Little Flower Basilica unveils the design of its 2026 Fiesta Medal.

This year’s medal commemorates the 100th anniversary of the San Antonio community of Discalced Carmelite friars.

The medal takes the shape of a two-strapped sandal. Sandals are typically worn by Discalced Carmelite friars in keeping with their simple and modest tradition, and their use is where the term discalced in the order’s name is derived.

The medal is composed of three parts, separated by two sandal straps. At the heel of the sandal, on the uppermost part of the medal, is the skyline of San Antonio as it appears from the Basilica’s front doors. Rising above the skyline is the seal of the Discalced Carmelite order. Mount Carmel is represented by a white, curved peak that stretches toward heaven and culminates in a large cross. Surrounding the cross are three stars that symbolize three eras of the history of the Discalced Carmelites. Above the seal, in an embrace of both the seal and the skyline, text reads 100 yrs of Carmel - Carmel referring to the spiritual hearth the friars foster through their spirituality. The middle part of the medal reads Little Flower Basilica est. 1926, marking the year the friars founded their community and the parish of Our Lady of Mount Carmel and St. Thérèse. The bottom reads Fiesta 2026. The sandal straps contain a floral pattern that both evokes the flower motif of Fiesta San Antonio, and the embossed patterns often found on leather accessories.

The medal’s brown color palette not only represents the brown of a leather sandal, but also the brown color of a friar’s habit. Gold foil outlines prominent features throughout the medal.

Little Flower Basilica’s 2026 Fiesta Medal is available for purchase at Little Flower Catholic Store beginning March 28 for $15 with proceeds going towards the Basilica’s Restoration. Little Flower Catholic Store is open from Tuesday through Friday, 10am-4:30pm and Saturdays & Sundays, 9am-3:30pm.