As the cool morning air rolled through Civic Park at Hemisfair, so did the people of San Antonio who hastily made their way towards the sounds and smells of freshly roasted coffee beans. Coffee enthusiasts walked through the park with cups in hand, ready to sample the wide variety of coffee waiting for them. As the morning went on, the park became packed with caffeine connoisseurs from all walks of life, each in search of their perfect blend.
The San Antonio Coffee Fest, organized by Linda Brewster, held its sixth annual festival on Feb. 7, having sold out tickets each year since its launch. The turnout reflects the growth when it comes to coffee-centric events in the U.S, especially on this scale. With more than 30 roasters and 80 varieties of coffee, it is no surprise attendees keep coming back for more.
In addition to coffee, attendees could browse through local vendors selling goods and food — such as homemade conchas, chilaquiles in a box, local clothing brands and student-made art. Workshops are held throughout the day so attendees can perfect their coffee craft.
While walking around the park, people could be heard giving recommendations and debating about their favorite roasters. One coffee vendor kept coming up in conversation: Whiskey Morning Coffee. Since early morning, people were lined up at their booth. This vendor’s technique of aging coffee beans in whiskey barrels gives their coffee an aroma and taste of a light whiskey that lingered after each sip and left many people raving about it throughout the day.
“We came out for the San Antonio Rodeo, and since we had a lot of people reach out telling us we should come to this event, ” Whiskey Morning Coffee Co-Founder Carson Becker noted. “It’s a big deal for small business — I mean, look at the people who came out today.” When asked if they will return next year, he simply stated, “Definitely!”
As the day went on and visitors started to settle in with live music being played in the background, The Paisano spoke with both revelers and vendors about their experiences and what coffee means to them. For some, the drink is about the ritual and routine; for others, a way to find comfort.
“Coffee is one of the things I can control, and depending on how my coffee comes out, I know how my day will go,” Chelsey Cury said, a first-time festivalgoer and avid coffee consumer.
Others focused on the role coffee plays in bringing the community together. James Mireles, co-owner of Pulp Coffee Roasters, stated, “This event helps educate people by showing them that there is more to this than just coffee, it’s more about serving our community than anything else — building relationships. Coffee is community.”
Looking around the park, that feeling of community was clear: people were gathering, talking to one another, connected by a love for coffee, hot or cold. Although coffee may be the main attraction, the real goal of the festival was to use coffee to bring people together, building connections.
