Fiestas Fantasias Opens Friday

Fiestas Fantasias, formerly known as Fiesta Del Mercado, opens Friday morning at noon with opening ceremonies to be held at the Budweiser Tejano Stage located at the corner of San Saba and Dolorosa. Former Mayor Lila Cockrell and other dignitaries will kick off the ten day event which has become a tradition with many San Antonians.

During the run you'll be able to hear many Tejano and Conjunto bands on several stages. You can also enjoy your fill of Fiesta staples such as gorditas, puffy tacos, turkey legs and many other favorites.

Ever since I started attending Fiesta 19 years ago the festival in El Mercado has always been one of my traditional stops. The very first year three of my friends from Arkansas came down to enjoy Fiesta with me. Our last stop on Sunday night was Market Square and dinner at La Magarita. It was a great way to close out Fiesta.

Fiestas Fantasias now has a new neighbor on the historic walk with the Museo Alameda. The extension of the Smithsonian opened last weekend just in time for Fiesta, giving patrons of Fiestas Fantasias even more reason to enjoy the festival.

Every Fiesta event serves as a benefit for some non-profit cause. Fiestas Fantasias is no different, with funds from the event going to help the San Antonio Parks Foundation. So for every puffy tacos or drink you can take pride in helping improve the parks of San Antonio.

So after the opening ceremonies of Fiesta head over to Market Square and help kick off Fiestas Fantasias.