The Festival encourages everyone to celebrate and explore firsthand, the interweaving of the Spanish and Coahuiltecan cultures that contribute to our World Heritage status. The events not only promote our cultural heritage but also preserve it for future generations.

On July 5, 2015, San Antonio's five Spanish colonial missions - Missions San José, San Juan, Concepción, Espada, and the world-renowned Alamo - were declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Missions now represent the only World Heritage site in Texas and one of just 24 in the United States.

The City of San Antonio World Heritage Office and its collaborative partners established the World Heritage Festival to celebrate and promote the UNESCO designation of our Missions. The festival takes place after Labor Day weekend and overlaps with the Organization of World Heritage Cities' Solidarity Day of World Heritage Cities which occurs annually on September 8th.

The World Heritage Festival allows residents and visitors alike the opportunity to celebrate our unique history and culture through fun family-friendly events, including Music and Movie Under the Stars, and Tour de Las Misiones, a one-of-a-kind opportunity to visit and learn about the historic San Antonio Missions.