Tag: Travel

Family-Friendly Halloween Events and Rooftop Parties in San Antonio

Trick or treat at The DoSeum this Halloween. Photo: The DoSeum, used with permission.

Spooky Season in San Antonio: Your Guide to Halloween & Día de los Muertos Activities

San Antonio is coming alive this October with incredible festive events, family-friendly adventures, and vibrant cultural traditions! Whether you are looking for kid-friendly museum fun, rooftop costume parties, seasonal cocktails, or pumpkin carving contests, we have rounded up the best local happenings to celebrate Halloween and Día de los Muertos around town.

1. The DoSeum: Family-Friendly Fun & Spooky Science

Halloween is taking over The DoSeum all month long with playful decorations, themed photo stations, and hourly “BOOgie” dance breaks. (The DoSeum, 2026)

  • The Main Event: The celebration culminates on Saturday, Oct. 31, from 5:30 to 8:00 PM with Trick-or-Treat at The DoSeum. Enjoy treat stations throughout the galleries, bubble foam, roaming costume characters, a live DJ, and a closing dance party with Baxter! Costumes are strongly encouraged for both kids and adults.
  • Photo Contest Perk: Snap a photo at one of the museum’s Halloween stations and upload it to enter a weekly raffle to win a free DoSeum membership (or a free renewal)!
  • Details:
    • When: Museum events run Oct. 1–31 during regular hours; Trick-or-Treat event is Oct. 31 from 5:30 to 8:00 PM.
    • Where: 2800 Broadway, San Antonio, TX 78209
    • Tickets: Trick-or-Treat event tickets are $20 for children and $15 for adults. Purchase them on The DoSeum’s event page.

2. Rosario’s ComidaMex & Bar: Ofrendas, Cocktails & Rooftop Bashes

Southtown staple Rosario’s is pulling out all the stops this October with a gorgeous mix of Día de los Muertos traditions and high-energy Halloween nightlife. (Rosario’s ComidaMex & Bar, 2026)

  • Día de los Muertos Display (Oct. 9 – Nov. 2): Stop by to view a vibrant, traditional ofrenda and take a festive photo with the giant sugar skull statue on the patio.
  • Bidi Bidi Boo Cocktail (Oct. 23–31): The fan-favorite spooky cocktail returns, featuring hibiscus-infused Deep Eddy Vodka, black salt, a spider ring, and gummy eyeballs.
  • Halloween on the Rooftop (Oct. 31, 8:30 PM – 12:30 AM): Head up to the Rooftop Lounge for music by DJ Pete and a high-energy costume contest. Sign up between 9:00 and 10:00 PM to compete for cash prizes ($100 for first place, plus two $50 prizes) and a swag basket. Note: No cover charge; guests must be 25 and older.
  • October Drink Specials: Try their featured “Spirit of the Month” Patrón cocktails, the Watermelon Mint Margarita, Patrón Paloma Roja, and Vida de Noche.
  • Details:
    • Where: 722 S St Mary’s St, San Antonio, TX 78205

3. Clementine: Candlelit Dining & Pumpkin Carving

For a cozy yet festive evening, Clementine in Castle Hills is pairing seasonal flair with community fun. (Clementine, 2026)

  • What’s Happening: Enjoy playful menu wording, themed drink specials, and atmospheric candlelit tables. Guests showing up in costume receive a complimentary packaged mini-treat.
  • Community Pumpkin Carving Contest: Vote on your favorites for Best Overall and Scariest Pumpkin, while the Clementine team selects their own Staff Favorite.
  • Details:
    • When: Saturday, Oct. 31, starting at 5:00 PM.
    • Where: 2195 Northwest Military Highway, Castle Hills, TX 78213
    • Reservations: Available online.

4. Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa: Free “Dive-In” Movie Nights

Wrap up your October movie nights poolside! Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa has been hosting its popular “Dive-In Movie” series every Friday night. (Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa, 2026)

  • Final Screening: Catch a free screening of Hocus Pocus on October 30 from 7:30 to 10:00 PM.
  • Themed Sips: Sip on expertly crafted movie-inspired cocktails like the Spooky Island (tequila, blood orange, hibiscus, lime agave), the Beetlejuice (vodka, green apple, elderflower, lime, ginger), or the Witch’s Garden (gin, blueberry, lavender, lemon, tonic).
  • Details:
    • Reservations: Reserve your free spot via OpenTable.
Photo: Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa, used with permission.

Essential Leadership Books to Help You Lead with Purpose and Impact

Level up your leadership with these business books. Photo: Barnes & Noble/Gemini-Generated

Books of the Week: Essential Reads for Modern Business Leaders

Whether you are looking to redefine your leadership strategy, elevate an undervalued function, or navigate the deeply human side of management, this week’s book spotlight offers invaluable insights. Consider these three powerful reads designed to help you lead with purpose, impact, and authenticity.

