In conjunction with Fiesta San Antonio , the Witte Museum presents The Mexican Spirit of Fiesta , a showcase of the deep Mexican heritage of San Antonio’s annual 10-day celebration. The exhibit is on view April 19 through August 27, 2006 in the Witte’s Piper Memorial Wing.

Fiesta is permeated by the popular culture of Mexico and the selections for The Mexican Spirit of Fiesta are direct reflections of that culture. Fiesta San Antonio has become increasingly more reflective of the area’s Mexican heritage over the years, even when most organizers and participants were Anglos. By the 1950s Hispanic participation began to increase and now Hispanics share in all aspects of Fiesta from being President of the Fiesta Association to reigning as Rey Feo to volunteering at more than 100 events.

The exhibit features garments and objects that exemplify Mexican heritage including official gowns, trains and uniforms worn by Fiesta royalty; historic photographs of parade floats; examples of programs; official posters; and much more. Also on view is the red velvet gown worn by the Duchess of Mexico in the Order of the Alamo Coronation-Court of the Americas in 1961, which inspired the Witte Museum’s 2006 Fiesta pin.