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MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT

I would like to extend a warm welcome to the Fiesta Flambeau® Parade to all San Antonio residents and to all its visitors!

Whether you are continuing a longstanding Fiesta tradition or just starting a brand new one, we are very happy and eager to celebrate with you! The purpose of the Fiesta Flambeau® Parade Association Inc., is to plan, organize, produce, and stage the Fiesta Flambeau® Parade annually during Fiesta® San Antonio. The Parade is the Grand Finale and the premier event of Fiesta® each year.

Consider yourself personally invited to attend this official Fiesta® event on April 25, 2026 as we present this year’s parade, “Adventures in Toyland” as the largest illuminated night parade in the country with community organizations, fabulous illuminated floats, bands (local, state and out of state) and special guests. This year’s Grand Marshal, Shamu and Crew (Flip, Sydney, and Coral), and our Honorary Grand Marshal Ronald McDonald and Friends (Birdie, Grimace, Hamburglar), will bring a new level of excitement to this year’s parade.

This special Fiesta® celebration for the City of San Antonio began in 1948 and now viewed across the nation and the world. The parade has been recognized as the “Best” parade both in State and International competitions in our budgeted category. The parade is viewed by an anticipated seven hundred and fifty thousand spectators on the parade route and millions on television as it is broadcast live in English and simultaneously in Spanish.

This parade is organized and produced by an all-volunteer organization who contribute their time and talents to have this exciting premier event for Fiesta® each year.

Thank you to each of you and all of our sponsors for joining us as we celebrate another year of traditions, remembering our past and helping us pass the Fiesta® spirit to future generations.

VIVA FIESTA!

MESSAGE FROM THE MAYOR

¡Viva Fiesta San Antonio!

I am honored to welcome you to the 2026 Fiesta Flambeau Parade, America’s largest illuminated night parade. This year’s parade will feature the theme, “Adventures in Toyland,” with SeaWorld’s Shamu and Crew as Grand Marshals to celebrate the limitless power of imagination and joy.

The Fiesta Flambeau parade was officially named in 1951, and the inaugural parade saluted our nation’s armed forces with just 50 floats. Today’s parade has grown to feature more than 150 floats and draws over 800,000 spectators to revel in San Antonio’s history and culture.

I want to extend my sincere appreciation to the Fiesta Flambeau Parade Association and sponsors along with our volunteers, parade participants, and local military for making this year’s Flambeau Night Parade possible. Your dedication is crucial to preserving this beloved celebration and our city’s spirit.

On behalf of the City of San Antonio and City Council, I invite residents and visitors alike to join me in celebrating the 2026 Fiesta Flambeau Parade in honor of San Antonio’s “Party With a Purpose.”

VIVA FIESTA

MESSAGE FROM THE FIESTA COMMISSION PRESIDENT

¡Bienvenidos a Fiesta 2026!

On behalf of the Fiesta San Antonio Commission, I warmly welcome you to the Fiesta Flambeau Parade and to the many Official Fiesta events that surround this special and unique celebration.

Ferne Burney

President, Fiesta® San Antonio Commission, Inc.

This year’s Fiesta San Antonio Commission theme is “Fiesta Together,” and you will certainly see that spirit reflected in the sea of volunteers who bring this parade to life by working side by side. We are incredibly proud of them, as well as of the many visitors representing marching bands, military service branches, and civic organizations featured in tonight’s parade. Please visit our newly revamped website, fiestasanantonio.org, to explore highlights of the Flambeau Parade and discover the wide variety of events taking place throughout these magical eleven days.

Have a wonderful parade experience. I’ll be the one waving to you from the Fiesta San Antonio Commission float—and I may even show you my shoes!

MESSAGE FROM THE FIRE CHIEF

Warm greetings and welcome to the 2026 Fiesta Flambeau Parade. On behalf of the SAFD, we are honored to be a part of this historical and vibrant celebration.

As we come together and join in the excitement of this treasured San Antonio tradition, please celebrate safely.

Happy Fiesta! Delight in the magic and wonder of the “Adventures in Toyland.”

