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What Is Fiesta in San Antonio? 7 Facts About This City-Wide Celebration

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Each year, Fiesta attracts approximately 3.5 million people to the streets of San Antonio, making Fiesta one of the largest festivals in the United States.

If you’re not a San Antonio native, you might be wondering, what is Fiesta in San Antonio? What does the festival represent and why is it an event that everyone should have the opportunity to enjoy at least once in their lifetime?

Fiesta Medal is a proud participant of this city-wide festival, and our goal is to help San Antonio organizations make each Fiesta one for the books. Now, we’ve got the 411 for all Fiesta newcomers.

Read on to learn 7 interesting facts about Fiesta to help you gear up for your trip to San Antonio, Texas.

What Is Fiesta in San Antonio?  

Fiesta is an annual celebration of San Antonio’s vibrant history and culture. Fiesta takes place over the course of 10 or more days, typically near the end of April.

During Fiesta, you can enjoy parades, delicious food, exhibits, pageantry, military observances, and more. Fiesta isn’t just a great reason to party! It’s also a way to give back to the San Antonio community and get to know the nonprofits who work hard to strengthen our city all year round.

What is Fiesta San Antonio

7 Must-Know Facts About Fiesta  

From the history of Fiesta to the modern additions to the Fiesta lineup, the only way to truly understand Fiesta is to attend. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t attend your first Fiesta without knowing the most important information! Let’s take a look at 7 must-know facts about Fiesta that will give you a better sense of what it’s all about.

1. Fiesta Began with the 1891 Battle of the Flowers  

In 1891, a group of San Antonio citizens began planning a commemoration of the heroes who fought at the Alamo and the Battle of San Jacinto. What they came up with was the first-ever Battle of the Flowers, organized and executed entirely by women. The parade participants reenacted military victories by pelting flowers at one another.

Thus began Fiesta and today, the Battle of the Flowers remains the largest parade in all of Fiesta!

2. The First Fiesta River Parade Commemorated the Renewed San Antonio River  

In 1941, the San Antonio Works Progress Administration completed updates and improvements on the San Antonio River, an area we now know as the River Walk. This marked the first year that the Fiesta king, King Antonio, made his entrance by boat on the river, rather than in an automobile or plane. Now, the Fiesta River Parade is one of the only parades in the US that takes place entirely on the water!

3. The Fiesta Flambeau Parade Requires Thousands of Lights  

The Fiesta Flambeau Parade began in 1948 when four-man brigades carried tall, lit torches to light up the parade’s nighttime floats. Now, you’ll find Boy Scouts carrying safety flares in addition to the thousands of twinkle lights adorning the floats, dancers, and even the horses. Fiesta Flambeau lights up the night and is an event you can’t miss!

4. Seven San Antonio Natives Are Crowned Fiesta Royalty Each Year  

You may have noticed that we mentioned the Fiesta king, King Antonio! In addition to King Antonio, the original Fiesta Royalty includes the Queen of the Order of the Alamo and Rey Feo (aka the “Ugly King” or “peasant’s king”).

What is Fiesta in San Antonio? You're in for a treat. Here's everything you need to know about this giant celebration of art and culture.
Fiesta Medals are a big tradition at Fiesta San Antonio

Over the last century, the total number of Fiesta royalty has fluctuated. Currently, we crown seven individuals who serve as Fiesta Royalty for an entire calendar year. During that time, they attend events, promote San Antonio businesses, and give back to the community.

You will also find Miss Fiesta San Antonio, Miss San Antonio, the Reina de la Feria de las Flores, and the Charro Queen. In order to win these titles, competitors often raise money, participate in a pageant, and walk or ride in parades.

5. Fiesta Medals Have Evolved Since 1946  

If you know anyone who has ever attended Fiesta in San Antonio, you may be familiar with Fiesta medals. Fiesta medals are custom medals designed by different businesses and organizations in and around San Antonio. Fiesta-goers seek out these medals to add to their collections!

How did this tradition begin? In 1946, the Texas Cavaliers began handing out special coins to hospitalized children. It would take several decades for Lt. Col. Childers to come along and turn those coins into military-style medals for Fiesta-goers to collect and wear!

6. The Fiesta Pooch Parade Will Make You Wag Your Tail  

At Fiesta, there’s truly something for everyone and one of our favorite Fiesta traditions is the Pooch Parade! San Antonio dog owners dress their pooches up in fun, colorful costumes for the audience to enjoy and the Pooch Parade committee to judge. At the end, one special pooch is crowned the winner!