1. Create Your Own Luck: How Leaders Leverage the Intersection of Preparation and Opportunity

By Dr. Jeremy Strickland Owoh

The concept of luck carries various implications, often shaped by individual experiences, and perspectives. From a spiritual realm, there has also been some controversy about whether there is really such a thing as luck. Throughout his leadership journey, the author has contemplated its true meaning and has come to define luck as the intersection of preparation and opportunity. (Barnes & Noble, 2026)

If there is one principle that sums up his leadership experience, it’s an unwavering commitment to preparation, ensuring that he is ready to seize any opportunity that arises. His journey has been shaped not only by diligence and readiness but also by the profound influence of grace and mercy.

About the Author: Dr. Jeremy Strickland Owoh is a transformational educational leader and superintendent of the Jacksonville North Pulaski School District, where he leads with a clear focus on Academics, Behavior, and Culture (ABC). With experience spanning teacher, principal, district, and state leadership, he has consistently driven innovation, improved outcomes, and expanded opportunities for students and educators alike.

2. The Payroll Pivot: From Invisibility to Influence

By Nick Day

Payroll controls up to 80% of an organization’s operating expenditure and holds compliance risks worth millions. It’s the primary reason every employee trusts their employer enough to show up tomorrow. And yet, it remains one of the most strategically undervalued functions in business. The Payroll Pivot exists to change that. (Barnes & Noble, 2026)

Nick Day has spent 24 years placing over 10,000 payroll professionals, conducting more than 400 podcast conversations with industry leaders, and coaching payroll executives across the globe. This book distills everything he has learned about why brilliant professionals stay invisible, and what happens when they stop.

“Payroll professionals who pivot will shape the future. Those who don’t will be shaped by it. This is your pivot.”

About the Author: Nick Day is a keynote speaker, executive coach, and author ranked the number one Global Payroll Thought Leader in the world by Thinkers360. He holds the PayrollOrg Global Vision Award and Reward Strategy Personality of the Year 2023. As founder of JGA Recruitment Group and host of The Payroll Podcast, The HR L&D Podcast, and Mindful Paths Podcast, he sits at the intersection of payroll, leadership, and human performance. He is also the creator of The Fear Equation™, a framework that helps professionals turn hesitation into decisive action.

3. Leading While Human: Notes I Wish Someone Had Given Me

By Ralph Kellogg

Leadership is rarely what we imagine it will be. It’s not defined by how polished we appear, but by how consciously we choose to show up. (Barnes & Noble, 2026)

Most people enter leadership believing it will bring clarity, confidence, and authority—that experience will quiet doubt and success will resolve uncertainty. Instead, leadership often magnifies the very things we hoped it would erase: fear, pressure, responsibility, identity, and the constant awareness that our decisions affect others in profound ways.

This book is not a manual on strategy, productivity, or performance metrics. It’s an exploration of the human side of leadership—the parts rarely discussed in meetings or executive coaching sessions. Through deeply honest essays drawn from real workplace experiences, the author examines how leadership is shaped by lived experience rather than just training and ambition.

Written for current and emerging leaders (or anyone who works with others), this book offers a thoughtful examination of what “leadership” actually requires: not perfection, certainty, or control, but awareness, humility, and courage.

About the Author: Ralph Kellogg is a senior human resources executive, speaker, and advocate for mentally healthy workplaces with over two decades of experience leading people operations across complex organizations. A TEDx speaker exploring the cost of silence and unseen struggles in the workplace, Ralph frequently delivers keynotes on human resources leadership, workplace inclusion, and building organizational cultures rooted in trust and psychological safety.

Fresh Bowl & Co. Opens First U.S. Location in San Antonio’s Stone Oak

The Fresh Bowl & Co. San Antonio grand opening celebration will take place this Saturday October 17, 2026. Photo: Embark Marketing, used with permission.

Puebla-Inspired Fresh Bowl & Co. Celebrates Grand Opening of First U.S. Location in San Antonio

SAN ANTONIO, TX — Healthy eating options in Stone Oak just got a fresh upgrade. Fresh Bowl & Co. is currently welcoming guests during its soft opening ahead of the official grand opening celebration of its very first U.S. location on Saturday, October 17, 2026. (Embark Marketing, 2026)

To mark the occasion, the Stone Oak restaurant will be celebrating all day on Saturday with free bowls for the first 50 guests, complimentary samples, merch giveaways, and an official ribbon-cutting ceremony. Guests are encouraged to reserve their spot for the grand opening HERE.

From Puebla, Mexico to San Antonio

Fresh Bowl & Co.’s arrival in Stone Oak brings a restaurant concept shaped by more than 15 years of operating experience in Puebla, Mexico to the U.S. for the first time. Founded in 2025 and inspired by the team’s experience with Salad Bowl, a popular personalized healthy-food concept developed in Mexico, Fresh Bowl & Co. chose San Antonio as the starting point for its U.S. journey.

“Bringing Fresh Bowl & Co. to San Antonio is about sharing a concept our team has spent years developing while creating something that feels at home in this community. We want every guest to have the freedom to build a meal they genuinely enjoy, using fresh ingredients, quality proteins, and flavors that make every combination their own. We’re looking forward to welcoming Stone Oak to our grand opening and introducing more of San Antonio to what Fresh Bowl is all about.”