VIVA FIESTA

MILITARY COMMANDER’S WELCOME LETTER

We are honored to celebrate “Military City USA,” San Antonio, during Fiesta 2026. For decades, the vibrant spirit of Fiesta has united the San Antonio community, honoring the heroes of the Battle of the Alamo and the Battle of San Jacinto. Fiesta stands as a powerful testament to our shared heritage and the deep historical roots that bind us together.

As we prepare to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the United States of America in 2026, we reflect on the freedoms defended by generations of service members and the values that make our nation strong. That legacy of courage is alive and well at Joint Base San Antonio, where over 88,000 service members and their families live, work, and train. This city is where so many service members, past and present, take an oath to serve for a greater cause than themselves. It is where they are forged into the defenders of our nation.

Lieutenant General, U.S. Air Force Commander, Air Education and Training Command

Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph, Texas

The city’s legacy of military service is woven into the very core of our community. Just as the brave defenders of the Alamo stood their ground against overwhelming odds, the service members of Joint Base San Antonio embody that same warrior spirit of resilience and bravery. They are the living embodiment of our heritage, prepared to defend our nation with valor, wherever duty calls.

From all of us – active duty, National Guard, Reserve, government civilians, veterans, and our families who proudly call San Antonio home – thank you. Thank you for the incredible camaraderie and support you show our military community.

We look forward to celebrating alongside you at the many events highlighting our community and service members.

Viva Fiesta!

Chief Master Sergeant, Command Chief

Education and Training

Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph,

MESSAGE FROM THE BEXAR COUNTY

It is my honor to welcome you to another dazzling Fiesta Flambeau Parade! This year I look forward to seeing the night come alive with creativity, color and imagination under the theme Adventures in Toyland. This beloved tradition showcases some of the best Bexar County has to offer, bringing families, neighbors and visitors together to celebrate the joy, unity and pride that make our community so special. It is all the more joyful knowing that the proceeds of this worldclass event, known as “Americas Largest Illuminated Night Parade,” support local scholarships and social service programs. My wife Rachel and I extend our deepest gratitude and thanks to the Fiesta Flambeau Association organizers, volunteers, sponsors and participants whose hard work and vision make this one-of-a-kind celebration possible year after year.

JUDGE MESSAGE FROM THE BATTLE OF FLOWERS

Congratulations and cheers to Fiesta Flambeau Parade! On behalf of the entire Battle of Flowers membership, we wish you the very best as you celebrate the boundless imagination, joy, and nostalgia of toys through the 2026 Flambeau Parade - Adventures in Toyland! As your sister parade, we in Battle of Flowers can’t wait to celebrate your hard work, dedication, and creativity as Flambeau lights up the night on April 25 th. It is an honor and pleasure to work with all the Flambeau members and volunteers throughout the year – many of us have worked together for decades iconic Fiesta celebrations for community.

our yellow hats to you in and tradition Flambeau Parade Viva, y’all!

Peter

THE FLAMBEAU MISSION

The purpose of the Fiesta Flambeau® Parade Association, Inc., hereafter known as the Association, shall be to plan, organize, produce, and stage the Fiesta Flambeau® Parade annually during Fiesta San Antonio. The Association shall do so to enhance the celebration for the San Antonio community and it’s visitors.

2026 POSTER ARTIST WINNER TORIA HALLOWELL

Congratulations to Toria Hallowell, winner of the 2026 Fiesta Flambeau Parade Poster Contest. Her artwork for Adventures in Toyland beautifully captures the fun, wonder, and imagination of this year’s theme, setting the tone for a celebration filled with color, creativity, and joy.

As the official visual representation of the 2026 parade, Toria’s poster reflects the magic and excitement of America’s Largest Illuminated Night Parade while honoring the playful spirit at the heart of Fiesta Flambeau. We are honored to recognize her talent and thrilled to share her work as part of this year’s celebration.

