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Focus on Downtown
October 2026
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The City of San Antonio invites the community to visit Historic Market Square, La Villita Historic Arts Village and Houston Street this October for fun fall events and to celebrate Día de los Muertos. While enjoying La Villita and Market Square events, don’t forget to stop inside their stores to shop for one-of-a-kind treasures.
Downtown will be very busy the weekend of October 23-25, with multiple Día de los Muertos events occurring in the downtown area. Before heading downtown, attendees are encouraged to check event details, road closures, and parking information at SA.gov/GoDowntown
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For events happening this weekend, please check event websites and social media for weather updates.
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We have a new name!
We’re excited to share that our department has officially changed its name from Center City Development and Operations to Downtown Operations. This new name better reflects the work we do every day to support, maintain, and activate San Antonio’s vibrant downtown community.
Downtown Operations creates and sustains partnerships with City departments, downtown stakeholders, neighborhoods, and businesses to ensure our urban core remains welcoming, safe, and thriving.
Our work spans several key areas:
- Facilities Division – Manages La Villita, Market Square, and other City-owned facilities, and coordinates major capital projects.
- Parking Operations and Maintenance – Oversees all City downtown parking facilities, ensuring they remain safe, clean, and compliant with parking regulations.
- Contracts and Concessions – Maintains leases and agreements, including River Walk patio leases, and oversees the barge concessions contract.
- Downtown Activation – Plans and coordinates downtown programs, processions, and community events through collaboration and communication.
- Maintenance of the River Walk and Downtown Environment – Keeps downtown clean, safe, and welcoming for residents and visitors.
Our new name highlights our commitment to keeping downtown San Antonio welcoming, accessible, and enjoyable for everyone. We look forward to continuing this work under our updated name, Downtown Operations.
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Historic Market Square Events
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Shop, dine and celebrate at Historic Market Square
Step into the heart of San Antonio’s culture and community with over 100 locally owned shops. From handcrafted leather goods and traditional apparel to unique cultural treasures, Historic Market Square is your one-stop destination for memorable gifts that support local small businesses.
Market Square Website
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| 12th Annual Car Show
Saturday, October 3, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.; FREE
Location: Historic Market Square, 514 W. Commerce St.
The 12th Annual Car Show at Historic Market Square showcases the nostalgia and beauty of vintage automobiles, celebrating decades of automotive history. This family‑friendly event offers classic vehicles, live entertainment, and local vendors, creating an engaging experience for car enthusiasts and visitors of all ages.
Visit the Market Square Facebook page for weather updates.
More Information
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| Self-Guided Día de los Muertos Altar Tour
October 5 - November 6, every day from 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.; FREE
Location: Historic Market Square, 514 W. Commerce St.
Take a self-guided tour of Día de los Muertos ofrendas (altars) at Historic Market Square. The ofrendas show gratitude, celebrate memories, and highlight the best and the brightest of departed loved ones' time on earth. Learn more about Día de los Muertos by visiting uniquely themed altars throughout Historic Market Square.
More Information
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| Cultural Celebration: Día de los Muertos
October 24 & 25, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.; FREE
Location: Historic Market Square, 514 W. Commerce St.
Get ready for a lively celebration of Día de los Muertos, a two-day event bursting with color, culture, and community spirit. Join us as we honor this beautiful Mexican tradition with an array of cultural activities, stunning traditional altars, marigold giveaway, and live music. Don’t miss Las Monas Cultural Dance Procession, a captivating fusion of dance and storytelling that brings ancestral tales to life, happening both days from 1 to 2 p.m. This family-friendly event is open to all ages and is the perfect way to experience the rich heritage, artistry, and joy that make Día de los Muertos special.
More Information
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| Calaveras de Azucar Festival
Saturday, October 31, 10 a.m. - 9:30 p.m., & Sunday, November 1, 10 a.m. - 8:30 p.m.; FREE
Location: Historic Market Square, 514 W. Commerce St.
The Market Square Farmers Market Association invites the community to attend their vibrant Calaveras de Azucar Festival to celebrate Día de los Muertos with family and friends. The colorful and memorable festival features altars, live music, and local vendors.
