Fiesta 2025: Enhanced Safety Measures Announced
As San Antonio gears up for the much-anticipated Fiesta 2025, local officials and event organizers are prioritizing safety with comprehensive security plans. The annual festival, which is set to run from April 24 to May 4, is expected to attract around 2.5 million attendees.
Kickoff Event and Safety Precautions
The festivities will kick off with the Fiesta Fiesta, a free event at Travis Park from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Thursday. In light of past incidents, notably a shooting at last year’s Fiesta de los Reyes, San Antonio Police Chief William McManus has outlined enhanced security protocols to ensure the safety of all participants.
Security Features for Fiesta
The San Antonio Police Department has confirmed rigorous security measures, including:
- Thorough bag checks and weapons screenings at all entry points.
- Encouragement for attendees to use small bags (maximum size 12-by-6 inches) and clear bags.
- Prohibitions on coolers and backpacks at the events.
- Implementation of safety barriers to restrict unauthorized vehicle access.
Chief McManus emphasized the visible police presence throughout the events, saying, “There’s nowhere you’ll be able to look at any Fiesta event and not see a police officer. And not just one, I’m talking — they’ll be all over, and they’ll be watching.”
Responsible Celebrations
Additionally, McManus urged attendees to prioritize safety when consuming alcoholic beverages, advising them to plan for a safe means of transportation if they choose to drink.
Transportation and Accessibility
To facilitate easy access to Fiesta events, VIA will provide special park-and-ride hours, with stops at key locations including Crossroads, Stone Oak, and Brooks Transit Center. Ticket prices will remain affordable at $1.30 each way.
Collaborative Efforts for Safety
The city’s commitment to safety during this year’s Fiesta season is reinforced by collaboration between SAPD, city officials, and Centro San Antonio. Trish DeBerry, the organization’s president and CEO, noted that all 130 staff members will be present, along with additional temporary personnel, including retired police officers to assist in maintaining safety standards.
DeBerry remarked, “We are heightening, we are elevating — we had a great Final Four in downtown San Antonio without incident, so we have laid the groundwork associated with what safe and secure can look like.” She also stressed the importance of community vigilance, saying, “Here’s the bottom line: see something, say something.”
Health and Emergency Services
Medical safety personnel will also be strategically positioned throughout the festival, both on bicycles and at designated areas, according to San Antonio Fire Chief Valerie Frausto. Eventgoers are advised to stay hydrated and seek shade to prevent overheating during the festivities.
The Theme of Fiesta 2025
This year’s theme, “Fiesta For All,” underscores a collective commitment to safety. San Antonio Fiesta Commission President David Christian concluded the press briefing by thanking first responders for their readiness to ensure a safe environment during the event, stating, “We do like to party, but we like to party safely. So viva fiesta, and viva safety!”