Esencia announces Lunar New Year celebration on February 24. Photo: Clint Walker, Charlie Walker Creative, used with permission.
Ring in the Year of the Fire Horse at Esencia
A Lunar New Year Celebration at The St. Anthony
The St. Anthony, a Luxury Collection Hotel, invites guests to an elevated culinary journey to celebrate the Lunar New Year at the newly opened restaurant, Esencia. The evening will blend tradition, prosperity, and community through the artistry of James Beard–nominated Chef Leo Davila. (St. Anthony, 2026)
Experience a thoughtfully curated, family-style dinner designed to honor the heritage of the Year of the Fire Horse.
The Evening’s Highlights
The festivities kick off with a lively cocktail hour followed by a traditional Lion Dance, a symbol of power and wisdom, before settling in for a multi-course feast.
Prosperity Crudo Platter: Smoked seafood, citrus ponzu, and house pickles.
Char Siu–Style Pork Belly: Served with leafy lettuce and a savory glaze.
Longevity Noodles: A unique blend of Texas Chinese BBQ and house chorizo.
Peking-Style Duck Breast: Accompanied by plum sauce and soft bao buns.
Golden Veggie Fried Rice: Topped with crispy garlic and sesame.
Event Schedule & Location
Date: Tuesday, February 24, 2026
Location: Esencia at The St. Anthony | 300 E Travis St., San Antonio, TX 78205
Schedule
5:30 – 6:30 PM | Cocktail Hour (Beverages available for purchase, with optional wine, cocktail, and sake packages)
6:30 – 7:00 PM | Traditional Lion Dance Performance
7:00 – 8:30 PM | Multi-Course Family-Style Dinner
Ticket Options
Choose the experience that best suits your evening. Please note that prices are subject to taxes and fees (++) and can be purchased via Eventbrite.
General Admission | $85++
Reserved seating for the evening’s festivities.
Discounted valet parking ($10).
The VIP Experience | $150++
Preferred seating for the dinner and performance.
Two complimentary cocktails during the cocktail hour.
Complimentary valet parking.
Reserve Your Table: Tickets are available now. Don’t miss this one-night-only celebration of unity and good fortune!
Corinne at Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa is a local spot offering drink specials this week. Photo: Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa, used with permission.
With National Drink Wine Day (Wednesday, February 18) and National Margarita Day (Sunday, February 22) just around the corner, San Antonio’s top restaurants and hotels are rolling out festive, limited-time offerings. From iconic margaritas to curated wine specials and tequila tastings, these spots are serving up plenty of reasons to raise a glass.
Here’s where to celebrate in San Antonio and surrounding cities:
🍹 The Gunter Margarita at The Gunter Hotel
Available Sunday, February 22 Locations: Keystone Club, Bar 414, and Jots 📍 205 E Houston St., San Antonio, TX 78205
The historic The Gunter Hotelis debuting a limited-time cocktail for National Margarita Day: The Gunter Margarita. Crafted with Combier liqueur, Altos tequila, agave, and fresh lime juice, this $13 cocktail is available throughout the hotel, including the lobby bar, Keystone Club, speakeasy Bar 414, and restaurant Jots.
National Drink Wine Day Wednesday, February 18 | 11 AM – 11 PM 📍 431 S Alamo St., San Antonio, TX 78205
At Dean’s Steak & Seafood, guests can enjoy ½ off select wine bottles all day long. Available in both the bar and dining room, it’s the perfect excuse to uncork a favorite midweek, whether paired with a classic steak or enjoyed in the restaurant’s cozy Riverwalk atmosphere.
🌆 Mile High Margarita Flights at Tenfold Rooftop
National Margarita Day Sunday, February 22 | All Day 📍 431 S Alamo St., San Antonio, TX 78205
Celebrate above the skyline at Tenfold Rooftop with their Mile High Margarita Flights.
Offerings include:
$16 Frozen Margaritas
$16 Rocks Margaritas
$22 Mile High Flight (four 4 oz. signature margaritas)
It’s a one-day-only tasting experience designed for sharing or sipping solo while taking in sweeping city views.
Corinne is also serving up the $5 La Villita Margarita, a bright and refreshing cocktail finished with a subtle mezcal mist, a perfect way to toast the occasion.
House Muck-a-Rita – $4.95 Made with Cazadores Reposado and served on the rocks with a choice of salt, sugar, or tajín
House Frozen Muck-a-Rita – $6.95 The same classic flavor in a blended, ice-cold format
It’s a refreshing way to celebrate just outside San Antonio.