2026 PARADE JUDGES

Fiesta Flambeau is proud to recognize the distinguished panel of judges selected for the 2026 Fiesta Flambeau Parade. Their role helps recognize the imagination, artistry, and dedication showcased throughout the parade, while highlighting the many individuals and organizations that make Fiesta Flambeau so memorable. Through their thoughtful consideration, they help celebrate the creativity, hard work, and attention to detail behind each entry, honoring the many contributions that bring this spectacular event to life. Their participation reflects the pride, tradition, and community spirit that continue to make Fiesta Flambeau a beloved part of San Antonio’s Fiesta season. We are grateful for the time, care, and perspective they bring to this cherished celebration. We thank them for helping spotlight the excellence and enthusiasm that shine so brightly throughout the parade.

KATHE LEHMAN-MEYER FLOATS
JESSICA MONTOYA FLOATS
ALBA WRIGHT CHEER & DANCE
MARLENE CALDERON FLOATS
MONIC REYES CHEER & DANCE
IRMA DURAN CHEER & DANCE

2026 PARADE JUDGES

DR. DANIEL POWELL

MARCHING BANDS

VANESSA VAN DE PUTTE MARCHING BANDS

DELINES ALONSO-BATLLE MARCHING BANDS

Help America’s Larges Illuminated Night Parade come to life and experience behind the scenes magic, the volunteer way!

For additional information or visit us at:

SEPHANIE PENA WALKING GROUPS
MIGUEL DAVID WALKING GROUPS
JOEY CASTELLANO ALT. JUDGE

2026 OFFICIAL SOCIAL MEDIA INFLUENCERS

KING ANTONIO GARDNER M. PEAVY

As King Antonio CIII, it is my great privilege to ride through the Texas night in America’s Largest Illuminated Night Parade — a spectacular celebration that perfectly mirrors the centennial spirit of the Texas Cavaliers.

One hundred years ago, the Texas Cavaliers were founded to honor the heroes of the Alamo, promote camaraderie, and serve San Antonio’s children. The Fiesta Flambeau® Parade shares that same soul. Born from a bold vision in 1948, it has grown into a world-class event — twice named “Best Parade in the World” by the International Festivals and Events Association — drawing more than 800,000 spectators to the streets of San Antonio each year.

For a century, the Cavaliers have marched, served, and celebrated alongside the great organizations that make Fiesta the crown jewel of Texas. Tonight, as thousands of lights illuminate the sky over San Antonio, we mark 100 years of that proud tradition — and look forward to the next hundred.

My wife Jill and I, along with our sons Kyle, Keller, and Caleb, are honored to share this luminous evening with you and all of San Antonio. We proudly salute President Erwin J. De Luna and the entire all-volunteer Fiesta Flambeau® Parade Association for their extraordinary dedication in bringing this dazzling tradition to life year after year.

2025-2026 FIESTA FLAMBEAU PARADE ASSOCIATION

MEMBERSHIP

Acevedo, Adrianne

Acevedo, Rose Marie

Alvarado, Sam Q.

Alvarado, Sylvia R.

Carmona, Terry Acevedo

Carrisal, Bonnie

Castillo, Roxanne

Castellanos, Bea Ackerman

Charleston, Carol

Charleston, Paul

Copeland, Shirley A.

Crouch, Cira

Crouch, John R. III

Cuellar, Robert

De Hoyos, Gloria

De Hoyos, Jose J

De Luna, Erwin

Elizondo, Sebastian

Fenimore, Darlene

Fenimore, James

Fernandez, Efrain “Ram”

Flores, Debbie

Flores, Jeanette

Flores, Lucila

Flores, Michael

Flores, Richard

Flores, Roberto

Frances, Anna Marie

Frances, Kenneth (Ken)

Gonzales, Margie

Guevara. Trina

Gutierrez, Martha Ann

Gutierrez, Salvador

Guzman-Farias, Dolores

Kee, Lynn

Kiger, Celia

Kropp, Kathy

Laymon, Bobby J.

Leos, Gregory

Medrano, Daniel

Mendieta, Madeline

Mendiola, Cecilia

Mitzelman, Virginia

Moya, Shaun

Murguia, Matthew

Ortiz, Pete Jr.

