Your Ultimate Guide to Fiesta San Antonio 2025

San Antonio’s biggest party of the year is back! From April 24 to May 4, 2025, Fiesta is taking over the city with more than 100 parades, festivals, and family-friendly events across 11 days of celebration. Whether you’re a first-time attendee or a Fiesta veteran, this guide has everything you need to plan your best Fiesta yet — from can't-miss parades to tips for navigating the city like a local.

💃 What Is Fiesta?

Fiesta San Antonio began in 1891 with the very first Battle of Flowers Parade to honor the heroes of the Alamo and San Jacinto. Since then, it’s grown into an 11-day festival celebrating San Antonio’s rich culture, community, and history — and raising millions for local nonprofits and scholarships. Fiesta pumps more than $340 million into the local economy and draws 2.5 million visitors annually!

🎭 Signature Fiesta Events

🌸 Battle of Flowers Parade

📍 Downtown | 🗓️ Friday, May 2 | ⏰ 10:00 AM
The oldest and most iconic Fiesta event! Expect floats, royalty, marching bands, and vibrant street celebrations.

🌟 Fiesta Flambeau Night Parade

📍 Downtown | 🗓️ Saturday, May 3 | ⏰ 7:45 PM
The nation's largest illuminated parade lights up downtown with dancers, musicians, and dazzling floats. A must-see.

🚤 Texas Cavaliers River Parade

📍 River Walk | 🗓️ Monday, April 28 | ⏰ 7–9 PM
The only Fiesta parade on water! Decorated barges float down the river in a spectacle benefiting local children’s charities.

🎶 Fan-Favorite Fiesta Events

• Fiesta Fiesta (April 24) – Kick off Fiesta at Travis Park with fireworks, live music, and a festive parade.
• NIOSA (April 29–May 2) – A Night in Old San Antonio transforms La Villita into a 14-zone cultural food and music fest.
• Fiesta De Los Reyes (April 25–May 4) – Daily free concerts, dancing, and eats at Historic Market Square.
• Oyster Bake (April 25–26) – Over 60,000 people gather at St. Mary’s University to enjoy music and, of course, oysters.
• King William Fair (May 3) – A day of family-friendly fun in one of SA’s most charming neighborhoods.

🐶 Fiesta for the Whole Family (Yes, Even Pets!)

• Fiesta De Los Niños (April 27) – STEM and carnival fun at Port San Antonio.
• El Rey Fido Coronation (April 26) – Because San Antonio even crowns dog royalty!
• Pooch Parade (May 3) – Dogs in costume take over Alamo Heights.

👑 Fiesta Royalty

Expect to see royalty like King Antonio, El Rey Feo, the Queen of the Order of the Alamo, and more! These local leaders and philanthropists support scholarships and local causes while keeping the Fiesta spirit alive.

💡 Tips for Fiesta First-Timers

• Get Tickets Early: Popular events like NIOSA and Taste of the Northside sell out fast.
• Plan Parking: Use VIA Park & Ride shuttles to avoid traffic nightmares downtown.
• Dress for Fiesta: Think bright colors, comfortable shoes, and don't forget your medals!
• Stay Safe: Keep hydrated, use the buddy system, and drink responsibly.

🎨 Fiesta Is About Community

More than a party, Fiesta raises funds for over 100 nonprofits. Every cascarón cracked, every gordita eaten, every parade attended helps give back to the community.

🗓️ Plan Your Fiesta Week

From mariachi boat parades to foodie festivals, there’s something happening every single day. Be sure to check the full Fiesta 2025 schedule here and pick your favorites!

✨ Whether you're tossing confetti at the Battle of Flowers Parade or savoring puffy tacos under twinkling lights at NIOSA, Fiesta is a San Antonio tradition like no other. Grab your flower crown, your medal sash, and your dancing shoes — ¡Viva Fiesta! 🎊