The Texas Cavaliers are committed to giving back to the community and working with the Texas Cavaliers Charitable Foundation to help support several community and state-wide programs.
Working closely with local children, military forces and first responders, the Texas Cavaliers stand as an image of hope. Thanks to generous donations from the Texas Cavaliers, businesses and residents, thousands are able to enjoy the parade and activities each year.
The Texas Cavaliers Art Contest celebrates San Antonio’s youngest artists while supporting arts education across the city. Each year, elementary students are invited to showcase their creativity through themed artwork, with selected finalists earning scholarships, funding for their school art programs, and public recognition during Fiesta with their art featured on VIA buses.
Each year, the Texas Cavaliers host the Children’s River Extravaganza — a cherished Fiesta tradition that brings the excitement of the River Parade to children who might not otherwise experience it. What began in 1965 as a small act of kindness for local hospital patients has grown into an evening of joy for thousands of young guests. Warm meals, riverside seating, music, lights, and the spirit of Fiesta create a magical night that reminds us all what community, compassion, and celebration truly mean.
Created in 2003 by member Phillip P. Bakke, the Texas Cavaliers Military Fiesta honors the men and women who serve our nation with a Fiesta celebration of their own. Each year, more than 1,200 tickets are donated to local military families for an evening of live music, dinner, and visits from King Antonio and the River Parade’s Grand Marshal. Held at IBC Plaza, the Military Fiesta is a heartfelt thank-you to those who protect our freedoms — a night of gratitude, joy, and San Antonio spirit.
The Salute to First Responders Program honors San Antonio’s police officers and firefighters for their courage and service. Each year, the Texas Cavaliers provide 1,000 River Parade tickets to local associations so first responders can enjoy the celebration with their families. Proceeds from this program support the city’s police and fire departments, the Texas Cavaliers Charitable Foundation, and The 100 Club — ensuring those who protect our community are celebrated in return.
In 2025 the Texas Cavaliers launched Fiesta Stars, a groundbreaking outreach program designed to shine a light on San Antonio’s intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) community. Partnering with local nonprofits, the Cavaliers provided more than 250 tickets, meals, and a fully accessible viewing area for individuals and families living with IDD to experience the River Parade in welcoming, barrier-free comfort. Through warm hospitality, joyful celebration, and a true spirit of inclusion, Fiesta Stars affirms that everyone deserves to be part of our city’s greatest traditions.
We’d love to welcome you into the Cavaliers’ sponsor family. For details on sponsorship levels, benefits, or custom opportunities, contact our Activities Officer today and learn how your support can make a lasting impact for San Antonio’s children and strengthen the future of our entire community together.