The rich culture and historic relics that are woven into the fabric of San Antonio give way to annual festivities and events which are celebrated with much delight. For some families who have lived in the city for generations, attending and commemorating particular events has become a tradition not to be missed. Those new to the city can explore the various events taking place around the year to begin new traditions or simply enjoy the city as it comes together to rejoice. The following calendar of events highlights just some of the festivities held annually.
January
The U.S. Army All-American Bowl
The premier national high school football all-star game caps off a week of activities for athletes and fans - an East vs. West showdown featuring the nation’s top 78 high school football players. www.allamericangames.com
Michelob ULTRA Riverwalk Mud Festival
Held for one week in January to celebrate the draining of the San Antonio River for maintenance by the Parks & Recreation Department. Civic & Media personalities vie for the title of the Michelob Ultra Mud Queen & Mud King by competing to see who can raise the most quarter votes for the Association. The celebration features: Michelob Ultra Mud Pie Ball, Michelob Ultra Pub Crawl, Michelob Ultra Mud Coronation, Michelob Ultra Mud Parade, and an Arts & Crafts Show. (210) 227-4262, www.thesanantonioriverwalk.com/events
Martin Luther King, Jr. March and Rally
Largest people’s march in the country honoring the civil rights leader. The event draws more than 100,000 adults and children. Other activities are planned citywide. Free. (210) 207-2098, www.sanantonio.gov/mlk
Houston Street Fair & Market
One-day event that takes place monthly and offers San Antonians and their families a place to come together and have fun. Sounds of laughter fills the air in the children’s activity area where kids can have their faces painted, listen to storytellers or play on rides. Bring your lawnchair and enjoy the day’s activities. The fair also features hand-made art and crafts by artists and artisans from San Antonio and the surrounding areas. There are drinks and food. For more future dates, event locations, and vendor and entertainment opportunities visit www.houstonstreetfairandmarket.com or call (210) 841-3217. Free.
February
San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo
Features great entertainment with star-studded country, rock ‘n’ roll and Latin artists during all 20 PRCA rodeo performances. A 16-day spectacular of fun for the entire family includes shopping and livestock centers. AT&T Center. San Antonio Livestock Exposition, Inc. Admission.
(210) 225-5851, www.sarodeo.com
March
Watercolor Month
In San Antonio, the winds of March blow in Watercolor Month. In galleries, museums, and other exhibition spaces all over town you will find beautiful works in this expressive medium from the traditional Texas Bluebonnet paintings to portraits to wild and colorful abstractions. For more information call (210) 222-ARTS (2787) or www.sanantonio.gov/art
SeaWorld San Antonio
The world’s largest marine life adventure park, features more than 25 major shows, rides, exhibits and attractions. Park is open from early March through Thanksgiving weekend. Please call for up-to-date schedule information. Admission. (800) 700-7786, www.seaworld.com
Remember The Alamo
This event is a dramatization of the final two days (March 5 and 6, 1836) of the 13-day Alamo siege by General Santa Anna’s Army of Operations, played out in Alamo Plaza. Free. (210) 273-1730, www.sanantoniolivinghistory.org