San Antonio hosts a wide variety of festivals throughout the year celebrating its diverse culture.
Fiesta (April): the biggest, a 10-day citywide celebration with parades, food, music, and cultural events. Over 3 million attendees annually.
Other major festivals: Wurstfest (November, German heritage in New Braunfels), San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo (February), and Dia de los Muertos celebrations.
Fiesta (Detailed)
Fiesta: 100+ events over 10 days. Highlights: Battle of Flowers Parade, Fiesta Flambeau Night Parade, Oyster Bake, A Night in Old San Antonio, and Fiesta Fiesta.
Wurstfest
Wurstfest: 10-day German festival in New Braunfels (30 min). Features German food, music, dancing, carnival rides, and of course sausages. Late October-early November.
Cultural Festivals
Dia de los Muertos (Nov): altars, parades, face painting, and celebrations. San Fernando Cathedral hosts major events. Juneteenth (June): freedom celebration. MLK March (January): largest in nation.
Food Festivals
San Antonio Restaurant Week (January): discounted dining at top restaurants. Culinaria: wine and food festival. Tamale Festival: December. Chile Pepper Festival: September.
Music Festivals
Tejano Conjunto Festival (May): celebrates Tejano music. San Antonio Jazz Festival (August). Jazz TX hosts regular festivals. Fiesta includes multiple music stages.
How to Participate
Volunteer: many festivals need volunteers. Attendee: buy tickets early (Fiesta is popular). Parade spectator: arrive early for good spots.