The celebration will include live music, themed cocktails, and a grand finale. Photo: Katie James, used with permission.
Celebrate Mexican Independence Day on the San Antonio River Walk with ¡VIVA! at Mexico Ceaty, a five-day cultural and culinary fiesta running Saturday, Sept. 12, through Wednesday, Sept. 16. (Mexico Ceaty, 2026)
Created by acclaimed Chef Jason Dady, Mexico Ceaty is a 25,000-square-foot immersive dining and entertainment destination inside Rivercenter. The week builds from a high-energy weekend kickoff to a mariachi-filled finale across The Plaza, Dos Cantinas, and beyond.
Enjoy live mariachi music while dining on signature specials at Dos Cantinas, including Pozole Verde a la Alcorta, house-made Barbacoa & Big Red, and fresh Conchas with Mexican Hot Chocolate from Dulce & Aroma.
Sip on brunch cocktails like the CDMX Mimosa, Bloody Maria, and Carajillo.
The ¡VIVA! Build Up | Monday, Sept. 14 & Tuesday, Sept. 15 (All Day)
Keep the celebration going with Independence-themed food and drink specials available throughout Mexico Ceaty as the countdown to Sept. 16 continues.
The main event features a festive ¡VIVA! Hour followed by live mariachi performances and entertainment.
Location & Access
Venue: Mexico Ceaty at Rivercenter
Address: 849 E. Commerce St., San Antonio, TX 78205 (River Walk Level; enter near Fat Tuesdays or Holey Moley)
About Chef Jason Dady & The Restaurant Group
Since 2001, James Beard Award semifinalist and Food Network veteran Chef Jason Dady, alongside his brother Jake and wife Crystal, has helped redefine San Antonio’s culinary landscape. Named a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy Chef Ambassador in 2025, Dady operates nine acclaimed concepts:
Mexico Ceaty: Immersive dining and cultural destination on the River Walk
Tre Trattoria: Tuscan-Italian dining
Two Bros. BBQ Market: Classic Texas pit barbecue
Range: Premium Tuscan steakhouse
Roca & Martillo: Tuscan-meets-Texan cuisine
Tre Pizzeria: Authentic pizza and pasta in Boerne
Ice Ice Dady: Hawaiian shaved ice at The Rock at La Cantera
Lil’ Bros BBQ Shack: Backyard pitmaster pop-up at The Rock at La Cantera
Mexico Ceaty at Rivercenter. Photo: Katie James, used with permission.
Occupational Hazard is releasing in major cities in early September timed to Jimmy Buffett Day (September 4). Photo: Michael Ochs Archive, used with permission.
Documentary Film Spotlight: Occupational Hazard: The First Coral Reefers
Greene Street Entertainment, in association with Confluence Productions, presents Occupational Hazard: The First Coral Reefers—a feature documentary that journeys back to the 1970s and early 1980s to tell the origin story of Jimmy Buffett’s original Coral Reefer Band. (EG-PR, 2026)
Set against the creative backdrop of Key West, the film explores the musicians, friendships, touring years, and studio sessions that helped shape Buffett’s legendary sound. It is the story upon which the “Parrot Head” empire was built, told directly by the people who laid the foundation.
The Release Schedule
Key West Special Screenings: Opens September 5, 2026
Theatrical Rollout: Select cities (including NYC and LA) to follow
TVOD Release: Nationwide across the US and Canada in November 2026
Behind the Magic
Narrated by Academy Award winner Jeff Bridges, Occupational Hazard captures the camaraderie, chaos, and magic of an era that thrived on freedom and lived without a rulebook. Through rare, never-before-seen archival footage and deeply personal interviews with founding members, tour managers, producers, and music legends, the film offers fans an intimate look at the volatile beauty of a musical moment that couldn’t last, but changed everything.
Fresh off its premiere at the Santa Barbara International Film Festival 2026, this festival favorite has picked up accolades across the country and stands as a candid, heartfelt tribute to Buffett and his original crew.
