FESTIVAL SCHEDULE
THURSDAY, APRIL 23, 2026
WELCOME GATHERING ~ Join us for a toast as we welcome friends from near and far.
All ticketed guests, Casual Dress, Hospitality Room (Rio Vista), Light hors d'oeuvres, Open Bar
DIGNITARY RECEPTION ~ Help us officially kick off the De Soto Heritage Festival. Ticketed Event, Crewe Casual, Dinner Included, Open Bar
GOAT PARTY ~ Hosted by the Old Goats. A great time is expected, who will be the next goat...
FRIDAY, APRIL 24, 2026
PUB CRAWL ~ Join the Old Goats as they “break-in” their newest addition at downtown Bradenton’s local establishments. Complimentary with Package Purchase, Crewe Causal, Breakfast hors d'oeuvres, Cash Bar
DE SOTO VIP ROYAL RECEPTION (FESTIVAL VIP PACKAGE ONLY) ~ Hosted by the past Hernando de Soto’s Society and the De Soto President’s Council. Invitation Only. Ball Formal or Krewe Uniform, Convention Center, Hors d'oeuvres, Open Bar
CORONATION BALL ~ The Investiture of Hernando de Soto the 78th and the Coronation of his Queen. Ticketed Event, Ball Formal or Krewe Uniform, Bradenton Area Convention Center, Dinner included, Open Bar
SATURDAY, APRIL 25, 2026
POOL-A-PALOOZA ~ A poolside splash bash to help refresh us all from the night before. Complimentary with your package purchase. Marriott Pool, food included with your packages.
BLOCK PARTY ~ Join the festivities at the staging area before the Grand Parade. Shuttles will continue to run from the host hotel to staging and downtown area. Cash Bar.
GRAND PARADE ~ Our illuminated parade entries light up the night with color, music, and fanfare like you’ve never witnessed before. One of the largest and most prestigious parades in the Southeastern United States. Transportation to staging is included with package purchase. Wristband required, Krewe Uniform.
THE AFTER PARTY ~ Time to relax and unwind after an electrifying festival. Ticketed Event, Krewe Casual, Marriott Rio Vista Banquet Room, Heavy Hors d'oeuvres, Open Bar
SUNDAY, APRIL 26, 2026
ADIOS MY FRIEND BREAKFAST & GIFT EXCHANGE* ~ We would like to extend an invitation to all our guests to join the newly invested Hernando de Soto and his Royal Family at this delightful breakfast and Royalty Gift Exchange.
Ticketed Event, Casual Dress, Marriott Rio Vista Banquet Room
*For all VIP guests that are participating in the gift exchange, gifts are traditionally presented to our Hernando De Soto, his Queen, Captain, and Princess.
Non-VIP guests. If you would like to be introduced and participate in the gift exchange, we ask that you please indicate in advance so that we may provide you with a gift from our organization’s president.