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Women dressed in gowns and crowns on a colorful Fiesta float in front of the Alamo.

Fiesta San Antonio 2026

Join Us for the Annual 11-day Citywide Celebration

In San Antonio, culture comes to life during Fiesta® San Antonio, one of the nation’s premier festivals. Taking place April 16–26, 2026, this 11-day celebration fills the city with colorful parades, live music, cultural events, and iconic Fiesta food. More than 2.5 million locals and visitors take part each year, making Fiesta a must-see experience in the Alamo City.

Known as a “Party With a Purpose,” Fiesta supports San Antonio throughout the year. Nearly 100 local nonprofit organizations host official Fiesta events, with proceeds benefiting area charities and community programs.

Plan Ahead - Get Your Fiesta Tickets Now

Fiesta San Antonio Returns
April 16 - 26, 2026

The celebration officially begins with Fiesta Fiesta at Travis Park, a free, family-friendly kickoff featuring live entertainment, Fiesta favorites like Chicken on a Stick, and the vibrant energy that defines Fiesta San Antonio.

Then, make plans to attend the one-of-a-kind Texas Cavaliers River Parade, the Battle of Flowers Parade, and the Fiesta Flambeau Parade.

For fun with food and drinks, do not miss NIOSA (A Night in Old San Antonio), Fiesta Oyster Bake, the Taste of the Republic, and more.

Then explore distinctive cultures with deep roots at events like A Day in Old Mexico & Charreada, the Ford Mariachi Festival, and more.

Did you know the city is home to over 100 Fiesta events, including parades, culinary pop-ups, exhibits, observances, and more? Finding a Fiesta event in San Antonio that speaks to your taste is easy. Attending them all may be hard! 

View Official Fiesta San Antonio Event Calendar
Ticketed Fiesta San Antonio Events to Plan for Now

Make sure you're Fiesta-ready in advance! Nab your tickets now and don't forget to pack your Fiesta medals! 

  • Battle of Flowers Parade®
  • The Fiesta Flambeau Parade®
  • The Texas Cavaliers River Parade®
  • Fiesta® San Antonio VIP Parade Experience
  • Fiesta Carnival
Get Your Fiesta Tickets Here

A Brief History of Fiesta San Antonio

The very first Battle of Flowers parade dates back to 1891, when a group of women from San Antonio sought a way to commemorate and pay their respects to the brave individuals who fought and died in the Battle of the Alamo and the Battle of San Jacinto.

This inaugural parade took place in front of the Alamo, where participants threw flowers at each other to reenact each battle. Each year, the celebration grew in duration. 

Today, it has grown into a citywide celebration of San Antonio’s rich and diverse cultures, featuring more than 100 official events including music festivals, arts and educational programs, athletic events, and community celebrations. One of the most beloved traditions is collecting and trading Fiesta medals, worn proudly as symbols of the city’s spirit.

Cyclist holding fieta medal in San Antonio.
Two girls holding chicken on a stick wearing flower crows at Fiesta San Antonio.
Fiesta-Shoes-700x912

A First-Timer's Guide to Fiesta San Antonio Traditions

Girls on parade float surrounded by confetti

Table full of deocrative medals at Fiesta San Antonio.

Colorful hat at Fiesta San Antonio.

"Show Me Your Shoes!"

If you attend the Battle of Flowers parade, be on the lookout for royalty's shoes! This tradition began as Fiesta Royalty showing off their comfy shoes throughout the Battle of Flowers parade. Today, the selection in shoes has become elaborate, customized footwear that has everyone in the crowd calling out, "Show me your shoes!"

Fiesta Gear

You'll see Fiesta attendees donning as many Fiesta medals as their sashes, jackets, and shirts can handle. Many joke that you'll see people wearing their weight in medals, fastened to sashes, jackets, hats, and more.

Local businesses and organizations release new medal designs each year, enticing collectors to grow their collections with the latest designs.

Plus, expect hats. Big hats. Colorful hats. Creative hats. All the hats.

And don't forget your Fiesta flower crown. Don't have one? Head to Historic Market Square, the largest Mexican Market in the country, where you're sure to find one!

Chicken on a Stick

One of the most beloved food traditions of Fiesta San Antonio, this simple but iconic snack features a crispy, deep-fried chicken strip skewered with a jalapeño.

Easy to grab while strolling through Fiesta events, it’s a local favorite that perfectly captures the fun, festive spirit of the celebration.

Parade participants on float dressed in elaborate dresses at Battle of Flowers parade in San Antonio in Fiesta San Antonio.

Fiesta Royalty

Another unique custom is the coronation of the official Fiesta Royalty members. These 9 individuals are supported by their respective community organizations.  Fiesta San Antonio royalty titles include Queen of the Order of the Alamo, King Antonio, Rey Feo, Miss Fiesta San Antonio, and more.

River parade at San Antonio River Walk during Fiesta.

More Events to Attend During Fiesta 

With so many events, you can tailor your Fiesta San Antonio experience just for your travelers. Take a look at some options below.
 

Events the Whole Family Can Enjoy

Parades aren't the only way to celebrate Fiesta. Enjoy a wide range of events for all ages, promising top-notch live entertainment, special door prizes, vendors, guest appearances, and more. 

Folklorico dancer in red dress dancing with mariachi band behind her.

 

Adult-Geared Events

Looking for events more catered to adults? We have those too!

  • Book a Mariachi Sip and Cruise with Go Rio Cruises. Tickets include a cruise down the river, mariachi entertainment, and two drink tickets. (Select days March 20-May 30, 2026).
  • Try the Taste of the Republic (Ages 21+) for a VIP culinary event featuring chefs cooking food from Texas's 6 culinary regions. (April 16, 2026)
  • The Chili Queens Chili Cook-Off (Ages 18+) isn't your average cook-off; competitors from all over put their chili to the test here, but each entry must be represented by a queen! (April 19, 2026) 
  • Fiesta Cornyation (Ages 18+) provides a comedic, satirical review of current events (April 21-23, 2026)

Person holding pastries in powdered sugar wearing Fiesta medals

Fiesta Events to Check Out

Fiesta San Antonio FAQ

What should I wear to Fiesta?

Fiesta is bright, and so is the clothing! Grab the most colorful items in your closet, your flower crown (or “corona”), and remember to bring a sash for your medal collection. We recommend comfortable shoes for all the walking and dancing you will be doing! 

What is with all the medals?

As a long-standing tradition, people go on a mission to obtain and wear as many Fiesta medals as possible. You will see people wearing their weight in medals – fastened to sashes, jackets, hats and more. Get your own Fiesta medals at various events throughout the 11-day celebration!

What is Fiesta Royalty all about?

Each year, new kings, queens, princesses, and more are added to the Fiesta Royalty Court. These members of the Fiesta court are selected by committees based on their charitable work. 

What is the best way to get to downtown Fiesta events?

Grab the VIA Park and Ride to events like NIOSA and the parades. Rideshare is also a good option to get to Fiesta events. Should you choose to drive, take cash, as many parking lots do not accept credit cards.

Explore More Fiesta San Antonio