A seven-day salute to south of the border sounds, from the heavenly refrains of a Mariachi mass at the San Jose Mission to a final farewell breakfast, the 1,000 mariachi musicians and vocalists who perform at Mariachi Vargas Extravaganza have offered San Antonio music lovers food for the soul each year since 1994.
Concerts
The blare of trumpets and romantic strains of violins will beckon music lovers to the Instituto de Mexico in HemisFair Palza for a performance by Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitlán during a homage to Hispanic heritage, Noche de Cultura.
As the sun begins to set over San Antonio, sightseers at the Rivercenter Mall Lagoon on the Riverwalk can enjoy an evening of canciones y cultura as student Mariachi groups from across the nation perform during Serenata en el Rio.
A century of tradition echos in the songs of Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitlán, who-- along with the winners of the student competitions and "Best Mariachi vocalist in the U.S." victor-- will take the stage for a concert at San Antonio Municipal Auditorium.
Competitions
Mariachi Group Competition
Mariachi vocal Competition
Workshops
Performers pass on their passion for the musical genre to the next generation at mariachi instrumental and vocal workshops at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center as well as through community and in-school presentations at various locations.
Rock 'n' Roll San Antonio Marathon & 1/2 Marathon Post-Concert Information
After pounding the pavement, runners who competed in the second annual Rock 'n' Roll San Antonio marathon and 1/2 marathon and lovers of Lone Star music alike can move their feet to the beat of Los Lonely Boys, Grand Funk Railroad and Del Castillo during a post-race concert at the Alamodome.
Although marathon runners and the event's volunteers will be admitted free to the concert, the race is on for the general public to obtain tickets. Early birds can pay $21 online to reserve a spot, while tickets at the doors will cost $30. Tickets will also be sold during the two-day free Health & Fitness expo, which takes place in the days prior to the marathon, on November 13th and 14th. The first act will take the stage at 7 p.m., following an awards ceremony at 6:30.
When: November 15, 2009
Where: The post-race concert will be held at The Alamodome in San Antonio.
For more information on the post-race concert and the Rock 'n' Roll San Antonio Marathon and 1/2 Marathon:
Hyatt Hill Country Resort and Spa's First Hill Country Halloween This October
For a frightfully fun time this All Hallow's Eve, book a stay at the Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Spa in San Antonio during their first ever Hill Country Halloween, taking place October 30 and 31, 2009!
On day one, decipher whodunit during a Murder Mystery Dinner at Antlers Lodge, then sink your teeth into some S'mores as terrifying tales unfold over an open fire. After an outdoor movie for the mini-monsters, the late night fun has just begun as grown-up ghouls get ready to do the time warp during a showing of the camp classic Rocky HorrorPicture Show.
Say "Boo!" on day two at Spooktacular Central, a pumpkin patch party where everyone from tiny terrors to their Mummies and Dads will be gussied up in Fright Night fashion. See if the gruesome grin you've carved can win a pumpkin-carving contest, then move to the groove of some terrifyingly good tunes at the Halloween Bash. Finally, dine on some devilishly decadent dishes at dinner, then mosey in the moonlight along Aunt Mary's Trick or Treat Haunted Trail, where you can tickle your taste buds at 12 different candy stations.
The San Antonio River Walk has long been one of our favorite places in Texas so we were happy to hear that soon there will be even more of this attraction to enjoy. Now undergoing a $279 million expansion project, the first phase of the project is slated to open May 30, 2009.
This month's opening unveils the 1.5-mile "Urban Segment," just the first part of the project that will take the walk from its present two mile length to an eventual length of 13 miles.
This portion of the extension project extends navigation by river barges through a new lock and dam, creates access to major cultural institutions and commercial centers, features privately-funded public art installations, and adds landscaping, parks, water features, lighting and signage to the River North area, a Federal Empowerment Zone whose master plan recently won a Charter Award from the Congress for the New Urbanism. This project is the nation’s largest ecosystem restoration in an urban area.
Another notable aspect of the River Walk extension are the works by renown artists including leading faux bois artist, Carlos Cortes. The third-generation faux bois artist has created realistic concrete trees at the turnaround point of the extension, the Pearl Brewery complex, and he is also creating a unique grotto that visitors will actually walk behind:
London artist Martin Richman is creating an installation on the Lexington Street Bridge:
And Philadelphia artist Donald Lipski will bring a special beauty to another bridge with his installment, "Sunfish," to debut beneath the Interstate 35 overpass adjacent to Camden Street:
Tomorrow marks the opening day of Six Flags Fiesta Texas, the start of the park's longest season ever. This year includes several new features including all-new children's themed area - Wiggles World, based on The Wiggles, the most popular children's entertainers in the world.
What's New This Year:
Wiggles World; this theme area includes The Wiggles' cast of supporting characters -- Dorothy the Dinosaur, Captain Feathersword, Wags the Dog and Henry the Octopus
More Concerts - The STARBURST(R) Summer Concert Series will offer concerts by Raven Symone, Miranda Cosgrove, and others. A special Spring Break Out Concert is scheduled for March 12, as Six Flags Presents Brandy featuring Colby O'Donis at Lone Star Lil's Amphitheater. All concerts are free with park admission or a Season Pass.
All-New Shows - This year's new shows include Ritmos Latinos performing popular pop Latin hits at Teatro Fiesta, Country Rocks!, and The Best of Dick Clark's Bloopers!, an interactive show in the Sangerfest Halle.
Spring Pass: This year, the park is also offering a good bargain: a Spring Fever Pass. For $39.99, you can purchase the pass and visit the park as often as you like through May 31. That price $10 lower than a one-day ticket for unlimited visits in March, April and May. To take advantage of this great deal, passes must be purchased at the park or online at sixflags.com by March 8.
