SAN ANTONIO – San Antonio Food Bank CEO Eric Cooper was selected as the grand marshal for the 133rd Battle of Flowers Parade.
The parade will be held on Friday, April 26, 2024, with the theme ¡VIVA AMOR 2024! The parade starts at 10:30 a.m., an hour earlier than the 2023 parade.
The announcement was made on Thursday morning at the San Antonio Food Bank, located at 5200 Historic Old Hwy 90, where food is packaged for distribution to people throughout Southwest Texas.
In his role, Cooper will ride on a float adorned with themed decorations as the parade winds through downtown San Antonio.
Following the announcement, Cooper told KSAT that he’s honored to represent San Antonio especially given the theme for the parade.
“We believe food is love. Food is what nourishes, it’s what brings family together,” he said, adding that the parade’s purpose is aligned with the food bank’s mission.
“It’s just the coolest thing, I want to pinch myself,” he said.
Organizers also showcased next year’s medal, which can be seen in the video player above.
WATCH BELOW: Eric Cooper speaks with KSAT for Hunger Action Month
The Battle of Flowers Parade is one of Fiesta’s signature events.
The first Battle of Flowers Parade took place in 1891 by a group of San Antonio citizens who were looking to honor the heroes of the Alamo and the Battle of San Jacinto.
UTSA head football coach Jeff Traylor was grand marshal of the 2023 Battle of Flowers Parade.
Fiesta 2024 is scheduled for April 18-28.
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