Avenida Guadalupe Parade and Festival – (San Antonio)

Hispanic Heritage Observations and Cultural Celebrations

The Avenida Guadalupe neighborhood Dieciséis de Septiembre Parade began 38 years ago to preserve and memorialize occurrences in local Mexican-American history, particularly recognizing San Antonio de Bexar’s important role in “El Grito de Dorores” (the Cry of Dolores) and the Mexican War of Independence. One such event is the 1811 Las Casas Revolt, a component of Padre Hidalgo’s northern strategy that subsequently resulted in his capture in Coahuila, Mexico, at the Wells of Bajan. Avenida Guadalupe Association believes strongly in the educational value of regional Tejano history. Combining culture and community, we anchor the Dieciséis Parade to Hispanic Heritage Month in the Mexican-American Cultural Zone and focus on three components: community organizing, mobilization of a volunteer-driven parade, and a Tejano-based celebration focusing on the Province of Tejas from 1810 leading to the 1824 establishment of Coahuila y Tejas, which ultimately abolished slavery in Tejas (North American territories in New Spain) and the subsequent illegalization of indentured servitude in 1832. Over time, the Dieciséis Parade has become synonymous with revitalization in the Avenida Guadalupe neighborhood, showcasing ongoing efforts to generate and maintain vitality and development through a unique strategy demonstrating a “living” cultural evolution thriving in San Antonio for centuries.

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