On Saturday, October 18 at 5:00 PM, the Rey Feo Scholarship Foundation will gather at San Fernando Cathedral for the Blessing of the Crowns—a beautiful San Antonio tradition that opens a season of service to education. In that quiet moment, as the crowns and mantles are blessed, we ask for the strength to meet the needs of students who are ready to work hard but can’t get across the financial finish line.

This year, the need is immediate. Applications are up, costs are up, and too many bright students are being asked to wait. We don’t want them to wait—not one more semester. That’s why I’m asking you to become a Blessing of the Crowns Sponsor.

Your sponsorship fuels scholarships for local students and sustains a tradition that has helped thousands of young people continue their education. When we say “yes,” a door opens—not just to a classroom, but to a future that will ripple through a family and a community.

Would you join us?

The Rey Feo Scholarship Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to promoting education. It was inspired by El Rey Feo, a symbol of resistance against exclusion. The legend of El Rey Feo began in medieval Spain, where common people named one of their own "The Ugly King" to challenge the ruling elite. This tradition spread to Aguas Calientes, Mexico, during La Feria de San Marcos. In 1947, the foundation started its Rey Feo competition to fund scholarships for San Antonio's youth.

The Rey Feo Scholarship Foundation has grown significantly over the years, enhancing its influence in the community. In 1980, Rey Feo was invited to Fiesta, San Antonio's famous annual celebration, and was given a parade, Paseo Del Rey Feo. Today, Rey Feo is an important part of Fiesta Royalty, alongside the official queen, Reina Feria de las Flores, and Reina Linda, all committed to raising scholarship funds and honoring San Antonio’s heritage. As official Fiesta Royals, Rey Feo and Reina Feria de las Flores take part in all major Fiesta parades, celebrating the city's vibrant culture.

Fiesta is a grand 10-day festival each April that commemorates the heroes of the Alamo and the Battle of San Jacinto. Rey Feo Royalty plays a crucial role in promoting education, philanthropy, and the Fiesta spirit, making a lasting difference in the community. The foundation has raised over $10 million for scholarships awarded to over 7,000 students since it began. Despite challenges like the pandemic, the foundation has stayed strong, continuing to support deserving students in their educational pursuits.

Rey Feo and the Reina do more than ceremonial tasks; they are goodwill ambassadors, visiting over 76 elementary schools to motivate youth to seek education and excellence. Through scholarships and community outreach, Rey Feo, Reina Feria de las Flores, and Reina Linda are helping to create a better future for San Antonio, one student at a time.

Blessing Of The Crowns