The San Antonio Zulu Association was formally organized in 1976 as a social, civic, non-profit, and benevolent organization. There were ten founding members; and in 1978, the organization was chartered with the State of Texas with twelve signatories.
In 1979, the organization began what eventually became an annual family-style picnic celebrating “Juneteenth” (Texas announcement of the Emancipation Proclamation on June 19, 1865). The organization held these annual picnics at Carmargo Park (formerly Pablo’s Grove), and gained a faithful following, mainly from military and civilian personnel at Kelly and Lackland Air Force Bases.
The organization also used these picnics as an opportunity to showcase youth groups performing dance, vocal, and other unique talents. For entertainment, DJs and live music along with amusement and novelty vendors for the children were included in the celebration.