Maligned for its starches and cellulose, not to mention the dubious practices of some producers, corn has become a dietary bugbear. For Indigenous Americans, it has represented life for thousands of years, but it's shunned by the larger culture.UNESCO is leading the charge for a reconsideration. In April, the organization embarked on a four-city tour celebrating corn. After previous stops in Tucson, Bergamo-Gandino, Italy, and Mérida, Mexico, Pueblos del Maiz will land in San Antonio from October 10-11.The two-day celebration celebrates Alamo City's role as a Creative City of Gastronomy while showcasing the importance of the crucial crop. The festivities include a ticketed dinner, a free community event, and masa-based specials at local eateries.The experience kicks off at Pearl's Carriqui on October 10. Chef Jaime Gonzalez will host a group of UNESCO chef ambassadors, who will each prepare corn-based dishes inspired by the University of Texas San Antonio's cookbook collections. Those rare volumes will be available for viewing during the event while the Brackenridge student mariachi group provides musical accompaniment. Tickets are $70 per person.The community is also invited to the Maiz Showcase at 303 Pearl Pkwy. on October 11, from 5:30-9:30 pm. Local chefs and visitors from other cities of gastronomy will offer bites and sips while guests peruse art installations.If corn-loving locals prefer a more à la carte experience, they can also visit San Antonio restaurants making dishes in honor of Pueblos del Maiz. Highlights include a shaved ice dessert at Sari-Sari, fish tacos at The Good Kind, chilaquiles at Cuishe Cocina Mexicana, and empalmes at Naco 210.Since San Antonio is the tour's last stop, foodies will have to wait until 2025 for the next celebration. In the meantime, several local spots are making innovative corn dishes year-round.