Hernando deSoto Historical Society

Manatee County’s premiere celebration —The De Soto Heritage Festival — kicks off in March 2010 with a flourish.

It starts with our savory SeaFood Fest, from Friday to Sunday. This three-day, downtown Bradenton Riverfront event combines outstanding cuisine with multi-stage entertainment, a large variety of vendors and three continuous days of pleasure for the entire family.

Another exciting event during the Festival is the Children’s Parade and Party in the Park. Our area’s kids, plus their schools and families, work really hard to create and decorate some of the most imaginative and adorable floats you will ever see. Then enjoy the Easter Egg Hunt and the Easter Sunrise Service.

The Bottle Boat Regatta leads up to the three paramount events of the festival: First, the De Soto Queen’s Court Debut where the talented young ladies of the 2010 Queen’s Court make their formal appearance at the Gala Latina. Second, the glittering, glowing Musical which features the 2010 Queen’s Court, dancing and performing. Third, the De Soto Ball - an elegant, black-tie soiree to honor the investiture of next year’s Hernando De Soto as well as the crowning of the 2010 Queen and Princess - is the premiere social event of the year. Finally, rounding out the whole Festival is the De Soto 5k Run and Grand Parade.

So come join the fun and festivities, honoring our area’s heritage - a good time will be had by all .