Goode Company’s Chocolate Bourbon Brazos Bottom Pecan Pie is available for a limited time. Photo: Goode Company, used with permission.
Celebrate Father’s Day in San Antonio: Food, Fun & Unforgettable Gifts
Father’s Day, celebrated on the third Sunday in June, honors fathers and father figures across the United States. It’s a day to express gratitude through cards, gifts, and quality time. Families often gather for barbecues, outings, or special meals. Children may craft homemade presents or share heartfelt messages. Communities also host local events leading up to the day. While traditions vary, the spirit remains the same—celebrating the love, support, and guidance dads provide.
In San Antonio, businesses are making it easier than ever to honor dads with indulgent food, thoughtful gifts, and some much-needed relaxation. From bourbon pies to Wagyu burgers and spa treatments, here’s a roundup of top Father’s Day offerings around the city. (Goode Company Online Shop, La Panaderia, Bakery Lorraine, Corinne San Antonio, Dean’s Steak & Seafood, Twang, iFLY Indoor Skydiving, 2025)
Chocolate Bourbon Brazos Bottom Pecan Pie is back for a limited time! Infused with Milam & Greene bourbon and crafted with Texas-grown pecans and rich chocolate, this 9-inch pie serves 10 and costs $60. Available for nationwide shipping.
The Alamo Burger is a must-try! Featuring 8 oz. Wagyu beef, Swiss cheese, organic greens, and pickled jalapeños on a spiral croissant—best enjoyed with a cold craft beer.
June 13–15: Enjoy an Old Fashioned made with Elijah Craig Private Barrel Bourbon paired with a fine cigar—perfect for the dad who appreciates luxury and flavor.
Aloha Vaqueros: Briscoe Western Art Museum explores the western spirit across oceans. Photo: Briscoe Western Art Museum, used with permission.
Aloha Vaqueros: Where the American West Meets the Pacific
On view June 13 – September 1, 2025 | Briscoe Western Art Museum
This summer, the Briscoe Western Art Museum invites you to journey beyond the mainland and explore an extraordinary chapter of the American West that stretches across the Pacific Ocean. Aloha Vaqueros, presented in partnership with the Museo del Vaquero de las Californias (MuVaCa), unveils the surprising and powerful ties between Mexico’s legendary vaqueros and Hawaii’s storied paniolo cowboys.
Member Preview Party – June 13, 6–8 p.m.
Briscoe members are invited to an exclusive preview party to celebrate the opening of the exhibition. Enjoy:
Long before Hawaii became a U.S. state, Mexican vaqueros traveled across the Pacific in the early 1800s to teach cattle handling to Hawaiian islanders. These expert horsemen brought with them tools, techniques, and traditions that took root and evolved into Hawaii’s distinct paniolo culture—a unique blend of island spirit and Western grit that still thrives today.
“This exhibition beautifully illustrates the rich cultural exchange that helped shape the cowboy traditions of the Pacific. It’s a compelling reminder that the spirit of the West is both diverse and far-reaching, stretching from the plains of Texas to the mountains of Maui.” — Liz Jackson, President and CEO, Briscoe Western Art Museum
What to Expect from the Exhibition
Through a rich collection of artwork, artifacts, and immersive storytelling, Aloha Vaqueros explores:
The deep-rooted traditions shared by vaqueros and paniolos
The artistry, attire, and music of island cowboys
The resilience and horsemanship central to both cultures
A hands-on educational area showcasing traditional island crafts
Developed by MuVaCa in El Triunfo, Baja California Sur, the exhibition challenges the conventional boundaries of the American West—broadening the story to include the Pacific’s enduring cowboy legacy.
Visit the Briscoe
📍 Briscoe Western Art Museum 210 W. Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205 🕘 Museum hours, parking, and admissioninformation available online.
About the Briscoe Western Art Museum
Located on the San Antonio River Walk in the beautifully restored 1930s former public library, the Briscoe preserves and presents the art, history, and culture of the American West. Named in honor of Texas Governor Dolph Briscoe Jr. and his wife Janey Slaughter Briscoe, the museum features:
The Jack Guenther Pavilion for events and programs
The McNutt Sculpture Garden, an outdoor tribute to Western heritage
Don’t miss this chance to experience a chapter of Western history that redefines borders and celebrates a shared spirit of grit, grace, and tradition.
