Top 3 Free Recommended Events for Families each week:
Fiesta San Antonio, the Alamo City’s biggest and most colorful celebration, offers more than 50 free events for families to attend! San Antonio Mom Blogs brings you a comprehensive guide to all of the FREE fun your family can have during Fiesta San Antonio 2018.
Admission to the the events listed below is free, but some events do have additional charges for food, drinks, and related activities. Most offer free parking. This list may not be exhaustive so if you know of a family-friendly free Fiesta event I’ve missed, please leave a note in the comments.
San Antonio Mom Blogs makes every effort to keep this list up-to-date by adding any event cancelations or changes due to inclement weather (and any other reasons). However, we may miss updates to events that appear on our large list below. Please be sure to click through to each event to be sure they are taking place as planned before heading out. Thank you!
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Saturday, April 14
UTSA Football Fiesta Spring Game, Dub Farris Stadium, 1:00 p.m.
Attend this free game to see UTSA’s offense and defense during spring training.
Sunday, April 15
Fiesta Mariachi Mass, San Fernando Cathedral, 115 W. Main Plaza, 8:00 a.m.
The 22nd annual Fiesta Mariachi Mass blesses everyone involved with Fiesta (royalty, commissioners, and participants).
Thursday, April 19
Fiesta Fiesta at the Alamo, 434 South Alamo St., 4:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
The official kick off to Fiesta in Alamo Plaza, complete with entertainment, Fiesta pins, cascarones, special guests, and more. Viva Fiesta!
Fiesta Carnival, (runs through Sunday, April 29), Alamodome, Parking Lot C, 6:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m.
Rides, games, and food. Admission is free. Wristbands can be purchased for unlimited rides.
Friday, April 20
Fiesta UTSA, 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Food, games, music, entertainment on the campus of UTSA
Alamo Heights Night, 4301 Broadway CPO 298, 78209, 5:30 p.m. – 11:30 p.m.
Alamo Heights Night® has continuous entertainment from quality local bands and professional games and rides. Kids 12 and under are free.
Crown the King! Public crowning of Rey Feo, Main Plaza in front of San Fernando Cathedral, 5:30-6:30 pm
Fiesta de los Reyes at Market Square (runs through Sunday, April 29), Market Square, 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 a.m.
One of the largest free Fiesta events. Live music (Tejano, Conjunto, Cumbia and more) from several stages and 30 food booths.
Fiesta Pops Simulcast with the San Antonio Symphony, River Walk Plaza at the Tobin Center
The evening kicks off at 6:00 p.m. with pre-event Fiesta activities at the Tobin Center River Walk Plaza. Activities include its inaugural Fiesta Medal Extravaganza encouraging locals to trade, sell or purchase Fiesta medals. The River Walk Plaza opens at 7:00 p.m. with the concert beginning at 8:00 p.m. Bring chairs and blankets. No outside food, drinks, or pets allowed.
Fiesta de los Reyes at Market Square (runs through Sunday, April 30), Market Square, 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 a.m.
One of the largest free Fiesta events. Live music (Tejano, Conjunto, Cumbia and more) from several stages and 30 food booths.
Fiesta Carnival, (runs through Sunday, April 29), Alamodome, Parking Lot C
Rides, games, and food. Admission is free. Wristbands can be purchased for unlimited rides.
Fiesta Flower Show, (runs through April 21) The Woodward House, 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Take in the beauty of Fiesta flower arrangements at this 100-year+ tradition at the Women’s Club of San Antonio.
Senior Fiesta, Wonderland of the Americas Mall, 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Free admission for seniors and their families at this event, the only one designed specifically for people 55 and older. Live entertainment, door prizes, guest appearances, dancing, and vendors with free promotional items celebrate seniors in San Antonio.
Saturday, April 21
Women’s and Co-ed Soccer Tournament (runs through Sunday, April 22 and is free for spectators), STAR Soccer Complex, 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. & Schertz Complex, 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Texas Corvette Association Car Show (free for spectators), Main Plaza in Boerne, Texas, 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Southwest Olympic Fiesta, SWISD Spring Sports Complex, 8:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Designed to enhance the lives of special needs individuals, and hosted by Southwest Independent School District, this free, family-friendly event provides games, food, and entertainment as well as track and field events for special needs kids.
Earth Day, presented by City of San Antonio, Woodlawn Lake Park, 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
San Antonio’s Earth Day celebration takes place during Fiesta, with entertainment, education sessions, and vegetarian food.
Fiesta Lacrosse Invitational, St. Mary’s Hall, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
The oldest team athletic event in Fiesta, Lacrosse is showcased as JV and middle school teams from San Antonio and Austin compete to hone their skills. Free for spectators to attend.
