Fiesta Oyster Bake at St. Mary's University in San Antonio, Texas on April 19, 2024. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)
For over a third of San Antonio’s storied history, the Oyster Bake has been an integral part of the community's fabric. What began in 1916 as a modest alumni gathering for St. Mary’s University, with just a handful of people on the banks of the San Antonio River in downtown, has flourished into a premier event of Fiesta San Antonio. Today, it attracts over 70,000 enthusiastic patrons and more than 7,000 dedicated volunteers who come together to celebrate and support a great cause.
The Oyster Bake is not just any celebration, it is a party with a purpose. Every penny raised during the festivities is directed back to the students of St. Mary’s University. By attending the Oyster Bake, you are making a tangible impact on the education and development of students, fostering their growth into future leaders of the community. Your participation and generosity over the years have directly contributed millions of dollars in scholarships and university programs. For this incredible support, we extend our heartfelt gratitude.
And if you were curious about the scale of the event, over the two fun-filled days of the Oyster Bake, an impressive 100,000 oysters are consumed, alongside 32,000 servings of the beloved chicken on a stick with jalapeño! This delicious tradition is just one of the many ways the community comes together to create lasting memories and support a meaningful cause.
Matt Koziol
Matt Koziol performing at the Fiesta Oyster Bake at St. Mary's University in San Antonio, Texas on April 19, 2024. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)
The journey to Matt Koziol’s debut release, Wildhorse, has been a richly diverse and winding road, marked by exploration and self-discovery. A bearded troubadour with a passion for music, Matt spent much of his career experimenting with various styles and sounds to uncover his true artistic identity. A classically trained operatic vocalist, Matt’s musical roots trace back to his hometown in New Jersey, where he began performing in coffeehouses at just 14 years old. This early start set the stage for a career that would take him across the country, from the vibrant music scenes of California to the creative heart of Nashville, Tennessee. Along the way, Matt honed his craft, blending his eclectic influences into the soulful, heartfelt sound that defines Wildhorse.
Vanita Leo
Vanita Leo performing at the Fiesta Oyster Bake at St. Mary's University in San Antonio, Texas on April 19, 2024. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)
Hailing from a deep-rooted Tejano heritage, Vanita Leo was destined to carve out a fresh and innovative chapter in Chicano music. Born and raised in the culturally rich city of San Antonio, Texas, with ancestral ties to Mazatlán, Sinaloa, Vanita grew up immersed in a vibrant blend of sounds and traditions. This multicultural foundation shaped her artistic vision and fueled her passion for music. Vanita began her musical journey crafting introspective bedroom pop, using it as a creative outlet for self-discovery and emotional expression. Over time, she has shifted her focus to exploring the dynamic fusion of Latino and American sounds, creating a modern and unique musical identity. Drawing inspiration from an eclectic mix of legends, Vanita’s influences include the soulful elegance of Sade, the timeless artistry of José José, the powerful vocals of Alicia Villarreal, the raw emotion of Etta James, the captivating performances of Pilar Montenegro, and the iconic legacy of Selena Quintanilla, the undisputed queen of cumbia. With these inspirations as her guide, Vanita Leo is poised to make her mark on the evolving landscape of Latino music.
Eclipse - A Tribute To Journey
Eclipse - A Tribute To Journey performing at the Fiesta Oyster Bake at St. Mary's University in San Antonio, Texas on April 19, 2024. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)
Adrian, a proud native of the vibrant West Texas city of El Paso, has been a rocker at heart since the age of five. His passion for rock music began early, convincing his mother to buy him his first rock album, KISS-Destroyer, while still in kindergarten. By 18, Adrian was diving into the local club scene, showcasing his skills as a lead guitarist and backup vocalist with several popular cover bands over the years. A self-taught and accomplished guitarist, Adrian expanded his musical horizons by joining Alive in Chains, a well-known Alice in Chains tribute band, and later serving as the lead guitarist for rising country-rock artist Darby Ledbetter. Shifting gears, Adrian stepped into the spotlight as a lead vocalist, forming ARRIVAL, a Journey tribute band that performed at venues across Austin, Texas, and beyond. Today, Adrian continues to rock the stage as part of Eclipse, one of San Antonio’s premier tribute bands, celebrating the music of Journey and the iconic hits of the 1980s. With his powerful vocals and undeniable stage presence, Adrian has captivated audiences, paying homage to the legendary sounds of Steve Perry and Journey while keeping the spirit of rock alive.