Photo: Briscoe Western Art Museum, used with permission.
Pullman Market announces chili cook-off on Saturday June 7, 2025. Photo: Robert J. Lerma, used with permission.
🌶️ Pullman Market’s First-Ever Chili Cook-Off Heats Up San Antonio – June 7
Get ready, San Antonio! Pullman Market at Pearl is bringing the heat with its inaugural Chili Cook-Off, happening Saturday, June 7 from 7–9 p.m. This family-friendly culinary showdown celebrates the city’s rich food culture and invites local home cooks to show off their best chili recipes in a spirited community competition. (Pullman Market, 2025)
🔥 A Cook-Off for a Cause
More than just a spicy good time, the event also supports a heartfelt mission—a portion of the proceeds will benefit the 100 Club of San Antonio, a nonprofit serving the families of fallen and critically injured first responders in Bexar County.
🍲 Two Ways to Compete
Pullman’s Chili Cook-Off features two flavorful categories:
Traditional San Antonio Style Chili: Meat-based, no beans, and made from scratch.
Creative Chili: Vegetarian, uniquely spiced, or outside-the-box takes on the classic.
Every submission is eligible for the People’s Choice Award, where the public votes for their favorite flavor.
🏆 Prizes Up for Grabs
Winners will walk away with bragging rights and some great rewards:
Grand Champion – $500 gift card, trophy, and recipe feature on Pullman’s website and newsletter
VIP Admission includes early access (6–7 p.m.), 10 voting tokens, and two complimentary drinks
General Admission includes 5 voting tokens
Kids 12 & under get in free!
Want to enter your chili? Email Kyle Lopez, Pullman’s Event Coordinator.
🕖 Event Schedule
6:00 – 7:00 p.m. – VIP Hour
7:00 – 9:00 p.m. – Main Event
7:15 – 7:45 p.m. – Judges’ Voting
8:15 – 8:30 p.m. – People’s Choice Voting
8:45 – 9:00 p.m. – Awards Ceremony
📍 Location: Pullman Market, 221 Newell Ave, San Antonio, TX 78215 🔗 More info: www.pullmanmarket.com 📷 Follow @pullmanmarket on Instagram 🙏 Learn about the 100 Club: www.100clubsa.org
About Pullman Market: Located at Pearl in San Antonio, Pullman Market is a 53,000-square-foot culinary destination by the award-winning Emmer & Rye Hospitality Group. With a specialty grocer, whole animal butcher, sourdough bakery, tortilleria, five quick-service eateries, and four full-service restaurants, it’s a celebration of Texas ingredients and community connection.
En Las Sombras, Nuestros Fantasmas Acechan, Installation View, 2024. On view at Laguna, Mexico City, Mexico. Photo by Rubén Garay, used with permission.
Contemporary at Blue Star Announces Summer Exhibitions
Exploring the Body, Perception, and the Unseen Through Conceptual Art
San Antonio, TX – Contemporary at Blue Star is excited to present a compelling lineup of summer exhibitions that spotlight artists from Mexico and San Antonio. Through conceptual practices, these artists create work that transcends the physical, exploring how space, technology, memory, and sound influence the human body. (Contemporary at Blue Star, 2025)
🌑En Las Sombras, Nuestros Fantasmas Acechan
(In the Shadows, Our Ghosts Lurk) Curated by Fabiola Iza On View: June 6 – October 5, 2025 Opening Reception: Friday, June 6 | 6–9 p.m.
Taco Talk with Curator Fabiola Iza Friday, June 6 | 10:30a.m. – 11:30 a.m. Kick off the exhibition with “Taco Talk,” a curator-led walkthrough paired with breakfast tacos and coffee. Learn about the works and themes with guest curator Fabiola Iza, and engage in an open conversation about the ideas behind the show.
Featuring Artists:
Alicia Ayanegui, Enrique Arriaga Celis, Daniela Bojórquez Vértiz, Virginia Colwell & Raquel Bañón Sodini, Manuela García, Leo Marz, Jonathan Miralda Fuksman, Daniel Monroy Cuevas, Paloma Rosenzweig, Oswaldo Ruiz
Inspired by the design of the panopticon, this exhibition examines the evolution of surveillance and the “omniscient gaze” in the age of modern technology. Originally exhibited at Laguna in Mexico City, the show has been reimagined for Contemporary at Blue Star by independent curator Fabiola Iza.
