San Antonio's iconic places and moments all have big birthdays this year
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Illustration: Brendan Lynch/Axios
As we step into 2025, it feels like the perfect time to look back on the historic San Antonio moments and places that have shaped the city's story.
Why it matters: Several household names are celebrating big anniversaries this year. Plus, it's fun to have 210-centered trivia at the ready.
Zoom in: We're giving flowers to events and places that San Antonio wouldn't be the same without.
H-E-B
The San Antonio-based mega grocery chain that tops numerous "best of" lists and employs thousands of people started as a small store in Kerrville in 1905. The default grocery store for millions of Texans is celebrating its 120th anniversary this year.
Whataburger
Another Texas original now headquartered in San Antonio, the Corpus Christi-founded chain is marking its 75th anniversary this year with restaurants in more than a dozen states.
- Whataburgers cost only 25 cents when the restaurant got its start in 1950.
KENS 5
One of the most notable call signs in local TV news hit the airwaves on Feb. 15, 1950, broadcasting from the Tower Life building as KEYL.
KCOR (now Univision 41)
The first Spanish-language station in the U.S. went on air in San Antonio on June 10, 1955. It became KWEX before growing into Univision. It's played a crucial role in empowering the city's Latino community for 70 years.
2005 Spurs Championship
It was thrice as nice when the Spurs — with the Big Three at the top of their game — fired on all cylinders against the Detroit Pistons, winning the NBA Finals 4-3. The team's third championship banner hits the big 2-0 this year, or, in other words, its "Manu Year."
San Antonio FC
San Antonio's professional soccer team, which got its start in 2016, will begin its 10th season in March.
Morgan's Wonderland
The accessibility-focused theme park, now home to a range of inclusive facilities and amenities like a beauty salon, will mark its 15th anniversary in April.
Dancing Devil of El Camaroncito
This one falls into the urban legend category, but it's a story longtime San Antonians love to share.
- According to lore, the devil appeared 50 years ago as a charming young man at El Camaroncito and danced with the ladies before revealing his chicken feet (or hooves in some variations).
The bottom line: 2025 is shaping up to be a year of sentimental celebrations for San Antonio.
📣 Have any special memories of these places or moments?
- Email [email protected] and let us know.