— Javier Menendez, General Manager of Fresh Bowl & Co.

Build Your Own: Over 50 Fresh Ingredients

Customization is at the heart of the Fresh Bowl & Co. experience. Guests can create customized bowls, salads, and wraps tailored to their exact tastes and dietary preferences:

  • Bases: Choose from fresh greens, brown rice, white rice, or pasta.
  • Toppings: Select from over 50 fresh ingredients, including vegetables, cheeses, and fruits.
  • Proteins & Dressings: Choose from 10+ protein options and 10+ made-from-scratch dressings and sauces.

Whether you’re in the mood for a light salad, a warm hearty bowl, or a made-to-order wrap, the menu offers maximum flexibility.

Grand Opening Festivities & Giveaways

The October 17 celebration gives guests the perfect chance to sample the concept while enjoying special offers all day long:

  • 🥣 Free Bowls: The first 50 people in line will receive a free bowl (excluding extra proteins/add-ons).
  • 🥗 Free Samples: Guests waiting in line can sample signature proteins and sauces, with additional sampling tables setup near the entrance.
  • ⏱️ “Stop the Clock” Challenge: Make a purchase and test your timing! Stop the clock at exactly 5.00 seconds to win exclusive Fresh Bowl apparel (hoodies, tote bags, and hats).
  • 🎟️ Bonus Offer: All grand opening guests will receive a coupon for a FREE soup and fountain drink on their next visit (valid through October 31, 2026).

📍 Grand Opening Event Details

  • When: Saturday, October 17, 2026
  • Ribbon Cutting: 10:45 a.m.
  • Event Hours: 11:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
  • Where: 115 N Loop 1604 E, Suite 2103, San Antonio, TX 78232
  • RSVP: Guests are encouraged to reserve their spot for the grand opening HERE.

About Fresh Bowl & Co. & Location Info

Fresh Bowl & Co. is a locally and family-owned healthy fast-casual restaurant in Stone Oak, San Antonio. Focused on high-quality ingredients, distinctive toppings, and friendly, personalized service, they provide a clean, welcoming environment to power your day.

📍 Contact & Address

  • Address: 115 N. Loop 1604 E. Suite 2103, San Antonio, TX 78232
  • Phone: (210) 251-4465

🕒 Hours of Operation

  • Soft Opening Hours (Now through Oct 16): Monday – Friday: 11:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
  • Regular Hours (Effective Oct 18, 2026):
    • Monday – Friday: 11:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
    • Saturday: 12:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
    • Sunday: Closed
Photo: Embark Marketing

PechaKucha San Antonio Closes Out 2026 Season with Architecture-Inspired Vol. 49

The final PechaKucha of 2026 will be at the recently renovated Magik Theatre. Photo: Ben Yanto, used with permission.

PechaKucha San Antonio Closes Out 2026 Season with Architecture-Inspired Volume 49

Get ready for an evening of rapid-fire inspiration, architecture, and local culture. PechaKucha San Antonio is closing out its 2026 series with Volume 49 on Thursday, October 15, 2026, hosted at the newly renovated Magik Theatre. (PechaKucha San Antonio, 2026)

📅 Event Details at a Glance

  • Date: Thursday, October 15, 2026
  • Location: Magik Theatre (420 S Alamo St, San Antonio, TX 78205)
  • Welcome Reception: 6:30 PM
  • Presentations: 7:30 PM
  • Tickets: $10 (+ fees) | Available at the door or online

🏛️ Returning to Architectural Roots

Created in 2003 by Tokyo’s Klein Dytham Architecture, PechaKucha (Japanese for “chit chat”) gives creative minds a platform to share their passions using a unique storytelling format: 20 images, shown for 20 seconds each (a total of 6 minutes and 40 seconds per speaker). What started as a showcase for architects has evolved into a global phenomenon in over 1,200 cities worldwide.

For Volume 49, PechaKucha San Antonio is returning to its design origins in a special collaboration with the Texas Society of Architects, featuring a curated lineup inspired by design, architecture, and the built environment.

🎤 Featured Presenters

The evening features a diverse array of local voices:

Emcee: Mike Long (builder at work, armchair philosopher at leisure)

🎷 Music, Bites & Hospitality

Come early for the 6:30 PM welcome reception, featuring:

  • Live Music: Fresh, modern jazz standards performed by the 210 Young Jazz Trio (Joel Castillo, Jared Finn, and Isaiah Williams).
  • Complimentary Bites: Delicious food and coffee courtesy of local favorites:
    • Liberty Bar
    • Olla Express Coffee
    • Duke’s Dive / Mission Bell
    • Folklores Catering

🤝 Community & Venue Partners

This event is presented in partnership with The Power of Preservation Foundation.

