Every April, San Antonio’s streets fill with residents and visiting the Fiesta celebration. Following tradition, residents enjoyed live music, handmade goods, drinks and dancing. Fiesta de los Reyes kicked off on April 17, and despite the windy and rainy weather, it attracted a vibrant turnout.
Attendees struggled to pick just one favorite part of the event, but when given the task, an attendee gave a simple yet agreeable answer: “Drink.”
Guests are able to walk Historic Market Square while enjoying eats from the many food vendors. Some fan favorites include the Fiesta classic — chicken on a stick — and gorditas. There is no shortage of alcoholic drink options at the celebration, and guests can choose from festive cocktails, margaritas and classic beers. Anyone who has to drive home can choose from refreshing non-alcoholic beverages such as aguas frescas and juices.
The excitement for Fiesta is apparent in the way that attendees dress. Guests show up and show out in their most colorful attire, often wearing floral accessories and crowns to celebrate. Anyone who does not already own the event’s staple — the flower crown — can choose from a wide array of handmade options sold by artisanal vendors at the event. For those who still feel that their outfit is not flowery enough , efflorescent clothes and accessories are sold inside the Historic Market Square.
At Fiesta, families spend time together, and the drinks are plentiful. Strangers mingle and dance while enjoying live music played by Jay Perez, the Jase Martin Band and the Sandy G Los Gavilanes group. The bands take the stage in front of a dance floor, providing plentiful space for dancing to cumbia, Tejano, corridos and other classic Latino genres.
Guests who attend this 10-day celebration should show up early in preparation for the road blockages, traffic delays and the seemingly impossible event parking. The event will last until April 26, and a $6.47 admission fee is charged after 6 p.m. Monday through Thursday and after 1 p.m. Friday through Sunday.
