Tag: Hispanic Heritage Month

Celebrate Culture, Cuisine, and Community This Month at Pearl

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

September Pearl Happenings

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

✨ Events

Sabores de México

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

Viva Dieciséis

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

Ven A Brindar with Pati Jinich

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

Texas Beer Collectibles Show

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

👨‍👩‍👧 For the Family

Mariachi Mondays

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

Wednesday Night Markets Return!

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

🎶 Stable Hall News

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

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

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

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

Photo: Pearl, used with permission.

Honoring Freddy Fender: An Exhibit Celebrating a Cultural Icon’s Enduring Legacy

Freddy Fender: Celebrating the Life and Legacy of Baldemar Huerta is currently in view until November 9 at the San Benito Cultural Heritage Museum.

Freddy Fender was a celebrated American singer and songwriter known for his unique blend of country, rock, and Tejano music. Born on June 4, 1937 in San Benito, Texas, he gained fame in the 1970s with hits like “Before the Next Teardrop Falls” and “Wasted Days and Wasted Nights.” Fender’s soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics resonated with a diverse audience, bridging cultural gaps. He was a key figure in the Chicano music movement, showcasing the rich heritage of Mexican-American artists. Despite personal struggles, his legacy endures, influencing generations of musicians and leaving an indelible mark on American music.

The San Benito Cultural Heritage Museum is proud to present the first ever Freddy Fender Estate-sanctioned exhibit that spotlights musical trailblazer Freddy Fender, the stage name of Mexican American icon Baldemar Huerta, and coincides with the 50th anniversary of the recording of the album “Before The Next Teardrop Falls.” (San Benito Cultural Heritage Museum, 2024)

Freddy Fender: Celebrating the Life and Legacy of Baldemar Huerta will be on exhibit from now until November 9, 2024. It is part of the ongoing collaboration between Veronique Medrano, a local archivist and musician, and the San Benito Department of Cultural Arts.

The opening reception took place on Thursday September 26 and began with speeches from co-curators Veronique Medrano and Aleida Garcia, San Benito Mayor Ricardo “Rick” Guerra, and City Manager Fred Sandoval. At the well-attended event, guests were able to enjoy DJ-provided music and light snacks while browsing the exhibit hall and mingling with fellow fans of Freddy Fender and community members alike. It’s always enlightening to learn new and/or lesser known facts about musicians and whether you’re a fan or not, Fender’s influence in music is undeniable. This exhibit is the first of its kind in San Benito and the Rio Grande Valley, so if you’re a music fan, a fan of Freddy Fender, or music history in general, I encourage you to stop by see it for yourself. The pictures and displays bring his story to life.

The exhibition walks visitors through the history of San Benito’s hometown hero and Fender’s impact on pop, Tejano, country, and rock music worldwide. Guests to the museum can view this once in a lifetime collection of objects and memorabilia as well as a selection of private collection artifacts including a commemorative plaque of Fender’s star in the Hollywood Walk of Fame, wardrobe worn during the filming of videos and movies, like The Milagro Beanfield War, and concert posters.

Some of the categories in the exhibit include:

“Wasted Days and Wasted Nights”
Fame Interrupted
Fender Beyond Music
Los Supergroups

Guided tours and in-person access are available. Virtual programming, such as video presentations, interviews, and virtual tours will be available through the museum’s social media platforms.

Museum hours:
Monday through Thursday
10a.m. – 4p.m.
Fridays
10a.m. – 1p.m.

San Benito Cultural Heritage Museum
250 East Heywood
San Benito, TX 78586

Sandra Cruz and Aleida Garcia
Co-curators Aleida Garcia and Veronique Medrano
Freddy Fender’s star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame
Exhibit information
Guests to the exhibit

Upcoming Events This Fall at Pearl in San Antonio

Hispanic Heritage Month is in full swing at Pearl. Other events include Mariachi Mondays, Mercadito Cultural Night Markets, and Music on the Springs. Photo: Pearl, used with permission.