Whether you’re toasting with a bold red, savoring a classic margarita on the rocks, or sampling a flight with skyline views, San Antonio is ready to celebrate in style. Cheers to a week filled with good pours and even better company. 🍷🍹
The Gunter Hotel is offering delicious options for Lenten season. Photo: The Gunter Hotel, used with permission.
Savor the Season: Fat Tuesday & Lenten Specials in San Antonio
With Fat Tuesday (February 17) and Lent (starting February 18) just around the corner, San Antonio’s premier hotels and restaurants are rolling out exclusive seasonal menus. From decadent Mardi Gras cocktails to fresh seafood deals, here is your guide to navigating the best flavors in the city this spring. (The Gunter Hotel, Kimpton Santo San Antonio, Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa, St. Anthony Hotel, La Panadería – 2026)
Enjoy a sophisticated meal featuring a caviar velouté, herb crust, and shaved garlic Brussels sprouts. It’s a light yet indulgent way to observe the season.
Toast to Mardi Gras with a decadent blend of Frangelico, Brugal rum, seasoned heavy cream, and a whole egg. It’s the ultimate liquid tribute to the classic carnival treat.
Whether you are stopping in for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, Gallery on the Park is offering a curated selection of both light and indulgent seafood options designed to balance rich Texas flavors with seasonal traditions.
La Panadería is putting a coastal spin on their famous baking. Their Fiesta Lobster Roll is served on a signature spiral croissant and features:
Sautéed lobster with chipotle mayo
Fresh herbs (dill, parsley, chives) and lemon zest
Served with a fresh house salad
Whether you’re indulging in a final Fat Tuesday feast or looking for your new favorite Lenten Friday tradition, San Antonio’s culinary scene has something spectacular waiting for you. These seasonal specials won’t last long, so be sure to grab your reservations early!
The Study at Dean’s. Photo: Kimpton Santo, used with permission.
More Valentine’s Day Ideas in San Antonio 💕
San Antonio is turning up the romance this Valentine’s season. From heart-themed desserts and intimate chef-driven dinners to luxe hotel packages and festive Galentine’s gatherings, the city is full of ways to celebrate love — whether that’s with a partner, your best friends, or yourself.
Here’s your guide to more Valentine’s happenings around town.
🍰 Bakery Lorraine
Valentine’s & Galentine’s Treats 📅 February 1 – 15 📍 All Bakery Lorraine locations
Bakery Lorraine is offering a collection of sweet (and slightly edgy) Valentine’s treats perfect for gifting or indulging.
One highlight? Proceeds from the chocolate cherry macaron will benefit the San Antonio Food Bank throughout February, so your dessert does some good, too.
Available In-Store:
Sugar Skull Shortbread Cookies – Vanilla shortbread decorated with fondant and royal icing accents (individually bagged and gift-ready).
“Love You to Death” Vanilla Raspberry Skull Cakes – Moist vanilla cake with tart raspberry filling and buttercream flower eyes.
Heart Shortbread Cookie Stack – Pink vanilla shortbread cookies tied with string.
Dark Cherry & Chocolate Tiramisu – Coffee-soaked ladyfingers layered with dark cherry compote and mascarpone.
Raspberry Rose Japonaise – A delicate macaron filled with raspberry rose and mascarpone, topped with fresh raspberries and rose petals.
Celebrate Galentine’s in garden glam style with creative cocktails, interactive games, and playful activations. Expect a lively atmosphere designed for connection and fun.
Highlights Include:
Photo station
Temporary tattoo station
Lip gloss charm station
Bic lighter decorations
Hair tinsel & braid bar
Large Confession Burn Book
Card games at every table, including “We’re Not Really Strangers”
📅 Saturday, February 14 🎹 Live music from 9 PM – 12 AM
Toast to friendship at this speakeasy-inspired lounge inside The Gunter Hotel.
San Antonio–born pianist and vocalist Chris Guerrero will perform classic and guest-requested love songs, blending refined jazz with crowd-favorite sing-alongs.
Esencia is offering prix fixe menus ideal for couples and Galentine’s gatherings alike. Guests can enjoy shared appetizers, two entrées, and a shared dessert, thoughtfully crafted and priced per person.
