Some may challenge Scottsdale’s claim of the title, “The West’s Most Western Town,” but every year Scottsdale proves those naysayers wrong as it shuts down the city’s main corridor for the world's largest horse drawn parade, the Parada del Sol Rodeo and Parade.The 61-year-old tradition has seen some upgrades, but it continues to stay true to its roots. And this year is no different.
Jumpstart your day and get your heart racing before the big parade on February 8 at 8:30am by participating in the Fun Run, a brand new event. People of all ages are invited to walk, run or bike along the parade route before the horses come marching.
Afterward, stick around for the inaugural Cattle Drive before directing your attention to the Parada Del Sol Parade. Once the horses have moved on, keep the festivities going at the Trails End Celebration with live music, food and drinks, a kids’ zone, and an accompanying car show featuring more than 100 cars on display. The parade begins at 10am in downtown Scottsdale.
The parade leads up to the big event – the February 27 through March 2, Parada Del Sol Rodeo at WestWorld of Scottsdale. This year the rodeo will be extended an extra day to accommodate the Champions Challenge, a part of the National Finals Rodeo. In the Champions Challenge, some of the country’s best rodeo cowboys compete for victory in eight different challenges. Throughout the weekend enjoy family days and a free rodeo dance. Tickets cost $15 for people over the age of 13.
After the dust settles and the cowboys have hung up their hats, stop by a cowboy hangout for some county music and brews, such as The Western Bar and Restaurant, the Rusty Spur Saloon and Handlebar J.
Visit Experience Scottsdale for news of other events in The West’s Most Western Town.
For more information about top events in Arizona take a look at the Top Events USA selection of the annual main festivals and events in Arizona.