I lived in San Antonio until I was 18. I grew up knowing about the Battle of the Flowers because we got the day off, but I had never been to any of the festivities. It actually took me moving out of San Antonio to realize just how massive Fiesta San Antonio, Texas, is and to plan a trip to this festivity.
As a newcomer, I learned so much that I’m ready to take back with me for next year, and I hope it will help you. Plus, check out all of the unique things to do in San Antonio for your downtime.
What is Fiesta San Antonio?
Fiesta San Antonio is an 11-day annual event to commemorate the battle of San Jacinto and the memory of the heroes of the Alamo. It is a celebration of San Antonio culture, with over 100 official fiesta events being held throughout the festival! One misconception I had from living in San Antonio was that it was just all party-party-party. Don’t get me wrong, if you want to party, there are plenty of options for that! From mariachi bands to 4-hour-long parades, there is also so much history, art, exhibits, festive music, and great food steeped into Fiesta.
Even though Fiesta San Antonio is 11 days long (and what feels like even longer with all the excitement and events leading up to it), you can either stay the whole time or, if you’re traveling out of town, stay for a long weekend like we did and still get a fulfilling Fiesta experience.
With a world full of possibilities, choosing what to see and do can be overwhelming. But from my experience, I’m here to guide you on making the most of Fiesta San Antonio in Texas.
Fiesta Carnival
After driving in from Dallas, we decided to start a family-friendly event at San Antonio Fiesta. The Fiesta Carnival is the heartbeat of Fiesta for families and thrill-seekers alike. Think Ferris wheels, gravity-defying carnival rides, funnel cakes, and games you swear you almost won.
Pro Tip: Hit the carnival on a weekday evening for smaller crowds and gorgeous sunset views over the Alamodome. It’s the perfect way to start your Fiesta experience.
Fiesta Oyster Bake
If you’re a foodie (or just a fan of oysters), this two-day event is a must. The Fiesta Oyster Bake is one of my absolute favorites, not just because I can down a dozen grilled oysters like it’s a sport. Over 100,000 people gather for more than 100,000 oysters, plus live music across multiple stages, cold beer, and other classic Fiesta foods like chicken on a stick and funnel cakes.
The Texas Cavaliers River Parade
This one is pure San Antonio magic. Boats decked out in lights and flowers floated down the River Walk while costumed kings, queens, and local celebs tossed medals and goodies to the crowd. If you plan to go, grab a riverfront seat early or splurge on a ticketed area—you’ll thank yourself later. Bring some snacks, a folding chair, and be ready to cheer!
NIOSA – A Night in Old San Antonio
Want to feel like you’ve stepped into a global street party? Welcome to NIOSA, a night of food, music, and cultural flavor in one of San Antonio’s most beautiful areas. Each section of La Villita transforms into 14 themed villages like “French Quarter,” “Irish Flats,” “Mexican Market,” and more. This is where I always get into trouble—in the best way. Turkey legs, beef on a stick, and German beer from over 155 food and beverage vendors, mariachi music, and the kind of dancing that happens when you’re halfway through a margarita the size of your head. It’s crowded. It’s loud. It’s unforgettable.
Ford Mariachi Festival
If there’s one event that makes my heart burst with Texas pride, it’s this one. During the Ford Mariachi Festival, local high school and college mariachi bands and Folklorico dancers float down the River Walk performing traditional songs in full costume. You can dine at a riverside restaurant and be serenaded right from your table. It’s romantic, soulful, and a great way to wind down after a day of fiesta-ing. Even if you’re not into mariachi when you arrive, you will be by the end.
Battle of the Flowers
The Battle of Flowers is the city’s signature event in the heart of downtown San Antonio. This annual event is so famous in Texas that many schools give kids the day off so they can attend (or participate). The Battle of Flowers parade is the only parade in the U.S. produced entirely by local women. It’s huge and filled with themed floats, the Fiesta Queens in their elaborate beaded caps, and various departments. The route is long, but we chose to sit near the Alamo, where all the vendors tend to be, and close to the judges’ table.
