When to Go

October and April are the prime months for a comfortable visit to San Antonio, though the spring (when it's not raining) is ideal for seeing the scenery if you're planning to visit the missions or take an excursion into the Hill Country. Also in the spring, a celebratory mood overtakes the town during the annual Fiesta event.

From June through September, intense heat bakes the city, with high humidity to boot. If you come then, you can escape the heat with well air-conditioned inside attractions and at the popular water parks of Sea World and Six Flags Fiesta Texas.

Though not out of the question, winter snows are very rare, as are light ice storms. More expected are the heavy spring rains, which can result in flash flooding in the Hill Country.

Festivals

Fiesta. The city's top annual event comes to town each spring for 10 days of celebrations throughout the city. Approximately 100 events are held during the festival, which honors the heros of the Alamo and the Battle of San Jacinto. San Antonio, Texas. 210/227-5191; www.fiesta-sa.org.

Fiestas Navidenas. Held in Market Square during the first three weekends of December, this event features childrens choirs, folkloric dance groups, mariachi bands, and a visit by Pancho Claus. San Antonio, Texas. 210/207–8600.

Irish Festival. The San Antonio River is dyed green, and live music, food, arts and crafts, and dances fill the city in honor of St. Patty. San Antonio, Texas. www.harpandshamrock.org.

Livestock Exposition and Rodeo. Held at the AT&T Center, this event features country, Tejano, and rock music, along with a rodeo and livestock show. 210/225–5851; www.sarodeo.com.

Mardi Gras Parade. The colorfully festooned floats create a spectacle. If you miss an event, don't worry—there are at least two a month, each with food, music, and lots of entertainment. 210/227–4262; www.thesanantonioriverwalk.com.

Remembering the Alamo Weekend. Educational exhibits about those involved with both sides of the Battle of the Alamo are on display at 300 Alamo Plaza during this commemorative weekend. 300 Alamo Plaza, San Antonio, Texas, 78205. 210/225-1391; www.thealamo.org.

River Walk Mud Festival and Mud Parade. Parts of the river are drained to clear the bottom of debris, and locals revel in the subsequent parties, parades, and the crowning of a Mud King and Queen. Paseo Del Rio Association, San Antonio, Texas, 78205. 210/227–4262; www.thesanantonioriverwalk.com.

Texas Folklife Festival. During this summertime event more than 40 cultures exhibit their contributions to the development of Texas through music, food, dance, and folktales at the Institute of Texan Cultures in HemisFair Park. 210/458–2300; www.texancultures.com.