City of San Antonio Shares Fiesta “Know Before You Go”
Published on April 15, 2026
SAN ANTONIO (April 15, 2026) – It’s time to Fiesta, San Antonio! As we prepare to celebrate, the City of San Antonio wants to help make the event enjoyable and safe. Before you go, here are a few tips and reminders.
Safety
Safety is a top priority of the San Antonio Police Department (SAPD), and everyone plays a role in keeping events safe. If you see something, say something.
Security measures will be in place throughout the Fiesta de Los Reyes event at Market Square, and guests should be prepared for screening upon entry. Make a plan to help make your experience smooth and enjoyable. For full event guidelines and updates, visit FiestaDeLosReyes.com.
Remember, alcohol impairs judgment and reaction time, affecting coordination and raising the risk of accidents, injuries, and fatalities. If you plan to drink, plan to get home safely. Designate a sober driver, use a ride-share service, or call a taxi.
The San Antonio Fire Department (SAFD) will be present at all Fiesta events with its Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Bike Teams and First Responder vehicles to ensure all residents and visitors have quick access to medical care should they need it.
Stay Hydrated & Cool
Be safe by staying hydrated, avoiding prolonged sun exposure, seeking air conditioning when needed, and checking on vulnerable individuals. Children, older adults, and pets should never be left unattended in a vehicle, even for a short period of time.
Ways to Stay Hydrated
- Drink plenty of water.
- Don’t wait until you are thirsty.
- Avoid alcohol and large amounts of sugar or caffeine.
Ways to Stay Cool
- Take breaks in air-conditioned places as much as possible.
- Use a spray bottle to mist yourself with cool water.
- Wear lightweight and loose-fitting clothing.
- Wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunscreen to help prevent sunburn.
For more information, visit SA.gov/HotWeather.
Travel & Parking
Make a plan and arrive early to avoid traffic delays, street closures, and limited parking near Fiesta events. Visit the City’s Know Before You Go Downtown webpage for helpful resources.
Ride-share services, taxis, bikes, and VIA Metropolitan Transit all offer convenient ways to get around during the festivities. VIA Metropolitan Transit will offer convenient, affordable Park & Ride service to and from multiple Fiesta events. VIA Link also provides its ride-sharing service for $1.30 a ride within its downtown service area. For more information, visit VIAInfo.net/Fiesta.
Street Closures
Make a plan for Fiesta event-related street closures. A complete list of lane closures can be found on the City’s Public Works website.
South Alamo St. and the streets around Historic Market Square are open for Fiesta. Any lane or sidewalk closures near these attractions will be related to Fiesta events.
Parade Street Closures
Streets will close early for the Fiesta Battle of Flowers Parade on Friday, April 24, beginning at 8:30 a.m. and reopening by 3 p.m., and for the Fiesta Flambeau Parade on Saturday, April 25, beginning at 4:30 p.m. and reopening by midnight.
Both parades will follow the same route as last year. Residents are asked to wait until SAPD has officially closed the street before placing chairs for viewing. Chairs may not be placed on sidewalks or tied to poles or other structures prior to Thursday, April 23, and any chairs placed before that time will be removed.
Parking
The City offers convenient and affordable downtown parking; learn more at SA.gov/SAPark. The St. Mary’s Garage (205 East Travis St.) and the City Tower Garage (60 North Flores St.) are just steps from the River Walk, Houston Street, and Main Plaza. There is no parking at Market Square for Fiesta (except for staff). Parking event rates of up to $15 will apply, and the Downtown Tuesday free parking program will be temporarily suspended during Fiesta on Tuesday, April 21.
Fiesta Sustainably
The City’s Department of Resilience & Sustainability and Solid Waste Management Department encourage residents and visitors to celebrate Fiesta responsibly by making simple, sustainable choices. Use e-tickets instead of printing, choose biodegradable cascarones and reusable souvenir cups, and recycle during major parades by collecting bottles and cans and redeeming them for a limited-edition Fiesta medal at designated stations, including Crockett Park, Providence High School, City Hall, Madison Square Park, and the Torch of Friendship. Most importantly, dispose of waste properly to help keep the San Antonio River and surrounding areas clean.
Take the City’s Budget Survey!
Through April 16, the City is giving away 50 limited-edition Fiesta medals to residents who make their voices heard in the City Budget Survey. Take the annual budget survey at SA.Gov/BudgetSurvey, open through May 1, to share which services matter most. Visit @COSAGOV on Instagram to learn more about the giveaway.