Hemisfair is proud to announce that it has welcomed its five millionth visitor since opening Yanaguana Garden in 2015. This significant milestone underscores the district’s growing popularity, further fueled with the opening of Civic Park last September and the enduring appeal as a premier destination for locals and tourists alike.
Hemisfair Park Area Redevelopment Corporation’s (HPARC) and the Hemisfair Conservancy, both 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, have been working together to raise funds to redevelop and activate the 1968 World’s Fair site into a series of vibrant and walkable parks in the heart of downtown San Antonio, following the 2012 San Antonio Council-approved Master Plan.
Since opening Yanaguana Garden in 2015 – the first park in the three phase plan – Hemisfair has been dedicated to providing an exceptional outdoor experience in the heart of San Antonio, offering a unique play area for visitors of all ages and abilities, recreational activities such as the Union Pacific Railroad Splash Pad, and free programming including Story Time, Super Fun Saturdays and fitness classes.
“We are thrilled to celebrate this incredible achievement,” said Andres Andujar, CEO of Hemisfair. “Attracting five million visitors to Hemisfair in less than a decade has made this a top urban park destination in the State of Texas. The high visitation rate shows how the City’s investment – boosted by philanthropic grants and donations – is delivering on the slogan “Where San Antonio Meets” while making this public space welcoming for all. This milestone inspires us to continue the work of enhancing the district and preserving its rich history for future generations.”
In addition to its amenities and programmatic offerings, Hemisfair hosts several diverse events throughout the year. Hemisfair is the cherished venue for events such as cultural festivals like Día de los Muertos Fest and DiwaliSA; music festivals like Jazz’SALive and Tejano Music Awards Fan Fair; and holiday events like Celebrate SA: The City of San Antonio’s Official New Year’s Eve Party, SA Veterans Day and La Semana Alegre. These celebrations reflect the rich tapestry of our community and foster a sense of unity and pride among residents and visitors.
The future of Hemisfair is bright as construction of Phase II of Civic Park is well underway. The second phase includes a tree-canopied plaza called the Zócalo, the extension of the promenade, and Source Plaza, located at the northeast corner of South Alamo Street and Market Street. Civic Park Phase II will open to the public early in 2025. That will be followed by the recently announced Red & Charline McCombs Community Court that will be constructed in the Eastern Zone of the District, continuing the redevelopment momentum.
To commemorate this achievement, Hemisfair is planning to celebrate at this month’s Super Fun Saturday with H-E-B: Glow Dance Party. This free family-friendly event will be from 8:00 pm to 10:00 pm, and will have live music, a glow dance floor, activity stations, and so much more!