Zeta Fiesta Track Meet, Sam Houston High School, 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
This annual track meet for kids ages 5 – 12 helps kids develop sportsmanship skills while competing in an athletic event. Free for spectators, $3 for participannts. All kids receive certificates of participation. Winners receive ribbons.
Celebrations of Traditions of Pow Wow, Woodlawn Gymnasium, 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
View and participate in the American Indian culture and traditions of dance and music at an official Native American Pow Wow.
El Rey Fido Coronation, Sheraton Gunter Hotel, 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
This year’s four-legged king of Fiesta is crowned! Dogs and their humans compete prior to Fiesta to raise funds for the San Antonio Humane Society. The pair who raises the most money reigns as ambassadors for the Humane Society for the next year. Admission is free.
Fiesta de los Niños, Port San Antonio, 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
This Fiesta event is all about the kids! Rides, games, music, dancing, food, a parade, and more, are all presented at this alcohol-free Fiesta event. Free admission.
Fiesta de los Reyes at Market Square (runs through Sunday, April 29), Market Square, 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 a.m.
One of the largest free Fiesta events. Live music (Tejano, Conjunto, Cumbia and more) from several stages and 30 food booths.
Fiesta Carnival, (runs through Sunday, April 29), Alamodome, Parking Lot C
Rides, games, and food. Admission is free. Wristbands can be purchased for unlimited rides.
Fiesta Festival, San Antonio State Supported Living Ctr., 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Presented by the San Antonio State Supported Living Center, Fiesta Festival is a family-friendly, alcohol-free celebration with free admission. Take in the parade at noon, enjoy food, entertainment, arts and crafts, and more.
San Jacinto Victory Celebration, The Alamo, 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Commemorate the Battle of San Jacinto during a ceremony to honor the Texas victory. Historians will be on hand to describe and discuss the battle and, afterward, enjoy food and music. Perfect for young history buffs and anyone wanting to learn more about this important time in our history.
Piñatas in the Barrio, Guadalupe Theater, 12:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
A family-friendly, all-day festival that includes the unveiling of San Antonio’s record-size piñata and the crowning of the Senior Citizen King and Queen of the Barrio by El Rey Feo.
This Hallowed Ground, The Alamo, 12:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Tour the original perimeter walls of the Alamo with members of the San Antonio Living History Association.
Investiture of King Antonio, The Alamo, 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Fiesta Flower Show, (runs through April 21) The Woodward House, 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Take in the beauty of Fiesta flower arrangements at this 100-year+ tradition at the Women’s Club of San Antonio.
Sunday, April 22
Fiesta de los Reyes at Market Square (runs through Sunday, April 29), Market Square, 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 a.m.
One of the largest free Fiesta events. Live music (Tejano, Conjunto, Cumbia and more) from several stages and 30 food booths.
Fiesta Carnival, (runs through Sunday, April 29), Alamodome, Parking Lot C
Rides, games, and food. Admission is free. Wristbands can be purchased for unlimited rides.
Women’s and Co-ed Soccer Tournament (free for spectators), STAR Soccer Complex, 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. & Schertz Complex, 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Fiesta de la Familia, St. Gregory Catholic Church, 11:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Entertainment, food, games, rides, and auctions, all geared toward families.
Deco District Arts & Music Festival, 1800 Fredericksburg Road, 12:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
This free event highlights the cultural, economic and social vitality of the Deco District. Performances by local and national musicians of all ages.
Monday, April 23
Fiesta de los Reyes at Market Square (runs through Sunday, April 29), Market Square, 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 a.m.
One of the largest free Fiesta events. Live music (Tejano, Conjunto, Cumbia and more) from several stages and 30 food booths.
Fiesta Carnival, (runs through Sunday, April 29), Alamodome, Parking Lot C
Rides, games, and food. Admission is free. Wristbands can be purchased for unlimited rides.
Pilgrimage to the Alamo, Alamo Plaza, 4:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
This memorial tribute to Alamo heroes begins with a wreath bearing procession from the Vietnam Memorial at the Tobin Center at 3:30 p.m. to the Alamo where a brief memorial service takes place. The ceremony ends with Taps.
Tuesday, April 24
Fiesta de los Reyes at Market Square (runs through Sunday, April 29), Market Square, 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 a.m.
One of the largest free Fiesta events. Live music (Tejano, Conjunto, Cumbia and more) from several stages and 30 food booths.
Fiesta Carnival, (runs through Sunday, April 29), Alamodome, Parking Lot C
Rides, games, and food. Admission is free. Wristbands can be purchased for unlimited rides.
Children’s Texas History Forum, Casa Navarro, 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
This event is free to attend but does require reservations (make yours: For reservations or additional information contact 210-736-2344 or ta****@ms*.com.). Members of the Alamo Couriers Chapter of the Daughters of the Republic of Texas present heroes and heroines of the Alamo Siege.