Film Fast Facts
Title:Occupational Hazard: The First Coral Reefers
Runtime: 92 minutes
Country: USA | Year: 2026
Director: John H. Cunningham
Producers: John H. Cunningham, Ted E. Haynes
Narrator: Jeff Bridges
Featured Appearances: Kenny Chesney, Mac McAnally, Keith Sykes, and members of The Coral Reefer Band
About the Subjects & Filmmakers
Jimmy Buffett (1946–2023)
Singer/songwriter Jimmy Buffett regaled audiences for over five decades with songs about the faces and places he encountered along the road less traveled. Combining Hemingway’s eye for detail with Mark Twain’s mischievous humor, Buffett’s music celebrated the hustlers, beach bums, and pirates of the world through timeless themes of escapism, wanderlust, and unbridled curiosity.
John H. Cunningham (Director & Producer)
John H. Cunningham is a filmmaker and USA TODAY bestselling author of the 12-book Buck Reilly adventure series and The Last Raft. Before transitioning to fiction and film, Cunningham spent 35 years in commercial real estate, serving as Executive Vice President at Alexandria Real Estate Equities in NYC. Splitting his time between Virginia and Key West, he combines deep business acumen with a passion for compelling storytelling.
Otto’s Ice House is hosting a Dandelion and Denim Country Night event celebrating Shiner’s new Ella Langley collaboration. Photo: Otto’s Ice House, used with permission.
What’s Happening in Alamo City: Film Screenings, Country Nights, & Seasonal Coffee Bakes
Looking for the best local events and seasonal eats around town? From a star-studded documentary screening on the Museum Reach to denim-and-drinks along the river, and new artisan treats to fuel your week, here is your guide to what’s happening in San Antonio.
🎨Free Documentary Screening: Georgia O’Keeffe: The Brightness of Light
Catch a free evening of film and fine art at the San Antonio Museum of Art (SAMA). SAMA is hosting a special screening of the feature documentary Georgia O’Keeffe: The Brightness of Light, exploring the vibrant life and legacy of one of the twentieth century’s most iconic American artists. (San Antonio Museum of Art, 2026)
Directed by Academy Award winner Paul Wagner, the film features narration by Hugh Dancy and the voice of Claire Danes as O’Keeffe. Following the film, SAMA’s Kelso Director Emily B. Neff, a premier O’Keeffe scholar, will lead an insightful post-screening discussion.
When: Tuesday, August 11, 2026 | 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. (Doors open at 5:30 p.m.)
Cost: FREE
Good to Know: Auditorium seating is limited and strictly first-come, first-served.
Location:
San Antonio Museum of Art 200 W. Jones Ave., San Antonio, TX 78215 📞 (210) 978-8100
🤠Dandelion & Denim Country Night at Otto’s Ice House
Dust off your favorite denim attire and head to the riverbanks! Otto’s Ice House is hosting a Texas-style celebration to launch Shiner’s new Dandelion Honey Kölsch—an exclusive collaboration with breakout country star Ella Langley. (Otto’s Ice House, 2026)
Expect a live DJ spinning Ella Langley hits, local popup vendors, and a social media giveaway at the start of the night for a chance to win a $150 Otto’s gift card. Come hungry and thirsty: Otto’s full food and drink lineup will be available, including signature bites like the Hill Country Deluxe Smashburger and the SOTX Hot Chicken Sandwich, alongside specialty cocktails like the Damn Goode Margarita.
Otto’s Ice House 111 Newell Avenue, San Antonio, TX 78212
☕New Brews & Seasonal Bites at Bakery Lorraine
Beloved local artisan hotspot Bakery Lorraine is giving coffee and pastry lovers a reason to celebrate with fresh permanent menu additions and limited-time summer flavors across all locations. (Bakery Lorraine, 2026)
The New Permanent House Blend
In partnership with Texas roaster Merit Coffee, Bakery Lorraine is debuting a new signature house blend. Sourced from small farms in Brazil and Colombia, this roast features rich tasting notes of milk chocolate, toffee, and black cherry. It’s crafted to shine whether ordered as a classic drip coffee or espresso base.
Limited-Time Seasonal Menu
Peach & Blackberry Syrups: Add a splash of summer to any handcrafted drink—including lemonades, iced black teas, matcha, or lattes.
Peach Mango Scone: A buttery, flaky seasonal pastry packed with sweet peaches and tropical mango.
Where: Available across all Bakery Lorraine San Antonio locations for a limited time.
Community Screenings:TO USE A MOUNTAIN is currently screening with frontline communities across the country confronting issues of nuclear waste, nuclear weapons production, and next-generation nuclear projects initiated in response to the energy demands of the AI data center boom.
