Get ready for a jam-packed weekend in San Antonio! The massive St. Patrick's Festival dominates the River Walk, but we also have comics, kite flying, and a fun theatrical production running. Check out these top 13 picks for family fun on March 14th and 15th, 2026.
See our top picks
Free Entry: Spring Break Activity Week
Mitchell Lake Audubon Center
Free entry and bird-themed crafts Saturday morning.
Date Night St. Patrick's Day - Leprechaun Mansion (3-12 Years)
Kidcreate Studio
Evening drop-off session to build a Leprechaun mansion.
Dragons Love Tacos
Texas A&M University-San Antonio Auditorium
A stage adaptation of a popular picture book showing Sunday afternoon.
· March 14
8FREE : The big event of the weekend! Catch the dyeing of the river, enjoy live entertainment at La Villita and Arneson River Theatre, and watch the festive River Parade. There is also an Emerald Run 5K and Family Walk happening earlier in the day.This is the primary weekend event featuring the famous green river dyeing and parades, offering continuous entertainment across Saturday and Sunday.
DATE NIGHT ST. PATRICK'S DAY - LEPRECHAUN MANSION (3-12 YEARS) : Need a rare date night? Drop off the kids for this evening session where they will build a Leprechaun's dream mansion. It’s a fun alternative if you are skipping the late-night river crowds.It’s a specific evening activity for parents needing childcare while they enjoy the festival atmosphere elsewhere.
FREE : Take advantage of the nice Saturday weather with this free kite festival and dog fair! It’s a great way to celebrate the start of spring outdoors before hitting the crowded River Walk later.It’s a fantastic, free outdoor event specifically scheduled for Saturday, offering a great daytime activity.
: Kick off Saturday morning with some exercise by participating in the 5k or letting the little ones loose in the 1k Leprechaun Kids Run. A great way to burn off energy!Offers a dedicated kids' run option on Saturday morning for active families.
: If your older kids love comics and cosplay, drive out to New Braunfels for this convention. It promises celebrities, artists, and plenty of fan interactions all weekend.Offers a major draw for older kids and teens, running the entire weekend just outside SA.
: Bring the kids to see the stage adaptation of the famous book, *Dragons Love Tacos*. It’s a short, fun performance exploring what happens when dragons are served the wrong kind of salsa!A theatrical performance perfectly themed for young children, based on a beloved book.
FREE : Get out to Mitchell Lake this Saturday morning for free entry and activities focused on migratory birds. Kids can participate in crafts to help conservation efforts.It’s a free, educational outdoor activity happening Saturday morning, perfect for nature lovers.
: Head to New Braunfels to visit the McKenna Children's Museum for the Garden Ridge Market Days. While the event name is general, being hosted at a children's museum suggests family activities.It’s a satellite event occurring at a dedicated children’s museum space outside the immediate city center.
· March 15
2FREE : If you are downtown for the festival fun, make sure to check out the Artisan Show featuring over 40 booths of handmade crafts. It’s a perfect time to stroll and shop.This artisan market is running throughout the festival weekend, offering a shopping component for families visiting the River Walk.
: This listing seems to cover the running events and general parade celebration spanning both days of the festival. If you missed the 5K on Saturday, check in with this source for any Sunday related running events or community outreach associated with the festival.This covers the main festival umbrella, ensuring coverage for the River Parade events happening Sunday.
Also On· anytime this weekend
1: If you want affordable rides and shopping, Traders Village is hosting Spring-A-Palooza on Saturday. Wristbands start low, making it a budget-friendly way to spend the afternoon.Offers cheap rides and entertainment for the whole family on Saturday, separate from the St. Paddy's crowds.
Frequently Asked Questions
What free kids events are on in San Antonio this weekend?
This weekend (Mar 14-15) offers free family fun at the San Antonio River Walk - St. Patrick's Festival, the Annual Fest Of Tails Kite Festival and Dog Fair on Saturday, and free entry/activities at Mitchell Lake Audubon Center on Saturday.
Where can I find kid-friendly entertainment besides the River Walk?
Check out the Hill Country Comicon in New Braunfels on both Saturday and Sunday, or catch the Dragons Love Tacos show at Texas A&M University-San Antonio on Saturday or Sunday afternoon.
Are there any activities for active kids this weekend?
Yes, there is the Emerald Run 5K and a 1K Leprechaun Family Walk on Saturday morning near the River Walk, and the kite festival at McAllister Park on Saturday.
