9th Annual World Heritage Festival from September 4-8, 2024

9th Annual World Heritage Festival: Celebrating San Antonio’s Rich Heritage from September 4-8, 2024

The 9th Annual World Heritage Festival will occur in San Antonio from September 4 through September 8, 2024. This five-day event celebrates the city’s unique history and culture, coinciding with the globally recognized Organization of World Heritage Cities Solidarity Day on September 8. The festival, organized by the City of San Antonio World Heritage Office in collaboration with several local partners, honors San Antonio’s designation as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the only one in Texas.

The World Heritage Festival, a collaborative event presented by the City of San Antonio World Heritage Office, brings together several key partners, including Bexar County, the San Antonio River Authority, The Alamo, Las Misiones, San Antonio Missions National Historical Park, and the City of San Antonio Military and Veteran Affairs Department. These organizations work together to create a festival that showcases San Antonio’s rich cultural heritage, particularly the five historic San Antonio Missions.

The festival’s events emphasize the importance of the San Antonio Missions, promoting awareness of their UNESCO World Heritage status and fostering community engagement. The World Heritage Festival allows residents and visitors to connect with San Antonio’s past, learn about its historical sites, and participate in activities supporting their preservation.

Here’s the festival’s event schedule:

Thursday, September 5

10 a.m.: We’re Still Here Tour at Mission San Juan
1 p.m.: Nopal y Tu: The Tour at Mission San Juan
6 p.m.: The Alamo – A Vision of History at The Alamo

Friday, September 6

10 a.m.: We’re Still Here Tour at Mission San Jose
11 a.m.: We’re Still Here Tour at Mission Espada
3 p.m.: Gold Star Family and Veterans Appreciation at Mission San Jose
6:30 p.m.: Music & Movie Under the Stars at Mission Marquee Plaza

Saturday, September 7

7 a.m.: Tour de las Misiones at Mission Park Pavilion
10 a.m.: Junior Ranger Day at Mission San Juan
10 a.m.: We’re Still Here Tour at Mission San Jose

Sunday, September 8

8 a.m.: El Camino de San Antonio: Caring for Creation Mass and Walk at Mission Espada
10 a.m.: It’s Still Here Tour at Rancho de las Cabras

The World Heritage Festival aims to inspire community involvement, highlight the historical importance of these sites, and encourage ongoing support for their preservation. With various family-friendly activities, educational experiences, and entertainment, the festival offers something for everyone to enjoy.

For more information about the World Heritage Festival and the full schedule of events, visit WorldHeritageFestival.org.