Festival Accolades
Visions du Réel (Switzerland) — World Premiere | Special Jury Award, International Competition
DOXA (Vancouver) — Best Feature Honorable Mention, ParaDOXA Forum
IDFA (Amsterdam) — Best of Fest
Big Sky (Missoula, Montana) — Official Selection
And many more…
Synopsis
In 1982, six rural communities across the United States were notified that all of the nation’s nuclear waste might be buried beneath them forever. (EG PR, 2026)
Faced with a mandate to isolate the waste for 10,000 years, the Department of Energy mapped, analyzed, and assembled its assessments, while the unsuspecting stewards of sacrificial territory found themselves fighting for their homes, health, history, and dignity.
In the end, one site was chosen: a desert ridge in Nevada called Yucca Mountain, on the unceded lands of the Western Shoshone. After decades of controversy, construction at Yucca Mountain was halted, and to this day, no permanent solution has been devised for America’s 90,000 tons of high-level nuclear waste.
Against the impassive logic of government analysis and archives, TO USE A MOUNTAINassembles a people’s history of resistance and stewardship through a visceral journey across the landscapes, ecologies, and personal histories of the candidate sites. Farmers, miners, citizen scientists, Native American leaders, and activists—each with a story bound to this enduring threat—stand in stark contrast to the cold, silent machinery of bureaucracy, in a meditation on resistance, memory, and the timeless struggle between power and place.
About the Filmmaker: Casey Carter
Casey Carter is a filmmaker and interdisciplinary designer whose work engages nonfiction storytelling in film and video, photography, data visualization, and cartography. His work centers around themes of governmentality, geography, environmentalism, and personal subjectivities.
Prior Work & Background
His short films—TWO BOYS AND A DREAM (2023), TWO PRISONS (2020), and THE RIGHTS OF NATURE (2019)—have screened at festivals including Revolutions Per Minute, SF Shorts, Salem, Ashland Independent, and Hong Kong Film Art.
He holds a B.S. in Physics and a B.S. in Photography from Middle Tennessee State University, as well as a Master of Architecture from the University of Michigan.
Grants & Recognition
His work has been supported through grants and fellowships from institutions including:
Tenfold Rooftop Bar at Kimpton Santo San Antonio – Riverwalk. Photo: Kimpton Santo San Antonio, used with permission.
San Antonio Memorial Day Weekend Guide: Rooftop DJs, Pool Parties, and New Hotspots
With Memorial Day Weekend marking the unofficial start of summer, San Antonio is buzzing with energy. Whether you are a local planning a staycation or a visitor exploring the Alamo City, top local establishments are rolling out the red carpet. From rooftop DJs and curated cocktail tastings to resort-style pool days and exciting new venue launches, here is how you can celebrate the long weekend in style. (La Panadería, Miles, The Newstand Coffee & Sandwiches, Kimpton Santo San Antonio, Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa, Pearl, The Gunter Hotel, 2026)
Bakery Lorraine, Otto’s Ice House, and Freight Fried Chicken will be open for business on Memorial Day for guests looking for places to dine with loved ones. Corinne San Antonio located inside Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa will also be offering its brunch menu from 7a.m. – 3p.m. on Memorial Day.
What: Seasonal Drinks Launch & Memorial Day Brunch When: Launching Friday, May 22 & Friday, May 29 (Available all summer)
Just in time for the warm weather, La Panadería is introducing a limited-time lineup of seasonal beverages blending citrus, spice, and refreshing summer flavors. They will also be open on Memorial Day hosting a spectacular brunch.
Launching May 22:
La Panadería Mont Blanc: Vanilla-orange cold brew topped with orange cold foam and fresh orange zest.
Matcha Mont Blanc: An iced matcha latte topped with orange cold foam and orange zest.
Launching May 29:
Spicy Sparkling Pomegranate Lemonade: A refreshing mix of jalapeño simple syrup, lemonade, and pomegranate syrup topped with sparkling water. Bonus: This mocktail can be made alcoholic by adding tequila.