FIESTA ESPECIÁL Celebration Day, Alamodome, Parking Lot C, 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
This alcohol- and tobacco-free event, which offers special accommodations for individuals with disabilities provides rides, games, food, crafts, and more. IMPORTANT NOTE: Free admission but requires advance reservations (no general admission at the gate). Register for free admission: 210.656.6674 | fi************@rm******.org | www.FiestaEspecial.com
Army Day at the Alamo, Alamo Plaza, 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Enjoy patriotic music performed by some of the Army’s finest musicians.
Fiesta in Blue, 402 Lance San Antonio, TX, 78237, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
A musical salute to the community performed by the United States Air Force Band of the West.
Ford Mariachi Festival, (runs through April 26) San Antonio River Walk, 6:30 p.m. -9:00 p.m.
On the first night of the event only, April 24 the event will begin at 6pm for a kick-off ceremony at the Rivercenter Lagoon. Local middle and high school Mariachi students perform on floating barges, entertaining visitors to the River Walk.
Wednesday, April 25
Fiesta de los Reyes at Market Square (runs through Sunday, April 29), Market Square, 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 a.m.
One of the largest free Fiesta events. Live music (Tejano, Conjunto, Cumbia and more) from several stages and 30 food booths.
Fiesta Carnival, (runs through Sunday, April 29), Alamodome, Parking Lot C
Rides, games, and food. Admission is free. Wristbands can be purchased for unlimited rides.
Ford Mariachi Festival, (runs through April 26) San Antonio River Walk, 7:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.
Middle and high school mariachi bands perform throughout the night on river barges along the San Antonio River.
Marines at the Alamo, Alamo Plaza, 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Concert by the Marine Corps field band. This year’s event is extra special as the US Marine Corps Reserve, which the 4th Recon Battalion is a part of, is celebrating it’s Centennial of defending our Nation!
Fiesta San Fernando, San Fernando Cathedral in Main Plaza, 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. (runs through Saturday, April 28)
Music festival featuring live entertainment as well as food and arts and crafts booths.
Thursday, April 26
Ford Mariachi Festival, (runs through April 26) San Antonio River Walk, 7:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.
Middle and high school mariachi bands perform throughout the night on river barges along the San Antonio River.
Fiesta San Fernando, San Fernando Cathedral in Main Plaza, 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. (runs through Saturday, April 28)
Music festival featuring live entertainment as well as food and arts and crafts booths.
Fiesta de los Reyes at Market Square (runs through Sunday, April 29), Market Square, 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 a.m.
One of the largest free Fiesta events. Live music (Tejano, Conjunto, Cumbia and more) from several stages and 30 food booths.
Fiesta Carnival, (runs through Sunday, April 29), Alamodome, Parking Lot C
Rides, games, and food. Admission is free. Wristbands can be purchased for unlimited rides.
San Antonio Cactus & Xerophyte Show & Sale, (runs through Saturday, April 28) San Antonio Garden Center, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
For cactus-loving kids and families! Includes educational displays, rare and hard-to-find cactus and succulents, and other plant-related materials for sale.
Family Fiesta, Colonial Hills United Methodist Church, 5:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
This alcohol- and tobacco-free family-friendly celebration has food, game booths, and kid-friendly entertainment.
St. Phillip’s College CultureFest and Rib Cookoff, St. Phillip’s College, 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
The campus comes alive with music, arts and crafts, and food to celebrate the diversity of our community.
Navy Day at the Alamo, Alamo Plaza, 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Meet members of the Navy who’ll demonstrate some of the work they perform on the ocean while serving aboard ships.
Family Fiesta, (runs through Saturday, April 28) Colonial Hills United Methodist Church, 5:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
This alcohol- and tobacco-free family-friendly celebration has food, game booths, and kid-friendly entertainment.
Friday, April 27
¡Viva La Salud!, Wayland Baptist University, 11:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Enjoy a fun-filled day with Zumba, Capoeira, live music from local artists, including high school mariachi bands, singer Jessie Dominguez and Malia Barker. Entertainment for children and families with a fun backdrop for photo opportunities, book readings, sing and dance-along activities, tasty food trucks, and so much more.
Fiesta San Fernando, San Fernando Cathedral in Main Plaza, 11:00 a.m. – 11:59 p.m. (runs through Saturday, April 28)
Music festival featuring live entertainment as well as food and arts and crafts booths.
Fiesta de los Reyes at Market Square (runs through Sunday, April 29), Market Square, 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 a.m.
One of the largest free Fiesta events. Live music (Tejano, Conjunto, Cumbia and more) from several stages and 30 food booths.
Fiesta Carnival, (runs through Sunday, April 29), Alamodome, Parking Lot C
Rides, games, and food. Admission is free. Wristbands can be purchased for unlimited rides.
