Fiesta with a Prevention Purpose

This year marks Fiesta’s 120th anniversary. Over the past 120 years Fiesta has grown from a celebration to honor the heroes of the Alamo and the Battle of San Jacinto to an 11 day celebration involving over 100 events which recognize the diverse cultures and rich spirit of San Antonio.

The Circles of San Antonio Community Coalition (COSA) has collaborated with the Fiesta San Antonio Commission and various other local organizations to educate adults on the dangers and risks associated with drunk driving. Last summer, COSA approached the Fiesta Commission about expanding their year round education efforts to include the message of responsible alcohol use and education on the dangers of binge drinking. This suggestion was in recognition of the fact that while the efforts being done to enforce and reduce drunk driving among adults are worthwhile and necessary, it is just as important to educate the next generation on the dangers of alcohol misuse and abuse so that we can ensure that future community celebrations are safe. As a result of this new partnership, the Fiesta San Antonio Commission participated in the Prevention Resource Center Region 8 Red Ribbon Concerts with the Air Force Band of the West during the month of October, providing giveaways and bringing Fiesta Royalty to the concerts to speak to over 10,000 San Antonio area public school students about the importance of healthy choices and education. In keeping with COSA’s push to enforce the ideals of Red Ribbon Week year round, the Fiesta Commission has announced the first annual Remember the Red Carnival Day on April 12th when organizations from across the community will come to the Fiesta Carnival to distribute educational material for parents and children on healthy choices and drug, tobacco and alcohol prevention. In addition to the educational material, the organizations will be providing small giveaways and fun activities with the message of healthy choices and avoiding risky behaviors.

To celebrate the occasion and encourage family attendance for the event, Frank Zaitshik, the owner of Wade Shows Inc which organizes the carnival, is offering 1,000 free rides for the first 1,000 kids that visit each of the participating organizations' booths wearing red shirts in recognition of Remember the Red and the year round efforts of the alcohol and drug enforcement and prevention community. Wear red, bring your families and enjoy the carnival! Viva Fiesta! Follow the event on Twitter at #FiestaRed

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