What: National Wine Day Celebration When: Monday, May 25
Celebrate National Wine Day with a specially curated wine experience helmed by Advanced Sommelier & Beverage Director Austin Tabbone. The Newstand’s menu breaks wine down into approachable, fun categories like Bubbles and Sweets, Red and Berry Fruited, Weighty and Textured, and The Weird Reds. Pair your glass with refined light bites like a cheese board, house-made Focaccia, or stuffed dates for the perfect date night or girls’ night out.
Summer returns with a sunset state of mind at Kimpton Santo’s skyline celebration. Hosted atop the Tenfold Rooftop Bar in collaboration with For Lovers Only and Release The Rhythm, guests can enjoy panoramic views, poolside energy, and flowing Aperol cocktails.
The Beats: Soundtrack provided from day to dusk by DJ Cura, DJ Natvillain, DJ OmgNini, and DJ Retrostatic.
Admission: Tenfold access is free and open to the public (space is limited; reservations via OpenTable are highly encouraged).
Pool Access: Non-hotel guests can access the pool via ResortPass. For May 24, Day Passes are $80 and private cabanas are available for $300.
What: Summer Reset: Garden + Pool Kickoff When: Sunday, May 24 | 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Join Plaza San Antonio poolside at the Anaqua Garden Bar for a sun-drenched sanctuary experience featuring live music from DJ Mars and curated cocktail tastings by High Desert Vodka.
Anaqua Crush: High Desert Vodka, cucumber juice, lemon, agave, yuzu.
Desert Water: High Desert Vodka, lemon, prickly pear, lime, soda.
Admission: Access to Anaqua Garden Bar is free and open to the public (space is limited; reservations via OpenTable encouraged).
Pool Access: Non-hotel guests can access the adjacent pool via ResortPass. For May 24, Day Passes are $40 and cabanas start at $100.
💡 Locals’ Tip: Summer Kick-off with ResortPass Can’t make it this Sunday? Both Kimpton Santo and Plaza San Antonio offer ResortPass access all summer long.
Kimpton Santo: Features the tallest luxury open-air rooftop pool in the city. Standard summer day passes start at $55; cabanas start at $100. Book Here
Plaza San Antonio: Enjoy a lush garden oasis, spa, and pool nestled between Downtown and Southtown. Standard summer day passes start at $30; cabanas start at $50. Book Here
What: “Where Summer Comes Alive” Staycation Package When: Bookable now through August 31
Looking to extend your holiday weekend? The Gunter Hotel in downtown San Antonio is debuting a brand-new summer travel package.
The Deal: Book two nights and get a complimentary third night.
Perks: Includes discounted valet parking ($39/night) and access to the hotel’s unique Vinyl Library Experience, where you can check out up to three vinyl records to enjoy right in your room.
What: Grand Opening / Memorial Day Weekend Celebration When: Soft opening Friday, May 22 Where: 1170 E. Commerce St.
The East Commerce corridor has a brand new rhythm. Say hello to Miles, a high-energy bistro and cocktail-forward neighborhood bar from Dreamers & Doers Hospitality Group. Inspired by the legendary jazz innovator Miles Davis, the space is anchored by an expansive 360-degree central bar designed for late-night conversations and sharing elevated small plates.
Hours: Post-holiday weekend, Miles will be open weekly from Wednesday through Monday, 5:00 PM to midnight (extended until 1:00 AM on Fridays and Saturdays).
The San Antonio Zulu Association to Host Fiesta Favorite at Sunken Garden Theater, April 17–19.Photo: Sun Outdoors
A Taste of New Orleans Hits its 40th Year
San Antonio is getting a heavy dose of the Big Easy! The Brackenridge Park Conservancy, in partnership with the San Antonio Zulu Association, is thrilled to welcome back one of Fiesta’s most iconic traditions: A Taste of New Orleans.(Brackenridge Park Conservancy, 2026)
This year isn’t just any party, it’s the 40th Anniversary milestone. For four decades, this event has been the go-to spot for food, family, and that unmistakable NOLA spirit. For event details, tickets, and performance schedule, visit A Taste of New Orleans online.
Vibe: Authentic Creole & Cajun flavors, live jazz and brass, and family-friendly fun.
What’s New for the 40th Anniversary?
To celebrate four decades of community service and cultural celebration, the San Antonio Zulu Association is introducing a brand-new tradition: The San Antonio ZULU Association King. Beyond the new royalty, festivalgoers can expect the “crown jewels” of the event:
Authentic Eats: Mouthwatering Creole and Cajun cuisine that rivals the French Quarter.
