Looking for a way to include your furry friend in this year’s Fiesta celebrations? Check out our guide to the best dog-friendly events happening during Fiesta in San Antonio!
From parades and parties to dog costume contests and more, there’s something for everyone (and every pup!) to enjoy. So get ready to have a paw-some time during Fiesta 2024!
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Fiesta FAQs
Q: What is Fiesta?
A: Fiesta is an annual celebration in San Antonio, Texas that commemorates the Battle of San Jacinto and the city’s diverse culture and rich Hispanic heritage. The festival typically spans 10 days and features a variety of events, including parades, concerts, food festivals, and more. Many of the events serves as fundraisers for local nonprofit organizations as well.
Q: When is Fiesta?
A: Fiesta typically takes place in April. The exact dates vary from year to year, so be sure to check the official Fiesta website for updates. The dates for Fiesta in 2024 are April 18 – 28.
Q: Can dogs go to Fiesta events?
A: Yes! Many Fiesta events are dog-friendly, and there are even some events that are specifically for dogs and their humans. Check out our guide below for some of the best dog-friendly Fiesta events happening in 2024.
Q: What are Fiesta Medals?
A: Fiesta medals are small, commemorative medals. They typically feature designs related to Fiesta and/or the city of San Antonio. Many people collect Fiesta medals as souvenirs, and they can often be purchased online or at various Fiesta events.
Should I Take My Dog to Fiesta Parades?
Fiesta is a time for celebrating, and that means parades! If you’re thinking about bringing your dog to a parade, there are a few things you should keep in mind.
First, be aware of the noise level and crowds. Dogs can get overwhelmed by both of these things, so it’s important to make sure your dog is comfortable in those situations.
Second, make sure your dog is on a leash and well-behaved. You don’t want him/her getting in the way of the floats or runners, and you definitely don’t want any accidents happening during the parade.
Finally, be prepared for hot weather! If it’s going to be a warm day, bring water and sunscreen for your pup. With a little preparation, you and your furry friend can have a blast at any Fiesta parade.
14 Official Fiesta Events You Can Take Your Dog To
1. Fiesta Fiesta | April 18
4-11PM H-E-B Plaza at the Alamodome
- Fiesta Fiesta celebrates the official opening ceremony to Fiesta
- Enjoy food and beverage favorites, live entertainment, and Pin Pandemonium
2. OLLU 5K Confetti Walk & Run | April 20
7:30AM – 10:30AM Our Lady of the Lake, Main Building
- OLLU’s annual Confetti 5K Run/Walk will wind participants through the University’s historic campus before taking on the trails of the newly renovated Lake Elmendorf Park.
3. El Rey Fido Coronation | April 20
- El Rey Fido began in 2002 as a feel-good spin on the already long-established Fiesta Royalty title of a similar name: Rey Feo.
- The El Rey Fido and the Royal Court get to be dressed in true royal attire (velvet, sequins, and all), and with titles such as Prince/Princess of the Food Bowl, Duke/Duchess of the Chew Toy, Duke/Duchess of the Fire Hyrdant, and Knight/Maiden of the Royal Court.
4. Fiesta de los Niños | April 20
10AM – 6PM Boeing Center at Tech Port
Fiesta de los Niños, or Children’s Fiesta, is a day to celebrate the joys of childhood! The event will kick off with a Fiesta parade, technological exhibits from SAMSAT, and robots and STEM-related activities for kids and adults alike.
5. San Jacinto Victory Celebration | April 22
10AM – 12PM Alamo Plaza
A celebration of Texan independence 186 years after the Battle of San Jacinto. Pet-friendly.
6. Chaparral Music & Heritage Festival | April 20
12PM – 11PM Civic Park at Hemisfair
- Chaparral celebrates south and central Texas heritage including food, music, vendor market, and more.
- The event features live music from established and up and coming Texas music artists.
- Pet friendly event. No outside food or beverages allowed.
7. Chanclas y Cervezas | April 20
5PM – 11PM The Greenline
- Put your chancla throwing skills to the test with games and activities that honor the ever-versatile chancla. Pet friendly.
8. Texas Cavaliers River Parade | April 22
7PM – 9PM San Antonio River Walk
- The Texas Cavaliers consist of over 500 business, civic and community leaders who promote and preserve the bravery and independence for which the heroes of the Alamo died.
- Every year, the Texas Cavaliers River Parade features more than 45 decorated floats decorating the San Antonio River as hundreds of children enjoy the sights and sounds of this historic event. Proceeds of the parade benefit the Texas Cavaliers Charitable Foundation and its mission.
9. Ford Mariachi Festival | April 23-25
6PM – 8PM San Antonio River Walk
- The Mariachi Festival features student Mariachis from High Schools and local college Mariachi Programs. Folklorico Dancers are included on the river floats.
- Free and pet-friendly.
10. Battle of Flowers Parade | April 26
9AM – 2PM Downtown San Antonio
• The Battle of Flowers® Parade honors the heroic spirit of the patriots of the Alamo, commemorates the victories of San Jacinto and Goliad and celebrates the diversity and heritage of Texas and our nation.
• As the second largest day parade in the United States, the Battle of Flowers® Parade supports the educational, artistic, social and philanthropic achievements of our community’s youth.
• The Battle of Flowers® parade holds the distinction of being the first celebration held in Alamo Plaza and is considered the founding event of Fiesta® San Antonio.
• The parade has entertained our city every year since 1891, except during World Wars I and II as well as the Pandemic of 2020 and 2021.
• This parade is the oldest parade in the nation produced entirely by volunteer women and affords non-profit organizations the opportunity to raise funds with over 45,000 parade seats sold by charities along the parade route each year.
11. Fiesta Artisan Show | April 26 – 28
11AM – 11PM San Antonio River Walk
- Stroll on the River Walk to browse over 45 Artisan booths. Items range from handmade jewelry, to paintings, clothing, soaps, ceramics, leather goods and whimsical gifts.
- Free and pet-friendly.
12. Fiesta Pooch Parade | April 27
8AM – 1PM Alamo Heights Pool
- Dog costume contest, parade, and market benefitting Therapy Animals of San Antonio.
13. King William Fair & Parade | April 27
- You never know what quirky sights you’ll see in this parade as it travels a 2-mile route through the neighborhood. From live camels to floating mermaids to Miss Southtown and her cheeky court — anything goes! (Parade kicks off at 9AM)
- During the fair, visitors can enjoy over 65 food and beverage vendors, as well as 200+ Art and Craft vendors.
- Admission required. Pets welcome.
14. Fiesta Flambeau Parade | April 27
- Leading the parade for its 76th year is the premier band, The University of Texas Longhorn Band, followed by spectacular themed floats, marching units, local, out of town and out of state bands, dance groups, equestrian units and many other attractions that create a memorable night of illuminated entertainment.
Fiesta is just around the corner and that means it’s time to party with your pup! San Antonio has a ton of events planned that are both dog-friendly and fun. We’ve put together a list of some of our favorites, but be sure to check out the official event pages for each one as well since times and locations may change. And don’t forget to tag us in all your furbaby’s Fiesta fun on Instagram—we can’t wait to see them having a good time!
Author: Amy Lynn
Amy is the founder of The Dog Guide, and was inspired to start the first one right here in San Antonio after adopting her first dog. In addition to being a dog mom to Texas and Terry, she's also a mom of four, and has lived in San Antonio for over 25 years.