San Antonio – Pearl is celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month with a vibrant lineup of events throughout September and into mid-October. Visitors can enjoy Mariachi Mondays featuring pop-up performances in Pearl Park, Mercadito Cultural night markets on Wednesdays showcasing Hispanic chefs and artisans, and Music on the Springs every Friday evening with live entertainment. These events aim to highlight the rich cultural heritage of the Hispanic community in San Antonio through music, food, and art. (Pearl, 2024)

Mercadito Cultural
Wednesday, September 18 & 25 from 5p.m. to 9p.m.
Pearl Farmers Market presents “Mercadito Cultural” on September 18 and 25. Join Mercadito Cultural to celebrate the talented chefs, artisans, and captivating performances that showcase the richness of Hispanic culture including live performances by Mariachi Las Alteñas each week. Starting Wednesday, October 2, these will transition into Harvest Markets that take place each Wednesday through the month of October.

Music on the Springs
Every Friday through November 29 from 5p.m. to 8p.m.
Taking place every Friday at 1100 Springs Plaza, Pearl is hosting Music on the Springs featuring artisans, vendors, food and live music.

“This time of year gives us a wonderful chance to reflect on San Antonio’s place in the world with its unique and vibrant identity, shaped by the rich cultural stories and traditions that are deeply intertwined with our city’s Hispanic heritage. Our month-long celebration is all about creating meaningful connections and partnerships that highlight the spirit of San Antonio. The events and programs we’ve planned are designed to showcase the richness and diversity of our community, inviting everyone to share in our authentic selves.” – Mesha Millsap, Pearl CEO

Mariachi Mondays
Every Monday thru October 14 6p.m. to 7p.m.
Pearl continues the celebration all month long with a series of vibrant pop-up mariachi performances throughout Pearl Park. These lively musical events will take place all month long, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of mariachi music and its significance to the community.

Visitors can enjoy the enchanting sounds of traditional mariachi groups as they perform in various locations around the park, creating an immersive experience that celebrates the spirit of the month. Pearl aims to foster a sense of community and connection through these performances, inviting both locals and visitors to join in the festivities and appreciate the artistry and passion of mariachi musicians.

“Always Pa’delante” Mural Installation
Now through October 15, 2024 – Pearl’s Shaded Structure
Pearl is showcasing a new mural by renowned Oaxacan artist Edefroy “Froy” Padilla through October 15 in celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month. Titled “Always Pa’delante” (or “Always Forward”), the mural features notable figures César Chávez, Frida Kahlo, Gabriel García Márquez, and Selena, on a tandem bicycle, symbolizing Latino political and cultural achievements.

Padilla, known for portraying Mexican icons as Hollywood movie characters, completed the mural last week. The mural will remain on display at Pearl through October 15 and will serve as inspiration for future generations.

A tandem bike featuring César Chávez, Frida Kahlo, Gabriel García Márquez and Selena. Photo: Pearl, used with permission.

Movie Mondays are Coming Back
Every Monday starting October 14 thru December 9, 2024 – 7:30 p.m. to 9p.m.
Movie Mondays will make their return just in time for cooler weather. Movie titles to be announced – follow Historic Pearl on social media for more details.

Pearl is a dynamic neighborhood built around the historic Pearl Brewery, located just north of downtown San Antonio on the banks of the San Antonio River. Pearl is home to architecturally significant buildings like the brewhouse and stable—both built in 1894—and numerous plazas. It is a vibrant district where the community gathers to play, work, and live; it is a place where things are made and celebrated with purpose and sincerity.

Pearl announces programming for Hispanic Heritage Month celebration

Pearl celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month with Viva Dieciséis, a month long celebration with special programming, retail specials, and more. Photo: Matt Buikema, used with permission.