Live Music: A three-day lineup of performances to keep you dancing.
Historic Setting: Held in the Sunken Garden Theater, a 1930s-era venue built into a former rock quarry, providing a stunning natural backdrop for the festivities.
The partnership between the Brackenridge Park Conservancy and the San Antonio Zulu Association highlights a shared commitment to celebrating cultural heritage while activating one of the city’s most iconic public spaces.
Photo: The San Antonio Zulu Association
Meet the Organizers
Brackenridge Park Conservancy
A nonprofit dedicated to preserving the heart of San Antonio. The Conservancy raises funds to enhance the park’s natural, historic, and recreational resources, ensuring Brackenridge remains a treasure for future generations.
TheSan Antonio Zulu Association
The force behind the flavor! This nonprofit is committed to education and cultural awareness. Through events like A Taste of New Orleans, they provide scholarships and community engagement opportunities across the city.
Ready to celebrate? Grab the kids, round up the family, and head down to Brackenridge Park this April to experience the best of New Orleans right here in San Antonio.
“As a New Orleans native, I’ve always felt a deep connection between New Orleans and San Antonio, two cities rooted in rich history, incredible food, soulful music, and vibrant cultural diversity. Hosting The Zulu’s A Taste of New Orleans at Sunken Garden Theater is especially meaningful.” – Chris Maitre, CEO of the Brackenridge Park Conservancy
Bakery Lorraine’s Fiesta medial will be available starting this Wednesday April 8. Photo: Bakery Lorraine, used with permission.
Your Ultimate Guide to Fiesta San Antonio
Get ready to crack your cascarones! Fiesta San Antonio 2026 is officially hitting the streets from April 16–26, 2026. This 10-day “Party With A Purpose” celebrates the city’s rich culture with iconic parades, live music, and enough street food to last a lifetime.
Whether you’re a lifelong medal collector or a first-timer looking for the best river parade views, the city is buzzing with local specials. Here is your guide to the must-visit spots and exclusive events for Fiesta 2026. (Bakery Lorraine, La Panadería, The Gunter Hotel, Kimpton Santo, Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa, 2026)
🎖️ The Medal Trail: Where to Score This Year’s Swag
Half the fun of Fiesta is the “clink” of medals on your sash. Start your collection at these local favorites:
Bakery Lorraine: Starting Wednesday, April 8, pick up their 2026 medal for $12 at all locations. Best of all, proceeds benefit Cornyation, one of Fiesta’s most beloved charitable traditions.
La Panadería: Launching April 8, grab a new Fiesta medal for $10. While you’re there, don’t miss their limited-edition Fiesta Mini Conchas—the perfect colorful treat to kick off the festivities.
Trinity University is hosting the first PechaKucha of 2026. Photo: Ben Yanto, used with permission.
PechaKucha San Antonio Vol. 48: Celebrating 50 Years of KRTU
PechaKucha San Antonio, the global arts and culture series, is back! Kicking off the 2026 season is Volume 48, a special event honoring the 50th Anniversary of KRTU 91.7 FM. (PechaKucha San Antonio, 2026)
Join us for a night of rapid-fire storytelling, local flavors, and community celebration at the historic Laurie Auditorium.
Event Details
Date: Tuesday, March 31, 2026
Location: Laurie Auditorium, Trinity University (One Trinity Pl, San Antonio, TX 78212)
6:30 p.m. – Welcome Reception (Live music & bites)
7:30 p.m. – Presentations Begin
Tickets: $10 per person. Available at the door or online (online orders subject to fees).
A Golden Anniversary for KRTU
For five decades, Trinity University has been the heartbeat of San Antonio’s jazz and indie scene. Since flipping the switch as a modest 50-watt station in 1976, KRTU has grown into a cultural powerhouse. It remains a vital hands-on learning lab and holds one of the largest in-studio jazz collections in the nation. This Volume is our tribute to the “grooves” that have defined our city for 50 years.
The Volume 48 Presenters
Our lineup features seven diverse local voices, each sharing their passion in the signature 20×20 format:
Emcee: Bria Woods (Multimedia storyteller and Content Director at KRTU).
Live Music: JJ Lopez will be spinning soul, jazz, and disco-twist vinyl during the reception.
