One of San Antonio’s sister cities is giving locals a rare chance to soak in Spanish culture without fidgeting through a 12-hour flight. A visiting contingent from Lanzarote has released a few select tickets to its exclusive trade event on September 4-5, giving locals a chance to experience cooking demos and taste wines and bites from the Canary Islands.
Lanzarote 360º was previously invite-only, meant to strengthen the Spanish city’s ties with local importers, tour operators, distributors, and restaurateurs. But government officials decided to mix things up with a few non-industry guests — and maybe inspire a few international trips.
On September 4, downtown’s Thompson Hotel will transform into a culinary showcase featuring artisanal products from the volcanic islands. Guests can try award-winning Spanish wines, sea salt from Salinas de Janubio, and gourmet bites from producers like Bernardo’s Gourmet Products, and Quesería El Faro.
Then, Spanish officials will host a party at The Alamo on September 5 featuring drinks and live music. During the first hour of the event, attendees will have access to The Alamo Church for a private walkthrough and tour.
Although Lanzarote has only officially been a San Antonio sister city since February, the connection between the two municipalities has an almost 300-year history. In 1731, 56 Canary Islanders — 44 hailing from Lanzarote — established San Antonio as the first civil settlement in Texas. Many of the architectural styles and cultural traditions carry on to today.
“San Antonio and Lanzarote share a common legacy,” said San Antonio Mayor Gina Ortiz Jones via a release. “This event honors that past, but above all opens a future of collaboration, tourism, culture, and commerce between our communities.”
The Thompson Hotel tasting will be held from 11 am-4 pm on September 4, and The Alamo event starts at 7 pm on September 5. Those interested in attending should sign up quickly; only a select few RSVPs have been reserved for the general public. Lanzarote 360º is a free event.