SAN ANTONIO – Rollercoasters, rap music, food trucks and rock music! You’re probably thinking, “How can it get better than this?”
Well, throw in some well-known musical acts and you have an exciting new music festival. That’s right, San Antonio has another music festival, and this time rollercoasters are in the mix.
Theme park giant Six Flags Fiesta Texas hosted the Botanica Music Festival Saturday inside its fun-filled rollercoaster playground. The festival included more than 20 performers and 60 thrilling rides.
National acts including rock legends Deftones, rappers Logic and Lil Yachty, and a DJ Set by Shaq as DJ Diesel, among others shared the stage for a diverse blend of genres. To sweeten the flavor and spice it up, local San Antonio artists including Wayne Holtz, Piñata Protest, House of Kenzo, several mariachi bands and more took turns entertaining guests with new tunes.
Local rap standout Carlton Zeus provided a punk-induced rap concert that had the crowd chanting for more. With enough touring experience under his belt alongside national acts, he spoke on what it means to share the big stage with large names.
“I think it grooms the artist to understand the bigger picture. Sometimes we get locked into the local scene and we need to lift that ceiling,” said Zeus. “I think Botanica has played a really good part in that.”
.@CarltonZeus performing at @BotanicaFest ! #news4sa pic.twitter.com/5w3swTDvq0
— Jamie B† (@realjamiebee) March 3, 2018
The fun didn’t stop there. Unique art pieces from Snake Hawk Press were spread throughout the park for separate photo opportunities.
My favorite attraction? The delicious sliders from Slider Provider at the food truck village in the park. Aside from the food trucks, artisan food was provided by top San Antonio chefs, but was only accessible in the VIP area. However, I did sneak in and grab a quick bite and stop by popular San Antonio mixologist Jeret Pena’s booth to try one of his unique Cinco vodka cocktails. It was amazing. Shout-out to his crew.
No lies here, the Deftones most piqued my interest for the festival. They never disappoint, and Saturday may have been one of their best performances — and I’m sure other fans will agree.
The festival experience wasn’t hindered by a little drizzle and humidity. Constant fun and excitement was everywhere, and you were never limited to waiting at a stage for a performance. You could ride the Iron Rattler and other rollercoasters. Pro Tip: The Iron Rattler is a must ride, but it’s even better with loud music in the background.
With all the festival competition, only time will tell how large an impact Botanica Music Festival will have on the Alamo City. This festival has made a fan out of me because rollercoasters, cold beer and loud music are some of my favorite things in the world.
I can’t end without saying that, without a doubt, Shaq and his DJ set was something you absolutely have to see live. Highlight of the night.
See you next year, Botanica Fest.
This article was originally published for News 4 San Antonio.
Jamie Barrientos | Music, Art, and Entertainment 