SURVIVE FIESTA SAN ANTONIO WITH THESE PRO TIPS

Every year in the spring, San Antonio hosts a massive, ten-day festival known as Fiesta week. Are you considering attending this year?

If you’re interested in attending Fiesta Week, it’s important to start planning early.

There’s a lot that you can do during the celebration, and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed if you arrive on the first day totally unprepared. 

But there’s no need to worry. Here are a few tips for navigating the celebration so you’ll fit right in.

Leave the car at home: Parking and traffic can be a hassle. And if you’ll be drinking, you’ll definitely want a safe ride home. Arrive by VIA Park and Ride, take a taxi or ride-sharing service, or hop on a bike.

Beware of the cascarones: Beware of the cascarón, a hollowed-out egg filled with confetti. It’s tradition to smash them over the heads of fellow Fiesta-goers. But it’s OK, because revenge is sweet.

Plan ahead: If you’re heading to one of Fiesta’s trademark events — including the Battle of Flowers Parade, Oyster Bake, A Taste of New Orleans or A Night in Old San Antonio — save the hassle and buy your tickets online or at The Fiesta Store on Broadway Street.

Dress accordingly: Wear comfortable, closed toe shoes and slather on plenty of sunscreen. But don’t forget to dress up! Fiesta-goers wear colorful, festive clothes, including sombreros, guayaberas, Mexican dresses and flower crowns. The more outrageous the hat, the better!

Start your Medal collection: When you walk, you should hear the distinct clinking of Fiesta medals. Buy a few online or collect some from your favorite local business or institution. And if you see a medal you like, propose a trade.

Arrive hungry: Try one of Fiesta’s iconic foods, including turkey legs, chicken on a stick or a handmade corn tortilla filled with cheddar cheese and homemade salsa from Maria’s Tortillas.

Have fun: More than 3.5 million people attend Fiesta each year, which can make it a bit chaotic. But if you go with the flow and come prepared, you’re likely to add to your list of favorite events each year