San Antonio Cactus & Xerophyte Show & Sale, (runs through Saturday, April 29) San Antonio Garden Center, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
For cactus-loving kids and families! Includes educational displays, rare and hard-to-find cactus and succulents, and other plant-related materials for sale.
10th Street River Festival, (runs through Saturday, April 28) Post 76, VFW Headquarters, on the stretch of the Museum Reach of the San Antonio River, 12:00 p.m. – 12:30 a.m.
Live music is the focus of this event with Tejano, oldies, blues and C&W bands performing. Lawn chairs welcome but no outside food or drink.
Fiesta Jazz Band Festival, St. Mary’s University Campus, 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
More than 500 middle school, high school, and college jazz students perform for this free, family-friendly event.
Dance with the King Fiesta Square Dance, Tripoint YMCA, 7:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
“Square Dancing is Friendship Set to Music.” Join Fiesta Royalty as they enjoy the fun of square dancing at this lively event.
Saturday, April 28
Fiesta San Fernando, San Fernando Cathedral in Main Plaza, 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. (runs through Saturday, April 28)
Music festival featuring live entertainment as well as food and arts and crafts booths.
Fiesta de los Reyes at Market Square (runs through Sunday, April 29), Market Square, 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 a.m.
One of the largest free Fiesta events. Live music (Tejano, Conjunto, Cumbia and more) from several stages and 30 food booths.
Fiesta Carnival, (runs through Sunday, April 29), Alamodome, Parking Lot C
Rides, games, and food. Admission is free. Wristbands can be purchased for unlimited rides.
San Antonio Cactus & Xerophyte Show & Sale, (runs through Saturday, April 28) San Antonio Garden Center, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
For cactus-loving kids and families! Includes educational displays, rare and hard-to-find cactus and succulents, and other plant-related materials for sale.
10th Street River Festival, (runs through Saturday, April 28) Post 76, VFW Headquarters, on the stretch of the Museum Reach of the San Antonio River, 12:00 p.m. – 12:30 a.m.
Live music is the focus of this event with Tejano, oldies, blues and C&W bands performing. Lawn chairs welcome but no outside food or drink.
United Way Kids Festival, Lockwood Park, 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
This free event for kids and families brings together more than 65 booths featuring nonprofits, school districts, and city services with information, activities, and entertainment for kids.
Sunday, April 29
Fiesta de los Reyes at Market Square (runs through Sunday, April 29), Market Square, 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 a.m.
One of the largest free Fiesta events. Live music (Tejano, Conjunto, Cumbia and more) from several stages and 30 food booths.
Fiesta Carnival, (runs through Sunday, April 29), Alamodome, Parking Lot C
Rides, games, and food. Admission is free. Wristbands can be purchased for unlimited rides.
Fiesta Nueva, St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church across from La Villita, 10:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Mariachi Worship Service at 10:30am followed by a family-friendly festival with Fiesta food, games, rides, and music until 3:30 p.m. There is limited free parking so come early.
San Jose Mission Fest, Mission San Jose Church, 10:30 a.m. – 11:00 p.m.
Admission for adults (13 and over) is $5. Food, live music, and a Children’s Corner with activities and arts and crafts. Festival begins with an Outdoor Mariachi Mass at 9:00 a.m. Entertainment will feature original members of Emilio’s Grupo Rio with special guest Tejano Legends performing all the hits and video tribute. ONCE IN A LIFETIME ACCORDION LEGEND JAM featuring: Living Legends Flaco Jimenez, Santiago Jimenez, Nick Villarreal & Mingo Saldivar. Along with James Keith, Hunter Chavez Y Los Casadorez, Garrett & The Hipsters. San Jose MissionFest proceeds benefit Mission San Jose Church, a now living World Heritage Site. Free Parking. No outside containers allowed on all church and national park premises. Bring your lawn chair.
All Veteran’s Memorial Service, Veteran’s Plaza, 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Pay your respects to all veterans at this ceremony salute to the dedication and sacrifices of the brave men and women who have served and those who are serving in the U.S. military to protect American freedom.
Fiesta de Cascarones, Texas A&M San Antonio, 1:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
This event, which benefits TAMU-SA Alumni Relations, offers food trucks, music, dancing and family-friendly activities at the Texas A&M-San Antonio Main Campus. Free admission and free parking.
10th Annual Fiesta Symphonic Band Concert, Concordia Lutheran Church, 3:00 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Performance by the San Antonio Symphonic Band, designated by the San Antonio City Council as the official band of the Alamo City in 1986.
Praise Dance Celebration, Carver Community Cultural Center, 4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
The 16th annual Praise Dance Celebration showcases groups ranging across age and gender from local schools and organizations.
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