Clayton Mullen
Clayton Mullen performing at the Fiesta Oyster Bake at St. Mary's University in San Antonio, Texas on April 19, 2024. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)
Born on the West Coast but raised on the East Coast, Clayton’s musical journey truly began when he found himself immersed in the vibrant Texas music scene. His passion for songwriting took root in the college “frat” house he shared with nine roommates, where he began crafting his first songs. While studying at TCU, Clayton balanced weekdays in the classroom with weekends on the road, performing gigs and honing his craft. During this time, he had the opportunity to open for notable artists such as Chris Lane, Corey Kent, Warren Zeiders, Randall King, Adam Doleac, and the Josh Abbott Band, kickstarting his music career even before graduating. In April 2023, Clayton released his debut album, Where the Time Goes, an eleven-track project that beautifully captures the first chapter of his musical journey. The album has resonated with listeners, amassing over 10 million streams to date and marking a promising start to Clayton’s career as a rising artist in the Texas music scene.
La Calma
La Calma performing at the Fiesta Oyster Bake at St. Mary's University in San Antonio, Texas on April 19, 2024. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)
With confidence and a warm reception, the Norteño group La Calma has made a powerful entrance onto the music scene. Comprised of five talented musicians with deep Texas roots and Mexican heritage, La Calma came together in 2007 to create a unique sound that blends tradition and innovation.
Back in Black
Back in Black performing at the Fiesta Oyster Bake at St. Mary's University in San Antonio, Texas on April 19, 2024. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)
Back in Black is an electrifying, high-energy tribute band that masterfully recreates the concert experience of the legendary rock group AC/DC. Based in the Dallas/Fort Worth area, the band is composed of seasoned musicians who are deeply committed to capturing not only the sound and appearance of AC/DC but also the raw power and excitement that define their live performances. What sets Back in Black apart from other AC/DC tributes is their unique ability to pay homage to both eras of the band, featuring spot-on tributes to both Bon Scott and Brian Johnson.
Stephen Pearcy of Ratt
Stephen Pearcy of Ratt performing at the Fiesta Oyster Bake at St. Mary's University in San Antonio, Texas on April 19, 2024. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)
Stephen Pearcy best known as the founder and lead vocalist of the hard rock band Ratt. Pearcy formed Ratt in the late 1970s, and the band became one of the most prominent acts in the glam metal scene of the 1980s. With hits like "Round and Round," "Lay It Down," and "Wanted Man," Ratt achieved significant commercial success and helped define the sound of the era. Beyond his work with Ratt, Pearcy has pursued a solo career, releasing albums such as Smash and View to a Thrill. He is also an entrepreneur, having launched his own merchandise line and a memoir titled Sex, Drugs, Ratt & Roll: My Life in Rock. Known for his distinctive voice and energetic stage presence, Pearcy remains an influential figure in the rock and metal community.
Kevin Fowler
Kevin Fowler performing at the Fiesta Oyster Bake at St. Mary's University in San Antonio, Texas on April 19, 2024. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)
Kevin Fowler started his musical career influenced by his father's love for country music and his own interest in rock. Fowler gained early recognition as a guitarist for the rock band Dangerous Toys before transitioning to country music. He released his debut album, "Beer, Bait & Ammo," in 1998, which sold over 30,000 copies in Texas. Fowler has since released five studio albums and charted several singles on the Billboard Hot Country Songs charts, including the hit "Pound Sign (#?*!)". He is known for his energetic performances and authentic Texas country sound.
Fiesta Oyster Bake
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Photos by Ralph Arvesen
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