Let’s Fiesta
San Antonio!
Major Fiesta Events
Battle of Flowers Parade
Friday, April 26, 2024
The original daytime parade of Fiesta which always occurs on Friday is an official holiday for all Bexar County schools. More Info
St. Mary’s University Oyster Bake
Sat & Sun, April 19-20, 2024
This is the major kickoff event and is sponsored by the Alumni. This event features several music bands act as well as lots of oysters. More Info
Texas Cavaliers River Parade
Monday, April 22, 2024
This unique evening river parade began in 1941 and features decorated floats along the Riverwalk. More Info
NIOSA
“Night in Old San Antonio”
Tues – Fri, April 23-26, 2024
This 4-night evening event (Tues-Fr) takes place in the old town of La Villita on the banks of the Riverwalk. The event features food and music celebrating different ethnic people groups of San Antonio. It is pronounced “nigh-o-sa”. More Info
Fiesta Flambeau Parade
Saturday, April 27, 2024
This night event is the largest illuminated parade in the country. Brightly colorful illuminated floats and marching bands make this parade quite special. More Info
Helpful Tips & Info
Parade Seating & Event Tickets
Check the website for specific events for tickets. Fiesta SA lists chair seating sold by groups such as Boy Scouts of America, Knights of Columbus, local churches, and other charitable organizations.
Parking & Transportation
Via Bus Park & Ride is a great way to get to most of the local events. There are many public and private lots and garages as well.
Fiesta Wear
Colorful and comfortable featuring Mexican shirts and dresses, hats adorned by flowers (the more outrageous, the better) and decorations, paper flower halos, and big sombreros.
Fiesta Medals
All major events and local companies make annual medals. People display their medals on sashes, vests, and hats. There is an official annual Fiesta Medal produced.
Decorations
These local businesses sell all kinds of décor and clothing:
Party with a Purpose
Most of the Fiesta events are important fundraisers!
- Oyster Bake – supports St. Mary’s University scholarships
- NIOSA – supports the historic building Conservation Society
- Taste of New Orleans – supports the San Antonio Zulu Association
- Taste of the Northside – supports the Brighton Children’s Center
- King William Fair – supports the historic King William District and scholarships
- Texas Cavaliers – supports scholarships and other educational donations
History
Fiesta began in 1891 as the “Battle of Flowers,” a venerable parade honoring the pivotal Battle of San Jacinto. This battle occured on April 21, 1836 when Sam Houston and his small Texas army defeated Mexican General Santa Ana and his 4,000-strong force, leading to Texas gaining independence from Mexico. The parade’s origins featured lavishly decorated carriages, buggies, and bicycles adorned with fresh flowers, proudly displayed in front of the historic Alamo. Notably, this parade is uniquely distinguished as the only major procession in the United States exclusively coordinated by women volunteers. As San Antonio embraced additional events and parades, the city officially launched “Fiesta” in April 1960, transforming the celebration into an 11-day extravaganza. Today the party continues annually and many events are key fundraisers for historical societies and organizations.
For a full listing of events and info: Fiesta
Fiesta Royalty
Individuals are chosen to represent the city during Fiesta based on their community involvement, contributions to charitable causes, and their embodiment of the spirit of Fiesta.
- Order of the Alamo: Selects the Rey Feo (the “Ugly King”), who serves as a beloved figure during Fiesta.
- Texas Cavaliers: Selects the King Antonio, who serves as the ceremonial leader of Fiesta.
The Coronation event typically takes place before the start of Fiesta and serves as the official presentation of the Fiesta royalty, including the King, Queen, Princess, and other members of the royal court. The newly selected royalty are formally introduced to the public, often in a grand and elegant setting. The event may include performances, speeches, and other presentations highlighting the cultural significance of Fiesta and the roles of the royalty in representing the city of San Antonio.