Fiesta by Cyndi Griesser

Photo by Cyndi Griesser

It’s like Mardi Gras if you substitute the beads and king cake with baile folklórico and mariachi music. What started in 1891 as a one-parade event to honor the heroes of the Alamo and the Battle of San Jacinto has evolved into the city’s premiere event, Fiesta San Antonio. A spectacular firework show during the official opening ceremonies kicks off more than 100 events across 11 days. First-timers can find the breadth of offerings overwhelming, so look for a volunteer for guidance—some 75,000 people donate their time. This year’s event is April 20–30, 2017.

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