Fiesta Oyster Bake at St. Mary's University in San Antonio, Texas on April 20, 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.

Samba Vida Drum & Dance Co

Fiesta Oyster Bake Samba Vida Drum & Dance Co performing at the Fiesta Oyster Bake at St. Mary's University in San Antonio, Texas on April 20, 2024. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)

Samba Vida was founded in 2001 by Flo Reyes, the organization’s President, and Roy Reyes, its Musical Director. Together, they bring over 50 years of combined knowledge and expertise to the group, fostering its growth and success. Over the years, Samba Vida has welcomed members of all ages and diverse backgrounds, including their own children, creating a vibrant and inclusive community. Flo and Roy remain dedicated to expanding Samba Vida’s reach, offering cultural and musical entertainment that not only engages the community but also actively involves it. Their passion for sharing the joy of music and culture continues to inspire and unite people through the rhythmic heartbeat of Samba Vida.


Xero Wulf

Fiesta Oyster Bake Xero Wulf performing at the Fiesta Oyster Bake at St. Mary's University in San Antonio, Texas on April 20, 2024. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)

Xero Wulf was born out of resilience and determination, embodying a bold, no-frills approach to heavy rock straight from the heart of Texas. The band stands as a testament to perseverance in the face of challenges, delivering raw, powerful music that speaks for itself. Rooted in a deep appreciation for soulful, heavy music, Xero Wulf draws inspiration from a wide range of genres, from blues and rock to metal. Their sound is a reflection of their diverse influences, crafted with passion and authenticity. Known for their electrifying energy, unwavering professionalism, and years of experience, Xero Wulf is committed to excellence in musicianship. Their dedication to their craft sets them apart, making them a force to be reckoned with in the world of heavy rock.


Joe Panther Band

Fiesta Oyster Bake Joe Panther Band performing at the Fiesta Oyster Bake at St. Mary's University in San Antonio, Texas on April 20, 2024. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)

Hailing from South Texas, The Joe Panther Band is a modern traditional country music group fronted by Joe Panther. With a sound that harks back to the golden era of country music, the band captures the heart and soul of the genre in its purest form. Whether performing original tunes or paying homage to legends like George Strait, Joe and his band deliver unforgettable performances that keep the dance floor packed and the audience craving more. Their music is a heartfelt tribute to the timeless spirit of country, making them a standout act in the Texas music scene.


Rose City Dancers

Fiesta Oyster Bake Rose City Dancers performing at the Fiesta Oyster Bake at St. Mary's University in San Antonio, Texas on April 20, 2024. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)

Rose City Dancers is an indie rock band San Antonio, Texas.


Minutes To Midnight, Linkin Park Tribute

Fiesta Oyster Bake Minutes To Midnight, Linkin Park Tribute performing at the Fiesta Oyster Bake at St. Mary's University in San Antonio, Texas on April 20, 2024. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)

Formed in late 2022, Minutes to Midnight - A Linkin Park Experience came to life by early 2023 when all six members of the band were solidified. Our mission is to capture the electrifying energy and raw excitement of a live Linkin Park concert, bringing it to venues across Houston, Texas, and beyond—including Austin, San Antonio, Corpus Christi, and Dallas. As dedicated fans and musicians, we aim to honor the legacy of Linkin Park, celebrating their iconic music and ensuring it continues to resonate with fans everywhere. Linkin Park’s music lives on in our hearts, and through our performances, we strive to keep their spirit alive. We are proud to be Houston’s premier Linkin Park tribute band, delivering unforgettable experiences for fans of all generations.


Rebel Angels

Fiesta Oyster Bake Rebel Angels performing at the Fiesta Oyster Bake at St. Mary's University in San Antonio, Texas on April 20, 2024. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)

Rebel Angels is a Texas based rock & roll band.


Conjunto Cats

Fiesta Oyster Bake Conjunto Cats performing at the Fiesta Oyster Bake at St. Mary's University in San Antonio, Texas on April 20, 2024. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)

Conjunto Cats band is from Seguin, Texas, sharing the cultural sound of Conjunto music for the enjoyment of everyone.