Season Pass: A 2009 Season Pass is on sale now for $59.99 when purchasing a family four pack. Season Passes offer unlimited visits to any Six Flags theme park in the United States, five free tickets for friends and more than $300 in savings on in-park food and fun. Also, Season Pass holders get exclusive ride times as well as a private Season Pass Holder Appreciation Night on September 11.
Hours: The park's operating hours on Saturday, February 28 will be 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. and on Sunday, March 1, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. The park is also open weekends in March and daily for Spring Break, March 6-15.
The western fun continues this weekend at the San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo. The event, which continues until Feb. 22, 2009, features nightly rodeos and performances by top entertainers.
San Antonio's The O'Brien Hotel Offers Romance Package
A stroll along the River Walk, shopping in specialty stores,the sentimental strains of a mariachi tune-- perhaps no place in the state offers a more romantic ambiance in which to celebrate your love story than San Antonio. To commemorate Cupid's holiday, the O'Brien Hotel is offering a special Romance Package, starting at $275. Can't get away on Valentine's Day? Lovebirds can book the package any time in 2009.
You and your sweetheart can snuggle as you enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride along the River Walk. A decadent dessert of chocolate-covered strawberries and a bed sprinkled with rose petals await your return to your room, then awaken to a continental breakfast. Finally, a bouquet of roses is a fragrant reminder of your stay.
The O'Brien Hotel, a boutique retreat at 116 Navarro Street which opened its doors in 2003, is within walking distance from La Villita Arts Village, The Alamo, the River Walk and other major attractions Offering 39 accommodations, guests can choose between a room with a balcony or a whirlpool tub.
Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Spa's "Family Stay More, Play More" Package
Sightseers heading to San Antonio any time through December 2009 can get credit for a carefree stay at the Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Spa. Available for patrons booking one of the 500 guest room and 58 suites for a minimum of three nights, "Family Stay More, Play More" hotel credits can be redeemed for dining at any of the venue's four restaurants, fun in the sun at the four acre on-site water park, or adolescent-oriented activities, from airbrush tattoos and hair braiding at The SPAhhhT Spa to Guitar Hero and PS2 gaming stations at The Underground, a hip hangout for kids 12 - 16.
In addition, a 25% discount at the Hill Country Golf Club is a fairway to heaven for the sports enthusiast in the family, while the Windflower Spa is a sybaritic sanctuary is also offering transcendental treatments for travel-weary tourists at a discount. Two bottomless beverage cups and complimentary valet parking are also available to patrons.
A three-night stay in the San Antonio sanctuary awards patrons with $200 in credit. Additional nights offer increased credit amounts, with those booked for four nights receiving $400 in credit and guests lodging for five nights garner $500 in credit.
51208: Texas Transporation Museum Celebrates Model T Centennial
Hundreds of Model T enthusiasts will celebrate the 100th Birthday of Henry Ford’s “Tin Lizzie” May 17 and 18 at the Texas Transportation Museum in San Antonio.
This Centennial Celebration of the American iconic vehicle that resulted in an “automobile for the masses” will include the gathering of dozens of Model T’s.
This family-friendly and free event will feature a “then and now” presentation by one of Ford Motor Company’s top executives. For an extra charge, you can also hop a train ride; there will be scheduled rides every 45 minutes starting at noon. The museum's indoor HO model train layout and the outdoor garden model railroad will be in operation through the event.
Time: The event takes place from 10-5 both Saturday and Sunday. Two special presentations will be held on May 17 at 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.
The all-new Ripley’s San Antonio Odditorium, the largest and most interactive Ripley’s to date, has opened its doors in San Antonio next just across from the Alamo.
The Grand Opening: The grand opening was celebrated with performers and human anomalies from all walks of life including the Sideshow Bennie the Human Pincushion, Jalisa the Eye Popper, Larry the Leopard, Katzen the Tiger Lady, more.
What You'll See: The all-new Odditorium houses all genuine objects that are definitely odd:
the mortician’s toe tag from Lee Harvey Oswald
the car that dropped off Lee Harvey Oswald that fateful morning
a two-trunked elephant
one of the world's largest examples of scrimshaw, a full buffalo skeleton with over 100,000 etchings
a 512-pound iron meteorite
locks of hair from Marilyn Monroe
a 23-foot-tall Eiffel Tower...made from toothpicks
the mummified head of American cannibal Alfred Packer
Photo: Leopard Larry, Jackie the Human Tripod, Lizardman, and Eye Popper Jalisa at San Antonio’s new Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Museum. Photo courtesy Ripley's Believe It Or Not!
Fiesta San Antonio just wrapped up last weekend but you can bet that the remains of cascarones like these still dot the San Antonio streets. These confetti-filled eggshells, topped with tissue paper to hold in their sparkling bounty, are intended to be broken over the heads of fiesta goers. The tradition first started in Mexico and, even though it might be messy, is said to bring you good luck.
It's hard to believe, but SeaWorld San Antonio opened its doors 20 years ago. The event took place on April 15, 1988 and on Thursday, April 10 of this week, the park will mark the anniversary with a special ceremony and live webcast.
Events: Haley Scarnato, San Antonio’s own American Idol finalist, will perform as the anthem soloist when the park opens its door that special day. A Joint Forces Color Guard representing the park’s commitment to the military will present the colors and the U.S. Army Medical Command Band from Ft. Sam Houston will entertain. (In case you didn't know, SeaWorld offers a special “Here’s to the Heroes” program which provides a single day’s free admission to the park for any active duty, active reserve, ready reserve service member or National Guardsman and as many as three of his or her direct dependents.)
