San Antonio City Council approved a $5 peak-hour fee for Fiesta de los Reyes in a 7-4 vote, citing rising security costs and event sustainability.
SAN ANTONIO — With Fiesta just around the corner, a major change is coming to one of its most popular—and historically free—events.
Fiesta de los Reyes will now charge admission during peak hours after the San Antonio City Council approved the measure Thursday morning in a 7-4 vote.
The newly passed ordinance amends the city’s agreement with the Rey Feo Consejo Educational Foundation, allowing for ticketing during certain hours, setting an initial gate fee and outlining how revenue will be shared.
Under the plan, a $5 fee will be charged for anyone 13 and older—but only during the busiest times of the day. Peak hours could begin as early as 1 p.m. or as late as 6 p.m., depending on the day. Visitors who enter before those times and remain inside will not have to pay.
Organizers say the change comes down to safety.
In recent years, security costs have surged following two shootings at the event. In response, organizers added fencing, bag checks, metal detectors and enhanced screening measures. The San Antonio Police Department has also taken on a larger role in crowd control.
Those added precautions came with a price. Organizers say they spent more than expected on security last year—and ultimately lost money.
Under the agreement, the first $250,000 in revenue will go toward covering event costs. Any additional funds will be split between the city and participating consejos, with the city’s portion going into the Market Square Fund.
Fiesta de los Reyes runs daily from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m., with extended hours until midnight on Friday, April 24.