Stars & Stripes on Houston Street to Bring All-Day Independence Day Celebration Back to Downtown San Antonio
Downtown San Antonio will once again become the center of the city’s Independence Day celebration on Saturday, July 4, as Stars & Stripes on Houston Street returns with a full day of patriotic events honoring America’s 250th birthday and San Antonio’s proud identity as Military City USA.
Presented by USAA and organized by Centro San Antonio, the free event will feature a downtown 5K, an Independence Day parade, a new music and food festival, and an evening fireworks spectacular, creating a daylong celebration for residents and visitors alike.
A Full Day of Free Activities
The celebration begins at 8:30 a.m. with the inaugural Stars & Stripes Downtown 5K, which winds through downtown before finishing at Civic Park at Hemisfair.
At 10 a.m., the Independence Day Parade steps off along Houston Street, featuring military units, veterans organizations, marching bands, community groups and patriotic performances. This year’s parade will also receive national exposure as part of ABC’s Fourth of July coverage.
Following the parade, visitors can enjoy the inaugural Stars & Stripes Music & Food Festival at Civic Park at Hemisfair, featuring:
- Live music throughout the day
- Local food vendors
- Artisan and retail booths
- Family-friendly activities
- Community organizations and exhibits
Admission to the parade, festival and entertainment is free.
Downtown Fireworks Return
The celebration concludes with the Stars & Stripes Downtown Spectacular beginning at 9 p.m., featuring the first Independence Day fireworks show at Civic Park.
The display also marks the return of a large-scale downtown Fourth of July fireworks celebration, giving residents another opportunity to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary in the heart of San Antonio.
Honoring Military Service
Throughout Houston Street, attendees will also see more than 70 Medal of Honor tribute banners recognizing living and fallen recipients. The display has become one of the signature features of Stars & Stripes on Houston Street and reflects San Antonio’s deep military roots and commitment to honoring those who served.
Celebrating America’s 250th Birthday
This year’s expanded event carries added significance as communities across the nation commemorate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
Organizers say the goal is to create a destination celebration that blends patriotism, military appreciation, local culture, live entertainment and family activities into one unforgettable day in downtown San Antonio.
Event Details
What: Stars & Stripes on Houston Street
When: Saturday, July 4, 2026
Where: Houston Street and Civic Park at Hemisfair, Downtown San Antonio
Admission: Free (registration required for the Downtown 5K)
Schedule
- 8:30 a.m. – Stars & Stripes Downtown 5K
10 a.m. – Independence Day Parade - 10 a.m. – Music & Food Festival opens
- 9 p.m. – Downtown Spectacular Fireworks
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