Other events during the April 10 celebration will include:
• the Timberwilde Elementary School choir from the Northside Independent School District will assist in singing Happy Birthday • Southwest Airlines’ mascot, Spirit, will present a giant birthday card to SeaWorld’s costumed character Shamu • a special Shamu cake weighing nearly 4,000 pounds (you'll even be able to download a recipe for making your own Shamu cake on the SeaWorld website) • a fireworks display
Webcast: The first-ever Web cast for SeaWorld San Antonio will be hosted at on the SeaWorld site beginning at 10:00 a.m. CDT.
We love the Omni La Mansión del Rio thanks to its distinctive atmosphere, perfect location on the River Walk, and excellent dining. The last time we visited the hotel, renovations were just about to get underway and now we understand that the $6 million refurbishment is completed.
The 338 guestrooms, as well as the lobby, have undergone a facelift with colors of soothing earth tones such as burnt orange, olive, gold, and nutmeg. New hand-carved pieces such as the concierge desk, cabinets and reception desk have also been incorporated into the renovation. Accents in granite, iron, limestone and bronze are seen in decorative pieces throughout the space in ceiling fixtures, and sconces.
The rooms include new carpeting, draperies, wall finishes, and a 32” plasma television sitting on a low rise credenza. Balcony French doors have also been replaced with new sound-insulated doors that feature double paned glass which will reduce downtown noise intrusion by more than 50 percent. Rooms are complete with Omni’s signature pillow top bedding.
Now we've got another good reason to plan our next San Antonio getaway!
3132008: San Antonio to Celebrate Luminaria: Arts Night
On March 15, San Antonio will celebrate its rich art scene with Luminaria: Arts Night in San Antonio. This free artist-driven event showcases multi-media, visual, theater, dance, music and other art forms with everything from Latin to jazz, paintings to sculpture.
When: The downtown celebration will take place 6 pm to midnight, March 15, 2008
The event will include stages and gallery exhibitions along Alamo Plaza and Houston Street, unique performances throughout the streetscape, and at Magik Theatre.
Based on the success of international events such as Nuit Blanche in Paris and Noche Blanca in Madrid, Luminaria will be the first in Texas and only the second in the nation with such simultaneous and innovative programming throughout the city. Founded by Mayor Phil Hardberger, Luminaria has been organized by arts leaders along with the City of San Antonio, Office of Cultural Affairs, San Antonio Convention and Visitor’s Bureau, theFund, and community sponsors.
Alamo Plaza: Alamo Plaza will be transformed with several stages. Loretta Young Medellin will turn the gazebo into a living kaleidoscope. See the glimmering sculpture by Susan Dunis enhance the windows at Dillard’s and witness a live demonstration of lampworking and glass beadmaking by the society of Artisan Lampworkers in San Antonio. The central stage at Alamo Plaza will feature the the San Antonio Symphony for a unique outdoor performance in front of the Alamo in conjunction with a spectacular light show presented by Bill FitzGibbons, the Youth Orchestra of San Antonio, and an original composition premiered by world renowned pianist, Fernando Herrera.
Houston Street Stage: A blend of Latin, jazz, Tejano, opera, and blues will be presented at the Houston Street Stage. Featured artists include Grammy award-winning Henry Brun and the Latin Playerz with special guests Augie Meyers and Flaco Jimenez. In addition, this stage will host an electric mix of three tenors with piano accompaniment from the San Antonio Opera, Roger Velasquez and the Latin Legends, a performance by Urban 15, and many more.
Encounter art along Houston Street in storefronts transformed into art galleries, streetscape performances, and a Film Slam at the Kress building. Downtown's historic Peacock Alley will be transformed into a vibrant interactive urban arts crevice as created by such artists as Charles Harrison Pompa and metal sculptor Luis "Chispas" Guerrero, Dwayne Bohystav, and David Biancas. Alley exhibitions will include a historic unveiling by renowned artist, Jesse Treviño, premiering his new painting, "Mexicano Chicano Americano - Removing the Hyphen." At the street level stage, the musical talents of Bombasta, The Psychics, DJ work of Gabe Quintero Velasquez, and Mombasa Code will explore sound as film artist Trey Moore debuts a film montage on the facade of the Historic Neisner's Department Store.
Jefferson Stage: The Jefferson stage will host several diverse artists in a parking lot with an incredible laser installation to follow by George Cisneros and Tim Walsh. Conjunto Heritage Taller, San Antonio Blues Society, and many more will turn this stage into the ultimate parking lot celebration! HemisFair Park will fuse together music and dance from various genres. From the folk singing D.C. Bloom, to the original Americana family band The Lavens, Ballet JovenesArtes will feature children performing Flamenco dance, and several others will turn HemisFair park into a music lovers playground highlighted with sculptures.
Magik Theatre: The Magik Theatre will feature performances by ballet companies, theaters, modern dancers, classical piano, Argentine Tangos, poetry, tap dancers, Indian dance, multimedia performances, as well as an exhibit of set and costume designs by San Antonio artists. Organizations such as Guadalupe Cultural Arts Center, the Magik Theatre, San Antonio Theatre Coalition, the Alamo Arts Ballet Theatre, the Viva Tango Quintet, The Ballet Conservatory of South Texas, the Arathi School of Indian Dance, Magik Theatre Teen Rep, St. Phillips College, Katherine Cartwright and F-Pack, the 24th Street Experiment, Jayne King, Sheila Rinear, David Morgan, and local legend Ricky Hernandez playing compositions from “Recuerdos” will demonstrate the diversity of San Antonio’s performing arts.
PassPort: You can visit various PassPort information booths hosted by theFUND located throughout the downtown celebration. Receive six stamps at identified kiosks and register to win over $2,000 in prizes!
Parking: Free parking will be available on a first-come, first-served basis at Alamodome Parking Lot A, Durango street city parking (across the Federal Building), and St. Mary’s Street garage. There will also be free VIA trolley service from the Alamodome and Durango to the downtown event.
