FIESTA!!
Clinton W. Wright, Pharm.D., BCPP
Well, it can either be a good time to be visiting San Antonio or not. I like to be positive. You are going to have access to great events that only happen once a year. Just be aware of the events that happen during fiesta (particularly the parades) when planning your activities. There is just one link I am going to give you as all the activities listed below can be listed below, as well as others not listed. Plan wisely and FIESTA!!
Our committee asked several CPNP members who either live currently in San Antonio or have resided here in the past what their favorite Fiesta events were, both on the river and within the 410 Loop (most are less than 15 minutes from downtown).
Here are some suggestions for “On the Riverwalk” Fiesta events:
- A Night in Old San Antonio (NIOSA) is four nights of fun. It is in the heart of downtown and an easy walk from the hotel. It is Tuesday through Friday, so if you are staying over, you can hit it a couple of times. Beware, Thursday night is college night. You DO NOT want to go then. I would recommend that you go early (5:30 when the doors open) and leave early (by 8:30, 9:00 at the latest). It gets crowded and sticky later. Here’s what you can expect: 80,000 visitors over the four days; a celebration of the cultures that formed San Antonio in 15 themed areas; over 240 food and drink booths (turkey leg anyone?); the Chicken Dance (enough said); and a good cause that supports the San Antonio Conservation Society.
- Cornyation is a spoof of the actual Coronation of the Queen of the Order of the Alamo. Tickets are really hard to get, but if you are lucky it is a hilarious romp. Whether you understand the local references, the costumes are over the top. Just beware of flying tortillas (okay they stopped that…it may be because one year I hit one of the announcers in the face with one).
- If you are into pageantry, then the actual Coronation is where you need to be. The court of duchesses, the princess and the queen wear exquisite gowns that take six to nine months to make. The long beaded and embroidered trains tell various stories related to the current year’s Fiesta theme.
- Avoid the river on Monday night unless you like parades. The Texas Cavaliers River Parade is literally on the river. I believe it is the only nighttime river parade. Over 40 floats float down the river. Additional parades include the Fiesta Flambeau Parade (Saturday after the meeting) and the Battle of Flowers Parade (Friday after the meeting). The Battle of Flowers Parade celebrates the origins of Fiesta. Be sure to read more on the website.
Here are some suggestions for “Inside the Loop” Fiesta events:
- Most events are held in or around downtown, but here are some that are just a bit further out.
- Fiesta Oyster Bake can get a bit crowded, but there is good live music, rides and beer. It is held at St. Mary’s College on Friday and Saturday before the meeting.
- A Taste of New Orleans is held the first weekend of Fiesta. Its name says it all.
- Fiesta Gartenfest takes place during the middle of Fiesta (Wednesday through Saturday). Held at Beethoven Garten, it celebrates the German influence on San Antonio and the region. Good beer.
- The Fiesta Fandango Run is a 2.6 mile nighttime run along the parade route. It is held Friday night after the meeting.
- King William Fair & Parade is on the second weekend of Fiesta (Saturday 10-6). You can see all of the historic homes in the neighborhood and enjoy one of the craziest parades besides.
I hope these suggestions help you plan your trip to San Antonio. It is an exciting time to be in San Antonio. Fiesta offers something for everyone. I have only touched on a few of the events. Be sure to check out the website to review your options. One last thing, we trade medals like hotcakes. Be sure to get one or two (or go for broke, buy a sash and try to load it up before you leave). They are akin to beads for Mardi Gras.