Annual Sponsors

Maltz Properties • Frost Bank • Lake|Flato Architects • Best Quality Daughter • 80|20 Foundation • Big City Small Town • Blue Star Arts District

Community Partners

Texas Society of Architects • Magik Theatre • Josh Huskin Photography • Studio Morris • Giant Noise • Sprocket Productions • Wenger Productions • SmithPrint • Ben Yanto Visuals • Gary Sweeney’s Postcards • Liberty Bar • Olla Express Coffee • Duke’s Dive/Mission Bell • Folklores Catering

About the Venue:

Founded in 1994 by Richard Rosen, the non-profit Magik Theatre creates professional, accessible, literature-based theatrical experiences designed to ignite young imaginations and inspire empathy across San Antonio families.

Photo: PechaKucha San Antonio

Cocktails in the Courtyard: Get an Exclusive First Look at San Antonio’s Newest Women’s Club

Women’s social club The Village will host ‘Cocktails in the Courtyard’ happy hour series this month. Photo: txtroublemaker, used with permission.

Discover Your New Community: Join The Village for “Cocktails in the Courtyard” Every Thursday in October

San Antonio women, mark your calendars! The Village, a brand-new social club built by women for women, is hosting a weekly happy hour series this month: Cocktails in the Courtyard. (The Village, 2026)

Whether you’re looking to unwind after work, connect with like-minded local women, or get an insider preview of San Antonio’s newest women’s haven, this event series is your chance to gather, relax, and build meaningful friendships.

While The Village doesn’t officially launch until late 2026, these preview events will give guests an exciting taste of what’s to come.

Event Details & What to Expect

  • When: Every Thursday in October | 4:30 PM – 7:00 PM
    • October 8
    • October 15
    • October 22
    • October 29
  • Where: The Village, 723 S. Flores St., San Antonio, TX 78204 (Southtown)
  • Tickets: $35 per person

What’s Included with Your Ticket:

  • Event access & complimentary valet parking
  • Delicious bites provided by Pullman Market
  • Interactive lawn games and activities, including Mahjong, cornhole, and card games
  • The opportunity to connect with local women and explore membership options

Note: Cocktails and additional beverages will be available for purchase on-site.

Why You Should Attend

These gatherings are designed to bring women together to celebrate existing relationships, form new friendships, and cultivate a genuine sense of community. Space is limited for each date, so guests are encouraged to reserve tickets online in advance.

About The Village

Opening in late 2026 in Southtown, The Village was founded by entrepreneur Laney Cloud and a collective of community-minded women who believe that women deserve a dedicated space to feel good every day.

Their mission is to create experiences where women can prioritize themselves without guilt, connect authentically, and find balance through every season of life.

When complete, the purposefully designed space will feature:

  • Premium spa services and beauty treatments
  • Fitness classes and healing amenities
  • Elevated food and drink options
  • Nurturing childcare
  • Imaginative social and wellness programming

Get Involved Early

Want to be part of the community before doors officially open?

  • Join the Waitlist: Visit The Village online to secure your spot on the membership waitlist.
  • Follow Along: Connect with The Village on social media for design updates, upcoming events, and club announcements.
Photo: The Village

Fall at the Briscoe Museum: Kathy Sosa Exhibition, Tejano Legacy, and Events Guide

Kathy Sosa: Revolutionary Women of Texas and Mexico opens to the public on October 15 at the Briscoe. Photo: Briscoe Western Art Museum, used with permission.

Unsung Heroes: Kathy Sosa’s ‘Revolutionary Women’ Comes to the Briscoe Western Art Museum

SAN ANTONIO, TX — The women who shaped Texas and Mexico were never just passive witnesses to history. They were active participants, survivors, cultural transmitters, laborers, activists, mothers, revolutionaries, and community leaders. Their resilience and determination forged the vibrant cultural landscape that connects Mexico, Texas, and the American West. (Briscoe Western Art Museum, 2026)

This fall, their stories take center stage.

Opening October 15 at the Briscoe Western Art Museum, Kathy Sosa: Revolutionary Women of Texas and Mexico brings these incredible narratives to life through more than 30 powerful works by San Antonio artist Kathy Sosa. On view through June 14, 2027, the exhibition serves as a striking contemporary artistic continuation of the history explored in the Briscoe’s landmark exhibition, Tejano Legacy: Another American Origin Story.

A Grand Reopening for the Women of the West Gallery

Revolutionary Women of Texas and Mexico marks the highly anticipated reopening of the Briscoe’s Women of the West Gallery, which has been temporarily closed as part of the museum’s ongoing renovations.

The refreshed gallery will reopen just in time to welcome Sosa’s exhibition, providing a dedicated, expanded space to honor the women who built and shaped the American West.

Revolutionary Women: History Through a Contemporary Lens

San Antonio artist Kathy Sosa is a self-taught creator whose work explores mestizaje – the distinctive cultural identity of the Texas-Mexico borderlands. While historically referring to racial and ethnic mixing between Indigenous peoples and Europeans, the term has evolved to describe a broader cultural process: the convergence of traditions, languages, ideas, and ways of life.