📍 111 Newell Ave, San Antonio, TX 78212 🕚 Open daily at 11 AM
Located in the Historic Pearl District, Otto’s Ice House offers a casual, riverside setting perfect for low-key Valentine’s plans.
For something sweet, Goode Co.’s Brazos Bottom Pecan Pies are available to ship nationwide. Each pie comes in a handcrafted keepsake box with one of three limited-edition messages:
“Pie Love You”
“Ride or Pie”
“Bless Your Heart”
💲 $60 per pie
Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a luxe dinner reservation, or a festive Galentine’s night out, San Antonio offers something for every kind of love story this season. 💗
Jason Dady restaurants will offer romantic Valentine’s Day prix-fixe dinners. Photo: Jason Dady Restaurant Group, used with permission.
More Valentine’s Day Celebration Ideas to Love 💘
With Valentine’s Day almost upon us, there’s still time to plan a memorable weekend with that special someone, or gather your friends for a festive twist on romance. From indulgent spa days to rooftop dinners and Hill Country escapes, these experiences offer something for every kind of Valentine.
🌹 River Walk Romance at Four Brothers Southern Provisions
Soak in the River Walk’s charming atmosphere while dining at Four Brothers Southern Provisions at Omni La Mansión del Rio. Elevate the experience with a romantic overnight stay by booking the From Omni, With Love package. (Omni La Mansión del Rio, 2026)
Package highlights include:
A pre-arrival call with Omni’s Love Concierge
Sparkling wine and chocolates
A $50 date-night credit
Late check-out for lingering moments together
🖤 A “Heart-Slasher” Galentine’s Night
Four Brothers also puts a playful spin on Galentine’s Day with a horror-themed prix-fixe dinner inspired by Friday the 13th.
Featured menu items include:
Camp Crystal Lake Salad
Slasher Steak
Ki-Ki-Ki Ma-Ma-Ma — a white chocolate and red berry deconstruction of the film’s iconic mask
A perfect choice for friends who prefer their Valentine’s celebrations with a twist.
🍷 Wine & Bites at The Newstand Coffee and Sandwiches
For trendy wine lovers, explore the newly launched wine program at The Newstand Coffee and Sandwiches, just steps from the Pearl. This chic neighborhood café offers a curated selection of wines & bites, including N/A options, designed for relaxed, intimate evenings. (The Newstand Coffee and Sandwiches, 2026)
From lively bubbles to juicy reds, selections by certified sommelier and Beverage Director Austin Tabbone set the tone for connection, conversation, and romance.
🌿 Hill Country Bliss at Loma de Vida Spa & Wellness
Escape downtown and head to the Texas Hill Country for rejuvenation at Loma de Vida Spa & Wellness at Signia by Hilton La Cantera.(Loma de Vida Spa & Wellness, 2026)
The Endless Love Package transports guests to a serene oasis and includes a sweet sip of Blush Cotton Candy Bubbly, because Valentine’s Day wouldn’t be complete without candy-inspired indulgence. Ideal for couples, friends, or a solo self-love retreat.
💞 A Romance-Infused Retreat at Hyatt Regency Hill Country
The newly renovated Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Villas, set across 300 scenic acres, is offering a Valentine’s weekend escape designed for relaxation and connection. (Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Villas, 2026)
Highlights include:
A special romance package
Spa experiences
A “’Til Death Do Us Part” murder mystery event
A romantic dinner for two at Antlers Lodge
🌙 Elevated Valentine’s Weekend at Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk
This February, Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalksets the scene for a chic Valentine’s escape with elevated dining and indulgent in-room experiences. (Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk, 2026)
Romantic in-room packages ranging from Sweetheart Haven to Lovers Luxe Escape, featuring champagne, caviar, spa-inspired amenities, and immersive décor
💆♀️ Restorative Relaxation at Oak Haven Massage
Treat your loved one to therapeutic relaxation at Oak Haven Massage, known for its nurturing, wellness-focused approach. (Oak Haven Massage, 2026)
Valentine’s Offer | Now through February 13
$99 — 50-minute Tier 1 massage (save $16)
$155 — 80-minute Tier 1 massage (save $20)
$15 — 25-minute sauna session (save $15)
Post-Valentine’s Offer | February 15 The same promotions return for those extending the celebration, or making up for a missed holiday.
Appointments can be booked online or by phone at Oak Haven’s Alamo Heights, Bulverde, or Huebner locations.
