As San Antonio gears up for one of its most dazzling traditions, Fiesta San Antonio 2025, the spirit of the South Side is shining brighter than ever—thanks to three remarkable women who are making their presence known at this year’s Fiesta Flambeau Parade.
Meet Danielle Espinoza, Gabby Gonzalez, and April Monterrosa—three proud Southsiders who represent their roots and embody their vibrant community’s passion, culture, and pride.
Danielle Espinoza: Powerhouse Behind the Brand
A graduate of the University of the Incarnate Word and Our Lady of the Lake University, Danielle Espinoza is the award-winning CEO of Lustrous PR, a full-service public relations and marketing firm making major waves in Texas and beyond.
Danielle’s journey—from studying in London at the Royal Academy of Arts to running her successful 15-year award-winning agency—is a testament to her drive and innovation. She’s known for creating inclusive international marketing campaigns, nationally recognized public relations campaigns, producing high-level events, and advocating for women, LGBTQ+ communities, and the arts. Whether she’s making things happen behind the scenes or serving on boards like the LGBTQ+ Chamber of Commerce, the Pride Center, and the San Antonio Hispanic Chamber’s Latina Leadership Institute, Danielle is a fierce advocate for the Southside, and this year, she’s bringing her brilliance to the Flambeau Parade!
Gabby Gonzalez: The Heart of Puro San Anto
Known online as Siempre San Antonio, Gabby Gonzalez is one of the city’s most beloved content creators. Her mission? To showcase the real San Antonio—from taco trucks to treasured traditions, cultural events, and hidden gems on the South Side.
Gabby has grown a loyal following by highlighting “Puro San Anto.” This year, she’s capturing the magic of Fiesta like never before. Expect behind-the-scenes moments, colorful floats, community pride, and plenty of puro vibes. Gabby is a walking, talking celebration of the culture that makes San Antonio special.
April Monterrosa: The Southside Storyteller
Award-winning entrepreneur, author, and radio personality April Monterrosa is no stranger to the spotlight. As the founder and publisher of Live From The Southside Magazine—the first woman-owned publication to represent South San Antonio—April has used her platform to uplift local voices and tell untold stories from her community.
Host of The April Monterrosa Show on KLMO 98.9 FM, she’s highlighted countless Tejanos in entertainment, music, and business. From receiving the President’s Lifetime Achievement Award to being honored by the Texas Legislature, April is a true trailblazer. This Fiesta, she’s not just covering the Flambeau Parade—she’s living it, breathing it, and representing the Southside with every step.
Southside Pride on Parade
Set to take place on May 3, 2025, the Fiesta Flambeau Parade promises a night of lights, culture, music, and community—lit up by more than 200 parade entries and viewed by millions worldwide. Among the brightest moments this year? The participation of McCollum High School’s Cowboy Marching Band, named Honor Band by Flambeau Parade President James Fenimore.
For a community often underrepresented in city-wide festivities, seeing the South Side front and center is more than just exciting—it’s deeply meaningful.
So grab your flower crown, light-up gear, and dancing shoes. Whether you’re watching from the streets or your screen, don’t miss the chance to cheer on these incredible women as they shine a spotlight on what makes South San Antonio so powerful, resilient, and beautiful. Get your tickets at https://bit.ly/FiestaFlambeau25.