✨ Jason Willome
On View: July 11 – October 5, 2025 Opening Reception: Friday, July 11 | 6p.m. – 9p.m.
Fresh from his residency at Künstlerhaus Bethanien in Berlin, Jason Willome debuts a new body of work that delves into the cosmos, consciousness, and personal mythology. Incorporating a wide range of media, this exhibition invites viewers to examine our relationship with the universe and the stories we tell ourselves.
🌊 Nadia Botello: Theophany
On View: July 11 – October 5, 2025 Opening Reception: Friday, July 11 | 6p.m. – 9p.m.
Sound artist Nadia Botello presents a site-specific installation from her Bodies of Water series. Listeners must physically engage with translucent tank sculptures to activate the audio compositions—sonic works created from field recordings of the San Antonio River and original choral arrangements. Botello’s work invites reflection on the body as both listener and vessel.
📸 Fabiola Menchelli
On View: July 11 – October 5, 2025 Opening Reception: Friday, July 11 | 6p.m. – 9p.m.
In complete darkness, without even the glow of a safelight, Fabiola Menchelli constructs photographs that unfold like sculptures. This immersive, darkened gallery experience mimics her creation process, allowing viewers to “discover” the artworks just as the artist did. Her work challenges and expands the limits of photography, light, and perception.
About Contemporary at Blue Star
Contemporary at Blue Star presents exhibitions by artists from San Antonio and around the world. Through a focus on global perspectives, we foster empathy, innovation, and action—fulfilling our mission to inspire, nurture, and innovate. As a non-collecting contemporary art space, we engage with current social and cultural issues through art.
Celebrate Pride in style at Thompson San Antonio-Riverwalk. Photo: Thompson San Antonio-Riverwalk, used with permission.
Celebrate Pride Month in Style at Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk 🌈
This Pride Month, there’s no need to travel far to enjoy a vibrant and luxurious escape — Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk offers the ultimate staycation right in the heart of the city. (Thompson San Antonio-Riverwalk, 2025)
Perfectly located along the iconic San Antonio River Walk and just steps away from the largest Pride parade in South Texas (happening June 28), the hotel puts you right at the center of the action.
🌟 Pride Package Perks
Available throughout June, Thompson’s Pride Package includes a complimentary Pride-themed cocktail for guests who book using promo code PRIDE — the perfect festive touch to kick off your celebration.
☀️ Stay, Lounge, Celebrate
Whether you’re:
Lounging poolside on the open-air Cenote Pool Deck with craft cocktails and luxury cabanas,
Or soaking in panoramic views from the chic rooftop lounge, The Moon’s Daughters,
Thompson San Antonio delivers the perfect blend of bold energy and elevated comfort. Add in stylish accommodations and live entertainment throughout the month, and this hotel becomes more than just a place to stay — it’s a full-fledged Pride Month destination.
🎉 Pride Kick-Off Celebration at The Moon’s Daughters
Start the month with a bang at the Pride Kick-Off Celebration, hosted at the hotel’s stunning rooftop venue:
📍 Location: The Moon’s Daughters Rooftop 🗓️ Date: Saturday, May 31 🕗 Time: 9:30 p.m.
Taking place after the Pride River Parade, this high-energy event will feature:
Signature craft cocktails
Sweeping skyline views
A vibrant drag and performance showcase spotlighting standout local LGBTQ+ talent
It’s the ultimate way to toast the season of love, pride, and community — all without leaving San Antonio.
Celebrate local. Celebrate loud. Celebrate Pride — Thompson-style. 🏳️🌈
Pride-themed cocktail. Photo: Thompson San Antonio-Riverwalk, used with permission.
Raise a glass and celebrate the craftsmanship behind one of Mexico’s most iconic spirits! Join us for a spirited evening dedicated to the rich heritage of tequila with Mar Azul Tequila, a San Antonio-based, family-owned brand known for blending traditional techniques with modern innovation. (Briscoe Western Art Museum, 2025)
This 21+ exclusive event takes you on a flavorful journey through tequila’s origins, production, and evolution—all while enjoying a curated tasting experience and delicious small bites.
