This Texas Parade, produced entirely by women, stands as one of the largest and oldest in the United States. Check out these stunning photos!
San Antonio's largest celebration, Fiesta, concluded on Sunday, April 10, following a two-year break due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The event that kicks off this 10-day festival is the Battle of Flowers Parade, a historic parade dating back to 1891, honoring those who fought in the Battles of San Jacinto, Alamo, and Goliad for Texas's independence. Today, this vibrant celebration unites the city's diverse cultures in a spectacular display of local pride every spring.
An estimated 550,000 spectators line the 2.6-mile parade route to enjoy performances from nearly 200 groups representing every part of Texas's second-largest city. For many San Antonio families, attending the parade has become a cherished tradition. "Every year, my dad gets a bunch of tickets for us to watch from the stands, captivated by the breathtaking gowns that glide by on their flower-adorned floats," said Darlene Fiske, a San Antonio native and owner of a luxury travel PR firm in Austin. "The essence of the parade remains unchanged—the splendor of the marching bands, the friendly waves from dignitaries in classic cars, and the exquisite, jeweled gowns of the court still fill me with wonder, just as they did when I was a kid. And the constant presence of the women in yellow serves as a heartwarming reminder of the strength found in community."
From the women who dedicate months to crafting the flower-laden floats to those dressed in yellow who meticulously oversee the details, the Battle of Flowers Parade is not only one of the largest parades in the U.S. but also the only one organized solely by female volunteers. Inspired by Spain's flower parades, the original founders would toss flowers from their carriages. Nowadays, revelers shower confetti and cascarones (hollowed eggs filled with confetti) on the parade participants.
San Antonio is often dubbed the city that knows how to celebrate, and for ten days during Fiesta, you can immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of its cultures. With numerous events held throughout the city, the festival raises funds for non-profit organizations, making it a vibrant celebration that honors Texas's past, present, and future.
The dedicated women in yellow form the volunteer team that brings the parade to life each year. Pictured is the Grand Marshal float honoring Eileen M. Collins, a former astronaut.
Mariah Tyler
The intricate designs of the parade floats feature handcrafted foil and metallic flowers, created over several months in San Antonio leading up to the event.
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Before the parade begins, the Battle of Flowers parade Princess is hoisted onto her float by a forklift, as the royal court dresses can be quite cumbersome to wear.
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Members of the Tradition American Indian Veterans Association Honor Guard and firefighters are poised to kick off the parade. This inter-tribal association includes representatives from the Caddo, Kickapoo, Navajo, Lipan Apache, Mescalero Apache, Lakota, Rosebud Sioux, and Crow Creek Sioux tribes.
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An oversized silver glitter crown adorns a float, surrounded by handmade metallic flowers for the Battle of Flowers parade, themed this year as ¡Viva Las Flores!.
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Duchesses are making their final preparations as the parade approaches.
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During Fiesta, attendees arrive at events sporting decorative hats adorned with intricate designs.
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Before the official parade kicks off, a vanguard procession takes place. This group showcases various San Antonio ROTC and JROTC units from the renowned "Military City USA."
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From left to right: Larry, Turner, and Brent smile for the camera. As members of the Bexar County Buffalo Soldiers, they are overseeing a section of seats at the parade's starting point.
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The Battle of Flowers Parade marks the beginning of the 131st annual Fiesta, making it one of the oldest parades in the nation.
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A spectator at the Battle of Flowers parade fully embraces the Fiesta theme in San Antonio, Texas. This grand event unites residents from all corners of the city every year.
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This intricately crafted float features Her Serene Highness, Princess Marguerite Holton Stewart, from the Court of the Grand Tour. Each year, the grand dress train is uniquely designed for every lady in the court.
Behind the Rey Feo float, the Rey Feo Consejo Educational Foundation marches, dedicated to raising funds for local schools and students through scholarship initiatives. Throughout Fiesta, many organizations host various events to support their fundraising efforts.
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Left to Right: A cherished tradition of the Battle of Flowers parade has spectators shouting, "Show us your shoes!" to the royal figures on their floats. A variety of uniquely designed western boots and sneakers are revealed, showcasing the court's personalities. Ramsey Campbell Robinson enjoys her time on her float as the Duchess of Unrivaled Precision.
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High schools across San Antonio participate in the parade, showcasing their music and dance skills. This vibrant dancer, adorned in green and orange sequins, represents the Sam Houston High School Twisters.
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Members of the Association of Charros del Sur proudly ride on horseback through the parade, displaying the flags of Texas, Mexico, and the United States. The rich cultural traditions and history of both Texas and Mexico are celebrated throughout Fiesta.
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Parade-goers showcase their most creative Fiesta-themed hats while enjoying beer and margaritas as the parade flows along Main Street.
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Every year during Fiesta, a queen, a princess, and 24 duchesses are crowned, with their moment to shine occurring at the Battle of Flowers parade. To the left is Bracken West Barnes, the Duchess of Beguiling Charm, and behind her is Frances Lawren Graham, the Duchess of Dynamic Ornamentation.
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Left to Right: Dailyn Mann, the San Antonio Queen of Soul, proudly represents the Official Fiesta Royalty. The back view captures a parade participant adorned in a decorative cape and cowboy hat.
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The Escaramuza Rosas de Castilla group showcases traditional-style horseback riding during the Charreada.
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A dancer adorned with Poinsettia represents the Ballet Folklorico Festival during the Fiesta Battle of Flowers parade.
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Fiesta medals are highly sought-after collectibles, featuring pins from each year's festivities. Throughout Fiesta, you'll hear the delightful jingling of sashes and vests adorned with these fun medals.
Mariah TylerThinking about visiting San Antonio for Fiesta next year? The 2023 celebration is scheduled for April 20-30, with the Battle of Flowers parade happening on Friday, April 28, 2023.
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