7. It Takes Almost an Entire Year to Make All Those Cascarones   

Cascarones are a Mexican craft designed for celebration. These colorful empty eggshells are filled with confetti for you to dump on the heads of fellow Fiesta-goers! You can find cascarones at HEB and at booths throughout the Fiesta grounds–trust us, they’re everywhere!

Believe it or not, all of these cascarones are handmade and hand-painted. It takes almost an entire year to make enough for everyone!

Don’t Miss Fiesta in San Antonio  

What is Fiesta in San Antonio? Fiesta is one big cultural party that everyone should take part in at least once in their lives!

Ready to dive in and participate in Fiesta? The best way for a business or organization to take part in the Fiesta festivities is by creating a medal of their own to hand out.

At Fiesta Medal, we can help with everything from design to creation. Our artists are always hard at work making Fiesta medals that are sure to catch the eye of every passerby. To get started, tell us a little bit about your ideas and request a free quote!

How To Stand Out During San Antonio Fiesta Week: A Comprehensive Guide

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San Antonio in 1890 was a thriving urban and trade center, 38,000 residents strong. By 1891, a core group of citizens of this booming metropolis decided to create an event that would honor the heroes of the Alamo and the Battle of San Jacinto.

Thus, the San Antonio Fiesta was born.

What did the first parade look like? Horse-drawn carriages, floats carrying kids in flower costumes, and bicycles covered in fresh blooms filled the streets. Participants threw flowers at each other, and the Belknap Rifles symbolized the military.

This first Battle of Flowers soon sparked the much larger San Antonio Fiesta, an 11-day celebration featuring multiple parades as well as food, music, traditions, and lots of family-friendly entertainment.

When is Fiesta in San Antonio and how can you stand out? Read on for a full breakdown of the event and how to get noticed.

San Antonio Fiesta

The Kick-Off Party

For the kick-off to Fiesta week, look no further than Hemisfair Park. The Fiesta Fiesta at Hemisfair (yes, that’s two “Fiestas” for good measure) represents the first official event.

When is Fiesta 2020? It’s set to kick off on April 16, 2020.

Fiesta Fiesta events abound at this fun inaugural evening including live music on the main stage. You can also barter for Fiesta medals from your favorite events, shop locally made arts and crafts, and taste the best in San Antonio cuisine.

It’s a family-friendly event with plenty of kid-centric activities, so everyone’s guaranteed plenty of fun. What’s more, Fiesta Fiesta benefits local nonprofit organizations. So, you can feel good about reveling in Fiesta’s opening party.

Must-See Fiesta Parades

Another iconic event you don’t want to miss out on is the Fiesta Flambeau Parade, a celebration-themed spectacle where nighttime illumination reigns supreme.

As “America’s Largest Illuminated Night Parade,” the event draws 700,000 people each year. Another 1.5 million viewers tune into the locally broadcast event.

And you won’t want to miss out on the Texas Cavaliers River Parade. Here, you’ll see boats in place of floats that give you the inside scoop on area culture, history, local celebrities, and the organizations driving the event today.

More than 50 extravagantly decorated boats float by the San Antonio River Walk, and some 250,000 spectators line up each year to catch the pomp and circumstance.

And who can forget about the Battle of Flowers? Produced exclusively by female organizers, this event benefits nonprofit organizations. With 45,000 parade seats, it’s an event rivaled in size only by Pasadena’s Rose Bowl Parade.

Music and Great Eats at the Fiesta Oyster Bake

When it comes to Fiesta events, don’t forget about the Fiesta Oyster Bake. Besides delicious eats, it boasts stellar entertainment. Five stages feature diverse musical genres including:

  • Pop
  • Hip-Hop
  • Tejano
  • Country
  • Rock

For families, there’s also children’s music that your little ones will adore. This year’s event is scheduled for April 17-18, 2020, and it will showcase 35 bands.

And you won’t go hungry with more than 100,000 oysters served during the two-day event. But remember this event sells out quickly, so make sure you get tickets in advance. Find out more about this year’s lineup.

Other Fiesta Events You Won’t Want to Miss

Besides spectacular parades and the Fiesta Oyster Bake, don’t miss out on the Night in Old San Antonio (NIOSA). This is one of the prime spots for checking out attendees’ custom Fiesta pin collections, hats, and stacks of NIOSA cups.

There’s plenty of live music, great brews, and delectable street food to help get the party started. You’ll find trucks and booths with food from all over the world making this a truly global event.

The Battle of the Bands also proves a dramatic event where the best marching bands in the country come together to compete. Each school gets the chance to show off for the crowds, and it culminates in a fireworks-infused final performance.

These events are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to what to do during Fiesta. So, start researching now, purchase your tickets, and then get ready for a rich, vibrant cultural and historic experience.