More Information
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| Market Square Weekends: Live Performances, Local Eats & Art in Action
Every weekend in October, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.; FREE
Location: Historic Market Square, 514 W. Commerce St.
Enjoy music, working artists, and food booths at Market Square every weekend!
More Information
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| The Pass at Market Square
Open daily 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.; FREE
Location: 612 W. Commerce St.
The Pass at Market Square is a recreation area located at the IH-35 elevated highway underpass between Dolorosa and Commerce streets. It features a family-friendly recreation area that includes a basketball court, ping pong tables, swing chairs and tables, murals, and more.
More Information
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La Villita Historic Arts Village Events
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Discover, shop and spark your creativity at La Villita Historic Arts Village!
Located in the heart of downtown, La Villita offers over 15 unique boutiques, art galleries, and dining experiences. Shop handcrafted gifts and festive finds at La Villita, where every purchase supports San Antonio’s small, independent businesses.
La Villita Website
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| Painting in the Plaza
Sunday, October 4 & 18, 11 a.m. - 1 p.m; FREE with registration
Location: La Villita Historic Arts Village, 418 Villita St.
The community is invited to Painting in the Plaza, a free, family-friendly art experience held on the first and third Sundays through May at La Villita Historic Arts Village. Local artist Monica Bosch will guide participants in a step-by-step painting class. The program welcomes all skill levels, though space is limited and advanced registration is required. Registration opens one week before each event date.
Visit the La Villita Facebook page for weather updates.
Sign Up
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| La Villita Ghost Tours
Thursday, October 8, 15, 22, & 29, 7-8 p.m.; FREE with registration
Location: La Villita Historic Arts Village, 418 Villita St.
Discover the hidden legends of La Villita after dark! Join Curious Twins Paranormal for an unforgettable ghost tour through one of San Antonio’s oldest and most enchanting neighborhoods. From lively lore to centuries old mysteries, this spirited walk offers a thrilling new way to experience the magic and history of La Villita Historic Arts Village. Space is limited and advance registration is required. Downtown Thursday free parking begins at 5 p.m. in City-owned lots and garages.
More Information
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| Mariachi Festival
Saturday, October 10, 1-9 p.m.; FREE
Location: La Villita Historic Arts Village, Arneson River Theatre, 418 Villita St.
The Mariachi Festival features performances by middle and high school students from schools in San Antonio and the region. The festival has been hosted by the Diez y Seis de Septiembre Commission for over 20 years. Food and arts and crafts booths will be available for patrons’ enjoyment.
More Information
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| Craft Thursday
Thursday, October 15, 6-8 p.m.; FREE with registration
Location: La Villita Historic Arts Village, 418 Villita St.
The community is invited to Craft Thursday, a free, family-friendly DIY series held at La Villita Historic Arts Village. Local pastry artist Janie Romo will guide participants through an in-depth cookie decorating class. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early to enjoy dinner or a beverage at onsite restaurants. Seating is limited, and advance registration is required; registration opens one week before the event. Downtown Thursday free parking begins at 5 p.m. in City-owned lots and garages.
More Information
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| Day of the Dead San Antonio River Parade and Festival
River Parade: Friday, October 23, 7 p.m.; ticketed event
Festival and community activations: Friday, October 23 - Sunday, October 25, see website for full schedule
Location: La Villita Historic Arts Village, 418 Villita St.
Celebrate Día de los Muertos as altar‑inspired floats, dazzling catrinas, and vibrant tributes light up the River Walk on Friday night during the Day of the Dead River Parade. The festivities continue all weekend as La Villita transforms into a vibrant fiesta filled with live music, delicious food, and free family fun honoring cherished Día de los Muertos traditions. Don’t miss the chance to snap a selfie with the second largest Calavera Catrina in the world, wander among 20 colorful alebrije spirit-animals, and marvel at 10 giant, hand-painted calaveras spread throughout the village. It’s a celebration rich in culture, bursting with color, and open to all. Come honor the past, celebrate the present, and be part of something truly unforgettable at La Villita.