In the predawn hours of March 6, 1836, the fall of the Alamo took place in San Antonio. Today the site is San Antonio's most visited attraction. [Read more about the Battle of the Alamo.]
If you're a fan of sci-fi or anime, here's an event that just might be of interest: ChimaeraCon. Held at San Antonio's Crossroads Mall, this event brings together movie celebrities, shoppers, and costume buffs in a family-friendly atmosphere. This year's event is scheduled for March 14-16.
We've just added a new festival piece on ChimaeraCon to TexasTripper covering the popular convention; it includes more about the festival events, a video from last year's event featuring the original Leatherface from Texas Chainsaw Massacre, and a map to the festival location.
San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo Finalizes Show Lineup
The San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo is just around the corner, starting up in less than a week in the Alamo City. This year we are determined to make it to at least one day of the event...although it's tough to decide which day looks best. Along with all the rodeo events (and carnival, and stock show, and special events), the rodeo always has a full lineup of country stars each night. The final lineup of performers has been released:
January 31, 2008 Randy Rogers Band with Xtreme Bulls 7:00pm show. February 1, 2008 Miranda Lambert 7:30pm show. February 2, 2008 Alan Jackson at the 1pm matinee. February 2, 2008 Alan Jackson 7:30pm show. February 3, 2008 - Football Sunday and Ronnie Milsap 1:00pm show. February 4, 2008 Gretchen Wilson 7:00pm show. February 5, 2008 Brooks & Dunn 7:00pm show. February 6, 2008 Christian Youth Night with TobyMac and Jeremy Camp 7:00pm show February 7, 2008 - Stars of Texas featuring Cody Canada of Cross Canadian Ragweed, Jack Ingram, Kevin Fowler, Stoney Larue and Mike Eli of the Eli Young Band at the 7:00pm show February 8, 2008 Big & Rich 7:30pm show. February 9, 2008 - Craig Morgan 1:00pm show. February 9, 2008 Lynyrd Skynyrd 7:30pm show. February 10, 2008 Josh Turner at the 1pm matinee. February 10, 2008 Los Tigres Del Norte 7:30pm show. February 11, 2008 - Sara Evans 7:00pm show. February 12, 2008 – The Jonas Brothers 7:00pm show February 13, 2008 – Staind 7:00pm show February 14, 2008 - Valentine’s Day and Clay Walker 7:00pm show. February 15, 2008 – Joe Nichols 7:00pm show February 16, 2008 Jason Aldean and Xtreme Bulls 1pm show. February 16, 2008 Rodeo Finals Gary Allan 7:30pm show.
Tickets: You'll need to get tickets to most shows in advance; call 1-877-63-RODEO, visit ticketmaster.com, stop by the AT&T Center SW ticket office or visit any ticketmaster location.
Guinness Book of Records called it the World's Largest Breakfast and it takes place tomorrow morning from 5am-9am (if the grub holds out that long). The annual Cowboy Breakfast, now in its 30th year, is scheduled for Friday, Jan. 25 at Bass Pro Shops on I-10 West in San Antonio, the first year at the new location. The event kicks off the San Antonio rodeo season.
When you expect 30,000 for breakfast, you have to have a lot of food and this year will be no exception; they're planning for 100 gallons of gravy alone. All that food will be accompanied by live music with more to follow at the official after party, to be held starting at 9am at Leon Springs Dance Hall. Look for Gary P. Nunn to headline the all-day event.
With the San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo just around the corner starting January 31, it is time for the annual BBQ Cookoff. Now in its 12th year, the barbecue cookoff will feature over 200 teams. Judging takes place from 11:00 AM - 5:30 PM on Saturday.
The event also includes an evening concert; Zack Walther & the Cronkites will be the opening band with Jason Boland & the Stragglers headlining. (Visitors during the day will also enjoy live music. The event will also include a carnival, vendors, and, of course, plenty of barbecue!
Where: Verizon Wireless Amphitheater in Selma (just north of San Antonio on I-35)
When: Saturday, January 26, 2008. Gates will be open to the public from 10:00 am until midnight.
Admission: $12 for adults, 12 and under are admitted free. Pre-sale tickets are available for $8 at the San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo box office, and KJ-97 discount coupons are available at the KJ-97 studios and at KJ-97 live remote broadcasts and events. General parking is free.
For more information: • contact bbq@sarodeo.com • call 210-827-7988
This Aztec head greets travelers strolling the River Walk in San Antonio, an invitation to visit the restored Aztec on the River. Since 1926, the elaborately decorated theater has entertained moviegoers.
The Aztec reopened following an extensive renovation but today it's closed again for construction with reopening anticipated for Spring 2008. You'll still find the restaurant and retail shops at river level opened during the project.
It's no surprise to us that San Antonio is receiving top accolades from two of the top travel magazines: Travel + Leisure and Condé Nast Traveler. Travel + Leisure included the Hotel Valencia Riverwalk, Omni La Mansion del Rio and Watermark Hotel & Spa on their 2008 list of the top 500 hotels in the world; the rankings were based on ambiance, service and amenities. Condé Nast Traveler placed the Watermark Hotel & Spa and Westin La Cantera Resort on their 2008 Gold List which denotes the best places in the world to stay as ranked by their readers.
What They Said:
Hotel Valencia
• Travel + Leisure noted that this as San Antonio’s hippest hotel with its stylish VBar. This Tuscan-style, terra-cotta-roofed property on the famed River Walk is five blocks from the Alamo and immersed in the culture of downtown San Antonio.
Omni La Mansion del Rio
• Recognized by Travel + Leisure for a high level of charm and a recent $6 million renovation to their 1852 Spanish colonial property that overlooks the River Walk. Travel + Leisure also suggests not missing Chef Scott Cohen's deviled blue-crab cakes with roasted corn relish at the hotel’s riverside restaurant, Las Canarias.
