Fiesta is one of San Antonio’s richest and most vibrant traditions that displays our history and culture. For eleven days every spring, people come together to celebrate and commemorate those who died in the battles of the Alamo and San Jacinto that lead to the independence of Texas from Mexico. Now, we celebrate the rich fusion of Mexican-American culture that has been cultivated in San Antonio over the years since then. There are lots of family-friendly ways to celebrate this San Antonio tradition with your kids; keep reading to learn more!
Collect Medals
Although the celebration of Fiesta began in 1891, the tradition of collecting Fiesta medals didn’t start until 1980, formed after a tradition of giving coins to children. By the 1990s, local businesses and organizations were making custom medals for people to collect during Fiesta. Some people collect as many medals as they can to wear during Fiesta. Now, on the first Friday of each Fiesta, an event takes place in San Antonio where people can trade medals to wear at Fiesta. The tradition of collecting Fiesta medals is a great way to teach your kids about the history of Fiesta, as well as a way to support local small businesses. Next time you go to a local coffee shop, restaurant, or boutique, consider buying a medal to wear with pride at Fiesta!
Walk the Riverwalk
During Fiesta, the entire Riverwalk comes alive with the colorful dresses of Folclorico dancers, upbeat mariachi music, and paper flower decorations. Walking the Riverwalk or taking a boat down its length is a great way to be immersed in the vibrant culture of San Antonio during Fiesta. If you get hungry along the way, just stop and one of the many incredible Tex-Mex restaurants for some chips and queso!
Play at The Pearl
The Pearl is also a great place to celebrate our San Antonio heritage and a great place to bring your kids. With ice cream shops, open turf, live music, and a splash pad, there are lots of fun things for kids to do at The Pearl. This area is also host to many kid-centered events such as story time and play date events. During Fiesta, this place is a vibrant place to introduce your kids to San Antonio culture.
We hope this gives you some ideas for how to celebrate Fiesta with your family! San Antonio has a rich history and culture, a fusion of many different traditions and families, and Fiesta is a great way to pass it on to the next generation! Put on a flower crown and fiesta like there’s no mañana!