The blend of flavors and sounds took place at the Freeman Coliseum and Expo Hall this weekend as the 2024 Barbacoa & Big Red Festival moved to a new location for its San Antonio tradition. To accommodate a growing crowd, the festival relocated from the R&J Music Pavilion to the historic east side venue, coinciding with the Freeman Coliseum's 75th anniversary. The event, reported by KSAT, spanned two days, starting yesterday and concluding today, with gates opening at noon and closing late into the night and early evening, respectively.
In line with city tradition and a focus on enjoying smoked delights and the iconic sweetness of Big Red, attendees were prepared to experience more than just barbacoa. The festival's lineup across its two stages featured both local favorites and emerging artists. According to details from DO210, mainstage acts such as Michael Salgado and Bobby Pulido headlined evenings filled with music that created an energetic atmosphere for celebration.
For those able to step away from the savory offerings of barbacoa, a large carnival and various local vendors provided entertainment between musical acts. This year's festival aimed to enhance the experience, with general admission tickets starting at $30 and VIP tickets beginning at $60; children under 12 were admitted for free.
Attendees can anticipate another year of this long-standing San Antonio tradition. The event, presented by H-E-B, with a side of Barbacoa & Big Red.