Event Details
📅 Date: Thursday, May 29 🕕 Time: 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. 💵 Admission: $50 | $35 for museum members 🔞 Age Requirement: Guests must be 21 or older
What to Expect
Learn what makes tequila truly special—from the importance of the Blue Weber Agave to the five specific Mexican regions where authentic tequila can be produced (much like champagne or cognac). Explore the time-honored process that transforms agave into tequila, from field to bottle.
Enjoy a custom-crafted cocktail created just for this event, and get to know the story of Mar Azul Tequila, a brand that proudly uses:
100% natural ingredients
No chemical additives or sweeteners
Premium agave sourced from Jalisco, Mexico
Whether you prefer Silver, Reposado, Añejo, or unique infusions like chocolate, almond, coconut, or pomegranate, Mar Azul promises a smooth, vibrant, and authentic tequila experience.
Located off the River Walk across from La Villita, the Briscoe campus includes the beautiful McNutt Sculpture Garden, home to 35 sculptures that capture the spirit of the American West. The museum is housed in a stunningly restored historic building that once served as the San Antonio Public Library.
Accessibility & Admission
The Briscoe proudly participates in:
Museums For All
Blue Star Museums
Bank of America Museums on Us
🚗 Parking: Convenient parking available at the Riverbend Garage next to the museum, or at nearby downtown surface lots.
For museum hours, admission, and parking details, visit the Briscoe online.
Reserve Your Spot
Space is limited and registration is required. Don’t miss this flavorful evening of culture, conversation, and craftsmanship—secure your ticket today!
Mar Azul Tequila. Courtesy photo, used with permission.
The Children’s Ballet of San Antonio presents The Little Mermaid, diving into the Majestic Theatre May 16 and 17. Courtesy photo, used with permission.
Dive Into Magic: The Little Mermaid Comes to Life in San Antonio
The Children’s Ballet of San Antonio invites audiences to journey under the sea with a dazzling, reimagined production of The Little Mermaid. On May 16 and 17, nearly 200 of San Antonio’s most talented young performers will transform the historic Majestic Theatre into Ariel’s underwater kingdom. This 90-minute spectacle promises a visual and emotional feast, blending stunning sets, acrobatics, and professional-level talent to enchant audiences of all ages. (The Children’s Ballet of San Antonio, 2025)
Inspired by the beloved Disney adaptation of Hans Christian Andersen’s timeless tale, this dynamic production brings together the best of classical and contemporary performance. Whether you’re a fan of ballet, Broadway, or bold visual storytelling, The Little Mermaid is not to be missed.
CBSA continues its nationally recognized mission to offer young artists a professional stage experience. This production features choreography by a powerhouse team:
Jennifer Hart (Ballet Austin)
Isabella Grosso, known for her work in music videos
Nurlan Kinerbayev, a visiting master from Kazakhstan and principal artist at the Dance Center of San Antonio
Kinerbayev will perform during the Friday night and Saturday matinee shows, joined by Aliaksandra Krukava, an internationally acclaimed artist formerly with the Russian National Ballet. For the Saturday evening show, Sophia Leune, a rising star from NEISD’s School of the Arts, will grace the stage.
Immersive Theater Like You’ve Never Seen
Prepare to be swept away—literally! With high-tech digital effects, a real pool onstage, and aerial acrobats flying through ocean-inspired scenes, the production immerses guests “under the sea.” The audience is encouraged to sing along with live renditions of hit songs from the animated classic.
This is not just a ballet—it’s a multi-genre extravaganza blending dance, music, and acrobatics to entertain the whole family.
A Perfect Family Outing
Looking for a belated Mother’s Day celebration or a special treat for a graduating theatre-lover? An afternoon or evening at The Little Mermaid is a magical way to make memories.
Before the show, visit the pre-show market in the Majestic Theatre’s lobby. Arrive early for:
Mermaid-themed merchandise
Face painting
Photo ops with the cast
Fans are encouraged to come in costume—mermaid tails, princess gowns, and sea-worthy outfits welcome!
