De Soto Festival Kicks Off in Bradenton with Annual City Capture Celebration
Downtown Bradenton was filled with excitement and tradition Saturday afternoon as Hernando de Soto Historical Society brought its signature City Capture event to life, officially launching this year’s De Soto Heritage Festival.
Led by Don Hernando de Soto and his Crewe, the Conquistadors marched up Main Street to cheering crowds, marking one of the most anticipated moments of the annual celebration. Families lined the streets as beads were tossed into the crowd, children waved foam swords, and the festive spirit transformed downtown into a lively scene of history and community pride.
The procession culminated at City Hall, where Gene Brown joined Kemp Schuessler, Lisa Gonzalez Moore, and Marianne Barnebey in welcoming the Crewe. In keeping with tradition, city leaders ceremonially presented the Key to the City, symbolizing a lighthearted surrender and the official start of the weeklong festivities, which will culminate in the Grande Parade on Saturday, April 25th.
The annual City Capture remains a cornerstone of the De Soto Heritage Festival, blending pageantry, history, and community engagement. From longtime attendees to first-time visitors, the event offered a shared experience that highlighted Bradenton’s unique character and enduring traditions.
With the key now in hand, the Conquistadors have officially taken over, ushering in days of events, celebrations, and activities that honor the region’s heritage while bringing the community together.
