Mayor Julian Castro and about 600 other San Antonians cheered the reveal of the Fiesta 2012 poster last night at the Central Library.
The painting, by Alamo City native Marcelino Villanueva, celebrates the city’s history, culture and art.
Castro noted that Fiesta is a time for families and friends to come together to celebrate their relationships.
Fiesta Commission President Evangelina G. Flores invited Castro and Villanueva to unveil the image at the climax of the official ceremony. The poster and Fiesta gear using all or part of the design are now available at The Fiesta Store, 2611 Broadway.
The unveiling was the highlight of the party, but far from the only attraction. The event spread out over three floors. Gowns, uniforms and crowns of former Fiesta royalty were on display.
On the first floor, six artists created paintings that were auctioned off later in the evening. The auction raised more than $2,000 for the Fiesta San Antonio Commission. The proceeds will help the commission help its 100 local nonprofit member organizations with their Fiesta activities.
Musicians–Hot Sauce, guitarist George Gaytan and the Bill Patterson Band–added their own artistry to the event. On the third-floor patio guests enjoyed refreshments provided by Sea Island Shrimp House and Tiago’s Cabo Grille.
Back on the first floor, a mini-Fiesta Store began selling 2012 merchandise as soon as the poster was unveiled. One very popular item was the full 2012 Fiesta Poster Pin.
Only a limited number of the full sets is available now. After this week, the store will offer the pin in sections. The top two pieces will be sold first. Each of the six papel picado “charms” will become available monthly through April.
The poster unveiling marks the start of the Fiesta season. It may seem very early to start thinking about Fiesta, which doesn’t start until April 19. But that’s less than 170 days away!
One reason for revealing the poster and opening The Fiesta Store in November is to give everyone a chance to offer their friends and family Fiesta presents for Christmas. The store is open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (until 7 p.m. Thursdays) through Dec. 23. Note that it will be closed Nov. 11, 24 and 25.
The store staff invites you to come in and see all the great present ideas and stocking stuffers.
The poster unveiling was open to Fiesta Commission members. Next up for the members is a Christmas party at the store Dec. 1. The event includes holiday entertainment, refreshments and Fiesta Santa. If you’re interested, you can go to the online store to purchase your membership right now.
