On April 26, San Antonio will host the Chaparral Music and Heritage Festival, a vibrant celebration of Texan culture filled with live performances, engaging activities, and delectable food options. This free event spans from morning until evening at Civic Park in Hemisfair, offering something for everyone to enjoy. The festival showcases diverse musical acts, thrilling parachute jumps, interactive educational exhibits, and exclusive culinary experiences that cater to all tastes.
In addition to an impressive lineup of bands and performers, attendees can look forward to unique attractions such as precision parachute demonstrations by the U.S. Army Golden Knights and appearances from local sports teams. Artisans will display their crafts, while community organizations provide insights into wildlife conservation and gardening projects. Food enthusiasts will relish special meal offerings, including a cowboy-themed brunch and gourmet samplings later in the day.
The festival's main attraction lies in its varied musical performances, headlined by The Bill Ayers Band, complemented by other talented groups like Paul Farrell & the Bon Vivants and The USAF Rock Band. Beyond music, visitors will experience captivating moments such as the U.S. Army Golden Knights' parachute jump and get acquainted with new mascots introduced by local sports teams. Educational booths allow guests to delve into topics ranging from bat preservation to community gardening initiatives.
Throughout the day, music enthusiasts will be treated to a wide array of genres performed by renowned artists. The Bill Ayers Band sets the tone with their electrifying performance, while others bring distinct flavors through rock, blues, and traditional sounds. In between performances, festival-goers can witness the awe-inspiring parachute jump executed precisely over Civic Park at 2 p.m., showcasing military precision and skill. Furthermore, fans of local sports will have a chance to meet members of the San Antonio Brahmas football team and see their latest mascot up close. Interactive displays hosted by Bat Conservation International and Gardopia Gardens encourage learning about preserving natural habitats and promoting sustainable gardening practices within communities.
Festival participants can indulge in exclusive dining opportunities starting with complimentary Southern Recipe pork rinds upon arrival. Later, they may opt for either the hearty "Cowboy Brunch" or the sophisticated "Boots, Bourbon and Bites," both tailored specifically for adult attendees seeking premium culinary experiences.
Upon entering the festival grounds at 9 a.m., guests are greeted with a taste of Southern hospitality via free bags of pork rinds handed out at Cactus Corral. For those who wish to elevate their breakfast experience, the "Cowboy Brunch" offers a delightful spread featuring scrambled eggs paired with ham, artisan chorizo, classic Texan hash browns, and refreshing beverages—all available for just $50 per person. As the afternoon progresses, adventurous eaters might choose to partake in the "Boots, Bourbon and Bites" session, where they savor gourmet delights like bacon bourbon meatballs alongside Mexican street corn served on tortilla chips. This indulgent affair also includes a commemorative Chaparral Western Hat, making it a memorable souvenir for festivalgoers willing to invest $75 for this unique upgrade option. Both events restrict participation to individuals aged 21 years or older, ensuring an atmosphere suited to mature audiences.