De Soto Grand Parade and Pre-Party

One of Bradenton’s most beloved traditions is preparing to light up the city once again. The Hernando de Soto Historical Society’s Grand Parade returns on Saturday, April 25, 2026, bringing illuminated floats, marching bands, community groups, and thousands of excited spectators to Manatee Avenue.

De Soto Grand Parade is one of the largest and oldest parades in the Southeastern United States. The annual event celebrates local history, community pride, and the festive spirit that defines the Bradenton area.

The parade begins at 7:30 PM along Manatee Avenue, where spectators will see brightly lit floats, marching bands, and members of the Hernando de Soto Historical Society—including the newly introduced Hernando de Soto, Captain of the Crewe, and their newly crowned Queen and Princess. Throughout the evening, parade participants toss beads, coins, and other fun items to the crowd, making it a favorite event for families.

Downtown Comes Alive Before the Parade starting at 3:30pm

The excitement begins well before the parade steps off.

The Pre-Parade Party will transform Old Main Street in downtown Bradenton into a lively, family-friendly celebration. Visitors can enjoy:

• Live music

• Street vendors

• Food and drinks

• A Kid Zone presented by the Early Learning Coalition

With festivities beginning earlier in the evening and the parade starting nearby, downtown Bradenton becomes the perfect place to spend the entire night enjoying the celebration.

A Powerful Opportunity for Local Businesses

Limited float spaces are still available for businesses and organizations looking to participate.

With over 100,000 spectators lining the 1.75-mile route, the Grand Parade offers businesses a rare opportunity to connect directly with the community, showcase their brand, and be part of one of the region’s most recognized events.

Many local organizations and Krewes have already secured their place in this year’s parade, including:

• 1st US Cavalry Regiment Rough Riders

• Action Jet Sports Inc.

• Bradenton Beach Police

• City of Bradenton

• F-Troop Tampa Krewe

• Holmes Beach Police Department

• Krewe of Black Pearl

• Krewe of Chasco

• Krewe of Europa

• Krewe of Mambi

• Krewe of Princess Ulele

• Manatee High School Marching ’Canes

• Manatee County Sheriff’s Office

• Richard’s Plumbing & Electrical

• Sarasota Manatee Airport Authority

• School District of Manatee County Transportation

• SERVPRO of Bradenton

• Southeast High School Marching ’Noles

• Springtime Tallahassee Festival

• Terry’s Tree Service of SW FL

• Universal Flight Training, LLC

• Valcourt

• West Manatee Fire Rescue District

• Ye Mystic Krewe of Neptune

Businesses interested in joining the parade can still take advantage of this high-visibility community event before final registrations close. <click to apply>

A Bradenton Tradition

For generations, the De Soto Grand Parade has been a highlight of spring in Bradenton. Families gather along Manatee Avenue, businesses decorate floats, and the community celebrates together under the glow of illuminated displays and festive music.

Whether you’re attending the downtown pre-parade party, catching beads along the route, or representing your business with a float, the 2026 De Soto Grand Parade promises another unforgettable night for the Bradenton community.

Mark your calendars for Saturday, April 25, bring your friends and family downtown early, and get ready for one of the biggest celebrations on Florida’s Gulf Coast.