For a lot of Bradenton locals, the De Soto Parade is the highlight of the month. Chairs line Manatee Avenue for days ahead of time, and upwards of 100,000 spectators come from near and far to witness the spectacle. But what many people don't know is that the parade is actually the finale of the Hernando De Soto Society's month-long heritage festival.
Here's the inside scoop on what's coming up and how you can be a part of the excitement.
Children's Parade & Party in the Park
When: Friday, April 3, 2026 at 10 a.m.
Where: Sutton Park, Palmetto
Things kick off on Good Friday when the Conquistadors host an adorable children's parade. Local kids have been busy for weeks building their own floats at school and at home and they'll get to show them off in a flurry of color and fun. The parade route runs from the Manatee County Fairgrounds south on 10th Avenue West to Lamb Park
After the parade, stick around and celebrate at Party in the Park, a free event presented by the Early Learning Coalition of Manatee County. There will be food, fun, and games for everyone to enjoy!
More details: Children's Parade & Party in the Park
The Landing - City Capture
When: Saturday, April 18, 2026 at 1 p.m.
Where: Downtown Bradenton, Old Main Street
If you've ever wanted to watch conquistadors "capture" a city, this is your moment. Watch as Hernando De Soto and his Krewe make a dramatic entrance, heading down Old Main Street in downtown Bradenton to meet the Mayor.
Kids will receive foam swords to help defend the Mayor, but... (spoiler alert) he'll happily had over the key to the city in exchange for all the fun and entertainment they'll bring over the coming week. As part of the celebration, the Queens Court will also be handing out beads to onlookers.
This is a FREE, family-friendly event that takes place during the Downtown Bradenton Public Market, making it the perfect outing for the entire family.
Queen Selection Program
When: Wednesday, April 22, 2026 at 7 pm.
Where: Bradenton Area Convention Center
The Queen Selection Program is a time-honored tradition that brings together community, history, and scholarship. Watch as the amazing young ladies of the Queen's Court showcase their personality and answer questions on stage. There will be music, entertainment, special guests, and the presentation of the Lil' Caballeros and the De Soto Conquistadorables.
The ladies will walk the runway in their official outfits, then grace the stage in a gown of their choosing, which is a truly stunning sight. The on-stage questions are fun and interactive, and you might even learn something about Hernando de Soto!
Doors open at 7pm, show begins at 7:30pm. Tickets are $35. Cash bar.
More details: Queen Selection Program
De Soto Ball
When: Friday, April 24, 2026 | Dinner 6 pm, Coronation Ball at 7:15
Where: Bradenton Area Convention Center
The De Soto Ball is the most glamorous night of the month. This black-tie event includes dinner, drinks, live entertainment, and the official introduction of this year's Hernando de Soto and the new Queen and Princess.
It's equal parts celebration and ceremony, and a favorite among longtime locals. If you're planning to attend, get your outfit ready. This is one of the few events in Bradenton where formal wear is a must. Tickets are limited, so if you want to be part of this unforgettable night, make sure to grab yours soon!
More details: De Soto Ball
De Soto Grand Parade
Where: Downtown Bradenton
When: Saturday, April 25, 2026 at 7:30 p.m.
With over 150 entries, the De Soto Grand Parade is one of the largest and oldest parades in the Southeastern United States. Over 100,000 people line the streets of Bradenton to view the illuminated floats. Spectators can also catch a glimpse of our new Hernando de Soto, Captain of the Crewe and their newly crowned Queen and Princess. Beads, coins and other fun items are handed to the crowd throughout the night.
The Pre-Parade Block Party will take over downtown Bradenton on Old Main Street at 3:30 pm. With live music, street vendors, and a Kids Zone, there's plenty to enjoy before the Grand Parade steps off at 7:30 PM.
Check out The Hernando De Soto Society's Official Website for information about parking, road closures, and more.
Don't Miss This Bradenton Tradition
The Hernando De Soto Parade and all of the Heritage Festival activities bring the kind of energy that makes Bradenton feel alive. The crowds, the music, the sense of history, all come together in a way that's hard to explain unless you've been there. It's a celebration that locals look forward to year after year, and it's easy to see why.
Block off your calendar, gather up your friends, and make a day (or week) of it. You'll be glad you did!
Still not convinced? Here's what you'll miss...
BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
PALMETTO / ELLENTON
BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
