Why Texans Observe San Jacinto Day

In 1831, the Mexican Government gave (or loaned) a little cannon to the settlers in Gonzales, Texas, for protection. Over the years, tensions grew into rebellion under the reign of Mexican President Santa Anna. The Mexican Government demanded the little cannon be returned and went to retrieve it on September 29, 1835.

“The morning of October 2, 1835, a force of Texans with the cannon confronted the Mexican forces on the Guadalupe River … Over the little cannon waved a white flag emblazoned with a black cannon, a star, and the words, “Come and Take it!” - Gonzales Texas Memorial Museum.

The Battle of Gonzales began the one-year-long Texas Revolution with the first shot coming from Texas’ little cannon. Though the Battle of Gonzales was successful, two unsuccessful battles followed: Battle of the Alamo and Battle of Coleto Creek at Goliad leaving over 600 Texan casualties.

Fueled by the losses, General Sam Houston’s army and others moved east to San Jacinto:

“On April 20 - 21, Houston’s force met Mexican forces under the direct command of Santa Anna … killing many and taking hundreds of prisoners. Santa Anna was also captured … After negotiations at Velasco, treaties were signed to end the war …” Texas Historical Commission.

The Capture Site of Santa Anna took place in Pasadena, Texas, and is marked with a monument for historians and tourists to see.

Winning the Battle of San Jacinto gave Texas its independence and thus, the Republic of Texas. Texas remained its own country until it was annexed in 1845, becoming the 28th state in the United States.

San Jacinto Day 

You’ve heard, "Remember the Alamo,” “Remember Goliad,” and “Remember La Bahia!” Well, Texans remember San Jacinto and annually celebrate freedom statewide. While San Jacinto Day is not a state-mandated holiday, some businesses, schools, and local government offices opt to be closed in observance.

One thing you can expect and look forward to attending is the Battle of San Jacinto Reenactment. Yes, Texans from all over the state join together and reenact the battle that won the war with cannons, muskets, flags, and costumes. This event goes as far as serving the type of food that was eaten in 1836. It’s a full-on immersive experience not to be missed for Texans and historians alike. Because of its expansive list of activities, the reenactment is happening on Saturday, April 26, 2025, from 8 am - 2 pm.

Leading up to the big reenactment day are the following Events at San Jacinto Battlefield:

• April 19, 2025 - Fire! Arms Demo
• April 20, 2025 - Come and Give It Blood Drive (Come and Take It! little cannon)
• April 20, 2025 - Picture Your at San Jacinto 
• April 25, 2025 - San Jacinto School Day

Visit San Jacinto History

Texas is one of America’s largest states with a thriving economy causing many to relocate, and America is all the better. Yet, there’s no history like Texas history. Historians can visit the San Jacinto Museum and Battlefield and be immersed in well-preserved authentic history as well as monuments and artifacts without waiting for a specific season. The museum and battlefield are open year-round. Come take a step back to 18 minutes that changed the world!