The 97th Annual Patriotic and Historical Ball is one of the opening galas of Fiesta® 2016. The first Patriotic and Historical Ball took place in 1919 to honor San Antonio’s military personnel, and the event has continued since that time. Military personnel from local installations and organizations are special guests that evening. The evening begins with patriotic ceremonies, followed by the introduction of the Pioneers' own Fiesta royalty, the Honorary Lady Chairman. A highlight of the evening is a visit from King Antonio of the Texas Cavaliers. Everyone is invited to participate in the Grand March. The rest of the evening will be dancing to the music of Donn Walker and the Texas Red Hots.
The ball will be returning to its longtime home in the Villita Assembly Building, 401 Villita Street. A cash bar will be available.
Parking is available in the Riverbend Garage, 201 North Presa, which is about a block north of the Villita Assembly Building. Parking rates are approximately $2.00 per hour or $15.00 flat rate for events. We hope to have closer parking available soon. Additional parking will be available at several street level lots in the area.
The State Association of Texas Pioneers was founded in 1919 to keep Texas history alive, perpetuate Texas traditions and cultivate friendly relations between the Pioneers of Texas and their descendants; and also to establish and maintain landmarks, memorial halls and museums. Meetings for educational programs and social events take place throughout the year.