The Texas Cavaliers named their first King Antonio in 1927, when Sterling Clinton Burke was elected by his peers to honor the heroes of the Alamo, attend the inaugural King’s Ball, and preside over Fiesta events across the city. A new King Antonio has been chosen every year since then, with the exception of wartime years when Fiesta was canceled.
Over the decades, the role has grown from ceremonial beginnings into a platform for service. Today, King Antonio distributes charitable funds, shares positive and encouraging messages with schoolchildren, and greets communities across San Antonio during ten packed days of Fiesta appearances. The King also pays tribute to the military and civilian partnerships that define the city’s heritage, visiting bases and recognizing the service members who safeguard our nation.
Men from many of San Antonio’s most established families have worn the crown, with several continuing multigenerational traditions of service. Together with Fiesta royalty from throughout the city, each King Antonio helps lead a celebration rooted in community, history, and the spirited joy of San Antonio.
