Scottsdale’s Parada del Sol is a long-standing tradition that began in the 1950’s. Today it is a celebration of this town’s western roots and includes one of the oldest professional rodeos in the country and a historical parade.
The tradition began in 1951 with the creation of the Sunshine Festival, which was sponsored by the City of Scottsdale shortly after it incorporated that same year. The first Sunshine Festival consisted of a brief parade through downtown Scottsdale and ended in a family barbecue. The event was held to celebrate the beautiful winter season in Scottsdale.
In 1953, the Scottsdale Jaycees assumed production of the festival, renaming it “Parada del Sol”. Translated from Spanish, it means, “walk in the sun.” The first rodeo was added to the Sunshine Festival in 1956.
Scottsdale’s Parada del Sol is a month-long celebration that begins with a magnificent parade and five action-packed professional rodeo performances. The Parada del Sol is a team effort of the Jaycees and local volunteers who donate thousands of hours, hard work and personal resources to bring the “West’s Most Western Town” alive in February and March each year.
Now some 60 years later it has grown from just a few hundred in attendance to one hundred thousand spectators and participants. Today the festivities include a Fun Run, Cattle Drive, Parade, Trails End celebration, Coors Hoe Down, and the Rodeo Dance at Handlebar J’s. Rodeo events include bull riding, calf roping, barrel racing and steer wrestling.
Attending the events at the Parada del Sol is a fabulous way to enjoy our Arizona sunshine and have some family oriented fun.
The schedule for the 62nd Annual Parada del Sol is:
- Rodeo: February 26, 27, 28 & March 1, 2015
- Parade: February 14, 2015
This town really loves to celebrate its history and its growth, and strut its stuff every year in appreciation of its western roots. Don’t forget to put these dates on your calendar and experience this Scottsdale tradition.
Perhaps you can take in this event while house hunting for your vacation home in Arizona with The Matheson Team. We are Scottsdale real estate agents who specialize in the Scottsdale area. Make this site your “go to” source for information on the community and homes for sale.
Reach out to us if we can serve you in the Scottsdale area.
Don Matheson
Realtor | Founder
The Matheson Team – RE/MAX Fine Properties
21000 N. Pima Rd., #100, Scottsdale, AZ 85255
480-351-5359
don@scottsdalerealestate.com