A Show with a Mission
More than just a performance, The Little Mermaid supports the Children’s Ballet of San Antonio’s broader mission to make the arts accessible. Thanks to CBSA and the affiliated Dance Center of San Antonio:
Nearly 2,500 dancers have received life-changing training and opportunities
More than 35,000 Title I schoolchildren have attended performances
Over 2,000 underserved youth have been reached through outreach
$100,000+ in scholarships have supported students with financial or special needs
When you buy a ticket, you’re supporting the next generation of artists.
Showtimes & Location
📍 The Majestic Theatre 224 E. Houston Street San Antonio, TX 78205
🗓️ Showtimes:
Friday, May 16 at 7p.m.
Saturday, May 17 at 2p.m. & 7p.m. Pre-show market and photo opportunities begin one hour before curtain.
About the Children’s Ballet of San Antonio
The Children’s Ballet of San Antonio (CBSA) is an award-winning, nonprofit organization offering young dancers a professional platform to shine. Through auditions and invitations, performers receive elite training and the chance to appear in full-scale productions that rival those of adult companies.
CBSA is also home to the Dance Center of San Antonio, which provides top-tier training to performers of all ages and abilities, embracing the motto: “The arts are for everyone.”
Whether you’re reliving a favorite fairy tale or witnessing it for the first time, The Little Mermaid is a magical experience you won’t forget. Dive in—the ocean awaits.
The Secret Garden Room at High Praise Rooftop Bar at InterContinental San Antonio Riverwalk. Photo: InterContinental San Antonio Riverwalk, used with permission.
Celebrate Mother’s Day in San Antonio: Special Events and Experiences to Make Her Feel Loved
Mother’s Day is more than just a date on the calendar—it’s a heartfelt celebration of the women who nurture, guide, and inspire us. Observed in many parts of the world, this special day is dedicated to honoring mothers and maternal figures for their enduring love and countless sacrifices. Whether through a handwritten note, a bouquet of flowers, a shared meal, or a quiet moment of connection, people celebrate in many meaningful ways.
This year, several of San Antonio’s finest hotels and resorts are offering curated experiences and special events designed to make Mother’s Day truly unforgettable. Here’s a round up of where to take Mom for a memorable celebration:
Dates: May 9–11, 2025 Location: Four Brothers Restaurant
Four Brothers, Omni La Mansión del Rio’s Southern-inspired eatery, will be hosting a limited-time Mother’s Day Brunch and serving a specialty cocktail called the ‘I Raised You.’
Celebrate Mom with a jazzy brunch and vibrant rooftop experience at the InterContinental.
Brunch at Cavalier:
Classic brunch dishes with live music from The Dirty River Jazz Band.
A Kendra Scott pop-up just outside the restaurant—perfect for last-minute gift shopping.
After Brunch:
Head up to High Praise rooftop bar to enjoy The Secret Garden Room—a lush, seasonal pop-up bar with over 10 custom cocktails inspired by spring and nature.
Take in the views and snap the perfect Mother’s Day photo with the San Antonio skyline as a backdrop.
Special Offers: Now through May 12 Gift Card Promotion: Available until May 8
Start Mother’s Day early at Hiatus Day Spa • Med Spa, where wellness meets indulgence. Give Mom the gift of self-care with one of their rejuvenating packages:
The Essential Duo
The Glass Skin Glow
Or let her choose with a flexible Hiatus Gift Card
Each option is designed to help her relax, recharge, and feel her absolute best on her special day.
For those looking to make Mother’s Day a full-on experience, Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk offers a perfect blend of indulgence, style, and serenity.
Brunch at Landrace: A Feast for the Senses
Treat Mom to a decadent prix-fixe brunch at Landrace, the hotel’s riverside restaurant known for its thoughtful flavors and elegant setting.
Relax & Unwind: Rooftop Luxury and Spa Bliss
After brunch, keep the celebration going:
Lounge poolside in a rooftop cabana with panoramic views of the San Antonio skyline.
Visit Thompson Spa for signature treatments designed to restore, relax, and elevate her day.
Whether she wants a culinary escape or a peaceful retreat, Thompson San Antonio offers a refined way to celebrate the mothers and mother figures in your life.
Plan Ahead
Mother’s Day is a time to show love and appreciation. Be sure to reserve early—these experiences are limited and sure to fill quickly!
