Mardi Gras Magic and Free Museum Nights in San Antonio Today
Celebrate Fat Tuesday with Parades, Jazz, and Culture
San Antonio is bursting with energy this Tuesday, February 17, 2026. As the city embraces the festive spirit of Mardi Gras, locals and visitors alike can find a wide array of activities ranging from lively block parties to quiet evenings in world-class museums. Whether you are looking for a taste of New Orleans or a stroll through art history, today offers a diverse lineup of verified local events.
Mardi Gras and Fat Tuesday Festivities
The biggest highlights today center around Fat Tuesday celebrations across the city. Start your afternoon early at the NOLA Brunch & Beignets Block Party. Beginning at 12:00 PM, this event brings a vibrant New Orleans-style celebration to the heart of San Antonio, featuring traditional flavors and a festive atmosphere. For those looking for an evening vibe, the Mardi Gras Celebration at Jazz, TX is a top choice. Located in the historic Pearl district, this performance features Brandon Guerra, Adam Carrillo, and friends, providing a high-energy soundtrack of jazz and swing.
- Fat Tuesday Block Party: Hosted at NOLA Brunch & Beignets, starting at 12:00 PM.
- Mardi Gras Celebration: Jazz, TX at the Pearl, featuring live music and a festive speakeasy atmosphere.
- Downtown Party Crawl: For the late-night crowd, a Fat Tuesday party crawl kicks off in the downtown district at 9:00 PM.
Free Museum Access and Public Exhibitions
Tuesday remains a premier day for culture seekers in San Antonio thanks to recurring free admission programs for Bexar County residents. This provides a perfect opportunity to view permanent collections and special exhibitions at no cost during designated hours.
- San Antonio Museum of Art (SAMA): Residents can enjoy free general admission from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM. The museum houses thousands of years of art, ranging from ancient Egyptian and Roman antiquities to modern Latin American works.
- The Witte Museum: Located along the Broadway cultural corridor, the Witte offers free hours from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM today. It is an excellent destination for those interested in Texas history, science, and the museum's signature dinosaur gallery.
Theater and Live Entertainment
For a more theatrical experience, the Tobin Center for the Performing Arts is hosting a production of Tennessee Williams' classic, "The Glass Menagerie." Performed in the intimate Carlos Alvarez Studio Theater, this play is part of a limited February run. If you are in the mood for a lighter evening, the Laugh Out Loud Comedy Club features stand-up comedian Martin Moreno at 7:30 PM. His performance offers a sharp, relatable look at life that serves as a perfect midweek break. Whether you choose the theater, the comedy club, or a jazz lounge, San Antonio’s nightlife is in full swing this Tuesday.