That exploration takes on a deeply human dimension in this exhibition, which draws inspiration from Sosa’s acclaimed book, Revolutionary Women of Texas and Mexico: Portraits of Soldaderas, Saints and Subversives. The collection features paintings, mixed media, and sculpture highlighting women whose lives challenge conventional ideas about who built the history of the region.

About the Artist: Kathy Sosa is the author of Mestizaje: The Feminist Art of Kathy Sosa, co-editor and illustrator of Revolutionary Women of Texas and Mexico, and co-producer of the documentary series Children of the Revolución. Her work has been exhibited nationwide and featured across major media platforms.

A Contemporary Companion to 400 Years of Tejano History

The theme of mestizaje bridges Sosa’s work directly with Tejano Legacy: Another American Origin Story, the largest and most ambitious exhibition in the Briscoe’s history.

On view through January 18, 2027, Tejano Legacy explores nearly 400 years of Tejano history, culture, and identity through more than 100 artworks and artifacts. It examines the migrations, conflicts, faith, and traditions that created a vibrant borderlands culture that continues to thrive today.

Celebrate Hispanic Heritage & Fall at the Briscoe

With Tejano Legacy, Selena Forever | Siempre Selena, a robust fall calendar, and the arrival of Revolutionary Women, the Briscoe offers incredible opportunities to immerse yourself in Tejano and Mexican American history and culture.

🌟 Featured Companion Exhibition

  • Selena Forever | Siempre Selena (On view through Jan. 4, 2027): Features photographer John Dyer’s intimate images of Tejano superstar Selena Quintanilla captured between 1992 and 1994. Large-scale portraits, boutique photography, and magazine covers celebrate her enduring legacy.

🎶 Fall Events Beyond the Galleries

  • Oct. 22 | Llamativa Free Concert (6–8 p.m.): Experience the living rhythms of cumbia with San Antonio’s all-female cumbia group, Llamativa. This all-ages outdoor/gallery performance is completely free and open to the public.
  • Nov. 7 | Los Tejanos Film Screening & Conversation (1–4 p.m.): Join a special screening of the documentary Los Tejanos, followed by an audience Q&A with acclaimed author John Phillip Santos, producer Jeri Wachter, and Emmy-winning director Joseph C. Stillman. Free with advance registration.
  • Nov. 19 | Truly Texas Mexican Film Screening (6–8 p.m.): Explore how food traditions carry history and cultural memory across generations during this special documentary screening. Free with museum admission.

Plan Your Visit

  • Location: Briscoe Western Art Museum, San Antonio River Walk, 210 W. Market Street, San Antonio, TX ( housed in the beautifully restored 1930s former San Antonio Public Library building).
  • Stay Updated: Programs and details are subject to change. Visit the Briscoe Western Art Museum online for the latest ticketing information, hours, and event registrations.

About the Briscoe Western Art Museum: Dedicated to preserving and presenting the art, history, and culture of the American West through engaging exhibitions, educational programs, and public events reflective of the region’s rich traditions and shared heritage.

Celebrate World Space Week 2026: Smithsonian Starstruck Experience at Rivercenter

Smithsonian Starstruck invites communities worldwide to explore the universe together this World Space Week. Photo: Smithsonian Starstruck, used with permission.

Celebrate World Space Week in San Antonio with Smithsonian Starstruck: An Immersive Experience

This World Space Week, Smithsonian Starstruck: An Immersive Experience is inviting audiences around the globe to explore the universe together during Family Space Week – a special celebration taking place October 4–10. (Smithsonian Starstruck, 2026)

Across participating Starstruck venues in Washington D.C., San Antonio, Denver, Chicago, London, Melbourne, São Paulo, and Lisbon, guests are invited to journey deep into the cosmos through immersive exploration, STEM-inspired content, and special giveaways.

Kicking Off With Free Family Sunday at Starstruck

At the heart of the celebration is Smithsonian Starstruck: An Immersive Experience, where guests travel through galaxies, encounter extreme exoplanets, and witness the life cycle of stars through real astronomical data brought to life.

Free tickets will be made available on Sunday, October 4 with Free Family Sunday, a special kickoff event offering free admission to Smithsonian Starstruck for one day only.

Important Note: Free tickets are available on a first-come, first-served basis and will no longer be available once fully claimed.

From young explorers to grown-up stargazers, Free Family Sunday is designed to turn curiosity into discovery. Families can explore the science behind the stars and take home space-inspired goodies.

Event Details & Visitor Information

  • Opening Date: Sunday, October 4, 2026
  • Location: The Shops at Rivercenter, Lower Level (San Antonio, TX)
  • Duration: ~40 minutes
  • Recommended Age: 10+

Accessibility Features

Developed in close collaboration with the Smithsonian Office of Visitor Accessibility, Starstruck incorporates accessible features to ensure a welcoming experience for all:

  • Closed captions & visual descriptions
  • Wheelchair-optimized viewing
  • Assistive listening devices
  • Complimentary companion access
  • Fully accessible venues and trained staff

What to Expect: A Walkable, Interactive Cosmos

Developed in collaboration with the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory (SAO), Starstruck draws on decades of astronomical research to translate scientific data into a fully immersive, interactive, and walkable universe.

