STAGING TIME & LOCATION TBA

The De Soto Grand Parade is getting a major overhaul in 2024, as the event has outgrown its traditional route thanks to an increasing number of entries, more spectators, and bigger floats. 

The parade will now start in downtown Bradenton, where crowds will be able to watch floats stage before they stream down Manatee Avenue. Our goal is to bring a family-friendly downtown, “street party” hours before the parade steps off.  The festivities will include a 5K race, live music, street vendors and children’s activities, leading up to the parade’s 8:00PM start. 

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 and 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.