There’s a world to discover in San Antonio. Here’s what you won’t want to miss in the Alamo City.
Where language and culture come together
San Antonio is rich with cultural heritage, historic landmarks, and delicious local flavors, making it the perfect gathering place for World Language educators. From bustling Mexican markets to centuries-old Spanish missions, there’s plenty of opportunities to experience the connections between language, culture, and community in the Alamo City.
The 2026 ACTFL Annual Convention & World Languages Expo is bringing World Language educators to San Antonio November 20–22 for four days of fresh ideas, meaningful connections, and a shared passion for language learning.
The inspiration doesn't have to stop at the convention center! Whether you're exploring the city's cultural landmarks, sampling local cuisine, or discovering new ways to bring the world into your classroom, there's plenty to discover while you're in town. We've put together 5 things worth adding to your ACTFL itinerary, including Carnegie Learning's can't-miss sessions and activities.
Bring your curiosity to booth #1634
Inspiration for your World Language classroom is waiting at ACTFL. Stop by Carnegie Learning's booth #1634 to discover authentic cultural resources and connect with fellow educators who share your passion for bringing language and culture to life for students.
From hands-on activities and cultural trivia to interactive experiences and practical teaching strategies, here’s what we’re bringing to ACTFL:
Culture as the Catalyst for Communication
Friday, November 20 | 10:30–11:15 a.m. | Exhibitor Workshop Room 5
Discover how culture can spark curiosity and create opportunities for meaningful communication in the World Language classroom. Explore ways to connect authentic cultural content with engaging learning experiences that get students talking.
Progress, Not Perfection: Pathways to Proficiency
Saturday, November 21 | 11–11:45 a.m. | Exhibitor Workshop Room 5
Building language proficiency takes practice, patience, and a willingness to make mistakes along the way. Join us to explore strategies that help students take risks, build confidence, and make meaningful progress as communicators.
Destination Classroom: Bring the world into focus
Booth #1634 | Friday, 11/20- 2:30 PM | Saturday, 11/21- 2:30 PM
Take a mini trip around the world without leaving ACTFL. Explore authentic cultural resources from Destinations Library, meet like-minded educators, and discover new ways to bring language and culture into your classroom. Complete the activity for a chance to win in our ACTFL raffle: a San Antonio Fiesta box with authentic San Antonio flavors valued at $100.
Culture Quest: Can You Guess?
Booth #1634 | Friday, 11/20-11:45 AM | Saturday, 11/21- 9:15 AM
How well do you know the world's cultures? Put your knowledge to the test with a visual trivia challenge featuring traditions, cultural practices, and everyday life from around the globe. Complete the challenge to earn an entry into our ACTFL raffle!
Language is Limitless Because…
Booth #1634 | Friday and Saturday all day
What makes language learning so powerful? Add your voice to our interactive word cloud by completing the phrase “Language is limitless because…” and see how educators from across the country celebrate the impact of language learning.
Discover what’s possible with Carnegie Learning
Interested in learning more about Carnegie Learning's World Languages solutions? Fill out this form to connect with our team to explore how our curriculum and resources can support your teachers, engage students, and bring language and culture to life in your classrooms.
A little bit of taste and a lot of culture: 5 must-see stops in San Antonio
In a city rich with language and culture, what better way to spend your downtime than visiting some iconic San Antonio landmarks, sampling local flavors, and discovering the traditions that make this city so unique? Here are five stops worth adding to your ACTFL itinerary:
1. Experience a little piece of Mexico at Historic Market Square
Wander over to the Historic Market Square where you’ll be greeted by colorful shops, handcrafted treasures, and the drool-worthy smell of authentic Mexican food. Historic Market Square is the largest Mexican market in the United States, featuring more than 100 locally owned shops and stalls. Browse traditional pottery, artwork, and handmade goods, then grab a bite at one of the local restaurants.2. Explore history beyond the Alamo
You've probably heard of the Alamo, but did you know San Antonio is home to five Spanish colonial missions recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site? Four are preserved within San Antonio Missions National Historical Park, where you can explore centuries-old architecture and discover how Spanish and Indigenous cultures shaped the region. From Mission San José to Mission Concepción, these historic sites offer a unique look at the people, languages, and traditions behind San Antonio's history.
3. Eat a taco that puffs up
You've had soft tacos. You've had crunchy tacos. But have you had a puffy taco? This San Antonio specialty starts with fresh corn masa that's fried until it puffs into a light, crispy shell, then is filled with seasoned meat, lettuce, tomatoes, and cheese. It’s a deliciously messy treat that is a can’t miss when you’re in town. Head to El Castillo Mexican Restaurant in downtown San Antonio for a taste of this local favorite. Bonus: it’s walking distance from the conference. El Castillo Mexican Restaurant | 425 S. St. Mary's St.
4. Start your day the San Antonio Way
Skip the hotel breakfast and grab a breakfast taco instead. A San Antonio morning staple, these delicious handheld favorites come stuffed with everything from classic bean-and-cheese to chorizo-and-egg, potatoes, and bacon. Order a couple of your favorites, and enjoy this one handed delight as you fuel up for a full day of ACTFL sessions.5. Wander through San Antonio's historic little village
Just steps from the River Walk, La Villita Historic Arts Village is one of San Antonio's oldest neighborhoods, now home to local artists, galleries, and charming boutiques. Stroll along its historic streets, admire the architecture, and browse handmade jewelry, pottery, and other unique creations. It’s the perfect place to discover local artistry and pick up a souvenir to commemorate your trip. 418 Villita St.
Language learning inspiration straight to your inbox
There’s always something new to discover in World Languages, and our team is here to help you bring those new discoveries into your classroom. Subscribe to our Language is Limitless newsletter for practical teaching tips, guidance on preparing students for the updated AP World Language exams, and classroom-ready resources available exclusively to subscribers.
From San Antonio to classrooms everywhere
From fresh ideas and new connections to unique cultural experiences, ACTFL is shaping up to be a celebration of everything that makes language learning so meaningful. We can't wait to see you in San Antonio and share our passion for helping students connect with the world through language.
The adventure doesn't have to end when ACTFL does. Discover how Carnegie Learning's World Languages solutions bring authentic culture, meaningful communication, and real-world connections into classrooms every day.
Stop by Carnegie Learning's booth #1634 to discover authentic cultural resources and connect with fellow educators who share your passion for bringing language and culture to life for students.
Allie Means joined the Carnegie Learning team in 2026. Prior to joining, she spent over a decade as an educator, with experience in secondary English Language Arts, K–12 special education, and instructional coaching. With a background in marketing, she has also supported small businesses, primarily in the education space, with their content marketing strategies. Allie is a lifelong educator at heart—she is passionate about supporting teachers with high-quality instructional materials so that all students have the opportunity to reach their full potential.