Food & Drink
Come hungry! The evening features complimentary bites from some of San Antonio’s favorites:
CheeseMé Charcuterie Boards
OK Kitchens
Roundabout
Olla Express Coffee
Tio Pelon’s Salsita
Cocktails and other beverages will be available for purchase.
What is PechaKucha?
Pronounced “PEH-chuh KOO-chuh,” this Japanese-inspired format (meaning “chit chat”) challenges speakers to be concise and engaging. Each presenter shows 20 images, and each slide advances automatically every 20 seconds. That’s exactly 6 minutes and 40 seconds to tell a story.
Since its San Antonio debut in 2011, PechaKucha has become a quarterly staple, bringing together architects, artists, and community leaders to share the ideas that move them.
SPRING AT ST. PAUL SQUARE: Free, All-Ages Sunday Programming Returns. Photo: St Paul Square, used with permission.
Spring 2026: Sundays at the Square Returns to St. Paul Square
Experience San Antonio’s historic downtown district through food, wellness, and local artistry.
SAN ANTONIO, TX — St. Paul Square, the historic downtown district turned world-class entertainment destination, is thrilled to unveil its Spring 2026 schedule for Sundays at the Square. (St. Paul Square, 2026)
Produced in partnership with Juntos San Antonio, this admission-free, all-ages weekly event series and farmer’s market is entering its second year with a fresh focus on neighborhood collaboration and intentional, theme-driven programming.
What’s New This Season?
After a massive first year, organizers are moving to a bimonthly format for Spring 2026. This change allows for more curated experiences, blending sustainability, art, and education, while expanding vendor participation and hands-on workshops.
Spring 2026 Event Lineup
March 8 | A Sunday Reset
Theme: Wellness & Rejuvenation Coinciding with Daylight Saving Time, this event invites you to “spring forward” with an energizing wellness reset.
The Highlight: A special outdoor sculpt Pilates class hosted by Neko Pilates.
Give Back: While the event is free, a $10 donation is requested for Pilates participants to benefit Corazon Ministries.
March 22 | 2nd Annual Spring Plant Swap
Theme: Sustainability & Community Bring your greenery and your green thumb back to the Square for San Antonio’s favorite community market.
The Swap: Partnering with Horticultura, guests can swap plants or cuttings for items of equal value.
The Workshop: Join a free plant-based education session celebrating the joy of growing together.
April 12 | Savor Sunday
Theme: Culinary Arts & Local Flavors The District’s first-ever celebration of local chefs and ingredients.
Live Demo: Chef Matt Garcia of GiGis Deli will host a cooking demonstration using ingredients found right at the farmers market.
Tastings: Visit the tasting booth for samples from Bexar’s Delightful Dishes (salsa), San Antonio Honey Company, and Brooks Running Farmstead (sourdough).
April 26 | Cantarito Mercado
Theme: Art & Culture (A Farewell to Fiesta SA) A vibrant wrap-up to the spring season focusing on local creatives.
Art Walk: Join Charlotte of ARTCANON for a guided walk spotlighting local artists.
Creative Fun: Participate in a free interactive cantarito painting workshop.
The market is curated by Amalia Fernandez, founder of Juntos San Antonio and a senior at Texas A&M University-San Antonio.
“This season is all about collaboration,” says Fernandez. “By working directly with St. Paul Square’s brick-and-mortar businesses and local creatives, we’re creating programming that naturally encourages guests to explore the entire district.”
Every Sunday, you can expect:
The Market: Seasonal organic produce, baked goods, coffee, and handcrafted artisan items.
Inclusivity: The event is all-ages and pet-friendly (leashed dogs welcome!).
Community: Support for small businesses and neighborhood entrepreneurs.
Plan Your Visit
Location: St. Paul Square (100 yards north of the Alamodome).
Admission: Free!
Parking/Access: A short walk from the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center.
Mini Art Museum at the Contemporary’s Family Day, 2024. Photo by Bria Woods, used with permission.
Upcoming Exhibitions & Programs at Contemporary at Blue Star
San Antonio, Texas – In 2026, the Contemporary at Blue Star centers its exhibition programming around the theme of community, marking a major milestone: the organization’s 40th anniversary in June 2026. Curator and Exhibitions Director Jacqueline Saragoza McGilvray frames the year as an opportunity to reflect on the Contemporary’s history, the role community has played in shaping the institution, and the ways exhibitions can actively build and strengthen local, national, and international relationships. (Contemporary at Blue Star, 2026)
Below is a look at the upcoming exhibitions and programs.
