The Battle of Flowers Association is a civic-minded, all-women and all-volunteer nonprofit whose mission is to proudly teach the history of our state and keep the patriotic traditions of Texas and San Antonio alive. There are 400 active members and many honorary members who volunteer their time to give back to the city and our community.
We honor Texas history and heritage by engaging community through celebration, education, and service.
The city of San Antonio owes its annual Fiesta celebration to a small group of passionate, dedicated women who started it all with the first Battle of Flowers Parade in 1891. What began as a patriotic celebration to honor the heroes who fought at the battles of the Alamo, Goliad, and San Jacinto has since evolved into one of the oldest and largest parades in the country. More than just a spectacle during Fiesta San Antonio, the parade is a living tradition that embodies that unique spirit of Texans that defines our shared history.
Throughout the 20th century, Battle of Flowers expanded its mission far beyond its iconic Fiesta parade, embracing a deeper role in fostering civic pride and education. Signature events like the Oratorical Contest, Band Festival, and Texas History Essay Contest were introduced, providing platforms for young Texans to showcase their talents while celebrating the state’s rich history. These initiatives not only inspire future leaders; they fund student awards and prizes across Texas, ensuring that the legacy of Texas’ great men and women lives on in our collective memory.
Battle of Flowers and its related events have evolved to reflect San Antonio’s unique civic culture, blending tradition with modernity in a vibrant celebration of Texas history. Each generation of volunteers leaves its indelible mark, in turn shaping the shared imagination of our city year after year. Today, the association remains committed to commemorating our past while championing education, inclusivity, and community, keeping Texas’ heritage alive for generations to come.
With a history that spans more than 100 years, our association has many milestones under its festive belt. From the inaugural Battle of Flowers Parade in 1891 to the addition of events that continue to inspire and educate today, this timeline highlights the moments and people who’ve carried forward the vibrant traditions of Fiesta, San Antonio, and Texas at large.
This energetic group of women helps pave the future for the Battle of Flowers while also working diligently to preserve Texas history and the organization’s roots and core values.
