2025 SPAH CONVENTION
August 12^th-16^th, 2025
at the
Hilton Palacio del Rio Hotel
200 South Alamo, San Antonio, Texas 78205

The Alamo Chapter of the Harmonica Organization of Texas (HOOT) is honored to welcome the annual SPAH Convention back to San Antonio.  We are excited to share with you the historic Palacio del Rio Hotel located on the bank of the San Antonio River in the heart of downtown.  As you step out of the hotel directly onto the River Walk, the Arneson River Theater is to your left along with the shops of La Villita and to your right under the bridge are many of San Antonio’s favorite restaurants. Directly in front of the hotel across the river is the starting point for all the River Boat Cruises, only a few steps away from the Briscoe Western Art Museum.

In 2004 Betty Welch brought together a small group of harmonica enthusiasts to discuss forming a local chapter of the Harmonica Organization of Texas. Alamo HOOT was born on that day. Bob Boyd was elected the first president and many others followed in his footsteps leading to many successful years of promoting the harmonica in San Antonio and even hosting SPAH in 2016.  About two years ago, Justin Vasquez, assumed leadership of Alamo HOOT and revitalized the organization.    Under Justin’s leadership, the group sponsors monthly electric jams at the Dakota Ice House.  This enthusiastic group continues to grow and expand in musical knowledge and performance. A monthly acoustic jam is being added next month along with many other plans for future events.  During this time, Alamo HOOT has hosted Mark Hummel and most recently Sam Barlow, an International Blues Challenge finalist.  Thanks to Justin’s leadership and the enthusiasm and energy of the Hoot membership, the resonance of the harmonica is alive and growing in the City of San Antonio.  Alamo HOOT eagerly welcomes SPAH back to San Antonio.

San Antonio is truly a confluence of cultures.  In addition to the nearby attractions as you step away from the hotel, there are many other attractions within a walk of a few minutes:

• The Tower of the Americans and Hemisphere Park
• The Alamo, including expanded exhibits
• Southtown: Blue Star Arts Complex and well-known restaurants as well as the King William Historic Neighborhood
• The San Antonio Missions Historical Park (a UNESCO Site) about 30 minutes by VIA bus

A reminder to all:  This is Texas in August, which means sun screen and hats are important for the daytime walks.  But the Riverwalk has plenty of shady spots along the way for those who fancy a stroll along the river at any time, and it’s always cooler near the water.

As you arrive for the convention, Alamo HOOT volunteers will be prepared to assist you with questions or concerns at the Information Table near SPAH Registration.

Anyone wanting more information about Alamo HOOT and its activities can contact Justin Vasquez at (210) 705-9740 or hoot@alamohoot.org.