🍽️ Prix-Fixe Dinners with Jason Dady Restaurant Group
The Jason Dady Restaurant Group will offer chef-curated, multi-course prix-fixe Valentine’s dinners, complete with optional wine pairings, at the following locations:
In partnership with The Rock at La Cantera’s Flirty Flix, Roca & Martillo will also offer charcuterie and cheese spreads for two, available at the Roca bar window. Guests can enjoy lawn screenings of How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days and Sweet Home Alabama, beginning at 5 p.m.
Whether you’re planning a candlelit dinner, a spa day steeped in self-care, or a Galentine’s night with a little edge, Valentine’s Day is the perfect excuse to celebrate love in all its forms. So grab the reservations, cue the champagne (or mocktails), and make a weekend of it—because romance doesn’t have to be predictable to be unforgettable. 💕
Mezquite Spread. Photo: Robert J. Lerma, used with permission.
Valentine’s Day Dining Guide: Romantic & Relaxed Restaurant Offerings
With Valentine’s Day right around the corner, Pullman Market’s offerings range from high-end, special-occasion dining experiences at Isidore and Nicosi to relaxed, approachable options at Fife & Farro and the Mezcaleria—ensuring there’s something for every kind of celebration. (Pullman Market, 2026)
Mezquite’s Sonoran-Inspired Valentine’s Dinner for Two
Mezquite’s Valentine’s Day menu draws from the rich flavors and traditions of Sonoran cuisine. Crafted for two, the dinner invites couples to savor each course and enjoy a relaxed, intimate evening together. Thoughtful dishes and warm hospitality set the tone for a cozy, memorable night.
For those looking to keep things casual, the Mezcaleria offers a laid-back way to celebrate. Open from 11 a.m. to midnight, the bar will be serving cocktails, food, and good energy all day long—perfect for a spontaneous date, a Galentine’s toast, or a nightcap to end the evening.
Walk-ins only
Nicosi’s Specialty Valentine’s Day Experience
At Nicosi, Valentine’s Day is centered around connection and indulgence. The Michelin Star dessert tasting menu concept will offer a one-night-only, multi-course experience exclusive to the holiday, encouraging guests to savor each moment together.
Price: $200 per guest
Includes: Choice of non-alcoholic pairing or wine & cocktail pairing
Isidore welcomes guests for a Michelin Star Valentine’s celebration with an elegant eight-course tasting menu. An optional wine pairing is also available, thoughtfully selected to complement each course and elevate the evening.
Fife & Farro at Pullman Market offers a more laid-back way to celebrate, featuring wood-fired sourdough pizzas and handmade pastas made with heritage grains.
Reservations: Available via OpenTable for Valentine’s Day only (Note: Reservations are not typically offered at Fife & Farro)
Same-day diners: Encouraged to join the waitlist
Walk-ins: Always welcome
Valentine’s Day Dining Around San Antonio & New Braunfels
San Antonio and New Braunfels’ premier restaurants—including Clementine, Maverick Texas Brasserie, Muck & Fuss, and more—are offering curated menus and intimate ambiance designed to create a truly memorable Valentine’s Day.
Clementine, the Castle Hills neighborhood gem is celebrating Valentine’s Day with a chef-driven prix-fixe dinner designed for lingering conversations and shared moments. Offered February 14 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., the menu reflects James Beard Award finalist John Russ’s Southern roots and global sensibility, balancing bold comfort with refined elegance.
The downtown New Braunfels restaurant is celebrating Valentine’s Day for everyone, offering two prix-fixe menus welcoming couples, solo diners, and families alike—honoring romance, self-love, and quality time.
For a nightcap or post-dinner outing, guests can step next door to Sidecar, known for its vintage speakeasy vibe and live music. For the holiday, Sidecar will feature a curated menu of shareable bites and cocktails, including:
Southtown’s contemporary Mexican restaurant is spreading the love with the return of its popular Galentine-ARITA cocktail, available February 13–15. Made with El Tequileno, this pink, sparkling margarita is a festive favorite.
Rosario’s and El Tequileno are also hosting a Valentine’s Day giveaway for a free dinner for two, running through February 11, with details and the winner announced on Instagram.
Tip: Calling ahead or joining the waitlist is highly recommended for Valentine’s Day dining
Pearl’s first ever Cowboy Heritage Festival is taking place this Saturday. Photo: Pearl, used with permission.