Vanessa Lynn Bird

Fiesta Oyster Bake Vanessa Lynn Bird performing at the Fiesta Oyster Bake at St. Mary's University in San Antonio, Texas on April 20, 2024. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)

Vanessa Lynn Bird, a talented singer-songwriter from San Antonio, Texas, discovered her passion for music at a young age and formed her first band in 2011. Drawing inspiration from artists like Kelsea Ballerini and Shania Twain, Vanessa has cultivated a dynamic and captivating stage presence that leaves audiences enthralled. Her impressive career includes performing the National Anthem at major sporting events for the San Antonio Spurs and Dallas Stars, as well as earning a nomination as a top 5 finalist for the Texas CMA’s Female Vocalist of the Year. Vanessa’s debut EP, Burn Brighter, made a strong impact, reaching #36 on the iTunes Country charts on its release day. In 2021, Vanessa realized her dream of moving to Nashville, Tennessee, where she continues to perform, release original music, collaborate with other songwriters, and work on her highly anticipated new album. With her undeniable talent and unwavering dedication, Vanessa Lynn Bird is making her mark in the heart of country music.


Black Heart Saints

Fiesta Oyster Bake Black Heart Saints performing at the Fiesta Oyster Bake at St. Mary's University in San Antonio, Texas on April 20, 2024. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)

Black Heart Saints burst onto the music scene with a powerful blend of classic rock grooves and modern intensity, showcasing a bold confidence rooted in undeniable talent. Their studio singles, including "Reach the End," "Lines," and "Misery," have climbed the Billboard Mainstream Rock Radio Charts, solidifying their place in the rock world. This success has opened doors to high-profile performances at events like SXSW Festival, Upheaval Festival, and the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, as well as opportunities to share the stage with renowned acts such as Slash featuring Myles Kennedy & The Conspirators, Sevendust, Steel Panther, Pop Evil, Buckcherry, Dirty Honey, Jared James Nichols, King's X, The Winery Dogs, Mammoth WVH, and Crobot. With their electrifying sound and relentless drive, Black Heart Saints continue to make waves in the rock landscape.


The Max

Fiesta Oyster Bake The Max performing at the Fiesta Oyster Bake at St. Mary's University in San Antonio, Texas on April 20, 2024. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)

The Max is a dynamic variety cover band known for delivering high-energy performances at clubs, corporate events, private functions, and weddings across Texas. Since their formation in 1980, The Max has been a trailblazer in the cover band scene, bringing to life hits from the 60s, 70s, 80s, 90s, and today. With over 30 years of experience, The Max has established itself as a leader in the industry, consistently striving for excellence and innovation in professional musical entertainment. Their commitment to perfection and their ability to captivate audiences with a diverse repertoire have made them a go-to choice for unforgettable live performances.


The Powell Brothers

Fiesta Oyster Bake The Powell Brothers performing at the Fiesta Oyster Bake at St. Mary's University in San Antonio, Texas on April 20, 2024. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)

Based in Houston, the Powell Brothers are a Country-Americana band led by siblings Taylor Powell on lead vocals and Blake Powell on lead guitar. Known for their heartfelt sound and authentic performances, the duo has become a beloved fixture in the Texas music scene, gracing iconic venues like Gruene Hall, the legendary Luckenbach, and The Rustic in Dallas. This 4th of July weekend, the Powell Brothers are set to take the stage in Luckenbach, sharing the spotlight with Texas music legends Pat Green and Cory Morrow. Their upcoming performance promises to be a celebration of Texas roots and musical camaraderie, further solidifying their place as rising stars in the Country-Americana world.


Saving Abel

Fiesta Oyster Bake Saving Abel performing at the Fiesta Oyster Bake at St. Mary's University in San Antonio, Texas on April 20, 2024. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)

Saving Abel, founded by vocalist Jared Weeks and guitarist Jason Null, is a hard-hitting rock band known for their riff-driven sound, Southern rock influences, and bold, provocative lyrics. Hailing from Corinth, Mississippi, Weeks and Null honed their craft in separate bands before joining forces to create a powerful blend of hard rock and Southern grit. Together, they formed a quintet that has become synonymous with high-energy performances and unapologetic rock 'n' roll attitude.


