A Night in Old San Antonio 2026 Set to Celebrate Seventy Eight Years of Cultural Legacy, Fund Historic Preservation with Four-Night Fiesta Event 

Published on December 31, 2025

The beloved “A Night In Old San Antonio®” (NIOSA®) festival will take place from April 21-24, 2026, from 5:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. nightly during Fiesta San Antonio®. This four-night event, known for showcasing the rich cultural legacy of San Antonio, will again be hosted in the La Villita Historic Arts Village, right in the heart of the city’s vibrant downtown.

In 2026, NIOSA will celebrate its 78th year, cementing its status as one of the most cherished traditions in San Antonio. As the top fundraiser for historic preservation in the United States, NIOSA continues to live up to its motto, “A Celebration for Preservation.” The festival is exclusively produced by and benefits The Conservation Society of San Antonio, one of the nation’s oldest and most active historic preservation organizations, which celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2024.

A Unique Experience Celebrating San Antonio’s Diverse Culture

NIOSA has earned its place as the top event during Fiesta San Antonio, largely due to its ability to bring the city’s history and culture to life. This annual celebration offers a wide array of food, drink, entertainment, and cultural experiences, all served up in a unique and festive atmosphere. With more than 150 food, drink, and booth vendors, along with continuous live musical performances and vibrant decorations, NIOSA creates a lively and immersive experience for all attendees.

In 2026, attendees will once again be transported into the heart of San Antonio’s diverse culture, with the event divided into 14 cultural areas, each highlighting a different facet of the city’s rich heritage. Each area is designed to provide a unique experience, ranging from the vibrant flavors of the French Quarter to the festive atmosphere of the Tejano music found in Haymarket. Every corner of the event offers something new and exciting, with flavors, sounds, and sights that represent the true spirit of San Antonio.

Highlights of the 2026 NIOSA Festival

The 2026 festival will include many of the favorite attractions that have made NIOSA a staple of the Fiesta San Antonio® experience. The 14 cultural areas, which have been refined over the years, will continue to captivate visitors in 2026. These include:

• The Mission Trail: Celebrating the early history of San Antonio with colorful façades of the San Antonio Missions.
  
• China Town: Offering tastes from Asia, transporting visitors to a vibrant and exciting corner of San Antonio’s cultural landscape.
  
• French Quarter: A place for beignets, escargot, and the charming atmosphere of New Orleans.
  
• Frontier Town: Steeped in the old west, with its iconic Shypoke Eggs and country music.
  
• Irish Flat: A tribute to the Emerald Isle, with traditional potato skins and Irish folk tunes.
  
• Haymarket: Featuring Tejano sounds and the beloved Maria’s Tortillas, a true taste of San Antonio.
  
• Clown Alley: Where fun and laughter are never in short supply.
  
• Main Street USA: Celebrating Americana with all the charm of a Fourth of July celebration.
  
• Sauerkraut Bend: Sizzling sausages and a German Oompa band bring this area to life.
  
• Villa España: Featuring colorful Spanish murals, immersing guests in a vibrant, artsy atmosphere.
  

The Mexican Market area and the South of the Border area will also feature beloved food, including the famous Anticuchos beef kabob and sizzling Pollo Rancho, influenced by Northern Mexican cuisine.

Continued Traditions with a New Twist

While many aspects of NIOSA will remain the same in 2026, the event promises new additions that will make the experience even more memorable. As always, NIOSA will offer classic favorites like Mr. Chicken, Maria’s Tortillas, beignets, Shypoke Eggs, and famous sausages. Festival-goers will also enjoy continuous entertainment, with NIOSA’s beloved performers taking to the stage every night.

In addition, NIOSA will unveil its 2026 medals in a private ceremony for the media in late January. These medals, a treasured collector’s item, will be available for purchase during the event.

Ticket Information and Discounts

For those eager to experience the magic of NIOSA, discounted tickets for the 2026 event are available now for $17 through January 4, 2026. These tickets are valid for any night of the festival. After January 4, ticket prices will increase, so early purchase is recommended. Children under 12 can attend the festival for free with a paying adult.

To get the best possible discount, individuals can join the Conservation Society of San Antonio by the end of March 2026. Membership benefits include discounted NIOSA tickets for $15 per person, as well as the satisfaction of supporting the preservation of San Antonio’s historic landmarks and resources.

A Volunteer-Driven Event

One of the hallmarks of NIOSA is the incredible dedication of the thousands of volunteers who bring the event to life each year. More than 10,000 volunteers contribute their time and energy to make the event a success, many of whom have passed down the tradition to the next generation. From booth chairs to booth workers, volunteers come from all over the country to participate in the event and support the Conservation Society’s mission.

In 2026, Julie Terrill will serve as the NIOSA Chair, supported by Vice Chairs Monica Reyes, Anita Gonzalez, Lisa Pierce, and Abbi Power, as well as DeAnna Keesee, the NIOSA Treasurer. Together, this dedicated team will help ensure that NIOSA continues to thrive and provide a memorable experience for all attendees.

NIOSA’s Legacy and Impact on San Antonio

Since its inception, NIOSA has raised over $12 million for the Conservation Society’s historic preservation efforts. These funds have helped preserve and restore important historical sites in San Antonio and neighboring areas. The Society also provides grants, scholarships, and support for research related to preserving San Antonio’s cultural heritage.

NIOSA’s funds have contributed to significant improvements in La Villita, the historic site where the festival is held. The Conservation Society has invested more than $1.6 million in renovations and improvements to La Villita since 2000, ensuring that this iconic venue remains a vibrant part of the city’s history.

Conclusion: A Celebration for Preservation

As one of the largest and most beloved events in San Antonio, NIOSA not only offers a vibrant celebration of culture, but it also plays a critical role in preserving the city’s history for future generations. The event’s continued success is a testament to the dedication of its volunteers, sponsors, and the Conservation Society. In 2026, NIOSA will once again provide a space where San Antonians and visitors alike can come together to celebrate the city’s unique heritage while supporting its ongoing preservation.