February Happenings at Pearl
From Rodeo Festivities to Valentine’s Weekend Fun
Pearl is kicking off February in true Texas style—with boots, bands, murals, and plenty of reasons to linger all month long. From the inaugural Cowboy Heritage Festival to Valentine’s Day celebrations, here’s everything happening at Pearl this February. (Pearl, 2026)
🤠 Cowboy Heritage Festival
Saturday, February 7 | 3–7 p.m.
Pearl debuts its first-ever Cowboy Heritage Festival, celebrating vaquero culture with live music, roaming performers, art, and rodeo-inspired fun throughout the property.
Festival Highlights
Chuck wagon photo opportunities
Live music across multiple stages
Free boot shining
Trick roper and cowboy & cowgirl stilt walkers
Live mural painting by San Antonio muralist Claudio Aguillon, titled The Vaquero (Cellars Pavilion)
📍 Event Locations & Schedules
1100 Springs Plaza
Rodeo Roundup Edition of the Pearl Farmers Market
Craft workshop with Sharriah Martinez (3–6 p.m.)
Make cowboy boot magnets (while supplies last)
Live music:
Gelina & The Diamondbacks (3–4:15 p.m.)
Jacob Kyle Band (4:45–7 p.m.)
Stable Hall
Free boot shining
Live music by Brandon Michael Band (3–4:45 p.m.)
Parkito(between Local Coffee and Bakery Lorraine)
Favorite Son Band (3–4:30 p.m.)
Jake Castillo Trio (5–7 p.m.)
South Karnes Street
Trick roper and stilt walkers roaming (3–5 p.m.)
Meet & Greet with Miss Rodeo Texas Princess (3–4:30 p.m.)
Live music by Drew Brown Band (5–7 p.m.)
Pearl Park
Chuck wagon photo op
The Vaquero mural installation
Line dancing (3–5 p.m.)
Brandon Michael Band returns (5:30–7 p.m.)
La Gloria
San Antonio Charro Association appearance (2–5 p.m.)
Whether you’re two-stepping under the stars, shopping for the perfect rodeo look, or celebrating Valentine’s Day with live music and great food, Pearl is the place to be this February. With events happening nearly every day of the month, there’s always a reason to stop by, stay awhile, and experience the energy that makes Pearl a favorite gathering spot in San Antonio.
Tenfold Rooftop at Kimpton Santo San Antonio – Riverwalk. Photo: Kimpton Santo, used with permission.
Super Bowl Sunday Specials: Where to Eat, Drink & Watch the Big Game in San Antonio
Super Bowl Sunday is almost here, and locally owned restaurants and bars across San Antonio and New Braunfels are bringing the heat with food deals, drink specials, and high-energy watch parties. From rooftop margaritas to wing specials and projector-screen viewing, here’s where to celebrate the Big Game on Sunday, February 8.
🍹 Rosario’s ComidaMex & Bar (Southtown)
All Day Sunday | February 8
Football fans can enjoy half-off appetizers all day long at Rosario’s, available exclusively at the main bar and rooftop bar. The restaurant is also debuting The Benito Bowl, a blue frozen margarita inspired by this year’s halftime performer, Bad Bunny. (Rosario’s, 2026)
Both bars feature massive flat-screen TVs for optimal game viewing. The 25+ rooftop bar will also host its weekly Cozy Up Sundays, featuring $8 signature cocktails and bites.
📍 Walk-ins welcome | No reservations required
🦀 Smashin Crab (All Locations)
All Day Sunday | February 8
Smashin Crab is closing out football season strong with $1 wings all day, available for dine-in or takeout at all three locations, perfect for hosting your own watch party at home. (Smashin Crab, 2026)
Each restaurant is decked out with wall-to-wall TVs, and guests can also enjoy 2-for-1 Hurricanes, available through February 17.
🍻 Finnegan’s Sports & Spirits
All Day Sunday Happy Hour
Finnegan’s is keeping it simple and fun with all-day happy hour and beer bucket specials, including:
$4 Margaritas
$5 Bloody Marys
$15 Domestic Beer Buckets
A laid-back spot to sip, snack, and settle in for the game. (Finnegan’s, 2026)
Catch the game on TVs throughout the restaurant or on the projector screen in the Biergarten, while sipping from a lineup of 38 draft beers featuring top local and national breweries. (Muck & Fuss, 2026)
📍 555 S Alamo St., San Antonio, TX 78205 🚗 Valet parking available for $10
Kick off Super Bowl Sunday at Corinne’s bar with game-day drink specials, including Bloody Marys, mimosas, beer specials, and an All Day Happy Hour Menu.