Watermark Hotel & Spa
• Both Travel + Leisure and Condé Nast Traveler pointed to the four-year-old River Walk hotel for its sophisticated, Texas ranch-style interior and location across the river from the opulent 1920’s-era Majestic Theatre. Both magazines recommend sampling world class tequilas at the hotel’s renowned restaurant, Pesca, and enjoying the 17,000-square-foot spa.
Westin La Cantera Resort
• Condé Nast Traveler highlighted the Westin La Cantera Resort’s unique location in an abandoned limestone rock quarry as well as its Spanish mission architecture, warm interior décor and six swimming pools--as well as "great fish tacos" at The Gantry.
San Antonio loves its Spurs and it loves basketball in general...so be prepared for some big crowds for Final Four this year! The basketball championships will be held this April in the Alamodome.
Tomorrow is the day of the Valero Alamo Bowl in San Antonio when Penn State squares off against Texas A&M at the Alamodome.
If you're headed to San Antonio for the game, save time for a visit to at least some of the attractions of the Alamo City including Market Square (above), home of the country's largest Mexican market at El Mercado as well as great Tex-Mex (don't miss Mi Tierra). You'll find more of our favorites in our free downloadable The Football Fans' Guide to San Antonio. You can download a copy at http://www.texastripper.com/san-antonio/football-fans-san-antonio.pdf then print it and take it along on your trip.
The day before Thanksgiving, San Antonio gets ready for the holidays as a tree is decorated in front of The Alamo. On Friday, the city will officially launch the holiday season with the annual Holiday River Parade.
San Antonio's Market Square will be bustling with shoppers in the coming days. Along with many boutique shops, the square is home to El Mercado, the largest Mexican market in the US, one filled with imports ranging from jewelry to piñatas to blankets. Musicians stroll the square and one of our favorite Tex-Mex restaurants--Mi Tierra--is located here.
A view of the Alamo, taken from the pool deck atop the Hyatt Regency San Antonio. Although it's nestled in downtown San Antonio, the shady grounds around the Alamo still provide visitors a quiet place to reflect on the history of this site.
Austin, Dallas, and San Antonio Named Among Top 25 US Cities
Travel + Leisure magazine and CNN Headline News have released the 2007 survey of “America’s Favorite Cities.” Travelers voted for their favorites online, where they were also able to submit their own pictures and video through CNN.com’s I-Report.
Survey results are announced in the November issue of Travel + Leisure, which hits newsstands this week. You can read results online at Travel + Leisure or www.cnn.com.
The surveys rate the cities in the categories of After Dark, Characteristics, Cityscape, Culture, Food/Dining, People, Shopping and Type of Trip. Each category is further broken down to include "micro-categories" like clubbing, environmental awareness, vintage shopping and more.
Austin comes in first for Singles Scene (After Dark) and Barbecue (Food/Dining); second for People (overall), Characteristics (overall), Live Music (After Dark), Safety (Characteristics), Cheap Eats (Food/Dining), Fun (People); and third for Food/Dining (overall) and Underground Arts Scene (Culture).
San Antonio came in #1 for affordability and #2 for barbecue while Dallas came in #4 for barbecue and #7 for sports fan vacation.
Austin's own Benjamin McKenzie recently grooved at Gruv nightclub to tunes spun by DJ Boombai, the Austin American-Statesman reports. Back in the Live music Capital of the World in mid-October, the star of the cancelled FOX favorite "The O.C." will soon step in front of the cameras for his role in "The Stanford Prison Experiment."
Actor Scott Porter said so long to September at an event held at the capital city's Shoreline Grill, according to the Austin American-Statesman. Like other patrons at the elegant Austin eatery, perhaps the "Friday Night Lights" star was fortunate enough to catch a glimpse of the city's local celebrities, the Mexican Free-Tail bats, as they left their roost under the Congress Avenue bridge and embarked on their evening escapades-- a sight that can be savored nightly from the restaurant's terrace, which overlooks the recently redubbed Lady Bird Lake.
Lone Star siblings Luke and Owen Wilson were spotted in the capital city in mid-October. According to the Austin American-Statesman, the Dallas-born duo booked suites at the Four Seasons Hotel.
"Spider-man" villain Willem Defoe, who was recently in the Bastrop area filming "Fireflies in the Garden," was spotted by the Austin Chronicle in mid-October at Whole Foods Market, checking out the store's organic gastronomical treats.
In town to promote his latest silver screen venture, "The Darjeeling Limited," The Austin American-Statesman conducted an interview with actor Jason Schwartzman at Austin's hippest hideaway, the Hotel San Jose on South Congress Avenue. The reformed 40's era motor court, which offers its patrons the use of an extended CD library filled with blues and jazz standards and a weekly showing of a cinematic cult classic along with entertainment by a local band, is a magnet for A-listers, with visits by Drew Barrymore and Luke Wilson in September.
Dallas
Several stars dined out in The Big D this October. The Dallas Morning News reports that actor John Cusack, who will soon be seen on the big screen in "Martian Child," and lady friend Jodi Lyn O'Keefe (Prison Break) were among the first to sample the culinary creations offered at The Club, a swank supper sanctuary in The Centrum Building which opened its doors in September 2007.....From lobster pasta to a 16 oz. New York sirloin, "One Tree Hill" star Sophia Bush had a wide variety of culinary delights from which to choose when she mulled over the menu at N9NE Steakhouse recently with Dallas Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo.....Globe-trotting songstress Annie Lennox recently enjoyed the Japanese cuisine served at Nobu, one of six epicurean establishments located at Hotel Crecsent Court.
