FIESTA BEHIND THE SCENES: FIRST BARGES DROPPED AHEAD OF 80TH TEXAS CAVALIERS RIVER PARADE
FIESTA BEHIND THE SCENES: FIRST BARGES DROPPED AHEAD OF 80TH TEXAS CAVALIERS RIVER PARADE
The countdown to one of San Antonio’s most iconic Fiesta events officially begins.
SAN ANTONIO (April 18, 2025) — Fiesta season took a thrilling turn this morning as onlookers gathered along the Nueva Street Bridge downtown to witness the annual Barge-In Day—a unique tradition that signals the kickoff to preparations for the 80th Annual Texas Cavaliers River Parade, happening Monday, April 28.
A mix of local media, influencers, and early-morning spectators watched as over 30 freshly painted flat barges were carefully lowered into the San Antonio River using a 250-ton crane, an effort led by the Texas Cavaliers. These blank canvases are now headed to the nearby barge cave, where they’ll undergo a stunning transformation into vibrant floating art displays.
“You could honestly feel the excitement this morning as the first barge touched down on the river,” said Parade Marshal Tres Steves. “This year’s parade is going to live up to its Shine Bright theme for sure. I can’t wait for the big reveal.”
Bringing this vision to life is Kern Studios, the world-renowned float designers behind New Orleans’ famous Mardi Gras parades. With just 10 days before the big event, Kern’s artists will work around the clock to craft these flat barges into dynamic, themed floats that reflect the spirit of Fiesta and this year’s powerful theme.
“Una vez que las barcazas se suelten, se transformarán en símbolos de nuestro tema ‘Shine Bright,’” said Vice Parade Marshal Alcide Longoria. “El tema de este año ilumina más que solo nuestros ríos; ilumina un camino de inclusión, posibilidades y celebración para la comunidad IDD. Mientras estos vibrantes flotantes atraviesan San Antonio, nos recuerdan que, al iluminar a aquellos que han permanecido en las sombras, creamos un mundo más brillante para todos.“
For longtime Fiesta fans and first-timers alike, Barge-In Day offers a rare glimpse behind the scenes of the creative energy, passion, and teamwork that make the Texas Cavaliers River Parade one of the city’s most cherished traditions.
Last year’s event sold out prior to parade day, prompting the Cavaliers to open a new seating section with 1,000 additional seats to meet demand. All proceeds from the parade go directly to children’s charities in San Antonio, making each ticket purchase more than just a seat—it’s a contribution to the community.
🎟️ Tickets are available now at: https://www.texascavaliers.org/river-parade/tickets
About the Texas Cavaliers and Their Charitable Mission:
Established in 1926, the Texas Cavaliers have grown into a leading force in community service and celebration. Since the creation of the Texas Cavaliers Charitable Foundation in 1989, the organization has donated more than $15 million to children’s charities across San Antonio. Their mission is to uplift, bring joy, and improve the lives of local youth—ensuring that Fiesta is not just a party, but a powerful force for good.
As the countdown to April 28 continues, all eyes are on the river—ready for these floating masterpieces to Shine Bright.
