Fiesta

It was one of the highlights of the biggest party of the year.

Dozens of parties, ceremonies, concerts, parades all run through May 4.

The Ford Mariachi Festival on Wednesday and Thursday wowed those who came to see the performance.

Forecasters say there is at least a 50% chance of thunderstorms on Friday, but they’re predicted to fire up after 1 p.m., around the time the parade ends downtown.

The critics claim that Fiesta and its traditions, like the elaborate beaded gowns of the Fiesta queens who represent the Order of the Alamo, harken back to Mexican imperialism. They also say the Battle of Flowers celebrates the Battle of San Jacinto, which they see as a battle fought for slavery.

Fiesta is in full swing through this week and the weekend. Check out these photos from events by TPR photographers and reporters.

Keep those umbrellas and ponchos close. Friday afternoon and evening had a 70% chance of rain in the afternoon. Saturday and Sunday both faced a 40% chance of more rain.

Forecasters said the best chances for rain will come on Wednesday, Friday and Saturday.

Sixty floats will make up the parade with a theme of "Shine Bright," a celebration of light and illumination for all.

You won't have to wait long before someone comes along who catches your eye, like 76-year-old Maria Monsivaiz, a lifelong resident of the Alamo City, who was covered head to toe, front and back in Fiesta medals.