San Antonio
Congratulations to Ricardo Chavira, better known to TV viewers as Carlos Solis on the ABC hit "Desperate Housewives," who said "I do" to longtime love Marcea Dietzl in the Alamo City on September 22, 2007. The television star, while born in Austin, was raised in San Antonio.
San Antonio Celebrates Halloween & DIa de los Muertos
San Antonio celebrates not only Halloween but Day of the Dead in a big way with events planned throughout the town. Day of the Dead, a Mexican pre-Hispanic festival, is the day when the dead are said to join the living for a day of celebration. San Antonio Zoo - Zoo Boo Date: October 30 Zoo Boo is full of fun for all ages; an exciting, safe and non-scary event for families with trick-or-treating, face painting and games. Visitors are encouraged to wear costumes, and children can participate in the costume contest. The Institute of Texan Cultures - Halloween Howl’r Date: October 28 Wander through the haunted rooms and lairs of the Institute’s campus. Young goblins can come in costume and trick-or-treat at various booths featuring spine-tingling storytellers, not-so-petrifying puppet shows and frightening face painters. Or, they can try their hands at the dark arts and crafts booths and see what they conjure up. Older goblins will enjoy the haunted barn or graveyard and dragon roping.
The Institute of Texan Cultures - The changing identity of Día de los Muertos revealed in photography and muralism Dates: through November 12, 2007 Join in the festivities of el Día de los Muertos, and examine how time, intersecting cultural celebrations and mass media have changed the face of this tradition.
Mission San José - Día de los Muertos Exhibit and Altar Dates: through November 30 An altar and exhibit will be on display.
Market Square - Los Altares Del Mercado Date: October 28 Over 30 altars created by tenants, merchants and junior high and high school students will be on display.
La Villita - A celebration of the art of the day of the dead Dates: October 28 - November 4 Festivities will include performances by Las Monas Drum & Dance Group as well as exhibits from La Villita tenants and artists Chris Braswell and Ladi Loera.
Southwest School of Art & Craft - Día de los Muertos: La Ofrenda Dates: October 30 - November 2 A Día De Los Muertos altar created by students, staff, faculty, board members and volunteers of the Southwest School of Art & Craft.
Say Sí Central – Family Extravaganza Dates: November 1-3 Enjoy family festivities, live music and food booths. To complete the experience, break bread (pan de muerto) with the dearly departed and savor sugar skulls prepared in one of San Antonio’s authentic Mexican bakeries. Centro Cultural Aztlán - The 30th Annual Día de los Muertos Celebration Altares Y Ofrendas Exhibit Dates: November 2 – 9 Centro Cultural Aztlan has made a tradition of Día de los Muertos by bringing together artists and community people to install traditional and artistic altars that express their personal point of view on this universal subject. SouthTown - URBAN 15’S Carnival de los Muertos Date: November 2 Carnival de San Anto presents its annual performance ritual as part of Día de los Muertos. The procession parade of dancing and drumming Calaveras can be seen at SouthTown starting at 7:00 pm. It will then travel to Centro Cultural Aztlan to perform at their Altar Ofrenda at 8:00 pm. URBAN-15 celebrates the joyful memories of our departed friends and family in this ceremony.
Always a top getaway in the Lone Star State, San Antonio is giving visitors plenty of new reasons to schedule a visit in the Alamo City: lots of newly renovated projects. Now with over 35,000 hotel rooms across the city, there's a lot underway right now including:
• San Antonio’s 1000-room Marriott Rivercenter and 514-room Marriott Riverwalk are undergoing a $45 million renovation to be completed early to mid-2008. These hotels will undergo renovations to dramatically change the look and feel of the lobbies, restaurants, and seating areas.
• The St. Anthony Hotel, a Wyndham Historic Hotel in downtown San Antonio, has a $12 million restoration program underway; it will public spaces, the 352 guest rooms, and more. Completion is scheduled for the first quarter of 2008.
• The 632-room Hyatt Regency Riverwalk (which completed a $16 million renovation in 2004) has added some new features: high-tech kiosks for checking in/out and printing boarding passes, and Wi-Fi access in most guest rooms, lobbies and public areas. Last year the Hyatt added a 2,700 square foot spa featuring relaxing massages, facials, manicures and pedicures. This year the Hyatt renovated the Lone Star Palace, a rooftop penthouse with a 1,200 square foot outdoor terrace, full-catering kitchen and oversized outdoor grill overlooking the Alamo and downtown—great for hosting groups up to 150 people.
• The El Tropicano Hotel finished its restoration in the first quarter of 2007. The multi-million dollar restoration transformed this 306-room property to the look of a Mexican resort, complete with Mexican folk art, exotic birds, a winding staircase and mosaic artwork of tropical colors.
• The Westin La Cantera Resort has added its exclusive Casita Village, bringing their room count up to 508. This $1 million plus addition completed in the first quarter of 2007 is nestled among mesquite and oak trees where 38 casitas with separate entries and private patios entertain guests with fireplaces and elaborate bathrooms that include marble floors, oversized European bathtubs and large showers.
• The 169-room Hampton Inn Downtown completed a $6 million renovation in the fourth quarter of 2006, upgrading each guest room and adding complimentary wireless high-speed Internet service.
• The 305-room Holiday Inn Downtown – Market Square will complete a $4 million renovation by the end of the year.
• The Sheraton Gunter Hotel has completed a $7 million renovation, now offering Sheraton’s Sweet Sleeper Bed, updated urban spaces, a fitness center and pool facility.
San Antonio's Emily Morgan Hotel Getting Ready for Holiday Parties
Looking for a unique venue for your holiday parties? The Emily Morgan Hotel is putting the word about about its unique party options; event planners at the hotel and Oro restaurant have developed a menu of more daring holiday party themes.
