There’s something about San Antonio in the fall that makes the city feel especially alive. The colors, music, food and traditions remind us just how deeply culture, creativity and tradition are woven into the character of our city, and give us lots of reasons to get out and explore. From marigolds and candlelit ofrendas to festivals, art exhibits and cultural performances, there’s always something new to discover — and familiar traditions to enjoy.
One of the most beautiful examples is Día de los Muertos. While the celebration is deeply personal and rooted in family, San Antonio has embraced it in a big way. Chef Johnny Hernandez has played an important role in bringing this beloved tradition to the forefront of our city’s cultural calendar. Nearly two decades ago, a trip to Michoacán, his mother’s homeland, introduced him to the way families honor loved ones who have passed. Graves were decorated with flowers and candles, and families gathered with food, music and offerings on altars. What stayed with Chef Johnny most was how everyone took part, and the experience inspired him to help make Día de los Muertos a bigger part of San Antonio’s cultural story.
You’ll find that same spirit of tradition in San Antonio’s Indian community. Bharatanatyam, the classical dance tradition of South India, is an amazing combination of movement, music and storytelling. With colorful costumes, intricate hand gestures, expressive faces and rhythmic footwork, dancers use their entire bodies to tell stories. It’s a wonderful example of how a tradition can travel thousands of miles and across generations and still find a new home while keeping its roots intact.
This issue also gives us a behind-the-scenes look at something we often take for granted: museum and gallery exhibits. We tend to focus on the art, but there’s a tremendous amount of planning involved in deciding how each piece should be displayed and how visitors will experience the space. So, the next time you visit a gallery or museum, take a moment to notice the exhibit design, too. There’s an art to that as well.
We also look at one of San Antonio’s most recognizable landmarks, the Emily Morgan Hotel. Standing across from the Alamo, its dramatic Neo-Gothic architecture has been part of the city’s skyline since 1926, when it opened as the Medical Arts Building. Today, its history, architecture and legendary ghost stories make it a fascinating part of downtown.
And, of course, food is a big part of what makes San Antonio unique. As a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy, our city continues to celebrate its culinary traditions through the work of local chefs and UNESCO Chef Ambassadors who travel the globe representing San Antonio’s food culture.
There’s plenty more to see and do this fall. Check out Second Saturday in the Lone Star Art District, play a round along the Alamo City Golf Trail, discover the new Arciniega District, adjacent to La Villita and Hemisfair, with historic courtyards, walkable pathways, rooftop cocktails, great food and plenty of different vibes to choose from, or explore the art, historic missions and conservation efforts along the Mission Reach. And don’t miss the Rey Feo Super Hero Parade and Festival, which combines family fun with scholarships and a well-deserved celebration of our local first responders.
We hope this issue inspires you to get out, explore San Antonio and, most importantly, take part in the traditions that make our city such a special place to call home.
