Fourth of July pies available for pre-order

Bakery Lorraine’s Buttermilk pie. Photo: Bakery Lorraine, used with permission.

To celebrate the Fourth of July next week, Bakery Lorraine has pies for pre-order for any Independence Day get-togethers. The bakery is offering an Apple pie, made with five different kinds of apples, and a Buttermilk pie topped with berries. The 9” pies are $28 each and serve eight. (Bakery Lorraine, 2022)

Orders can be made online for pickup at the following San Antonio locations: The Rim, Pearl and Medical Center. The pies are also available for pre-order at Bakery Lorraine’s Austin location at Domain NORTHSIDE. The last day for pre-orders is this Wednesday, June 29 at noon. Pick up for pre-ordered pies is Saturday, July 2 and Sunday, July 3. Additionally, a limited number of pies will be available in-store at the Pearl location only on Monday, July 4 on a first come, first served basis.

Photo: Bakery Lorraine, used with permission.

Taco Cabana celebrates Fourth of July with limited time margaritas

The new limited time $4 Fireball Margarita will be available July 1-4, 2022. Photo: Taco Cabana, used with permission.

On Friday, July 1, 2022, Taco Cabana invites guests 21 years of age or older to try the all-new refreshing Watermelon Margarita, available at all Texas locations for just $4. At select participating locations throughout Texas, guests can spice up their Independence Day Weekend with a limited-time Fireball Margarita from Friday, July 1, 2022 through Monday, July 4, 2022 for just $4 as well. Guests can also enjoy a wide variety of Taco Cabana’s $3 classic frozen margarita flavors statewide including Lime, Strawberry, Mango, Mangonada and Strawberry/Mango. (Taco Cabana, 2022)

Pair these tantalizing summer margaritas with Taco Cabana favorites like the Dozen Taco or Flauta Boxes or TC’s Kickin’ Grande Nachos – all are a perfect addition to any 4th of July gathering. Beer lovers can also cool off with a bottled beer including Miller Lite ($3.25), Bud Lite ($3.25), Shiner Bock ($3.75) or Dos Equis XX ($3.75) and a three-pack of the newly-launched Carne Asada Street Tacos for $5.29 or one of the 16 new combinations of Smothered Burritos.

Watermelon margaritas available beginning Friday, July 1, 2022. *Fireball Margarita and dozen flauta boxes available Friday, July 1, 2022 – Monday, July 4, 2022. All other TC food offerings are available now.

*Fireball Margarita available only at select Texas locations.

TC food offerings and To-Go Margaritas are available through curbside pick-up, drive-thru, in-restaurant, and via mobile order through the MyTC! App.

Taco Cabana, a subsidiary of YTC Enterprises, LLC, was founded in 1978. The brand specializes in Tex-Mex-inspired food including enchiladas, fajitas, quesadillas, flautas, burritos, tacos, flour tortillas and a selection of made-from-scratch salsas and sauces. Restaurants feature open-display cooking, a selection of beer and tequila margaritas, patio dining, drive-thru windows, curbside pick-up and delivery. As of June 21, 2022, Taco Cabana operates 143 company-owned restaurants in Texas.

Experience the ultimate Americana getaway at Madeline Hotel & Residences in Telluride

Alpine Swim Club at Madeline Hotel & Residences. Photo: Madeline Hotel & Residences, used with permission.

There is no place quite like Telluride, Colorado in the summer. The historic mining town offers a lifetime’s worth of outdoor activities, from hiking, bicycle trails and fishing to camping, natural mineral hot springs and stunning scenery. (Madeline Hotel & Residences, 2022)

This 4th of July weekend, Telluride’s only Forbes five-star resort, Madeline Hotel & Residences, Auberge Resorts Collection, is hosting their Second Annual Alpine Cookout on July 2. Celebrating the spirit of Southwestern cuisine, the event will draw visiting culinary icons such as Salt Lake City celebrity Chef Viet Pham, Texas all-star Chef Dean Fearing, Phoenix famed chef Mark Tarbell and Santa Fe legend Mark Kiffin, who will collaborate with the resort’s Executive Chef Bill Greenwood on a specially curated menu, including Chef Pham’s famed Pretty Bird signature hot chicken sandwich.

The luxury mountain retreat is also debuting a new one-of-a-kind adventure just in time for the long holiday week. Soar and Raft with Red Tail Flights and embark on a unique experience to explore Telluride by air and water. See Moab, Canyonlands, and Arches National Park from above and raft through the famed Westwater Canyon. The day begins with a private scenic flight from Telluride Airport over national parks to a thrilling rafting trip on Westwater Canyon, which is rated “The West’s Best Short Whitewater Trips” by National Geographic. The Madeline culinary team will provide a delicious chef-prepared picnic. 

Additionally, the Wellness Oasis Poolside Pop-up with Free People Movement and Telluride Yoga Festival is taking place Thursday June 23, Friday June 24, and Saturday June 25. It promises to be an immersive wellness journey as Madeline’s Alpine Swim Club transforms into the wellness oasis of your dreams.