Built from real astronomical data, Starstruck is far more than an exhibition—it is a cosmic journey allowing guests to activate their senses as they touch, hear, and navigate the wonders of the universe like never before.

Highlight Features:

  • Travel Alongside Space Telescopes: Journey aboard the Hubble Space Telescope, the James Webb Space Telescope, and the Chandra X-ray Observatory.
  • Explore Deep Space: Encounter extreme exoplanets, witness the birth and death of stars, and explore the immense scale of galaxies and black holes.
  • Humanity’s Place in Science: Gain a deeper understanding of our place in the universe through smart, transportive entertainment.

A Full Week of Cosmic Discovery

Family Space Week continues beyond the Sunday kickoff event with:

  • Special Ticket Offers: A limited-time promotion offering 20% off admission throughout World Space Week.
  • Giveaways & Partnerships: Local radio giveaways, STEM-inspired social content, and community partnerships across participating cities.

“World Space Week is about celebrating the curiosity that space sparks in all of us. We created Starstruck to inspire young people to ask big questions, get excited about science, and see themselves as part of the future of discovery.”

— Randall Smith, Astrophysicist at the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory

About Smithsonian Starstruck: An Immersive Experience

Smithsonian Starstruck: An Immersive Experience is a 3D interactive, virtual reality experience that begins at Earth’s observatories and launches visitors into the universe. Translating real data from SAO, NASA, and ESA, Starstruck brings Smithsonian science and storytelling into a transportive format, extending the Institution’s mission of sharing knowledge far beyond its physical museums.

Starstruck is part of Fever’s growing portfolio of original immersive experiences, designed to make extraordinary scientific discoveries accessible and tangible for everyone through a seamless blend of education, storytelling, and cutting-edge technology.

Magik Theatre Kicks Off 2026–27 Season with ‘If You Give a Mouse a Cookie’

‘If You Give a Mouse a Cookie’ opens Oct. 3 at Magik Theatre. Photo: Magik Theatre, used with permission.

Magik Theatre Kicks Off 2026–27 Season with If You Give a Mouse a Cookie

SAN ANTONIO, TX — Magik Theatre is opening its new season with a beloved treat that will have audiences of all ages laughing, smiling, and demanding more silliness. (Magik Theatre, 2026)

If You Give a Mouse a Cookie marks the official start of Magik’s 2026–27 season. The production opens on Saturday, October 3, with a sweet kickoff party and runs through October 25. Guests can savor Magik’s remarkable renovations, completed just this summer, while enjoying brand-new season ticket options that make it easy to save room for a full slate of acclaimed productions featuring “fun, fantastical friends.”

A Zany, Cause-and-Effect Adventure

Laura Numeroff’s If You Give a Mouse a Cookie has been charming generations since the picture book’s release in 1985. Adapted by Jodi Davidson, Magik’s version recounts the simple tale of a boy whose peaceful afternoon of cookies and comics is interrupted by a mouse whose simple request snowballs into a zany, physical comedy adventure.

“This production is fun, silly, and full of slapstick humor.”

— Pam Ramirez, Director

A professional clown whose resume includes Ringling Brothers, Barnum & Bailey Circus, and studies at the world-renowned Dell’Arte School of Physical Theatre, Ramirez was the perfect choice to lead this production.

“I’m especially thrilled that our production will be filled with physical comedy… The endless funny bits brilliantly executed by Michael Roberts (Mouse) and Christopher Deuter (Boy) will make you giggle for 50 minutes straight.”

— Collin Pittmann, Artistic Director

While the story is famed for its repetition and circularity, Magik’s hour-long production is anything but boring. Ramirez and the company have created a comic book story-within-a-story packed with excitement, suspense, and non-stop energy.

Rejuvenating Magik, All Year Long

Guests who didn’t get a glimpse of Magik’s major renovation over the summer will find even more to love about the theatre. The multimillion-dollar effort includes:

  • Enhanced Accessibility & Safety: Quadrupled ADA-accessible seating, improved entry points, and upgraded security, electrical, and plumbing systems.
  • Modern Comforts: Brand-new theater seats, carpet, and HVAC systems.
  • Fresh New Look: Brightly painted upper and lower lobbies, with main exterior doors wrapped in colorful signage marking where the outside world ends and Magik begins.

What’s Next in the 2026–27 Lineup?

Joining Mouse and Boy later this season are the Grinch, Frog and Toad, Pinocchio, Charlotte the Spider, the Cat in the Hat, and many more beloved characters.

  • Musical Lovers Subscription: Enjoy all four season musicals: How the Grinch Stole Christmas, A Year with Frog and Toad, Pinocchio (a collaboration with OPERA San Antonio), and Seussical the Musical.
  • Full Season Pass: Secure seats to all four musicals plus If You Give a Mouse a Cookie and Charlotte’s Web in Magik’s biggest season yet.
  • School & Educational Groups: Curriculum-connected student matinee performances run October 1–23. Contact the theatre directly to reserve your school’s spot.