Hang Out with the Royals

For a chance to see true San Antonio Fiesta royalty, check out the jaw-dropping spectacle of Fiesta’s Order of the Alamo Coronation. The event features a glittery parade of nobility in glitzy dresses with famously long trains.

These dresses reference a variety of themes from cultural traditions to the country’s natural resources. And you’ll have the chance to watch a new Fiesta Queen get crowned with all of the attendant extravagance and drama.

How to Stand Out at San Antonio Fiesta

Now that you know where to go during Fiesta, let’s talk about everybody’s favorite part of the festivities, crowd participation. How do you make sure you stand out at this year’s event?

It all starts with a one-of-a-kind Fiesta hat. From sombreros to baseball caps, cowboy hats and more, people go crazy decorating hats during Fiesta. The bigger, bolder, and brasher, the better.

The most popular hat themes remain spurs and flowers, but you’ll see just about everything at the event. People pile on hat decorations. So, go large or go home.

If you want to make an even bigger splash? Then, it’s time to get your pin collection going.

Fiesta pins come in just about every shape and size. They line parade sashes and adorn vests and hats, creating a spectacle of vibrant colors and commemoration.

And if you don’t have any pins yet? Don’t give up.

There are whole Facebook pages and websites solely for trading. Or better yet, check out our collection of vibrant, eclectic pins now.

You’ll also have plenty of opportunities during Fiesta week San Antonio to add to your collection. So, get those sashes and vests ready!

Nothing Quite Like San Antonio Fiesta

San Antonio Fiesta is an event like none other. Not only does it boast the best in Texas eats and brews, but it also offers live music, myriad parades, and a chance to scope out local royalty.

An event built on fanfare and spectacle, it also relies on spectator participation. If you want to get noticed, take our advice and start working on your parade hats and pin collections now. Then, get ready for the ultimate party Texas-style.

We offer the widest, most eclectic collection of San Antonio Fiesta pins out there. If you want to stand out and maybe even become royalty, then load up on our pins now.

Not sure where to start? Find out more about the artists we work with so that you can select the perfect pins for your sash, vest, or hat.

San Antonio Fiesta: Things to Do on the Riverwalk

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More than 11 million people stroll along San Antonio’s famed Riverwalk every year. More than 2 million of those people are locals, and many of them visit during San Antonio Fiesta.

Whether you’re from out of town or live in the city, this 15-mile oasis should be at the top of your list any time of year. It’s even more lively during the Fiesta celebrations every April.

If you want to get more out of your Fiesta celebration, don’t miss these things to do on the Riverwalk.

Things to do on the riverwalk
Things to do on the riverwalk

Check out a Night in Old San Antonio

A Night in Old San Antonio is a four-night extravaganza that takes place along the Riverwalk. While some Riverwalk events happen seasonally, NIOSA only happens during Fiesta.

The event has been running for 70 years, and today it attracts thousands of visitors. Its goal is to celebrate the city’s diverse culture. A variety of musicians and performers showcase their talents and heritage.

There’s also fantastic food to sample and more. All proceeds from the event help fund preservation of historic sites in San Antonio.

Discover Mariachi Bands

If you love music and dancing, then the Ford Mariachi Festival is one of the best things to do on the Riverwalk. Like NIOSA, it’s an exclusive Fiesta event.

The three-day festival takes place during Fiesta. Mariachi bands and Folklorico dancers from local schools sail the San Antonio River. All you need to do is pick your favorite spot and order a drink.

The boats will also make random stops. Whatever the case, you’ll experience a one-of-a-kind performance. Best of all, it’s free.

Shop with Local Artisans

The Riverwalk in San Antonio plays host to several artisan shows throughout the year. You can shop with local artisans any time you visit. The Fiesta artisan show is special though because local artisans are as excited as you are.

You can enjoy a stroll along the Riverwalk, stopping to chat with the artisans about their wares. Pick a few of your favorite pieces and take them home with you. Getting an authentic piece of San Antonio isn’t difficult.

Explore the King William Fair

King William is a historic district located along the river in San Antonio. Every year, it hosts a fair during Fiesta. Thousands of people visit this fantastic one-day event.

The day kicks off with a parade only San Antonio could host. Afterward, you can visit arts and crafts vendors and sample local eats. Kids can enjoy a special play area just for them.

The day is also filled with performances from dancers and musicians. It’s all set against the backdrop of Victorian homes and tree-lined streets.

The fair takes place on the final Saturday of Fiesta. It’s an excellent way to cap off your Fiesta celebrations.