Parker, Thelma

Pelayo, Gloria

Quintanilla, Lillie

Quintanilla, Sandy

Ridyolph, Marsha

Robertson, Terri

Saidam, Jessica

Saidam, Tareq

Sanchez, Araceli

Sandoval, Mary Louise (Mari)

Sharp, Leyhbert

Stanley-Medford, Gilbert

Tuley, Beatrice

Valero, Debra

Vasquez, Avrey

Vasquez, Ayden

Villarreal, Fernando

Votion, Rene

Wallace, Allee

Watts, Casey J.

Wiggins, Melinda

2026 FIESTA FLAMBEAU MEDAL

2026 FIESTA FLAMBEAU PARADE ROUTE

2026 FIESTA FLAMBEAU PARADE VANGUARD LINEUP

2026 FIESTA FLAMBEAU PARADE LINEUP

Sec. City, State Entry Name

A 22 Royal Rosarians Portaland, Oregon

A 23 The Center for Health Care Services San Antonio, Texas

A 24 Disability SA San Antonio, Texas

A 25 San Roberto International School Durnago, Mexico

A 26 Fiesta Flambeau Honorary Grand Marshals Ronald McDonald & Friends San Antonio, Texas

A 27 Meals on Wheels San Antonio San Antonio, Texas

A 28 Washington's Birthday Celebration Association Laredo, Texas

A 29 Toyota Trucks San Antonio, Texas

B 30 Houston County Schools All-Star Band Alabama

B 31 Fiesta Flambeau Parade Association President Erwin J. De Luna San Antonio, Texas

B 32 Las Charangas San Antonio, Texas

B 33 Taft Bike Club San Antonio, Texas

B 34 Hispanic Contractors Association de San Antonio San Antonio, Texas

B 35 Fiesta San Antonio Commission, Inc. San Antonio, Texas

B 36 Thomas Edison High School Band, Cheer, Dance & Pep San Antonio, Texas

B 37 The Floresville Peanut Festival Floresville, Texas

B 38 Thomas Jefferson High School Band, Cheer, Lassos & Pep San Antonio, Texas

B 39 Juneteenth Freedom Coalition San Antonio, Texas

B 40 Poteet Strawberry Festival Association

B 41 Medina Valley High School Marching Band & Dance

Texas Law Firm San Antonio, Texas

Transplants for Children San Antonio, Texas

Chamber of Commerce Miss Shiner Royal Court Shiner, Texas

Lanier High School Band, Cheer, Dance & Pep San Antonio, Texas

Sec.

City, State Entry Name

B 46 VIA Metropolitan Transit San Antonio, Texas

B 47 Battle of Flowers Association San Antonio, Texas

B 48 Fiesta Flambeau Parade Association Train San Antonio, Texas

B 49 Bomba Bailar Community Dance Group San Antonio, Texas

B 50 United States Army San Antonio, Texas

B 51 Young Men's Leadership Academy Marching Band San Antonio, Texas

B 52 Palo Alto College San Antonio, Texas

B 53 Texas Cavaliers San Antonio, Texas

B 54 Danzavida De San Antonio Dance Company San Antonio, Texas

B 55 Stephen F. Austin High School Sonic Boom Marching Band Houston, Texas

B 56 Golden Bingo Family San Antonio, Texas

B 57 Incarnate Word High School Emeraldettes San Antonio, Texas

B 58 La Michoacana Meat Market San Antonio, Texas

B 59 John F. Kennedy High School Band, Cheer, Dance & Pep San Antonio, Texas

B 60 Blue Cares Outreach & San Antonio Hispanic Police Officers Organization San Antonio, Texas

