The Texas Cavaliers kicked off their 2026 Fiesta season with a press event to announce the details of the 2026 River Parade in April. The theme for the upcoming river parade is “Through the Decades: A Centennial Celebration,” which coincides with the organization’s 100-year anniversary.

“This year’s theme honors the culture, moments, art, music and people of the past century,” said 2026 Parade Marshal Alcide Longoria. “Last year, proceeds from the parade raised $2.5 million for local children’s charities. And since our goal every year is to outdo the last, we’re already well into our fundraising efforts for this year. Our 100-year commemorative medal is already available for purchase, and tickets will go live on January 1.”

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At the press conference, attendees got a first look at the new Fiesta medal, and Gardner Peavy made his debut as King Antonio CIII for the upcoming parade. Although his investiture won’t happen until the spring, King Antonio’s duties start in the fall ahead as the Texas Cavaliers ramp up their charitable giving and volunteering efforts. 

“None of this would be possible without the support of the community and our sponsors,” Peavy said. “We’re honored to have the support of community leaders like Susan Naylor, and long-time sponsors and partners like Whataburger, Methodist Healthcare Ministries and CHRISTUS Health. We’re so grateful for their continued support.”

The Cavaliers also announced this year’s charitable honoree, the Brackenridge Park Conservancy, and attendees got a glimpse into their new nature-based, inclusive playscape in the works. The new space will feature sustainable, durable equipment, imaginative designs and unique and accessible play areas — a reflection of the community they serve and the future they’re building. 

“This project reflects our belief that every child, of every ability, deserves a place to explore, climb, learn, and experience the joy of being outdoors,” said Brackenridge Park Conservancy Executive Committee Chair, Lukin Gilliland. “The Cavaliers’ generosity strengthens our ability to steward this historic park and ensures that the next generation grows up with the same sense of wonder that Brackenridge Park has inspired for more than a century.”

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Staying with the spirit of outdoor play, the Cavaliers announced the founder of City Kids Adventures, Leon McNeil, as this year’s Grand Marshal. 

Leon and his wife, Leticia, established City Kids Adventures in 1995 with a simple yet powerful mission – to educate, mentor, and actively engage inner-city youth, giving them the opportunity to experience the outdoors. 

Each year, the Texas Cavaliers River Parade kicks off on the first Monday of Fiesta, which puts the 2026 celebration on Monday, April 20. Medals and tickets are on sale now.