Visit the Museum Reach

If you’re wondering what to do on the Riverwalk, why not visit some of the museums? The San Antonio Museum of Art and the McNay Art Museum are both located along the RiverWalk.

If art museums aren’t your speed, there are also several historic sites you can check out. Maverick Carter House is one of those. This Texas Historic Landmark was built on the banks of the river before the river was moved.

The Buckhorn Museum and the Texas Ranger Museum might also strike your interest. Located a block from the Riverwalk, the museum is located in the historic Buckhorn Saloon.

Things to do on the Riverwalk Get You Moving

Most people enjoy a scenic stroll along the Riverwalk, but that isn’t your only option for exploring this 15-mile oasis. You can also choose to ride a bike.

If you’re feeling particularly adventurous, why not rent a kayak and paddle through the heart of the city? While you can do this at almost any time of year, it’s even more magical during the Fiesta celebrations.

Make your way past historic sites, stop to sip at a restaurant, or do a little shopping. It’s a great way to combine exercise and entertainment.

You might even encounter a performance or two!

Sample Some Local Flavors

What’s a festival without some great local eats? Fiesta celebrates San Antonio’s cultural heritage, which means it’s the perfect time to get a taste of the city.

You may get some great eats from vendors during NIOSA or the King William Fair. Don’t forget to check out some of the Riverwalk’s famed restaurants though.

Casa Rio is the oldest restaurant on the Riverwalk. For contemporary Mexican cuisine, check out the Iron Cactus San Antonio Riverwalk. This stop is also a great choice for a liquid lunch.

Some of the best restaurants are actually in chain hotels San Antonio Riverwalk locations. The Sheraton Gunter’s restaurant is convenient for both hotel patrons and those out for a stroll.

If you’re looking for something sweet, don’t forget Justin’s Ice Cream. If you have some picky eaters with you, there are plenty of tried-and-true favorites as well.

The Historic Market Square and the Shops at Rivercenter offer even more options.

Take a Boat Ride or a Tour

Is there any other way to see the Riverwalk than to take a boat ride? Follow the river as it makes its way through downtown San Antonio, and make waves on a boat.

Better yet, take a guided tour. Even if you’re a local, you’ll likely discover some things that surprise you. Many tours will gear their stops and highlights for Fiesta during the celebrations.

Discover the Best of San Antonio Fiesta

As you can see, there’s no shortage of things to do on the Riverwalk in San Antonio. This is true no matter when you visit.

Fiesta San Antonio brings out the very best the city has to offer. You’ll see that on the Riverwalk and everywhere else you visit.

A great way to celebrate Fiesta is with a custom Fiesta medal. Learn more about this time-honored tradition on our blog.

Fashion for Fiesta: What to Wear at the 2018 Fiesta

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Fashion for Fiesta: How To Dress Stylishly This Year

Want to rock your look this year? We’ve got you covered so you’ll be prepared. Click here for the ultimate guide to mastering fashion for fiesta.

The 2018 Fiesta San Antonio has begun. This eleven-day party usually attracts 3.5 million people, all celebrating the history and culture of San Antonio.

If you are planning on attending the celebration this year, you have the perfect excuse to go clothes shopping. After all, you need to look stylish while attending the many daytime parades or A Night in Old San Antonio.

Maybe your thing is traditional fiesta clothing, and you want to sport an outfit with fiesta flair. Or, you might be more interested in a look based on 2018 fashion trends.

No matter what your taste, we’ve got you covered. Let’s look at some of the best fashion for fiesta ideas below. Read on!

Fiesta Flair

The mood during Fiesta San Antonio is bright and cheerful, and your clothes can be too. Fashion for fiesta clothing makes use of vivid colors, delicate embroidery, and confident patterns.

Although you wouldn’t be out-of-place wearing the brightest colors in your closet, a more subtle look is also possible. Try pairing a traditional Puebla blouse with skinny jeans or even shorts.

The bright colors of the shirt contrast with the neutral hues of the jeans, providing a more sophisticated look. Putting it all together can show off your creative and unique style.

You can glamorize your fashion for fiesta outfits with hats and other eye-catching accessories. Alternatively, flip-flops or other casual shoes can be worn during daytime events.

Whatever you choose to wear, make sure it can accommodate large amounts of confetti. And don’t forget your colorful sash. You’re going to need it for all your medals!

Bling: It’s Not Just For Royals

The Fiesta royalty aren’t the only people who get to shine. One of the biggest trends for spring and summer 2018 are sequins. They can glam up your Fiesta outfits so you look royal too.

Surprisingly, sequins are now meant to be worn during the day. Sparkling shirts or jackets can be paired with more casual items like jeans or even sweatpants.

