The mass ceremonies conducted each Feb. 14 since 1989 are expected to draw scores of couples once again this year, and attendance could see a boost because St. Valentine’s Day is a Saturday.
Those hoping to participate will need to get their paperwork in order. Even though the marriage ceremony at the Bexar County Courthouse is free, there are other costs and considerations for participants, including license requirements.
Times of the ceremonies, all on the north side of the courthouse facing Main Plaza at 100 Dolorosa Street, will be 12:01 a.m., 10 a.m., noon, 2 p.m. and 4 p.m., with the vows renewal at 5 p.m.
With a few exceptions, participating couples must obtain a marriage license 72 hours prior to the ceremony in which they’re participating. However, waivers may be obtained by members of the U.S. military on active duty. The 72-hour waiting period also may be waived by a judge for “good cause,” and for those who complete a premarital education course approved by the state and who provide the county clerk with the course completion certificate.
Marriage licenses can be obtained from the Bexar County Clerk’s Office on the first floor of the Paul Elizondo Tower at 101 W. Nueva St. The fee for a marriage license is $81 (cash only) and both applicants must provide proof of identity and age as well as their Social Security numbers (if any).
Rev. Sullivan will sign all marriage licenses and return them to the Clerk’s Office to be filed within one week after the ceremonies.
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