B 61 Jourdanton ISD Jourdanton, Texas

C 62 Toyota Trucks San Antonio, Texas

C 63 City of McAllen McAllen, Texas

C 64 South Padre Island South Padre Island, Texas

C 65 South San High School Band, Cheer, Dance & Pep San Antonio, Texas

C 66 The University of Texas San Antonio Float, Band & Cheer San Antonio, Texas

C 67 Shelby High School Marching Band

C 68 AUEDA -Action United for Entertainers and Diverse Artists

C 69 Pieper High School Marching Band

Sec. City, State Entry Name

C 70 Community First Health Plans

San Antonio, Texas

C 71 Southwest High School Band, Cheer, Dance & Pep San Antonio, Texas

C 72 Fiesta Flambeau Parade Infulencers San Antonio, Texas

C 73 Fin Addict Angler Foundation San Antonio, Texas

C 74 Sam Houston High School Band, Cheer, Dance & Pep San Antonio, Texas

C 75 La Reina Linda San Antonio, Texas

C 76 Chifladas Cocktail Bar San Antonio, Texas

C 77 San Antonio Zoo San Antonio, Texas

C 78 Spain Park High School Marching Band Hoover, Alabama

C 79 Sacred Heart Church of Odem Odem, Texas

C 80 St. Anthony's High School Band, Cheer, Dance & Pep San Antonio, Texas

C 81 United States Military Veterans Parade Association San Antonio, Texas

C 82 HOLD HOLD

C 83 Spurs Sports & Entertainment San Antonio, Texas

C 84 Holy Cross of San Antonio Band, Cheer, Dance & Pep San Antonio, Texas

C 85 KSAT San Antonio, Texas

C 86 HOLD HOLD

C 87 Brackenridge High School Band, Cheer, Dance & Pep

C 88 Rey Feo 77 Royal Court

San Antonio, Texas

San Antonio, Texas

C 89 Rey Feo Consejo Educational Foundation San Antonio, Texas

Rey Feo Scholarship Foundation - Reina de la Feria de las San Antonio, Texas

Raider Marching Band Dallas, Texas

Citrus Fiesta Mission, Texas Vida San Antonio, Texas

Sec. City, State Entry Name

C 94 Methodist Metropolitan Hospital San Antonio, Texas

C 95 University of the Incarnate Word Marching Band San Antonio, Texas

C 96 Bliss House Meditation Center of San Antonio San Antonio, Texas

D 97 Toyota Trucks San Antonio, Texas

D 98 Pleasanton High School Dance & Band Pleasanton, Texas

D 99 Pleasanton Cowboy Homecoming Queen and Court Pleasanton, Texas

D 100 Somerset High School Marching Band Somerset, Texas

D 101 Witte Museum San Antonio, Texas

D 102 Opelika High School Marching Band Opelika, Alabama

D 103 The 100 Club of San Antonio San Antonio, Texas

D 104 Southwest Legacy High School Band, Cheer, Dance & Pep San Antonio, Texas

D 105 Wayne Wright Injury Lawyers San Antonio, Texas

D 106 Wagner High School Marching Band & Dance San Antonio, Texas

D 107 University Health San Antonio, Texas

D 108 East Central High School Band, Cheer, Dance & Pep San Antonio, Texas

D 109 Traders Village San Antonio, Texas

D 110 Texas A&M University San Antonio & Cheer San Antonio, Texas

D 111 Somerset Academy Collegiate Mighty Bear Band & Cheer Somerset, Texas

D 112 Guadalupe County Agriculture Fair Seguin, Texas

D 113 Ballet Folklórico Festival

D 114 The River Walk Association

D 115 Tia's Taco Hut

D 116 Harlandale High School Band, Cheer, Dance & Pep

D 117 Chick-fil-A Greater San Antonio

Antonio, Texas

Antonio, Texas

Sec. City, State Entry Name

D 118 St. Mary's University Marching Band San Antonio, Texas

D 119 Lone Star Beer San Antonio, Texas

D 120 H-E-B San Antonio, Texas

D 121 HOLD HOLD

D 122 Bill Miller Bar-B-Q San Antonio, Texas

D 123 Kipp Somos Collegiate San Antonio, Texas

D 124 LULAC Council # 2 San Antonio, Texas

D 125 McCollum High School Marching Band San Antonio, Texas

D 126 JPMorgan Chase San Antonio, Texas

D 127 Luther Burbank High School Band, Cheer, Dance & Pep San Antonio, Texas

D 128 Brown Plaza Association Del Rio, Texas

D 129 HOLD HOLD

D 130 Highlands High School Band, Cheer, Dance & Pep San Antonio, Texas

D 131 Antonian College Preparatory High School Marching Band San Antonio, Texas

D 132 Credit Human San Antonio, Texas

D 133 Providence Catholic High School San Antonio, Texas

D 134 NASA Search Lights & Thank You Banner San Antonio, Texas

MAKING WAVES IN TOYLAND

With great pride and appreciation, Fiesta Flambeau honors Shamu and Crew of SeaWorld San Antonio as the 2026 Grand Marshal of America’s Largest Illuminated Night Parade. As this year’s theme, “Adventures in Toyland,” invites families into a world of imagination, nostalgia, and wonder, Shamu and Crew bring that spirit to life in a way that feels both joyful and unforgettable. Their selection reflects the sense of excitement, community, and shared celebration that has long made Fiesta such a treasured San Antonio tradition.