Sparkling Cinderella shoes are also very popular this year, although they are most likely not very good walking shoes. You can wear bejeweled pumps to nighttime parties instead of daytime Fiesta treks.

Pastels

Maybe bright colors are just not your thing, Fiesta or no. Then you are in luck because one of the biggest fashion trends of 2018 is pastel colors.

Pink seems to be the it-color right now, but lavender and ice cream colors are also popular. These soft, warm shades are ideal for warmer temperatures and so would be a good choice for the Fiesta.

You could also combine them with any of the other 2018 fashion trends, such as wide-legged pants, ruffles, or fringes.

Wrapping Up Fashion for Fiesta

There you have it! Everything you need to know about dressing for Fiesta San Antonio 2018. From traditional Fiesta-inspired pieces to sequins to pastels, you have lots of fashion choices!

If you are looking to pair a medal (or two!) with your outfit, we’ve got you covered! Why not contact us today for a quote? We’d love to make your custom Fiesta medal.

The Top 5 Things to Do In San Antonio

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There are so many great things to do in San Antonio that it can be hard to choose. Thankfully we’re sharing the top things to do in San Antonio here!

San Antonio

More and more people are flocking to San Antonio.

In fact, between July 2015 and July 2016, San Antonio had the third largest population increase in the US. During the one-year period, the city added more than 24,000 people to its population. But why are so many people proud to call the Alamo City their home?

For one, the city is inviting, as it sits atop many lists of the friendliest cities in the US. However, it also offers plenty of fun and adventure.

Here’s a look at the top things to do in San Antonio!

Fiesta San Antonio

Like most big cities, San Antonio has its fair share of nightclubs.

However, the Alamo City is also home to the granddaddy of all parties: Fiesta San Antonio. It is one of the biggest parties in the nation.

At the core of San Antonio party culture are fiesta medals. These miniature trinkets are often traded and collected—and not just at Fiesta! They are the perfect party accessory, as they fit on hats, shirts, and sashes.

History of Fiesta

Fiesta started off as a small parade in 1891. It began as a way to commemorate the battle of the Alamo and San Jacinto. Today, it is an 11-day annual extravaganza, featuring 3 parades.

Tricentennial 2018

Although every Fiesta is big, the next Fiesta is set to be the biggest yet. Fiesta 2018 is the Tricentennial, marking the 300th anniversary of San Antonio. This festivity will serve as a way for the entire city to come together and celebrate the rich history of the city.

Other Things to do in San Antonio

Visit the Riverwalk

Dubbed the Venice of Texas, the San Antonio Riverwalk is chock-full of activities. Best of all, you can take the Rio Taxi to get to your favorite destination.

The Rivercenter Mall is an ideal stop for anyone looking to do some shopping or grab a quick bite to eat. You can catch a movie while you’re there as well.

Near the banks of the Riverwalk, you’ll also find the Aztec Theatre, which hosts events such as comedy shows and concerts.

Relax at the Botanical Garden

Consider a trip to the San Antonio Botanical Garden for one of the most soothing experiences in the city.

Covering 38 acres, the city’s official botanical garden offers a look at the beauty nature has to offer. The park devotes 11 acres to the Texas Native Trail, which features over 250 plant species. It’s also home to the Lucile Halsell Conservatory, which houses flowers from all over the world.

With benches scattered all over the park, you’re sure to find a spot to relax and connect with nature.

Catch a Thrill at Six Flags

Those looking to experience steep drops and giant loops should stop by at Six Flags Fiesta Texas. As their names suggest, rides like Superman: Krypton Coaster and Poltergeist offer plenty of thrills at the park.

If you aren’t a full-blown thrill seeker, there are many milder rides you can enjoy as well. For instance, the 90 foot Ferris wheel provides a great view of the surrounding area.

Around the middle of springtime, Fiesta Texas’ water park opens up. During this time, visitors can cool down with endless water slides, rapids, and funnels.

Explore the City’s Rich History

Visiting the Alamo is undoubtedly one of the top things to do in San Antonio. However, your dive into the history of the city shouldn’t end there.

For starters, Mission San Jose is only a few years younger than the Alamo. Founded in the 1720’s, it provides an excellent example of Spanish colonial architecture.

The San Antonio Fire Museum is the place to go if you want to learn about the history of the San Antonio Fire Department. There, you will find no shortage of old photos and equipment.

Visit San Antonio Today

The five activities listed above are just scratching the surface of what the city has to offer.

From one of the biggest festivals in the country to a relaxing botanical garden, the Alamo City has it all covered. No other city can replicate the experience.

If you want your own custom Fiesta medals, feel free to contact us for a quote or call us at 1-877-351-6883