Rain or Shine, La Semana Alegre Celebrates Its Second Edition at Civic Park

The legendary San Antonio festival La Semana Alegre made its long-awaited return to Civic Park, featuring a diverse lineup of 27 local and national artists. Despite weather concerns, the people of San Anto lined up to check out the bands and explore the brand new area of Civic Park.

Established in the 1970s the original La Semana Alegre once hosted icons like Kiss, Peter Frampton, Stevie Ray Vaughan, and Motörhead, making a lasting impact on San Antonio’s music scene as a cornerstone for heavy music. Known for its rowdy, week-long celebrations, the festival was ultimately shut down in 1995 following a wave of negative press and perceptions of hostility surrounding the event. However, according to local forums and testimonies from former staff, the festival only experienced one significant incident in over 25 years. Many believe its closure stemmed from deeper, more complex issues than just bad publicity.

Legs Diamond at Semana Alegre 1990 vs 2025

Despite its turbulent history, the festival holds a special place in the hearts of many San Antonians, who recall it as one of the most memorable parts of Fiesta week. Its roster of artists were some of the most legendary to echo through the Hemisfair grounds. This year’s revival honored that legacy by featuring long-time festival staples like Legs Diamond and Joe “King” Carrasco.

The lineup also included Chicano soul icon Sunny Ozuna, cumbia songstress Vanita Leo, Austin punk rippers Die Spitz, Rush tribute band Exit Stage Left—featuring SA Slayer’s own Ron Jarzombek—Southside 210 favorites Sun Day, and desert rock duo Lonely Horse. Unfortunately, due to inclement weather, performances by Girl In a Coma and Chicos Del Barrio were canceled, and the first night of the event ended early.

Despite the setbacks, the festival provided a wide range of food and drink for patrons, offered a $40 VIP pass to enjoy elevated amenities such as shaded areas, lounge chairs and other culinary experiences, and plenty of vendors ranging from arts and crafts to jewelry to snacks and CBD alternatives. It was overall a good vibe, and we definitely recommend it come next year’s festivities.

Check out the gallery of the event!

Photos by Oscar Moreno