Archive Business on the River Walk has picked up since the first Pachanga del Rio in 1985.

Greg Gallaspy, executive director of the Paseo del Rio Association, says the River Walk wasn't always the hot spot it is today.

Unlike today, when tourists and some locals travel by the busload to spend an evening dining and drinking on the River Walk, business was rather slow 22 years ago.

So the Paseo del Rio Association decided to take action, and it adhered to a simple philosophy in its attempt to lure more people to the River Walk.

If you serve it, they will come.

“The Paseo got together to increase business, and the Pachanga del Rio was what came about,” Gallaspy said. “Over the years, it has really grown.”

So much so, that in its 22nd year, the Pachanga del Rio (Party on the River) has morphed into an annual staple. This year's event on Thursday, Sept. 13, will start at Rivercenter Mall before ticket-holders disperse throughout the River Walk in search of cuisine.

Among the 20 restaurants participating in the Pachanga del Rio are Hard Rock Café, Casa Rio, Hooters, The County Line and Original Mexican Restaurant. Those eateries and others will provide an array of food samples. Anyone who purchases a ticket has access to sample at every participating restaurant.

“It's huge,” Gallaspy said. “We even have Frappuccinos from Starbucks, hot wings from Hooters. It truly is a taste of the River Walk.”

The pachanga comes complete with an after party.

It will be held at the Buckhorn Saloon and Museum with live music from the Krayolas. A silent auction also will take place, and it will include items such as hotel packages and airline tickets.

The Paseo del Rio Association operates as a nonprofit entity, and ticket sales from Pachanga del Rio will go toward helping the group achieve its never-ending goal.

That goal, Gallaspy said, is threefold.

“We're about the promotion, protection and preservation of the San Antonio River Walk,” he said.

CLINT HALE | 210SA