Thousands are expected along the River Walk as one of Fiesta’s most beloved traditions floats by Monday night.
SAN ANTONIO — One of Fiesta’s brightest traditions is back tonight as the Texas Cavaliers River Parade returns to the San Antonio River Walk.
The 81st annual parade begins at 7 p.m. Monday, rain or shine, with organizers expecting more than 250,000 spectators along the river.
This year’s theme is Through the Decades: A Centennial Celebration of the Texas Cavaliers, honoring 100 years of the organization since it was founded in 1926.
More than 45 colorful barges will float through downtown, each designed to celebrate the history, culture and spirit of Fiesta and San Antonio.
The parade’s grand marshal is Leon McNeil, co-founder of City Kids Adventures, a nonprofit supporting inner-city youth.
Spectators will also see this year’s King Antonio, Gardner M. Peavy. A Texas Cavaliers member since 2008, Peavy has served on the board of directors and held leadership roles including Commander in 2024-25. As Parade Marshal in 2021-22, he helped raise more than $2 million for children’s charities, including a $1.2 million grant to Haven for Hope. He also serves on the Haven for Hope board and the Fiesta San Antonio Commission board.
The River Parade first launched in 1941 after Texas Cavaliers members were inspired by flower-covered boats in Mexico City’s floating gardens. That vision helped create what is now one of San Antonio’s signature Fiesta events.
Today, the celebration continues to give back, with proceeds benefiting children’s charities through the Texas Cavaliers Charitable Foundation.
Tickets were still available Monday through the Texas Cavaliers website.