More Information
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| Lunch Break on Houston Street
Thursday, October 15, 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Location: In front of the Majestic Theatre, 224 E. Houston St.
Enjoy food trucks and live music along Houston Street in front of the Majestic Theatre.
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More Thursday Night Fun Ahead as Downtown Thursday Program Extended
Get ready to plan your next Thursday night downtown!
The City of San Antonio is extending its Downtown Thursday program through the end of the year, giving everyone even more chances to enjoy Thursday nights downtown.
What to expect every Thursday night:
- Specials from 30+ restaurants, shops, wellness businesses, tour operators, and arts groups
- FREE parking!
- Food and drink specials, including free appetizers, desserts and more!
- Arts, culture, and live entertainment
- Family-friendly cultural experiences and partner-hosted events
Check out weekly events and partner specials on the Downtown Thursday website.
Are you a downtown business?
If you’d like to join the program, you can sign up on our website for free.
Free Parking After 5 p.m.
City-owned parking facilities offer free parking every Thursday night (some exclusions apply). An online map shows all participating locations.
More Information
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We've got your spot!
The St. Mary’s Garage (205 E. Travis St.) and City Tower Garage (60 N. Flores St.) are located near the River Walk, Houston Street, and Travis Park and typically have available spaces. Event parking rates may be in effect on busy event days.
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A map showing a full list of City-owned garages and lots can be found on the City’s SAPark website.
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Downtown Thursday offers free parking at city-operated parking garages, parking lots and parking meters every Thursday evening from 5 p.m. to 2 a.m.
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City Tower Sundays offers free parking on Sundays from 7 a.m. to midnight in the City Tower Garage (60 N. Flores St.).
Parking Map
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Downtown Access and Mobility Study
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How do you get around downtown San Antonio? The City is gathering feedback to improve streets, sidewalk safety, bike routes, and public transit in the downtown area.
Take the brief Downtown Mobility Survey to share your travel habits and priorities for future transportation improvements:
The survey closes on Monday, October 12.
Take the Survey
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Visit our downtown partner websites to view a list of their upcoming events.
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Know Before You Go Downtown
Downtown will be very busy the weekend of October 23-25, with multiple Día de los Muertos events occurring in the downtown area. Consider using public transportation, ride share, or VIA Park & Ride to skip congestion and simplify your trip. If you choose to drive, plan your parking in advance and enter the garage or lot address directly into your navigation app.
More Information
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Downtown Newsletter Survey
We’re updating our newsletters and would appreciate your quick feedback. This survey takes about 2 minutes and will help us improve what we send and how often you receive it.
Take the Survey
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SATX Marathon Updates
San Antonio Sports, in partnership with the City of San Antonio, will host the second annual San Antonio Marathon, Half Marathon, and SATX 5K this December. Events include the SATX 5K on Friday, December 4 at 8 p.m. and the Marathon and Half Marathon on Sunday, December 6 at 7:15 a.m. Organizers are available for questions at marathoncr@sanantoniosports.org.
The Community Access webpage shows street closures, community access, and maps.
More Information
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DTOPS Earns Two Finalist Spots in Statewide TATOA Awards
DTOPS is proud to share that two submissions to the Texas Association of Telecommunications Officers and Advisors (TATOA) have been selected as finalists for this year’s Government Programming Awards. The projects include The San Antonio River Walk Gets a Refresh in the Best Use of Social Media category and the City of San Antonio Parking Marquee in the Best Photography category.
More Information
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Hemisfair Earns National and International Honors
Hemisfair’s Civic Park earned the 2026 Large Urban Parks Award from World Urban Parks, and HPARC’s Jane Linde was named a 2026 Young Park Leader. The park also received an Honor Award in General Design from the American Society of Landscape Architects, placing it among just ten projects recognized worldwide. Congratulations to our partners at Hemisfair!
More Information
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Centro de Artes Gallery
Centro de Artes Gallery, located at Historic Market Square, is an institution dedicated to telling the story of the Latino experience in the U.S. with a focus on South Texas through local and regional art, history and culture, and a commitment to showcase the transnational experience of Latinos in the U.S. Learn more about current exhibitions.
More Information
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