The Rey Feo Laredo Scholarship Foundation established in 2025

The Rey Feo Laredo 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, later establishing Rey Feo Laredo on 2026 to fund scholarships in Laredo and across South Texas.

In 1980, Rey Feo was invited to Fiesta, San Antonio's famous annual celebration, and was given a parade, Paseo Del Rey Feo, acting as an important part in Fiesta San Antonio, alongside Reina Feria de las Flores and Reina Linda. In 2026, Rey Feo, Reina Feria de las Flores and Reina Linda will be joining WBCA Laredo Festival raising funds for scholarships to support Webb county’s community, empowering local students and supporting academic achievement.

WBCA is a grand long weekend festival each February that commemorates the unity of joining communities. Rey Feo Royalty will play a crucial role in promoting education, philanthropy, and the Laredo spirit, making a lasting difference in the community. The foundation has raised over $11 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, Reina Feria De Las Flores and Reina Linda do more than ceremonial tasks; they are goodwill ambassadors, visiting schools to motivate youth to seek education and excellence. Through scholarships and community outreach, Our Royals are helping to create a better future for Laredo, one student at a time.