Just how unique and daring? The Emily Morgan party planning staff can arrange a "Dancing with the Stars" theme, complete with dance music and professional dance instructors giving lessons to guests -- or even staging a dance-off, pairing guests with their own professional instructor for a brief training period before hitting the stage.
With a nod to the Mediterranean-flavored cuisine at Oro, the hotel's upscale restaurant, another option is the "Mediterranean Holiday" themed party, with guided wine tastings and samplings of Italian, Spanish and French cuisine. The hotel can even add a cooking demonstration for guests.
According to Bill Brendel, general manager. "Our goal is to create outrageous and fun alternatives to the traditional and often boring corporate holiday party and make these occasions something that guests will really look forward to."
The hotel's event planners are offering other party packages as well:
· Viva Las Holidays, a Vegas-style party complete with Elvis impersonators, showgirls and Vegas-style games of chance.
· Magical Holidays, with a professional magician entertaining the crowd
· Sweet Holidays, a dessert-themed party with chocolate fountains, piles of holiday goodies and seasonal drinks like cider, hot chocolate and eggnog, with entertainment options ranging from a strolling choir to a visit from Santa. Set against a backdrop of gingerbread houses and colorful lollipops.
· The Feliz Navidad Holiday Party, a tribute to San Antonio's Latin heritage, with candle-lit luminarias lighting the way to the party. On the menu is San Antonio's famous Tex-Mex cuisine, served with holiday-themed tequila drinks. The package includes Latin-style dance music from a live band or DJ, along with holiday tunes set to a Latin beat. Options include salsa, mambo or tango dance lessons for guests.
About the Hotel: The hotel, located in downtown San Antonio across from the historic Alamo at 705 East Houston Street, is now booking holiday parties. The Emily Morgan Hotel has earned the AAA four-diamond rating.
For more information about parties: • call Jackie Gawlik at 210-244-0124 * visit www.emilymorganhotel.com
San Antonio is home to so many great hotels it's tough to choose...and soon the choice will get that much harder! Hotel Indigo, the first branded boutique hotel by InterContinental Hotels Group, will open in April 2008.
Located in the historic Gibbs Building (at the corner of Houston and Alamo Streets) that dates back to 1909, this 91-room hotel will transform into a sleek and trendy hotel offering top of the line amenities. Being careful to maintain the historic feel, the restoration of hardwood and marble floors, walls and accents will bring a unique feel and experience to guests seeking affordable luxury.
Unlike traditional hotels, various elements of the hotel's décor such as rugs, murals, duvet covers will be changed out periodically to create a sense of renewal offering guests a fresh new experience seasonally.
Hotel Indigo will feature a gourmet menu and offer a lively atmosphere in its Phi Restaurant and Lounge.
August must be the month for surveys! The results are out in two new surveys which show San Antonio named as one of the country's top 10 family destinations (not surprising with its theme parks, walkable River Walk, and great weather). A survey of the readers of American Style magazine is also naming San Antonio one of the top 25 cities in the country for arts, ranking 17th among the top communities.
This year marks the first year of WildFest San Antonio, a birding and nature festival. Scheduled for May 4-6, 2007. Locations highlighted during the festival will include Mitchell Lake Audubon Center, Medina River Natural Area, Government Canyon State Natural and the Missions National Historical Park.
The three-day festival will include workshops, tours and hands-on fieldtrips focusing on the area's birds, butterflies, bats, wildflowers, history and geology. The festival will offer events for participants from children to experts.
Opening Weekend Planned for San Antonio's Museo Alameda Smithsonian
Nearly ten years after both the Smithsonian Institution and the Kennedy Center announced their affiliation with the Alameda National Center for Latino Arts and Culture in San Antonio, opening weekend for the Museo Alameda Smithsonian has been set. The Center’s mission is to tell the story of the Latino experience in America through art, history and culture.
Location: San Antonio’s historic Market Square
Exhibits: The 39,000-square foot structure will feature a Smithsonian Gallery, additional galleries, and a sculpture garden featuring pieces from the Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden.
The Museo Alameda Smithsonian is projected to host more than 300,000 visitors annually, including 30,000 students, making it the most visited Latino museum in the U.S. San Antonio, with a Hispanic population exceeding 55%, is known as one of our nation’s most Latino cities.
Opening Weekend Activities: April 12-15, 2007 A “people’s walk,” complete with luminarias, from the Alamo to the Alameda will kick off the weekend. Arrival at the Alameda will signal the lighting of the bright-pink museum. Concerts, tours, fiestas and activities are planned all weekend.
Girls' Getaway Weekend at San Antonio's Watermark Hotel & Spa
Whether you're planning a bachelorette getaway or just a fun weekend with girlfriends, here's a new package that caught our eye at San Antonio's Watermark Hotel & Spa, located downtown.
The Urban Cowgirls’ Getaway Weekend includes:
• Two rooms for two nights at the Watermark Hotel & Spa, the Alamo City’s premier property • Dinner for four at Pesca on the River, the Watermark’s acclaimed seafood restaurant • Pesca on the River’s signature tequila tasting experience and specialty margaritas served aboard a private river barge. The barge will cruise the San Antonio River, stopping at local bars along the Riverwalk, per the requests of the cowgirls! • “Girls Day Out” spa package for each cowgirl (package includes two 50-minute spa treatments and lunch at the Rooftop Café) • Each to be fitted for a pair signature Lucchese cowgirl boots • Evening limousine road trip to Austin, the music capital of Texas, • Dinner for four at the Gristmill, serving up a traditional Texas BBQ, on the way to Austin • Four longnecks at Gruene Hall, Texas’ oldest dance hall, which opened in 1878 and is where legends like George Strait, Jerry Jeff Walker, and Lyle Lovett got their start • Tickets to a live music event in Austin, cowgirl’s choice!
