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The World Heritage Festival in San Antonio returns in September

The World Heritage Festival is an annual event that celebrates + promotes the San Antonio Missions, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and raises funds to preserve, maintain, promote, and connect the community.

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Visitors can expect historical tours, a bike race, educational activations, movie nights, and more at the World Heritage Festival.

Photo by SATXtoday team

Plan ahead for a five-day experience this fall as the community comes together to celebrate San Antonio as one of the World Heritage Cities.

The Organization of World Heritage Cities was founded on September 8 (also known as “Solidarity Day”). In honor of the special day, World Heritage cities across the globe celebrate their historic sites + culture with numerous events across their communities.

Why is San Antonio a World Heritage city?

The Alamo City achieved this recognition in 2015 because of the five Spanish colonial missions —San José, San Juan, Concepción, Espada, and the world-renowned Alamo. The Missions now represent the only World Heritage site in Texas and one of just 24 in the US.

What you can expect

This year, the Alamo City will host a variety of events beginning Wednesday, Sept. 4 through Sunday, Sept. 8. Here are some of the events we’re excited for:

  • Music and Movie Under the Stars | Friday, Sept. 6 | 6:30 p.m. | Mission Marquee Plaza | Free | Connect with our military historians + veterans to learn about our city’s rich military history featuring live music performances, food trucks, and a screening of, “Captain America: The First Avenger.”
  • Tour de Las Misiones | Saturday, Sept. 7 | 7 a.m. | 6030 Padre Dr. | $40+ | The events will include a leisurely bike ride ranging from seven to 22 miles with stops at each mission and the option for an enjoyable 5/10K walk + run through the scenic Mission River Reach.
  • Junior Ranger Day | Saturday, Sept. 7 | 10 a.m. | Mission San Juan | Free | Become a San Antonio Missions World Heritage Junior Ranger and explore fun activities such as spinning, weaving, and storytelling.
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