Special Events & Add-On Experiences

🎈 Opening Night “Party in the Park”

  • When: Saturday, Oct. 3 | Party at 3:30 p.m. • Show at 5:00 p.m.
  • Where: Hemisfair Park
  • Details: Celebrate the first performance with a free, cookie-filled party in partnership with Hemisfair. Enjoy a live DJ set, themed crafts, and special treats. Concessions will feature specially wrapped celebration cookies available for purchase throughout the run.

(Note: The party is free to the public; show admission requires a ticket.)

🎟️️ Backstage Experience Add-On

  • Cost: $20 per person (Available after every performance, excluding special event nights)
  • Includes:
    • Onstage meet-and-greet and photo opportunities with the cast.
    • A 15-minute guided behind-the-scenes tour of the set, props, and rehearsal space led by Magik Theatre staff.
    • A sweet treat to cap off the experience.

🎂 Birthday Parties at Magik

  • Cost: $160
  • Includes: Main stage show admission, a complimentary birthday ticket, ribbon, lobby signage, a merch gift, a specialty drink or popcorn, and a personal cast shoutout during the post-show Q&A. Email theatre to book.

Special Access Performances

  • Educator Appreciation Day: Sunday, Oct. 4 at 3:00 p.m. – Educators and school administrators receive one free ticket with valid I.D., plus 20% off additional tickets for family and friends.
  • Pay-What-You-Wish: Sunday, Oct. 11 at 3:00 p.m. – Donation-based performance supporting theatre accessibility for all. Tickets are available at the door on show day.
  • Sensory-Friendly Performance: Saturday, Oct. 17 at 10:00 a.m. – Designed for individuals on the autism spectrum or with sensory sensitivities. Features a relaxed, judgment-free environment with adjusted lighting and sound.
  • ASL-Interpreted Performance: Saturday, Oct. 17 at 2:00 p.m. – Features Robert Cardoza, San Antonio’s primary American Sign Language theatre interpreter.

Plan Your Visit

Located in the heart of Hemisfair Park, families can catch a show, explore Yanaguana Garden, grab a bite at nearby restaurants, and make unforgettable memories.

  • Box Office Hours: Monday–Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
  • Location: 420 S Alamo, San Antonio, TX 78205
  • Phone: (210) 227-2751
  • Ticketing: Single tickets, flex passes, and season subscriptions are available online, by phone, or at the door. Group rates are available for parties of 10 or more.

(Note: Children under 2 occupying a seat or car/booster seat require a general admission ticket.)

About Magik Theatre

Established in 1994, Magik Theatre is a professional theatre for young audiences. Its mission is to create theatrical experiences that ignite imagination, spark curiosity, inspire empathy, and foster a lifetime love of learning in young people.

Photo: Magik Theatre

Building a Reliability Culture in the Trades: A Guide by Gerard Wood

‘Only Tradies Improve Reliability’ is Gerard Wood’s new book on effective trades culture. Photo: Amazon

Book Spotlight: Only Tradies Improve Reliability – Effective Trades Culture

By Gerard Wood

In every workshop and on every job site, one truth determines whether equipment thrives or fails: reliability is built by tradies who take pride in their work. But in too many workplaces, that pride is buried under weak culture, rushed decisions, and invisible standards that slowly erode both performance and job satisfaction. (Amazon, 2026)

In Only Tradies Improve Reliability, Gerard Wood, former tradie, maintenance leader, and author of Simplifying Mining Maintenance, reveals the practical, culture-driven routines that transform ordinary maintenance teams into reliability powerhouses. Drawing on four decades of real-world experience, he shows leaders and tradies how to build a culture where quality becomes visible, accountability becomes natural, and reliability improves faster than any technical program could.

What You’ll Discover Inside

  • Spotting the Invisible: Why most failures aren’t caused by tradies who “don’t know” or “don’t care,” but by tradies operating in a culture where they “don’t see,” and how to fix it permanently through simple routines that sharpen the eye for quality.
  • The Leader’s Role: How leaders create the culture, and why no reliability strategy works unless the tradies executing it feel ownership, pride, and trust.
  • Empowering the Trades: How tradies can dramatically improve their satisfaction and impact, even in tough workplaces, by focusing on quality, feedback, and craftsmanship.
  • The Power of Proactive Care: Why proactive maintenance is always cheaper, easier, and more fulfilling than the chaos caused by allowing small defects to become large breakdowns.

Only Tradies Improve Reliability is more than a maintenance book. It’s a blueprint for restoring respect, pride, and craftsmanship in the trades, and for building workplaces where reliability improves quickly, costs fall naturally, and people genuinely want to stay.

Ready to transform your job site’s culture and performance? Grab your copy of Only Tradies Improve Reliability today.

About the Author

During his engineering career, Gerard Wood became passionate about two things: practical asset management and quality work by tradies. After 40 years in maintenance, starting as a tradie, leading asset management across entire businesses, and helping companies sustainably improve reliability, he has seen firsthand what really drives performance. Spoiler alert: it’s not reports, dashboards, or meetings. It’s skilled people doing the right work, the right way. That’s the engine room of reliability.

