The vibrant tapestry of Fiesta San Antonio unfolds from April 24 to May 4, featuring a diverse array of events that offer the Black community a rich selection of cultural experiences, family-friendly celebrations, and opportunities for community engagement. From the tantalizing flavors of New Orleans to celebrations of dance, scholarship, and community service, Fiesta 2025 promises to be a week of connection and celebration.
One of the highlights of the Fiesta festivities is the 39th Annual “A Taste of New Orleans,” taking place from April 25 to 27 at the Sunken Garden Theater in Brackenridge Park. Over the years, “The Taste” has cemented its place as a San Antonio tradition, drawing crowds with its authentic cuisine and music from Zydeco, jazz, and R&B. This event is one of the primary fundraisers for the San Antonio Zulu Association (SAZA) that it uses to provide scholarships, funds for the San Antonio Food Bank and much more.
“A Taste of New Orleans” offers a culinary journey through Louisiana, featuring a menu that includes classic dishes such as assorted gumbos, red beans and rice, shrimp creole, and étouffée. Seafood lovers can indulge in shrimp kabobs, Cajun catfish, soft shell crab, crab au gratin, and fresh crawfish boil. Other specialties include jambalaya, boudin, and even alligator, providing a taste of the diverse culinary heritage of New Orleans. And, of course, no trip to New Orleans is complete without beignets, which will be readily available to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Admission to the grounds is $22 each day or $40 for a two-day pass. BlastPass credits will be the only form of payment for purchasing food, drinks, apparel, and other activities. To facilitate travel to and from the event, SAZA has partnered with VIA Trans to offer convenient and affordable transportation options. To learn more, visit (SAZA.org).
In addition to the culinary delights of “A Taste of New Orleans,” Fiesta San Antonio provides opportunities to celebrate community and achievement. On April 26 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., the Alpha Pi Zeta Chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated, will host the Fiesta Track Meet at Sam Houston High School. This event, a chapter tradition since 1984, celebrates athleticism and sportsmanship. The Alpha Pi Zeta Foundation’s Chair, Wynell Mann, has a deep connection to the event, as her father, Iva Mann, was one of its early pioneers. In recognition of his contributions, the sportsmanship award is named in his honor. Similarly, the overall participation award honors the memory of Frank Garrett, whose spouse, Ethel Garrett, is an Alpha Pi Zeta Chapter member and also an early pioneer of the Track Meet. Admission to the Fiesta Track Meet is free, making it accessible to the entire community.
Also, on April 26, young people and their families can participate in the Top Teens of America Healthy Choice Conference. Hosted by the San Antonio Metropolitan Top Teens of America at Second Baptist Church Community Center, this conference focuses on encouraging high academic scholarship, promoting healthy lifestyles, and developing pride in self, home, and community. Workshops will address current trends and foster concerns for teens, senior citizens, the status of women, community partnerships, and community beautification. This event, which runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., is also free to the public.
Looking ahead to May 1, Fiesta San Antonio will present the 30th Anniversary of CultureFest at St. Philip’s College. This event, with free admission, parking, and rides, celebrates the community and supports student scholarships. CultureFest also features a Rib Cook-Off Competition and a Dessert Competition, inviting attendees to participate in the festivities.
Finally, on May 4 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., the annual Praise Dance will be held at the Carver Community Cultural Center. This event, organized by the Alpha Tau Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., is a diverse community gathering showcasing expressive movements in dance, mime, and music. Performers range in age from 5 to 90 years old, highlighting the intergenerational appeal of this celebration. The Praise Dance Celebration, which began in 2002 and became an official Fiesta event in 2005, is free and open to all.
So while you are out getting tickets for the Battle of Flowers Parade on May 2 or the Fiesta Flambeau on May 3, there are plenty of other events to spend money on that often don’t get a lot of attention and help many of these organizations serving Black and Brown citizens. To learn more about all the Fiesta events, visit (FiestaSanAntonio.org).