Snack on crowd favorites like buffalo cauliflower, regular wings, or a Trio Dip (guacamole, queso, salsa) while watching the game on two big screens. (Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa, 2026)
Sunday, February 8 | Game at 5:30 PM | Trivia: 2–4 PM
📍 555 S Alamo St., San Antonio, TX 78205 🚗 Valet parking available for $10
Anaqua Garden Bar is hosting a full-scale Super Bowl watch party with multiple projector screens with sound, theater-style seating, and plenty of food and drink.
The party starts early with trivia from 2–4 PM, featuring questions on Bad Bunny and 2026 Super Bowl commercials.
📍 Interior Courtyard, 431 S Alamo St., San Antonio, TX 78205
Dean’s is extending happy hour drink specials all day in its comfortable interior courtyard. Watch the game on two TVs with sound while enjoying upscale-casual vibes, great drinks, and shareable bites. (Kimpton Santo San Antonio, 2026)
Paris Baguette is serving up football-themed sweets, including the King Creme Football Donut and Triple Chocolate Football Cream Cake. Donuts are available daily, while cakes are offered for weekend orders (preorders encouraged). (The Gunter Hotel, 2026)
Chef Levi Goode’s newest concept is the ultimate riverside spot for Super Bowl Sunday. Enjoy ice-cold drinks, hearty favorites like Cantina Queso, the Hill Country Deluxe Smashburger, and Otto’s Last Shot, all while watching the game on multiple indoor and outdoor TVs. (Otto’s Ice House, 2026)
Whether you’re craving wings, rooftop cocktails, or a full watch-party vibe, San Antonio’s local spots are bringing their A-game this Super Bowl Sunday. 🏈
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
The Titans of Tailgate event supports San Antonio high school culinary programs. Courtesy photo, used with permission.
Titans of Tailgate Returns to San Antonio for Its 9th Year
Chef Jason Dady and Culinaria are proud to present the ninth annual Titans of Tailgate, presented by Wrangler Air Conditioning, taking place Sunday, February 1, from 1–4 p.m. at The Rock at La Cantera. (Jason Dady Restaurant Group, 2026)
This high-energy, chef-driven event brings together more than 30 of San Antonio’s top chefs for an afternoon celebrating food, flavor, and community—all while supporting local high school culinary programs.
A Chef-Fueled Grilling Showdown
Hosted by Chef Jason Dady, Titans of Tailgate is the ultimate grilling throwdown, featuring some of the city’s most respected culinary talent, including:
PJ Edwards (Meadow Neighborhood Eatery)
Berty Richter (Ladino)
Esaul Ramos (2M Smokehouse)
Nicola Blaque (The Jerk Shack)
And many more
Chefs will compete head-to-head for the coveted title of “Titan of Tailgate,” blending tailgate spirit with bold, chef-driven creativity.
Supporting the Next Generation of Chefs
Representatives from six local high schools will join the professional chefs, reinforcing the event’s mission of mentorship and community investment. Guests will enjoy:
Unlimited tastings
Drinks and interactive experiences
The chance to vote for their favorite bite
Proceeds from the event directly support San Antonio high school culinary programs, helping fund equipment, prep materials, and educational resources.
Event Details
📍 Location The Rock at La Cantera 1 Spurs Way San Antonio, TX 78256
🎟 Ticket Pricing
Under 21: $50
General Admission: $85
VIP: $150
For more information and to purchase tickets, click the link here.
About Jason Dady Restaurant Group
Since 2001, Texas native Chef Jason Dady, a James Beard Foundation Award semifinalist and frequent Food Network and Travel Channel expert, has helped redefine San Antonio’s culinary culture. In July 2025, he was named one of six chef ambassadors representing San Antonio as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy.
Led by Chef Dady alongside his brother Jake and wife Crystal, the Jason Dady Restaurant Group includes nine acclaimed restaurants, as well as catering and event services.
About Culinaria
CULINARIA is an independent, not-for-profit organization dedicated to promoting San Antonio as a premier food and wine destination. Since 2000, Culinaria has championed locally sourced food, culinary education, and community-driven events that enrich the Alamo City. Proceeds from its events directly support this mission, helping Culinaria remain largely self-sustaining.
SA Examiner 