D3 Highlights Culinary Wins, Community Investment & Southside Cultura
Published on September 10, 2026
SAN ANTONIO (September 10, 2026) — District 3 Councilmember Phyllis Viagran celebrates an exciting season of landmark community achievements that showcase the talent, culture, history, and continued investment shaping San Antonio’s Southside.
From 2M Smokehouse taking home the Food Network’s Pitmasters competition and highlighting the San Antonio barbecue tradition on the national stage, to continued investments through the Mission Drive-In TIRZ, the Southside continues to build momentum while honoring its roots.
During today’s A Session meeting, City Council took action to continue investment in several District 3 priorities. The City Council adopted the extension of the Mission Drive-In TIRZ to 2060, which provides additional funds for the development of the voter-approved District 3 Aquatics Facility, and improvements to the World Heritage Center. A new pavilion there will expand opportunities for cultural and educational programming and strengthen connections between the World Heritage Center, Mission Marquee Plaza, and surrounding amenities. City Council also awarded additional TIRZ funding that will support enhanced security throughout the San Antonio Missions Historical Park.
These significant investments will support Citywide cultural celebrations, including the Annual World Heritage Festival, bringing residents and visitors together to celebrate the history, culture, traditions, and stories that make the San Antonio Missions in the heart of the Southside unique.
“District 3 has so much to celebrate and be proud of,” said Councilmember Phyllis Viagran. “From our local businesses achieving national recognition to investing in recreation, safety, infrastructure, and our UNESCO World Heritage Designation, we are continuing to create opportunities while honoring the history and culture that make our community special. These commitments are essential steps needed when we invest in our people, our places, and our future.”
The 11th Annual World Heritage Festival will be celebrated from September 9 – 13. All are welcome to participate and enjoy this family-friendly festival open to the public.
For more information on the events this weekend, please visit WorldHeritageFestival.org.