SAN ANTONIO, Texas — After more than two decades, CowParade has returned to San Antonio, transforming the city into a vibrant open-air gallery while raising funds for pediatric healthcare. From June through August 2025, over 70 life-size fiberglass cow sculptures, each uniquely painted by local artists, are on display at prominent locations across the city, including the River Walk, The DoSeum, North Star Mall, and the San Antonio International Airport.
This global public art initiative, which began in Zurich in 1998, has since graced over 100 cities worldwide, becoming the largest and most successful public art event of its kind. San Antonio first hosted CowParade in 2003, and its 2025 return is organized in partnership with the CHRISTUS Children’s Foundation. Proceeds from the event will support a $100 million fundraising campaign aimed at enhancing pediatric healthcare services, including innovations in autism and epilepsy care, maternal and fetal health programs, and advanced treatments for heart and cancer patients.
The artistic contributions reflect San Antonio’s rich cultural tapestry. Artist Gary Sweeney’s “Canary Islands”-themed cow pays homage to the city’s historical roots, while Anthony De Leon Sr.’s “Holy Cow” incorporates Mexican and Texan imagery, honoring his late sister. Cristina Sosa Noriega’s “Lele Cow” draws inspiration from her experiences in Querétaro, Mexico, integrating traditional motifs and marine rope braids to withstand the elements.
Community engagement is a cornerstone of CowParade San Antonio 2025. A citywide scavenger hunt invites residents and visitors to locate and photograph themselves with at least seven different cow sculptures, sharing their experiences on social media for a chance to win prizes, including exclusive memorabilia and local gift cards. The deadline for entries is August 15.
The event will culminate in a live auction of select cow sculptures on September 25, with the remaining pieces available through an online auction. Proceeds will directly benefit the CHRISTUS Children’s Foundation, supporting critical pediatric healthcare initiatives throughout the San Antonio region.
