San Antonio Comes Alive This Fall with Cultural Events & Festivals
Published on September 09, 2026
SAN ANTONIO (September 9, 2026) – As fall inches closer, San Antonio’s arts and culture scene is gearing up with a diverse lineup of festivals, performances, exhibitions and cultural experiences taking place throughout the season. With events taking place across the city, the fall season offers opportunities to discover new artists, celebrate longstanding traditions and connect with San Antonio’s creative communities.
“These festivals and events are an invitation to get out, explore, and experience the incredible artistic and cultural talent that thrives throughout our city,” said Krystal Jones, Director of the Department of Arts & Culture. “From lively performances to immersive visual arts experiences, San Antonio offers something for everyone to enjoy and discover this fall. By experiencing these events, residents and visitors can also support local artists, cultural organizations and businesses that contribute to the vibrancy of our community and economy.”
A sample of upcoming events:
World Heritage Festival
September 9 – 13, Various Locations
Now in its 11th year, this festival is an annual collaborative event to celebrate and promote the San Antonio Missions, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
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The AM Project's MASS: A Mother's Love
September 12, Chris Park at Ruby City
This immersive, two-hour performance transforms the space using sound, movement, and reflection inspired by spiritual and cultural traditions.
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Fiestas Patrias / Hispanic Heritage Month
September 15 – October 15, Various Locations
Take part in the many events celebrating Mexico’s independence from Spain in 1810 while honoring San Antonio’s rich history and vibrant connections to Mexico and Latin America.
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Festival of Chariots
September 19, Woodlawn Lake
Immerse yourself in a day of enchantment featuring holistic vendors, mandala installations, floating illuminated artworks, light art installations, poetry, yoga, vegetarian cuisine and more.
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Jazz’SAlive
September 24 – 25, Civic Park in Hemisfair
This popular event celebrates features world-class performances across two dynamic stages.
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MujerArtes 31st Anniversary Exhibit and Sale
September 26, Esperanza Peace and Justice Center
Browse unique, hand-painted ceramic artwork created by talented local women artists.
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San Antonio Black International Film Festival
October 2 – 4, Various Locations
This festival showcases quality films, advocates for and supports filmmakers of African descent. This year's theme "HISTORY upRISING!"
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Halloween at The DoSeum
October 1 – 31, The DoSeum
Creep the galleries with hauntingly cute decorations at every turn, crack a wicked smile at themed photo stations, and shake your bones during our hourly BOOgie breaks.
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Aki Matsuri (Fall Festival)
October 3, Camargo Park
Festival goers can explore exquisite Ikebana (flower arranging) and Bonsai displays, visit informational tables for local Japanese community organizations, and enjoy authentic cuisine, music and performances.
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Mercado/Material
October 15–March 7, 2027, Centro de Artes
Inspired by the history of Centro de Artes and Historic Market Square, and celebrating Centro de Artes’ 10th anniversary, the exhibition’s opening reception is Thursday, October 15, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Centro de Artes is always free and open to all.
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17th Annual Mole Festival
October 15, Centro Cultural Aztlan
Get ready for decadent Mole dishes prepared by local restaurants, local chefs, and community cooks for your taste buds to enjoy.
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Ballet San Antonio Presents Dracula
October 23 – 24, Tobin Center for the Performing Arts
A haunting, visually stunning ballet performance, Roberto Forleo’s Dracula reimagines the gothic legend as a powerful tale of eternal love, loss, and redemption.
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Oktoberfest
September 25-27, La Villita
Enjoy an unforgettable, family-friendly weekend filled with the sights, sounds, and flavors of Europe — all in a joyful South Texas setting — plus shop and support local artisans.
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Dia de Los Muertos
San Antonio is home to some of the nation’s grandest Día de Muertos celebrations, taking place from October 23 – November 2 including:
Diwali San Antonio
November 7, Arneson Theater and Hemisfair
An annual homecoming for families and communities across India and South Asia, featuring a river parade, music and dance performances, food, and elaborate decorations and lights.
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Luminaria Contemporary Arts Festival
November 14, Houston Street
This celebration of the arts comes alive after dark, transforming the city into a vibrant canvas of live music, film, digital art, poetry, theater, fine art, monumental installations, dance, and unexpected moments around every corner.
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Marisol Deluna Foundation Presents An Afternoon of Fashion
November 15, Arneson River Theatre
Showcasing the creativity, individuality, and diverse abilities of San Antonio’s youth, this free community fashion show is a joyful expression of inclusion and self-expression.
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For more information about these and many other local cultural events, visit SA.gov/Arts and follow @GetCreativeSA.