Price: This weekend is designed for four urban cowgirls looking to experience the best of Texas, retailing at $6,000, or $1,500/person, inclusive of all taxes and gratuities. Package based on availability.
About the Watermark: The Watermark Hotel and Spa, recently named the number two hotel in the nation by Conde Nast Traveler readers, features 99 elegant rooms, plus a 17,000-square-ft. spa, with 19 private treatment rooms, private Sanctuary Lounges and couple’s treatment suites. The hotel also features fine dining at Pesca on the River™, an unrivaled seafood epicurean experience. The renowned 337-room Omni La Mansión del Rio Hotel marries old-world charm with modern comforts and has hosted an array of dignitaries and celebrities throughout its illustrious history. Both distinctive properties are part of the Omni Hotel Group.
San Antonio's McNay Art Museum Planning $50.8 Million Expansion
The Spanish Revival-style 1920s home that houses the McNay Art Museum, San Antonio's first museum of modern art, is going to be undergoing a major expansion. Look for a new 45,000-square-foot exhibition facility designed by architect Jean-Paul Viguier in 2008. The expansion will allow the museum to host larger exhibitions as well as increase the McNay’s ability to show more of its collection, including beautiful outdoor sculpture gardens for the museum’s growing sculpture collection.
The San Antonio City Council has given its OK to the funding for a plan to extend the popular River Walk. It's a big plan--one that will eventually create a 13-mile park from Loop 410 South to Hildebrand Avenue, according to the San Antonio Express-News.
The first phase will be the addition of what's called the Museum Reach which will extend the River Walk from Lexington Avenue up through Brackenridge Park. Look for work to begin in December on the first stretch of that project from Lexington to Josephine Street.
San Antonio's two theme parks are running some special Halloween events this month. At SeaWorld San Antonio, you can take part in "Howl-o-scream," a special program at the 250-acre marine life adventure park. The event includes special shows, costumed characters and even a "haunted forest" near Shamu Stadium. For more information, visit www.seaworld.com.
Six Flags Fiesta Texas is home to Fright Fest 2006. Ghostley gouls will perform halloween themed shows. This even runs through October 29. For more information, visit www.sixflags.com.
International Accordion Festival Comes to San Antonio
Accordions play a big role in Texas music--everything from Conjunto to polka tunes--and they hold center stage at the annual International Accordion Festival at San Antonio's La Villita. The free two-day outdoor music festival will be held October 13-15 and will feature performers from around the globe playing everything from Celtic to Zydeco, Conjunto to Cowboy and so much more.
The event includes informal workshops, jam sessions and performances featuring up-close and personal interactions with master artists and their music--as well as plenty of food and dancing. For More Information: • visit www.sanantonio.gov/art/fallart/ • call 1-800-ALAMO-07
Mexican Independence Day or Diez y Seis de Septiembre (September 16th) is celebrated across Texas with festivals and special events. In San Antonio, the Alamo City celebrates not just on September 16 but with several weeks of special events.
During the festivities, look for:
• Mariachi music sending an energetic blend of tunes floating down the River Walk as groups of all ages how off their expertise at the guitar and trumpet • Dancers performing at the beautiful Arneson River Theater • Children and families checking out dance performances and puppets while enjoying activities and free treats at Festival de Los Niño’s in historic La Villita’s Plaza Juarez • Streets lined with people enjoying the annual Fiesta Patrias en la Avenida Guadalupe Parade. This year the Grand Marshal is Nicholas Gonzalez from FOX TV’s The OC and Honorary Grand Marshal will be San Antonio’s beloved Spurs Coyote.
Sure you know that the Alamo is the top tourist attraction in the state but did you know that the outlet malls in San Marcos rank right up there as a top attraction? These malls--which can truly be described as "Texas sized"-- are an attraction in themselves and have now caught the eye of the nation, thanks to ABC's daytime talk show, The View. On Thursday, July 13, San Marcos will be featured as one of the “Best Places to Shop” on the popular show.
We're going to be sure to catch the show, which will feature not only the malls but general coverage of the city.
Tower of the Americas to Reopen After $11 Million Renovation
Wednesday at 5pm marks the public reopening of Tower of the Americas. Originally built for HemisFair and soon becoming a landmark of San Antonio, the Tower will be better than ever with a restaurant, lounge, a $4 million multisensory theater, and an observation deck. You'll find all the details on our extended Tower of the Americas page in the San Antonio travel guide.
"Reign of Spain" Theme for San Antonio New World Wine & Food Festival
The 275th anniversary of the arrival of Canary Island settlers in San Antonio inspired the Reign of Spain theme for the 2006 San Antonio New World Wine & Food Festival (November 7-12). Putting it all together will be Gerry Dawes, frequently referred to as "Mr. Spain" called an "unimpeachable Spanish food and wine specialist" by the editors of Food Arts magazine. Look for chefs from the Canary Islands and mainland Spain at the event's sessions and seminars.
About the Festival: Started in 2000, the San Antonio New World Wine & Food Festival is designed to promote San Antonio as a premier wine and food destination and culinary and cultural gateway to Mexico and Latin America. The foods and wines showcase New World regions including Texas, Mexico, Central and South America and the Caribbean as well as emphasize the region's roots in Old World cultures and countries. The Festival features both local and internationally known chefs and winemakers, creating an educational event designed to introduce residents and visitors alike to the vast diversity of Mexican, Latin American and Spanish cuisines and wines at the same time it showcases the broad spectrum of Texas agricultural products. This non-profit event benefits designated San Antonio charities.
Next month in San Antonio means Fiesta, a truly Texas-sized festival. You'll find great festivals in the Alamo City throughout the year, though; to give you a rundown of some of our favorites, we've just added a new San Antonio festivals section, providing a month by month breakdown of top events.
