Cibolofest ran from noon to 10 p.m. Saturday as a free community tradition, with vendors, a carnival and a fireworks finale. What started as a modest gathering has turned into one of the city's biggest annual draws, pulling in crowds from well beyond its original footprint.
From a Community Supper to a 150-Vendor Festival
The festival's roots go back to a community supper held at Niemietz Park, according to Cibolo Assistant Public Works Director Margarita Hernandez, as reported by KSAT. In its early format, the event ran across a Friday and Saturday, Hernandez said. City officials describe the festival as having grown significantly since those early days, and this year it featured more than 150 craft and food vendors lining the street.
Carnival Doubles in Size With New Rides
City officials said this year's carnival doubled in size compared to past festivals, according to ksat.com. Organizers added a new train ride, a petting zoo and pony rides, giving families more to do between vendor booths. An all-day carnival-rides wristband cost $10.
Glowing Kites and a Five-Act Main Stage
Cibolo hosted the San Antonio Kite Organization, which planned to fly kites throughout the day and into the night as part of an all-day display that would light up during the evening show. The main stage was set to feature five acts, including the Air Force Military Band.
Free Parking, Pet-Friendly Shuttles and a 9:45 p.m. Finale
Steele High School offered free parking for festivalgoers, with shuttles running every 10 minutes between the lot and the festival grounds. Cibolo Special Events Coordinator Amy Pinder said the city provided pet-friendly shuttles so attendees could bring their animals along, as well as ADA-accessible shuttles for those who needed them.
The fireworks show was scheduled for 9:45 p.m., capping a day that was set to run until 10 p.m. For some attendees like Rodgers and Piles, the mix of music, rides and shopping has become a reliable fall ritual in Cibolo, one that keeps pulling them back year after year.