Stefani Montiel

Fiesta Oyster Bake Stefani Montiel performing at the Fiesta Oyster Bake at St. Mary's University in San Antonio, Texas on April 20, 2024. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)

Stefani Barela Sullivan, widely known as Stefani Montiel, was born in Albuquerque, New Mexico, into a rich cultural tapestry of Mexican, Spaniard, German, and Italian heritage. As a proud Latina, she has drawn deeply from her roots to shape both her life and her music. Stefani’s diverse musical ancestry, combined with her classical training, has made her an undeniable force in the evolution of the Latin sound. Whether she’s delivering a heartfelt ballad, a fiery ranchera, a vibrant salsa, a rhythmic cumbia, or her signature blend of Latin and R&B, Stefani’s sweet, smooth, and powerful voice leaves a lasting impression. Stefani’s musical journey began early, releasing her first single at just five years old to a warm reception from the industry. By nine, her debut full-length album had produced three hits, and by fifteen, she had already released another record, establishing herself as a seasoned artist. With big dreams to match her immense talent, Stefani signed with Capitol EMI and set her sights on making her mark in San Antonio, Texas, the heart of Tejano music. Her arrival in the Tejano scene was met with instant admiration, as fans and the industry alike were captivated by her sound. With two major hits under her belt, Stefani secured a long-term record deal with Sony Discos, solidifying her place as a rising star in the world of Latin music.


George Ducas

Fiesta Oyster Bake George Ducas performing at the Fiesta Oyster Bake at St. Mary's University in San Antonio, Texas on April 20, 2024. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)

It’s rare to find a country artist who embodies the raw, gritty spirit of Dust Bowl storytelling, the high-energy drive of Bakersfield’s classic country sound, and the vibrant, modern edge of Los Angeles’ honky-tonk scene, all wrapped into one powerful musical force. But that’s exactly what George Ducas brings to the table. On his latest album, Long Way From Home, Ducas crafts a sound that feels both timeless and fresh, as if a new chapter of country music history is being written. With a seamless blend of these diverse influences, Ducas delivers a performance that’s as natural as it is electrifying. When the music hits full throttle, it’s impossible not to be swept up in the energy and passion that define his work. Long Way From Home isn’t just an album, it’s a testament to George Ducas’ ability to bridge the past and present of country music with unmatched flair and authenticity.


Hinder

Fiesta Oyster Bake Hinder performing at the Fiesta Oyster Bake at St. Mary's University in San Antonio, Texas on April 20, 2024. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)

Hinder is an American rock band formed in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Known for their gritty, hard-rock sound with Southern and post-grunge influences, they gained fame with their 2005 debut album, Extreme Behavior, featuring the smash hit "Lips of an Angel." The band, originally fronted by Austin Winkler, has released multiple albums, including Take It to the Limit and When the Smoke Clears. Despite lineup changes, including Marshal Dutton taking over vocals in 2013, Hinder continues to deliver high-energy rock anthems and tour extensively, maintaining a strong presence in the rock scene.


Collective Soul

Fiesta Oyster Bake Collective Soul performing at the Fiesta Oyster Bake at St. Mary's University in San Antonio, Texas on April 20, 2024. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)

Collective Soul is an American rock band formed in Stockbridge, Georgia. Known for their melodic, alternative rock sound, they rose to fame in the mid-1990s with hits like "Shine," "The World I Know," and "December" from their debut album, Hints Allegations and Things Left Unsaid. Led by frontman Ed Roland, the band has released over a dozen albums, including Collective Soul and Dosage, blending rock, pop, and grunge influences. With a career spanning three decades, Collective Soul remains a staple of 90s rock, known for their catchy hooks, introspective lyrics, and enduring live performances.


Casey Donahew

Fiesta Oyster Bake Casey Donahew performing at the Fiesta Oyster Bake at St. Mary's University in San Antonio, Texas on April 20, 2024. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)

Casey Donahew is a Texas country artist known for his high-energy performances and authentic storytelling. Hailing from Burleson, Texas, he began playing local bars in the early 2000s, building a loyal fanbase through grassroots efforts. With hits like "Double-Wide Dream" and "Stockyards," Donahew has become a staple in the Texas country and Red Dirt scenes. Leading the Casey Donahew Band, he blends traditional country with rock influences, delivering raw, relatable music and electrifying live shows. A prolific independent artist, Donahew continues to tour extensively and release new music, cementing his status as a Texas country icon.


Fiesta Oyster Bake
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Photos by Ralph Arvesen
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