SeaWorld San Antonio and its beloved characters have helped create lasting memories for generations of families, making them a fitting and meaningful part of this year’s celebration. In honoring Shamu and Crew, we celebrate not only the fun and wonder they represent, but also the spirit of togetherness that lies at the heart of Fiesta. We are grateful for their participation in helping lead this year’s parade and for bringing even more color, energy, and magic to an evening that shines brightly for our entire community.

Be sure to keep an eye out for Shamu and Crew along the parade route as they bring their signature energy, charm, and Toyland spirit to this year’s illuminated celebration. Their participation helps make the 2026 Fiesta Flambeau Parade an even more magical experience for families and spectators of all ages.

FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO PURCHASE TICKETS, PLEASE VISIT

Fiesta Flambeau is also proud to recognize Ronald McDonald, Birdie, Hamburglar, and Grimace as the 2026 Honorary Grand Marshal, bringing with them a playful sense of nostalgia, fun, and timeless charm. As beloved characters known across generations, they capture the lighthearted spirit and colorful imagination that make “Adventures in Toyland” such a perfect theme for this year’s parade. Their presence adds a special kind of joy to the celebration, reminding us of the characters and memories that have brought smiles to families for decades.

Their selection as Honorary Grand Marshal is a celebration of cheerful tradition, family connection, and the power of familiar icons to spark happiness in all ages. As they join this year’s parade alongside Shamu and Crew, they help create a festive experience filled with warmth, wonder, and excitement for the San Antonio community. We are honored to welcome them to Fiesta and grateful for the energy, laughter, and memorable spirit they bring to this year’s illuminated celebration.

As Fiesta Flambeau fills the streets of San Antonio with light, music, and imagination, keep an eye out for Ronald McDonald and Friends as they help bring the spirit of Toyland to life. Their joyful presence is sure to spark smiles, laughter, and treasured memories for spectators young and old.

FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO PURCHASE TICKETS, PLEASE VISIT

A PARADE OF LAUGHTER AND JOY FLAMBEAU.ORG

2025-2026 EXECUTIVE BOARD

Erwin J. De Luna - President

Sebastian G. Elizondo - Parade Director

Leyhbert M. Sharp- Judging Director

Madeline Mendieta - Treasurer

Dolores Guzman Farias - Public Relations Director

Bonnie Carrisal - Ticket Director

Casey J. Watts, CFEE - Marshaling Director

Bea Tuley- Corresponding Secretary

Cecilia Mendiola - Compliance Director

Shaun Moya- Recording Secretary

Gloria Peleyo - Disbanding Director

James Fenimore- Immediate Past President

PAST PRESIDENTS OF THE FIESTA FLAMBEAU PARADE ASSOCIATION INC.

RICK KNOLL 1989-1991

FRED CARMONA 1999-2000 (DECEASED)

ORLANDO CISNEROS 1991-1993 (DECEASED)

MICHAEL FLORES 2004-2008, 2014-1015

ROBERT CUELLAR 2010-2012, 2021-2022

BONNIE CARRISAL 2019-2021

NICK CARRISAL 2012-2013 (DECEASED)

ERWIN DE LUNA 2020-2023

MARY ALICE SCHMID 1993-1995, 2000-2002 (DECEASED)

JAMES FENIMORE 2006-2007

G. SALVADOR GUTIERREZ 2013-2015

PETE ORTIZ JR. 1995-1999, 2002-2004

ANTONIO ALVARADO 2008-2013 (DECEASED)

TRINA GUEVARA 2017-2018

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