Project Pollo’s Fourth of July event

This Fourth of July, Project Pollo is offering 1,000 free Smart Dogs, tasty menu samples, a chance to shop local vendors, and a hot dog eating contest to support local nonprofits. Photo: Project Pollo, used with permission.

This is a July Fourth celebration that is going to the dogs—hot dogs, that is. On Sunday, July 4, from noon to 4p.m., San Antonio’s only vegan chicken fast food restaurant chain invites the public to its 303 San Pedro location, where 1,000 Vegan Lightlife Smart Dogs will be given away. The free dogs are part of a day filled with food, philanthropy, and doggone fun designed for both the plant-based and plant-curious diners alike. (Project Pollo, 2021)

Project Pollo has been disrupting the fast-food industry with its vegan chicken concept since opening its doors in the fall of 2020 and it shows no signs of slowing down. With five new restaurants throughout San Antonio, nine more scheduled to open across Texas by the end of the year, and a long range plan of 100 locations in the U.S. by the year 2024, the locally based restaurant is committed to making plant-based options affordable, accessible, and most of all, delicious.

FOOD
Smart Dogs are not the only thing on the holiday menu. Guests will be able to try FREE samples of some of Project Pollo’s newest items, including the decadent double chocolate cookie or creamy strawberry shortcake milkshakes made with Oatly Milk. In addition, the full menu, complete with the signature Original Project Chickn sandwich, the loaded Papas smothered in Credo Cashew Queso, and the vegan Mac n Cheese will be available for purchase. It is the perfect time to exercise your freedom to explore just how good plant-based eating can be.

PHILANTHROPY
What is a Fourth of July party without an eating contest? Project Pollo is inviting representatives from local nonprofits to participate in a “dog-off.” For every Smart Dog consumed, $25 will be donated to the organization. The grand prize winner will walk away with a $500 donation. A supply drive will be held for supporters to drop off donations and show their support for the participating organizations. It is all part of Project Pollo’s “people over profits” philosophy that extends to the community year-round. Through the “People Project,” charitable initiative, Project Pollo donates two additional sandwiches for the sale of every $5.50 People Project Crispy Strip sandwich. This effort allows the company to give away a minimum of 1,000 sandwiches on a designated day each quarter to those in need. In addition, for those who cannot afford the $5.50 cost, a “pay what you can” option is available, making it easier for everyone to enjoy sustainable foods.

FUN
Ate too many Smart Dogs? Walk it off as you browse local vendors who will be showcasing their wares during the Fourth of July event. Artists, plant sellers, and other merchants will be on hand with unique items to purchase. Shop, snack, and support local.

Established in 2020 by vegan entrepreneur Lucas Bradbury, Project Pollo gives a cluck about the planet and the people who inhabit it. The first of its kind plant-based fast-food chicken concept, Project Pollo is built on bold flavors and bolder principles, including fair wages, sustainability, and people over profit. The scratch-made menu offers delicious vegan chicken sandwiches, wraps, and strips, as well as plenty of mouthwatering sides, including crispy Papas, smothered in cashew queso, and Mac N Cheese. Project Pollo is committed to changing the face of the fast-food industry by offering affordable, delicious, convenient access to quality, plant-based options that everyone from the veteran vegan to the curious carnivore will enjoy. With locations across Texas (some drive-thru), Project Pollo hopes to spread its wings to 100 stores by 2024.

Celebrate Independence Day with La Panadería

La Panadería’s red, white, and blue pan dulce, the Tres Leches Croissant. Photo: La Panadería, used with permission.

Returning just in time for Independence Day Weekend, San Antonio staple La Panadería will bring back its patriotic-themed croissant, available at its Broadway, Houston St. and La Cantera Heights locations for a limited time July 2 through July 4. A delectable addition to this year’s July 4 festivities, La Panadería will offer its popular Tres Leches Croissant filled with strawberries and cream, and topped with red, white & blue frosting. The Independence Day treat will be available to order online and in-store. (Giant Noise for La Panadería, 2021)

Since opening La Panadería in San Antonio in 2014, the Cáceres brothers’ mission has been to share Mexico’s “Bread Cultura,” bringing the art of their beloved pan dulce items to the Texas market that have since become a culinary staple for residents and visitors to San Antonio alike. La Panadería has seen great success in San Antonio and has shown resilience throughout the uncertain times the global coronavirus pandemic has brought on. The bakery, which specializes in handmade bread, pan dulce, and pastries inspired by Mexico’s Golden Era, or Epoca de Oro, draws influence from French, Italian and American bread making techniques. La Panadería’s unique approach to breadmaking includes a minimum 48-hour fermentation process that results in artisan bread and pastries unlike any other. All three of La Panadería’s locations offer indoor and al fresco dining as well as online ordering.