Fiesta San Antonio 2026 Kicks Off April 16 With Over 100 Events

San Antonio's defining celebration returns in two weeks. Fiesta San Antonio 2026 runs April 16 through 26 — eleven days, more than 100 official events, and an estimated economic impact exceeding $340 million for the city. The centerpiece parades are the city's best-loved rituals: the Texas Cavaliers River Parade on April 20, the Battle of Flowers Parade on Friday the 24th, and the Fiesta Flambeau Night Parade that closes the run on April 25.

The 81st Texas Cavaliers River Parade floats down the River Walk in the evening with proceeds benefiting children's charities across San Antonio. The Ford Mariachi Festival (April 23-24) brings mariachi and folklorico performers along the river for three nights of music. Opening night launches with Fiesta For All at Travis Park — live entertainment, food, and carnival rides.

If you're going: book hotels now if you haven't — Fiesta fills the downtown Riverwalk corridor. Parade tickets for the Cavaliers run are sold in advance. Non-ticketed spots along the river line up by mid-afternoon.

Sources: Fiesta San Antonio, San Antonio River Walk