Route detour for major Fiesta parades gives way for new traditions in LGBTQ+ business district

New route will start on Main Avenue near San Antonio College

SAN ANTONIO – Preparations continue for two of Fiesta’s major events, Battle of Flowers and Flambeau Parades. While this year’s new route disrupted long-standing traditions for many families in San Antonio, business owners and employees on Main Avenue said they are excited about the change.

According to the Fiesta San Antonio Commission, San Antonio College will serve as the forming area for both parades.

Main Avenue now sets the stage for big crowds and new traditions due to the ongoing construction along Broadway.

“Months into planning, we (felt) excited, and a week (away from) it, we’re ready to go,” said Liz Villegas, who manages several of the businesses on Main Avenue.

From Main, the parade will veer off onto Lexington, turn left on St. Mary’s Street, head right on Brooklyn Avenue and continue to Avenue E. The fun extends onto Houston Street and make a quick left to Alamo Plaza to finally make a right on Commerce Street to wrap up the festivities.

MORE INFORMATION HERE: Fiesta Commission announces new route for Battle of Flowers, Fiesta Flambeau parades

Days away from the big weekend, some businesses on Main admit they still need help.

“We’re going to enjoy it,” said Larry Polinard, owner of Who Dat Nawlins on Main restaurant. “We are going to need a lot more staff, a lot of volunteers. In fact, we’re teaming up with the American Legion. We’re going to do a joint fundraiser to help with staffing, because I don’t have the staffing. So there’ll be a benefit to both groups.”

Employees are also excited for the crowds that are sure to boost business.

“We’re willing to take on whatever comes our way as long as it’s a positive vibe,” said Joshua Deleon, a waiter at Luther’s Cafe. “I hope they just have a good time and be safe.”

In an email to KSAT 12, Steven Rosenauer, executive director of Fiesta San Antonio Commission said, “There will be approved food, beverage and merchandise vendors set up along the route, and there will also be vendors in Crockett and Madison Square Parks. Additionally, we will have Official Fiesta sponsors, like Toyota, located in our Sponsor Village Area in Madison Square Park which will include music, food, drinks and more Fiesta fun during the parades.”

While it is unclear whether the 2022 route will be permanent or temporary, some traditions, like nonprofits selling street seating to raise funds for their organizations, will remain. Parade organizations also continue to sell bleacher seats.

The 2022 Battle of Flowers Parade will be held on Friday, April 8, and the Fiesta Flambeau Parade to be held on Saturday, April 9.

Watch the Battle of Flowers parade coverage from 9 a.m. to noon on KSAT 12 TV, KSAT.com or KSAT Plus, our free streaming app that works with most smart devices.

The pre-party for the Fiesta Flambeau Parade will start at 6 p.m. on KSAT 12 and all digital platforms, and the parade will officially take place from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.

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About the Authors:

Alicia Barrera is a KSAT 12 News reporter and anchor. She is also a co-host of the streaming show KSAT News Now. Alicia is a first-generation Mexican-American, fluent in both Spanish and English with a bachelor's degree from Our Lady of the Lake University. She enjoys reading books, traveling solo across Mexico and spending time with family.

Misael started at KSAT-TV as a photojournalist in 1987.