Anaqua Garden Bar is having $8 margaritas all day on Cinco de Mayo. Courtesy photo, used with permission.
Celebrate Cinco de Mayo in San Antonio with Local Flavor and Festive Deals
Cinco de Mayo, celebrated on May 5th, commemorates Mexico’s victory over French forces at the Battle of Puebla in 1862. Though it’s a minor holiday in Mexico, it has become a vibrant celebration of Mexican culture in the United States. People mark the occasion with festive parades, mariachi music, folkloric dancing, and traditional foods like tacos and mole poblano. Cities like San Antonio host street fairs and cultural events, drawing crowds eager to experience the lively atmosphere. Cinco de Mayo appeals to many for its colorful energy, community spirit, and joyful embrace of Mexican heritage through food, music, and celebration.
With Cinco de Mayo falling on a Monday this year, local favorites Anaqua Garden Bar, La Panadería, and Twang are offering flavorful and festive ways to honor the traditions of Mexican culture. (Anaqua Garden Bar, La Panadería, Twang, 2025)
Sip and Savor at Anaqua Garden Bar Located at the Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa, Anaqua Garden Bar invites guests to relax in its lush garden oasis with $8 margaritas available all day. It’s an ideal setting to unwind and toast to the vibrant traditions behind this cultural holiday.
Tequila-Inspired Treats at La Panadería Founded by brothers José and David Cáceres, La Panadería continues to blend traditional Mexican baking with innovative flavors. This Cinco de Mayo, the menu shines with tequila-infused offerings, including:
Tequila Butter Steak & Eggs
Tequila Almond Croissant
Tequila Tres Leches Croissant
Tequila French Toast
A variety of refreshing tequila-based cocktails
Bring the Flavor Home with Twang Twang, a Latino-founded brand with nearly four decades of flavor expertise, uses Cinco de Mayo as a moment to celebrate cultural roots and family traditions. Known for products like Snack Salts, Beer Salts, Drink Rimmers, and their All-In-One Michelada Cocktail Mix, Twang’s flavor enhancers are made to elevate any drink or snack—perfect for at-home celebrations.
Together, these three local brands invite San Antonians to celebrate Cinco de Mayo with intention, joy, and a deep appreciation for Mexican heritage. Whether you’re clinking glasses at Anaqua, brunching on tequila delights at La Panadería, or adding a spicy twist to your drinks at home with Twang, make this May 5th a flavorful tribute to tradition.
Pullman Market celebrates one year with a birthday party block party this Saturday May 3. Photo: Robert J. Lerma, used with permission.
Pullman Market, the 53,000-square-foot culinary hub at Pearl in San Antonio, will celebrate its one-year anniversary with a family-friendly block party on Saturday, May 3, from 1p.m. – 5p.m. The free event highlights the market’s mission of bringing local land to local hands with food from award-winning local restaurants, live music, family activities from DoSeum, and more. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the San Antonio Food Bank. (Pullman Market, 2025)
The celebration will feature dishes for sale from numerous local restaurants, including The Jerk Shack, Freight Fried Chicken, Ladino, Leche de Tigre, Mixtli, Pharm Table, Southerleigh, Supper and Pullman Market’s own Mezquite.
Pullman Market in the Pearl District, created by the Emmer & Rye Hospitality Group, opened on April 23, 2024. In its first year, it has become a community culinary hub featuring a specialty grocer, five quick-service eateries and four full-service restaurants – Fife & Farro, Mezquite, Isidore and Nicosi. Committed to sustainability and supporting local producers, Pullman Market sources all products within 150 miles of San Antonio, fostering an ecosystem that connects farmers, chefs and consumers.
Since opening, Pullman Market has been named to Progressive Grocer’s “Outstanding Independents” list for its commitment to local connections, elevated grocery standards and integration of chef-driven concepts. Among its accolades, Nicosi, the on-site restaurant featuring a dessert tasting menu experience, received a Michelin recommendation in Texas’ inaugural Michelin Guide, and Chef Tavel Bristol-Joseph was named “Pastry Chef of the Year” by Esquire in late 2024.
Pullman Market’s First Birthday Party is free to attend, with RSVPs encouraged via Eventbrite.
Pullman Market on Karnes Patio 221 Newell Ave San Antonio, TX 78215
SA Examiner 