Through decades of helping sites lift their game, Gerard came to a simple realization: nothing improves reliability faster than quality trades work backed by practical, no-nonsense maintenance leadership. That is the heartbeat of his coaching and his books, Simplifying Mining Maintenance and Only Tradies Improve Reliability. He keeps it sharp, straight-talking, and always shares a few laughs along the way.

Gerard’s mission for this book is ambitious: to positively impact 1 million tradies, helping them gain greater job satisfaction, feel proud to be part of a successful team, and drive better business performance. Realizing that consulting alone has a limited reach, he turned to media, books, and online platforms to share his 40 years of hard-earned experience with a global audience.

National Coffee Day 2026: Best Freebies, Deals, and Local Events

Bakery Lorraine is launching cold foam for National Coffee Day. Photo: Bakery Lorraine, used with permission.

Celebrate National Coffee Day: Events, Deals, and How to Get Your Free Cup

National Coffee Day is just around the corner on September 29. This year, the holiday lands on a Tuesday, giving us the perfect excuse to skip the morning slump and support our favorite local and independent coffee shops.

Whether you like your java piping hot or ice-cold, there are plenty of exciting local events and nationwide chain deals to help you fuel up.

** Update: Verena Street Coffee/Carl’s Jr **

Verena Street Coffee is celebrating National Coffee Day with 25% off all bagged coffee and 15% off single-cup coffee, available from September 9 through midnight September 29. Coffee lovers can save across the range online, including Pumpkin Smasher, a seasonal fall coffee available for a limited time. (Verena Street Coffee, 2026)

Carl’s Jr. is offering 25% off sips, shakes and sides for My Rewards members in the app. If you’re looking for an afternoon pick me up or a caffeinated sweet treat, try Carl’s Jr.’s iced coffee line up including Black, Vanilla, Mocha, and for a limited time, Churro.
A new coffee to try, the Churro Iced Coffee: Bold Iced coffee brewed from 100% Arabica medium roast beans poured over ice for a crisp, refreshing taste, and sweetened with Churro syrup. (Carl’s Jr, 2026)

Local Spotlights & Events

  • Bakery Lorraine: To celebrate the big day, this fan-favorite bakery is officially launching cold foam on Tuesday. Available in vanilla and marshmallow flavors, you can add it to any espresso or matcha order. (Bakery Lorraine, 2026)
  • The St. Anthony Hotel (“The Art of Coffee” at Esencia): Kick off the celebrations early on Saturday, September 26, from 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM. Reservations required. (The St. Anthony Hotel, 2026)
    • 12:00 PM: Welcome coffee cart with tableside pours and latte art.
    • Interactive Session: James Mireles of Pulp Coffee Roasters will lead a workshop on coffee origins, roasting techniques, and flavor profiles.
    • Brunch: Concludes with a four-course brunch curated by two-time James Beard-nominated Executive Chef Leo Davila, paired with specialty coffees.

National Coffee Day Deals & Freebies

Looking to score a freebie/deal on September 29? Here’s a breakdown of what major chains are offering (KSAT, 2026)

BrandThe Deal
7 BrewExclusive Texas-themed sticker for every guest. Try their seasonal pumpkin blondie, salted pumpkin macchiato, or pumpkin house blend.
Circle KFree medium hot or iced coffee via the Circle K app or Inner Circle Reward (no purchase required).
Dunkin’Free medium hot or iced coffee with a purchase for Dunkin’ Rewards members.
Dutch BrosTwo free car coasters with the purchase of two or more drinks (while supplies last).
Einstein Bros. BagelsFree hot or iced coffee with an in-app purchase for rewards members at participating locations.
Frutta BowlsFree 16-ounce cold brew with any purchase of $9.99 or more using code COFFEE25 (in-store and online).
Grubhub$7 off $20 Starbucks delivery orders for Grubhub+ members (valid midnight to 11:55 p.m. local time).
La MadeleineAny regular-sized coffee free with a food purchase for Bonjour Rewards members.
PilotFree hot or iced coffee via the myRewards Plus app.
PJ’s CoffeeFree 16-ounce cold brew when ordered through the PJ’s Coffee app.
Scooter’s CoffeeFree medium brewed coffee via the mobile app from Sept. 27–29 (limit one per day). First 100 customers on Sept. 29 get a free sticker with any purchase.
Shipley Do-NutsFree donut with any coffee purchase for loyalty members (plus, check out their new cold brew donut launching Sept. 26!).
Smoothie KingShow your Starbucks Rewards stars on Sept. 29 (open to 10:30 a.m.) for a free 20-ounce coffee high protein almond mocha or pumpkin smoothie.

** Pro Tip: Make sure to download the respective apps ahead of time, as many of these fantastic deals require rewards membership or app activation to redeem. Check their websites for deal details.

What is your go-to coffee order to celebrate the big day?

Photo: Bakery Lorraine
Photo: The St. Anthony Hotel