Mark Menjívar: Murmurations
Opening Night: Friday, February 6, 2026 | 6–9 p.m. Taco Talk: Friday, February 6, 2026 | 10:30–11:30 a.m. On View: February 6 – May 3, 2026
San Antonio–based artist Mark Menjívar integrates social practice and participatory education models to create intentional community building. His work establishes frameworks for students, community groups, and leaders to engage in critical dialogue around the issues that shape their lives.
Menjívar’s participatory projects often incorporate oral history recording, archive building, publications, and installations that present collective conversations while inviting continued public engagement. Over the last two decades, he has completed more than a dozen multifaceted, long-term projects.
This mid-career survey highlights selected works—including The Luck Archive—while also debuting new projects. Menjívar is currently an Associate Professor in the Interdisciplinary School for Engagement at the University of Texas at San Antonio.
Mini Art Museum
Honoring the Late Mary Cantú
Opening Night: Friday, March 6, 2026 | 6–9 p.m. On View: March 6 – June 7, 2026
The San Antonio arts community was deeply saddened by the sudden passing of Mary Cantú on February 18, 2025, at age 45. Cantú was a beloved advocate for arts education and served on the Contemporary’s Education Committee from 2014–2016, playing a key role in the development of the Creative Classrooms program and championing free access to art for San Antonio children.
In 2013, Cantú co-founded the Mini Art Museum with Gabriela Santiago. Using standard office binders as gallery “walls,” the Mini Art Museum invited artists to create miniature works sized to fit inside 8.5 × 11-inch plastic sleeves. Featuring original works by professional artists, the museum encourages close observation, often aided by magnifying glasses, creating a sense of wonder and intimacy.
In spring 2024, the Mini Art Museum collection was transferred to the Contemporary. Exhibited here in its entirety and in memoriam of Mary Cantú, the presentation includes over 100 works by artists such as Kim Bishop, Sarah Castillo, Michael Menchaca, and Vincent Valdez, reflecting the profound impact Cantú made on the community.
Roman Franc: Groups Collective
Opening Night: Friday, March 6, 2026 | 6–9 p.m. On View: March 6 – June 7, 2026
Artist Roman Franc will travel to San Antonio to create new photographs as part of his ongoing Group Pictures / Collectives series. Since 2015, Franc has photographed groups across cultures and geographies, from residents of Tanna Island in the South Pacific to the U.S. Congress in Washington, D.C.
San Antonio’s layered and interconnected communities provide a rich setting for this project. In alignment with the Contemporary’s 40th anniversary theme, Groups Collective offers glimpses into a larger whole, reflecting the city’s diversity and collective spirit.
Franc (b. 1983, Brno, Czech Republic) holds an MA in Education from Masaryk University and an MFA in Photography from the Institute of Creative Photography at Silesian University, Opava. His practice focuses on non-traditional portraiture and staged photography, alongside curatorial and publishing work.
Berlin Residency Program
2026–2027 Application Cycle Now Open
Contemporary at Blue Star is now accepting applications from artists living and working in Bexar County for its Berlin Residency Program. Launched in 2013, the program enters its 12th cycle in partnership with Künstlerhaus Bethanien (KB).
Each year, four artists are awarded three-month residencies in Berlin, Germany, with the opportunity to also visit San Antonio’s sister city, Darmstadt, Germany.
Residency Support Includes:
$2,000 stipend for travel and living expenses
Coverage of all residency program fees, including:
Studio and living space
Inclusion in the internationally distributed BE magazine
Curatorial visits and workshop access
Eligibility guidelines are available through the application link. Application Deadline: Sunday, February 22, 2026 at 4 p.m.
About Contemporary at Blue Star
Contemporary at Blue Star presents exhibitions featuring artists from San Antonio and around the world, sharing global perspectives that encourage understanding, empathy, change, and action. As a non-collecting contemporary art space, the Contemporary offers fresh insights into cultural and societal issues by highlighting current trends, movements, and conversations in art.
Admission is always free.
Contemporary at Blue Star 116 Blue Star San Antonio, TX 78204
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