I recommend getting there early because different sponsors of the Battle of the Flowers are handing out medals, food, and other exciting items. I didn’t realize how all-out people went for the medals, with businesses creating their own, and so I started my collection with the medals I collected here!
There were so many amazing floats and high school and college performances, and the energy was great throughout this flower parade!
Some tips for Battle of the Flowers that I learned as a first timer: Bring sunblock and plenty of water because it is a long parade! There are also vendors on-site with lots of food options to purchase.
Check out this super easy Fiesta inspired hairstyle.
Fiesta San Fernando
Fiesta San Fernando is a free event held outside of the San Fernando church and continues for multiple days throughout Fiesta.
One thing I loved about all the Fiesta celebrations was the food! Only in San Antonio does a festival food consist of gorditas, tacos, and other delicious Mexican food!
There are also booths filled with goods from locals, making it a great place to get your fiesta wear!
Fiesta San Fernando is a great place to discover local artists, eat some good food, and relax in the shade of the trees. It’s a nice, quick stop to fill your day in between other Fiesta activities.
Fiesta De Los Reyes
Fiesta de Los Reyes was one of the more packed events. Held at El Mercado, or the Market Square, it is another one that continues throughout the whole period of the Fiesta.
The market itself doesn’t change much from a normal day, except that there are more people. If you head to the back, there’s a band playing, and it’s fun to see all the people dancing in true San Antonian spirit.
Plus, I’m getting major inspiration from the fabulous lady and her hat. I’m definitely going to need something like this for next year!
Fiesta Flambeau Parade
Fiesta Flambeau is America’s largest illuminated night parade filled with lights, vibrant floats, marching bands, and dancers! Before the parade starts, the people who ran the Fandango Run come through all dressed in crazy costumes! Marching together in a vibrant 3.1-mile procession through Downtown San Antonio, over 800,000 people gather to celebrate, while another 1.5 million join in from their homes, united in spirit and joy.
The Fiesta Flambeau is quite the spectacle with all the vehicles and floats covered in lights.
As the sun continues to set, the performers dance in costumes filled with lights, and the floats look even more spectacular at night.
San Jose Mission Fest
With all the big activities and parties over, I was looking forward to a final relaxed day commemorating my fiesta adventure. We attended one of the last fiesta events, the San Jose Mission Fest, held at the beautiful San Jose Mission.
The event featured festive music and flavorful food on the South Side of San Antonio. It was a beautiful backdrop for an annual festival with different dancers throughout the event. Of course, there was food, including an Indian fry bread stand.
There was even a little area specifically for the kids.
Fiesta San Antonio Texas: FAQs
When is the Fiesta San Antonio 2025?
Fiesta San Antonio 2025 will take place from Thursday, April 24, to Sunday, May 4, 2025.
Is the Fiesta San Antonio free?
Fiesta San Antonio features a mix of free and ticketed events. Many events are free to attend, such as the Ford Mariachi Festival and the Fiesta De Los Reyes. However, some events require paid admission or reserved seating, including NIOSA (Night in Old San Antonio), the Texas Cavaliers River Parade, and the Battle of Flowers Parade. It’s best to check the official Fiesta San Antonio website for specific event details and ticket information.
Where do I buy tickets for Fiesta San Antonio?
You can purchase Fiesta San Antonio 2025 tickets through the official Fiesta San Antonio website. Visit the Parade & Event Ticket Guide to find information on ticketed events and ticket purchase options. Additionally, some events may offer tickets online or at the venue. Be sure to check the specific event details for the up-to-date ticketing information.
Fiesta San Antonio: Final Thoughts
Overall, my first taste of Fiesta San Antonio was absolutely incredible! With all my new information, I’m already planning my trip for next year, hopefully for an even longer stay. However, whether you want to stay for the full Fiesta or a weekend trip, Fiesta is a definite bucket list place.
Another thing I wished I had known about was all the people with bags full of cascarones, brightly colored confetti eggs. Apparently, it’s a great place to crack them on someone’s head! Luckily, we had some of our own left over from a previous event to enjoy before safely driving back to Dallas before our next adventure!
Last Updated 2 days ago by Jessica Serna | Published: May 18, 2019
