Caption: Photo by Art Hernandez Photography
Each March, the city of San Juan Capistrano celebrates the famed Return of the Swallows with a lively parade through the heart of town. True to tradition, the parade is entirely non-motorized, with participants traveling on horseback, in horse-drawn carriages, or on foot. This year’s event took place on March 21. This year holds a particular significance. It marks the 250th anniversary of the signing of the United States Declaration of Independence, the founding of Mission San Juan Capistrano, and the historic Juan Bautista de Anza Expedition to California. In recognition of these milestones, the SJC 250 Anniversary Committee was formed. As part of the commemoration, the Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail Honor Guard was invited to participate in events held throughout the city from March 20 through March 22. Seventeen Anza Riders and accompanying trail reenactors journeyed from Arizona and Riverside County, California. Dressed in period attire, they spent an afternoon at the local Boys & Girls Club, engaging children in hands-on activities inspired by the Anza Trail, including shield-making, cattle roping, and crafting corn husk dolls. The following day, the Anza Honor Guard and reenactors brought the parade to a memorable close as the grand finale of the 2026 Swallows Day Parade. Their involvement extended beyond the parade. On the following day, Juan Bautista de Anza—portrayed by Bill Islas—along with a soldier and three female reenactors, delivered a presentation to more than 100 community members. Islas was joined by his daughters, Isabella Islas and Julianna Islas. The soldier was portrayed by Dennis Carlos, accompanied by his wife, Socorro Carlos. The Anza contingent added a rich and meaningful historical dimension to this year’s festivities, deepening the community’s connection to its heritage and bringing history vividly to life.