Pearl is excited to announce its programming for Hispanic Heritage Month, this September 15 – October 15, starting with a big Viva Dieciséis at Pearl celebration and continuing throughout the month with events, specials, a mural designed by artist Martha Martinez, and more throughout the property. (Pearl, 2022)

“With our rich history and connection to Mexico, Dieciséis is an important celebration and part of the Texas experience. As a central gathering place for San Antonio and people from all over the world, we are happy that the Pearl community can celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month and honor the Latinx experience across many nationalities.” – Pearl CEO Mesha Millsap

Viva Dieciséis at Pearl – Friday, September 16

To celebrate Mexican Independence Day, Pearl will host a free event featuring a variety of mariachi groups that will play throughout the property including Trio Canteres de Mi Tierra, Las Coronelas and Mariachi Azteca with a guest appearance from Mateo Lopez, the world’s youngest Mariachi. The Viva Dieciséis festivities will also include a traditional grito by Consul General of Mexico in San Antonio Ruben Minutti Zanatta as well as loteria games and a grito contest in partnership with the Mexican Consulate and H-E-B.

The full event schedule is as follows:

  • 5p.m. – Mariachi Festival kicks off at the shade structure (in front of Southerleigh)
  • 5p.m. – Burbank High School mariachi group to perform at Parkito (next to Local Coffee)
  • 5:30p.m. – Loteria games and guitar painting by the Mexican Consulate
  • 6p.m. – Harris Middle School mariachi group to perform at Parkito
  • 6p.m. – Stilt walkers from Guadalupe Cultural Arts Center perform
  • 6:45p.m. – Grito by Consul General of Mexico and Grito contest takes place under the shade structure
  • 6:45p.m. – Las Coronelas to perform at the shade structure
  • 7p.m. – Trio Canteres de Mi Tierra to perform throughout the grounds
  • 7p.m. – Mariachi Azteca to perform under the shade structure with guest Mateo Lopez

The mural, created by Martha Martinez of MM Creative, in collaboration with Servin and Don Mos, celebrates the San Antonio community’s rich cultural history. “Cultura, Orgullo and Corazón – are words that describe San Antonio, its people and its spirit. As a majority Latino community, we celebrate our community all year round,” says Martinez.

Retail Specials

Throughout Pearl during Hispanic Heritage Month, visitors and shoppers can find special deals, displays, pop-ups and more that honor our Hispanic community. Dos Carolinas, known for its beautiful guayabera shirts, will host a 15-20% off sale from September 15 through September 24. Curio and Larder at Hotel Emma will feature Latinx makers at their store with Larder hosting a 17HERNÁN mole event on September 17. Hotel Emma will also host a series of tastings featuring Latinx goods for guests of the hotel.

Feliz Modern Pop is planning to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with displays featuring Latinx makers and brands. The featured artists at Feliz Modern Pop will include designer Mario Diaz, jewelry maker Natazia Renee, artist Natalie Trinidad, artist Rafael Gonzales Jr, and artist Eva Sanchez. Brands like Very That, Miradela and Mi Dulce Vida will also be featured at the store throughout Hispanic Heritage Month.

Rancho Diaz will also celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with displays throughout the store that introduce shoppers to the people behind the brands they carry. Throughout the month they will feature artist Hailey Marmolejo and brands like Del Alma Imports, and Tex Mex Dance Party.

Culinary Celebrations

Restaurants across Pearl will be celebrating with specialty cocktails, unique new dishes, music, and more. Jazz, TX will host a Salsa night with Jose Amador and NATIAO Latin Jazz on September 17 at 7:30p.m. Boiler House will debut a new mezcal margarita with jalapeño and cilantro called “The San Antonian” in celebration of the city’s vibrant blend of cultures. Chilaquil in the Bottling Department is bringing mole chilaquiles to the menu for Dieciséis and will offer free aguas frescas with purchase throughout the month. 

La Gloria will be offering several new specials as part of their Hispanic Heritage Month celebrations: 

  • Chiles en Nogada – traditional poblano chile stuffed with picadillo meat with fruit, topped with walnut-based cream sauce, pomegranate seeds, and parsley
  • Bandera Elote – shaved in a cup or cob, topped with chili powder, cotija cheese, and cilantro to resemble the Mexican flag
  • Bandera Margarita – frozen margarita with pickle chamoy at the bottom and strawberry at the top, garnished with salt or chili, a lime and a Mexican flag toothpick

As part of their Dieciséis celebration on September 16, La Gloria will feature the aforementioned menu items in addition to live entertainment all evening, a cantarito satellite bar and a Herradura tequila flight special.